Everything you need to make your Total Solar Eclipse event the Best of the West

For the first time since 1918, a total solar eclipse will make its way across the United States – crossing over 3 Western US states in the process:  Oregon, Idaho and Wyoming on August 21, 2017.  The eclipse’s path of totality – the narrow path where the view of the sun is completely blocked by the moon – will make its way through the regions of central Oregon, southern Idaho and north-central Wyoming as it spans more than 1200 miles – from the Pacific coast near Newport, OR, past Sun Valley, ID, over Jackson Hole, WY and beyond – providing viewers the opportunity to see this natural phenomenon in some of the nation’s most stunning landscapes.

Great American Eclipse - Western US

Great American Eclipse – Western US

Planning on going to Oregon, Idaho or Wyoming?  Here’s what you need to know about the 2017 Total Solar Eclipse in each state

In General:

Areas and communities located directly under the path will experience the eclipse for a full two-and-a-half minutes, while other communities located roughly 30 –  50 miles from the center of totality will still be able to see it, though for less time.

Plan ahead since crowds are expected.  Local business are estimating that there will be an extra 10-20,000 people per community along the eclipse path.  Because of this high-demand, consider making your overnight arrangements early, and prospective day-trippers should plan on staying in one place for a day or so afterwards.  Depending on your viewing area, you can expect major traffic congestion on eclipse day in some of the hot spots.  Lodging in many areas are reportedly already booked.

DO NOT LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE SUN WITHOUT SPECIAL GLASSES.  We’re not kidding. You will go blind.  Specially made “Eclipse viewing glasses” are easy to find  Consider picking up a pair of these: http://www.eclipse2017.org/glasses_order.htm, or find some like them to ensure that you can see the main event and still retain your eyesight.

If you are going to Oregon:

Great American Eclipse Oregon

Eclipse over Oregon: Photo: greatamericaneclipse.com

The eclipse will make start on the Oregon coast between Lincoln City and Newport at 10:15 a.m. PDT.  Oregon will be one of the most popular states to view the eclipse. While the rest of the United States offers a longer duration of totality, inland sections of the eclipse path in Oregon could offer great weather prospects.  Two major viewing parties are being organized in Oregon. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) has announced a viewing event at the state fairgrounds in Salem, see www.omsi.edu/eclipse-2017 for details. Another event, the Oregon SOLARFEST is being held in Madras, Oregon. See www.oregonsolarfest.com for information.

Web Resources for Oregon

If you are going to Idaho:

Great American Eclipse Idaho

Eclipse over Idaho: Photo: greatamericaneclipse.com

The Eclipse will enter Idaho at its western edge at approximately 11:25am and concluding totality in Idaho at the Idaho/Wyoming border at approximately 11:36am.  As the Moon’s shadow crosses into Idaho over the Snake River, the eclipse will traverse over especially scenic areas like Craters of the Moon National Monument. Idaho will be a desirable state to view the eclipse because of good weather prospects and quieter roads.

Web Resources for Idaho

If you are going to Wyoming:

Great American Eclipse Wyoming

Eclipse over Wyoming: Photo: greatamericaneclipse.com

This once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse will pass over several state parks and historic sites where astronomy experts will be on hand with telescopes to share insights and educational opportunities. With wide-open spaces, the lowest light pollution in the country and abundant public land access—as well as celebratory festivals and events—Wyoming will be a perfect destination for viewing the eclipse.

Web Resources for Wyoming