Goldendale Observatory

Get a fantastic glimpse of the night sky at this public observatory.

Located on the outer city limits of Goldendale to the West of State Route 97, the Goldendale Observatory has one of the largest telescopes in the United States that is available for public use. Small groups are welcome to walk in, but if you have a group larger than 10, the visit needs to be pre-arranged with the observatory staff. Admission is free for all visitors during regular operations; however, on-site parking does require a $10 fee for a day pass. Stay on the paved road and keep driving until you reach the top of the hill to reach the parking lot. Indoor and outdoor activities are included in the presentation, so guests are encouraged to bring jackets with them. Pets are not allowed, except for service dogs. 

There are several self-guided exhibits inside the observatory, and there have been several recent upgrades to the observatory itself since its construction in the 1970s. Visitors can bring personal telescopes and cameras with them as long as they are set up away from high foot traffic areas. Overnight camping or RV parking is not permitted at the observatory; however, there are plenty of campgrounds in the surrounding area available for visitors.