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profdant139's avatar
profdant139
Explorer II
Apr 22, 2015

High altitude & cloud-free camping in mid-August?

Rather than hijack the other dark sky thread, I am starting a new one -- here is the issue: I really want to see the Perseid meteor shower on August 12-13 this year -- there is no moon, and some scientists are predicting a better than usual show (because we are crossing a thick patch of cometary debris).

In past years, we have gone to the Eastern Sierra, looking for high altitude boondocking (cooler temps and thinner air). But a couple of times, we have been disappointed by the monsoonal cloud cover -- the thunderstorms come up from the south and cover the sky.

So that is my question -- I am willing to drive a long way for good viewing -- where am I most likely to find high altitude cool camping AND minimal cloud cover in mid-August?? I am not looking for anyone to reveal their special boondocking site -- just general suggestions.

Thanks in advance!
  • pianotuna wrote:
    Hi,

    We generally have great viewing conditions in Saskatchewan. Cyprus Hills are interesting and I believe they have a "dark sky preserve" group that goes there on a regular basis.

    Star Gazing

    I hope it is not too far to drive.
    Good suggestion Don. Been there that time of year, the Cypress Hills are the most northernly, easternly extension of the Rockies, and very dry in August. Humidity is not an issue.
    East of the Rocky mointains and well north gets you away from the monsoon clouds.
    Look at Wyomings Big Horns, or eastern isolated ranges in Montana for higher dry altitudes.
    Max
  • Hi,

    We generally have great viewing conditions in Saskatchewan. Cyprus Hills are interesting and I believe they have a "dark sky preserve" group that goes there on a regular basis.

    Star Gazing

    I hope it is not too far to drive.
  • High altitude cool and minimal clouds may be mutually exclusive. Certainly not in southern Colorado during that time frame. Probably have to go far enough north to get away from that tropical air flow over the southwestern states and the associated heat.
  • Wish there was a special, secret boondocking site. As you eluded to in your OP, the west, southwest, and mountain west have monsoonal weather patterns that peak in August making it hit or miss wherever you go in the region. In our state that is both large and sparsely populated, there are many wonderful dark skies camping spots, one can only hope mother nature complies when attempting to view such an event. We'll keep our fingers crossed for clear skies those nights, hope you get lucky too.
  • While I'm not 100% sure about the cloud cover, my camping at 9000-10,000' feet in the Rockies is always cool. We'll head back to the Winter Park area again this year.

    My most vivid recollection of the night sky occurred in Winter Park, CO. few years ago. I can't ever recall seeing that many stars, ever.