In Arizona, the Geminids are best around 2:17 AM on the night of the peak (December 14, 2026), when the radiant stands about 88° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 150 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 6:47 PM to 5:55 AM, and the moon will be 24% lit and below the horizon at the best time.
Best time
2:17 AM
local time
Est. rate
150/h
dark sky
Radiant
88° high
toward SE
Moon
24%
down
Dark places to watch the Geminids in Arizona
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Canyon National Park | Dark Sky Place | 1 |
| Petrified Forest National Park | Dark Sky Place | 1 |
| Chiricahua National Monument | Dark Sky Place | 1 |
| Pipe Spring National Monument | Dark Sky Place | 2 |
| Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians | Dark Sky Place | 2 |
| Grand Canyon–Parashant National Monument | Dark Sky Place | 2 |
| Flagstaff Area National Monuments | Dark Sky Place | 2 |
| Kartchner Caverns State Park | Dark Sky Place | 3 |
| Tumacácori National Historical Park | Dark Sky Place | 3 |
| Tonto National Monument | Dark Sky Place | 3 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Geminids in Arizona?
Around 2:17 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.
Where can I see the Geminids in Arizona?
Dark, open places such as Grand Canyon National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, Chiricahua National Monument.