PACIFIC COAST:

36. Seattle, WA:
Wenatchee National Forest

Want to visit high overlooks and scenic mountain tops? The Wenatchee National Forest Service is also interested in these unique viewing areas and have modernized their “Fire Lookout Points.” Most of these views were identified in the 1920s and 30s when early forest fire fighters set about identifying the best views to watch for fires. Trails were blazed to the overlooks, and fire lookout stations and roads were constructed. Present day has transformed them to stargazing idyls. Call the Forest Service for lookout maps.

Directions: US 90 west into the Forest (‘bout an hour).

37. Portland, OR:
Cannon Beach

Nine miles of wide, walkable beach invite visitors to Cannon Beach. Seastacks offshore and headlands onshore make a stroll down the sand memorable. Fly a kite, watch the sea creatures in the tidepools, and wait for dark. Don’t miss the world’s tallest Sitka spruce (216 ft. high) located in an old growth fir and spruce forest in Klootchy Creek Park. It is believed to be more than seven hundred years old.

Directions: Up State Hwy 26, down the 101 a bit.

38. San Francisco, CA:
Muir Woods

On the north coast across from the San Francisco Bay, just past Sausalito, lies Muir Woods. Muir Woods is home to an astonishing family of coastal redwoods. Walking within their dark cool shadows evokes a sense of hobbit lore and a feeling of smallness unknown elsewhere. Once humbled by these earthly giants, you’re ready for the stars out above Stinson Beach.

Directions: Cross the Golden Gate, follow Hwy 1 North 20 miles.

39. Los Angeles, CA:
Ojai

Ojai — once doubling for ‘Shangri-La’ in the making of the classic 30’s film — is bordered by millions of acres of the Los Padres National Forest. There are hundreds of great mountain trails surrounding it to the North and orange groves to the East. This idyllic mountain town is in a valley only two hours north of Los Angeles, but that is a universe away — and a perfect place to take stock of the universe above.

Directions: US 101 west to Ventura; Hwy 33 North to Hwy 150 east.

40. San Diego, CA:
Julian

The historical gold-mining town of Julian is one of Southern California’s best kept secrets. It’s at an altitude of 4235 feet but within a radius of 15 miles you can experience anything from desert to high mountains. Stuff yourself with the popular local apple pie, then hike off into the hills with your telescope. It’ll just be you and the firmament.

Directions: US 8 east to State Hwy 79 north to town.