Lick Observatory

Mount Hamilton, California

3.8/5

based on 4 reviews

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Added by Pine Watt

Incredible star gazing opportunity under the telescope domes of Lick Observatory. Check out the Milky Way and explore the Observatory. Arrive before 5pm to tour a telescope or arrive late at night to do some quality star gazing.

Hop on Road 130 heading out of San Jose and follow the winding two lane road up, up, up to to the top of Mt. Hamilton and the Lick Observatory. There are lots of deer, wild turkey, and pigs in the area. If you are lucky you will get to see a herd of deer grazing in a meadow. But be careful that you don't hit any wildlife while driving up, especially at night.

The drive up to the Lick Observatory is a phenomenal drive with switchback curves and winding roads perched right on the edge of Mt. Hamilton. I would not recommend this drive for those who suffer from motion sickness, or at least take a few motion sickness pills before starting the drive.

NOTE:

Be sure to have a full tank of gas (or enough charge) - Mt. Hamilton is 50 miles from the nearest gas station, and you don't want to be stranded there.

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Lick Observatory Reviews

Araceli Velazquez

Wanderer

Lick Observatory

04/09/23

The place is not so amazing as the views

3.0

Andy

Explorer

Lick Observatory

10/22/20

This place has great views of the south Bay. Not sure if it is the best place for stargazing.

4.0

Elena P

Explorer

Lick Observatory

07/29/20

You can get nice views of the bay area!! It reminds me of the view from mission peak though

4.0

U K

Wanderer

Lick Observatory

09/19/17

If the pollution is low you have a great view over the whole Bay Area and can make great pictures at sunset or in the night.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Lick Observatory

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Lick Observatory Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

North Rim Trail to Eagle Rock

Coyote Peak & Rocky Ridge Trail Loop

Backpack to Coit Lake

Mississippi Lake via Coe Headquarters

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