In Minnesota, the Leonids are best around 5:25 AM on the night of the peak (November 17, 2026), when the radiant stands about 61° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 13 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 6:25 PM to 5:33 AM, and the moon will be 51% lit and below the horizon at the best time.
Best time
5:25 AM
local time
Est. rate
13/h
dark sky
Radiant
61° high
toward SE
Moon
51%
down
Dark places to watch the Leonids in Minnesota
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Voyageurs National Park | Dark Sky Place | 1 |
| Itasca State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Judge C. R. Magney State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Bear Head Lake State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Split Rock Lighthouse State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Badoura State Forest | State Park | 2 |
| Kabetogama State Forest | State Park | 1 |
| Bowstring State Forest | State Park | 1 |
| Temperance River State Park | State Park | 1 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Leonids in Minnesota?
Around 5:25 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.
Where can I see the Leonids in Minnesota?
Dark, open places such as Voyageurs National Park, Itasca State Park, Judge C. R. Magney State Park.