Where to watch the 2026 Leonid Meteor Shower near Whistler
Fast, bright meteors from Comet Tempel-Tuttle streak out of the constellation Leo.
The short answer
Leonid Meteor Shower peaks on Tuesday, November 17 near Whistler. Expect about 5.5 hours of moon-free darkness, with astronomical twilight ending at 6:18 PM and returning at 5:36 AM. The moon is 58 percent lit, which means moderate interference. At 11:57 PM the radiant sits 11 degrees up in the east-northeast. Under ideal dark skies the shower can produce up to 15 meteors an hour. 2 nearby spots have properly dark skies.
| Peak (local) | Tuesday, November 17 at 4:31 PM PDT |
|---|---|
| Sunset | 5:24 PM |
| Fully dark | 7:18 PM to 6:36 AM |
| Dark hours | 5.5 h |
| Moon | 58% lit · rises 2:40 PM, sets 1:07 AM |
Questions people ask
When is the best time to watch the Leonid Meteor Shower near Whistler?
The Leonid Meteor Shower peaks on Tuesday, November 17 at 3:31 PM. For the best viewing experience, head out after 6:18 PM when it is fully dark.
Where should I go to watch the meteor shower?
Great spots near Whistler include Callaghan Valley, Brandywine Falls, Green Lake, Alta Lake at Rainbow Park, and Lost Lake. These locations have darker skies, which enhance visibility.
What will the moon be like during the meteor shower?
The moon will be 58 percent lit, which may cause some moderate interference with visibility. However, there are about 5.5 hours of moon-free darkness after sunset.
Which direction should I look to see the meteors?
You should look towards the east-northeast direction, where the radiant point will be at an altitude of 11 degrees at 11:57 PM. This is where most meteors will appear to originate.
What should I bring or expect while watching the meteor shower?
Bring a blanket or reclining chair for comfort, warm clothing, and snacks to enjoy while you wait. Expect to see about 15 meteors per hour under ideal conditions, so be patient and enjoy the experience!
