In Idaho, the Ursids are best around 6:20 AM on the night of the peak (December 22, 2026), when the radiant stands about 54° high. Under a truly dark sky you could see roughly 8 meteors per hour. Astronomical darkness runs from 6:50 PM to 6:28 AM, and the moon will be 97% lit and above the horizon at the best time.
Best time
6:20 AM
local time
Est. rate
8/h
dark sky
Radiant
54° high
toward NNE
Moon
97%
up
Dark places to watch the Ursids in Idaho
| Location | Type | Est. Bortle |
|---|---|---|
| Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve | Dark Sky Place | 1 |
| Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve | Dark Sky Place | 1 |
| City of Rocks National Reserve | State Park | 2 |
| Castle Rocks State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Land of the Yankee Fork State Park | State Park | 1 |
| Three Island Crossing State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Lake Cascade State Park | State Park | 2 |
| Castle Rocks Geological Area Overlook | Scenic Viewpoint | 2 |
| Cabinet Dam Viewpoint | Scenic Viewpoint | 2 |
| Carey Dome Scenic View | Scenic Viewpoint | 1 |
FAQ
What time should I watch the Ursids in Idaho?
Around 6:20 AM local time on the peak night, but any time between dusk and dawn can produce meteors.
Where can I see the Ursids in Idaho?
Dark, open places such as Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, City of Rocks National Reserve.