The ‘ring of fire’ eclipse, or annular solar eclipse, occurs when the Moon covers the center of the Sun, leaving a bright ring around its edges. This celestial event is a breathtaking sight for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike. For those on the West Coast looking to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon, here are some of the best places to view it.

First on the list is Redwood National Park in California. With its open skies and minimal light pollution, Redwood provides a great backdrop for the eclipse. The tall trees create a stunning silhouette against the eclipsed Sun, making it a photographer’s dream location.

Next up is Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. The reflection of the eclipse on the crystal-clear waters of the lake offers a unique viewing experience that doubles your visual pleasure. Standing on the rim of this ancient caldera as you watch the ring of fire is truly an awe-inspiring moment.

Moving further north, The Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles offers a more urban setting with excellent viewing facilities. It’s a popular spot for astronomical events, with telescopes available and experts on hand to enhance your viewing experience.

For a more adventurous viewing experience, consider taking a boat out onto Lake Tahoe between California and Nevada. In addition to getting away from light pollution, you’ll have an unobstructed view from the middle of the lake, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Finally, for those near Seattle, Washington, Alki Beach provides a picturesque setting for witnessing this celestial spectacle. With expansive views over Puget Sound and plenty of space to set up your equipment, you can enjoy both the natural beauty and urban skyline as you watch the ring of fire eclipse unfold.

No matter where you choose to observe from, ensure that you use proper solar filtering glasses to protect your eyes during all stages of the eclipse. Be prepared with your camera equipment if you wish to capture this magnificent display and double-check local times so that you don’t miss this rare astronomical event.