In Montana, the Leonids are best around 5:45 AM on the night of the peak (November 17, 2026), when the radiant stands about 60° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 13 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 6:45 PM to 5:56 AM, and the moon will be 52% lit and below the horizon at the best time.
Best time
5:45 AM
local time
Est. rate
13/h
dark sky
Radiant
60° high
toward SE
Moon
52%
down
Dark places to watch the Leonids in Montana
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park | Dark Sky Place | 1 |
| Medicine Rocks State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Missouri Headwaters State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Tongue River Reservoir State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Placid Lake State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Hell Creek Recreational Area | State Park | 1 |
| Thompson Falls State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Sluice Boxes State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Yellow Bay State Park | State Park | 2 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Leonids in Montana?
Around 5:45 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.
Where can I see the Leonids in Montana?
Dark, open places such as Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Medicine Rocks State Park, Missouri Headwaters State Park.