Milky Way above Mount Rainier in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

© Brad Goldpaint/Aurora Photos

Milky Way above Mount Rainier in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

When clouds part over the frequently grey skies of America’s Pacific Northwest region, visitors to Mount Rainier National Park might catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. Our galaxy spirals in a light show that’s hard to beat. Look closely at the snow-covered ridges of Mount Rainier on the right: Those glowing spots are headlamps and campsites from climbers hoping to reach the peak before sunrise. Let’s hope that they braved the cold night air to look up at the sky.