In preparation for Victoria’s Perseid Meteor Shower happening this weekend, August 11-13, we put together a list of locations where you and your friends can view the awesome, all-natural light show.
First, a few tips for viewing meteor showers:
- Try to find a good, dark site (far from streetlights)
- Give your eyes at least half an hour to adjust to the darkness
- Stay clear of the city; the farther away from city lights, the better field of view you will have
- The best times to view a meteor shower are between 11:00 PM- 4:00 AM
1 – Fort Rodd Hill
Fort Rodd Hill has earned its reputation as one of the most popular attractions in Victoria for a reason.
With the exceptional views that Fort Rodd Hill brings, bring your family and friends down to watch those great balls of fire light up the night sky.
As an added bonus, Parks Canada staff will be providing large telescopes for a more intimate view for those interested.
2 – Cattle Point in Oak Bay
Cattle Point in Oak Bay is a designated “Dark Sky Preserve” to watch astronomical events such as a meteor shower.
Cattle Point is open 24 hours a day, making it a prime viewing location for this weekend.
3 – Esquimalt Lagoon
Esquimalt Lagoon features miles of breathtaking ocean front views across to the City of Victoria on one end, with the beautiful Olympic Mountains at the other.
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and prepare for a (hopefully) clear night sky for a night of stargazing.
4 – Thetis Lake
What could be better than watching a meteor shower over a scenic, peaceful lake?
Park yourself on the beach area, or explore one of the many pathways that lead to stunning panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills. Wherever you choose to watch the shower, you are bound to see beautiful bright streaks of light shooting across the sky one way or the other.
5 – Ten Mile Point
Ten Mile Point was established to provide an undisturbed, tranquil area accessible by car in the Greater Victoria area.
With nothing but clear ocean views and snow capped mountains as backdrops, what better area to view the dusty, radiant night sky.
6 – Metchosin Cricket Field (behind the Metchosin Fire Hall)
The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada meets at this location often to stargaze, so why not follow in the experts footsteps?
One of the darkest urban areas on Vancouver Island, the cricket field offers an amazing sight line in all directions to view the upcoming meteor shower.
7 – Mount Tolmie
Mt. Tolmie is one of the most popular spots in Victoria to take in the views, so naturally viewing a meteor shower here makes sense.
With tons of parking, and a prime location for many Victoria residents, it’s a no brainer.
However, the number of people, cars, and the surrounding city lights might make it difficult to see the entirety of the showers. Looking for a casual lookout and a look at some of the brighter meteors? This is the place for you.
A Friendly Reminder
One thing to keep in mind for this weekend is the weather.
The smoke is expected to clear up today and Friday’s forecast currently predicts a sunny day with clear skies in the evening. But unfortunately, some clouds are expected to roll in on Saturday with a possibility of showers on Sunday.
For more information on the weather, click here, or for information on the meteor shower, click here.
