Goldendale Observatory State Park Heritage Site

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Set in the hills above the Columbia River, Goldendale Observatory State Park houses one of the nation’s largest public telescopes. The newly-renovated facility is known for informative science programs and vivid starry skies.

By day, enjoy panoramic views of stunning scenery from all corners of the park. Within the historic observatory domes and expansive new classroom, afternoon and evening visitors can explore our sun, other stars, planets, and all the deep sky has to offer. Live telescope views are offered during all programs (weather permitting).

The Observatory is conveniently located near popular camping State Parks like Brooks Memorial, Maryhill, and Columbia Hills. Other area attractions include the Maryhill Museum of Art and WWI Stonehenge Memorial.

Park features
Goldendale Observatory is a 5-acre facility on a hilltop 2,100 feet above sea level and 2 miles north of downtown Goldendale. The park, with its large public telescope, has attracted hundreds of thousands of sky-watchers since its dedication in 1973.

PARK WI-FI SERVICE


Link to Washington State Parks WiFi information page Opens in new window
Free, high-speed Wi-Fi access is available in limited coverage areas at Goldendale. For more information on coverage areas and hours of service and our growing list of parks with Wi-Fi service, visit our parks Wi-Fi page.

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  3. History
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Interpretive opportunities

The afternoon program provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the new Goldendale Observatory campus and take in a solar show featuring live telescope views of the Sun. The evening program involves a variety of outer space objects and includes classroom time, live telescope views, and outdoor stargazing,

NOTICE: Goldendale Observatory is open. Please note the new, permanent visiting policy:

New permanent visiting policy:

  • Visiting groups of 5 or fewer may drop-in and should not make an appointment. 
  • Groups of 6 or larger must make an appointment via the Microsoft Bookings calendar before visiting. Unscheduled large groups will be turned away. 
  • On days of normal operations, park grounds close when visiting center closes. On all other days, grounds close at Sunset. Overnight parking or camping is never permitted. 
  • Our Microsoft Bookings calendar can be used to schedule your visit. Available dates and times are automatically removed from the calendar as they become full. 

Pet policy based on 2019 revision of WAC pertaining to service animals:

  • Animals, including pets and emotional support companions, are not permitted to enter the building. Trained service animals are permitted upon satisfactory clarification of training as per State and Federal regulations.