Where to Watch the Leonid Meteor Shower in Wyoming

Learn How to See 2025’s Dazzling Meteor Shower

Every November, the Leonid Meteor Shower graces Wyoming’s skies with quick, bright streaks of light—reminding us just how alive our night sky really is. While 2025’s show will be on the modest side (about 10–15 meteors per hour), the Leonids are known for their fast, colorful trails that sometimes leave glowing dust streaks for several seconds.

When to See the Leonid Meteor Shower in 2025

Peak Dates: November 17–18, 2025

Best Viewing Time: After midnight until pre-dawn

Expected Rate: 10–15 meteors per hour at peak

Moon Phase: Waning gibbous — meaning some moonlight interference, but the brightest meteors will still shine through

The Leonids originate from debris left behind by Comet Tempel-Tuttle, which orbits the Sun every 33 years. Every so often, this shower produces legendary “meteor storms”—but even in quieter years like 2025, it’s still a treat worth staying up for.

Best Places to Watch the Leonids in Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park
Wyoming’s most famous landscape also happens to be one of its darkest. Bring a blanket and watch from Snake River Overlook or Colter Bay for stunning night-sky views.

Togwotee Pass
This mountain pass east of Moran Junction offers clear horizons and minimal light pollution—perfect for spotting fast-moving Leonids.

Gros Ventre Wilderness
A short drive from Jackson, this area offers peaceful isolation and pristine skies.

Curtis Canyon Overlook
Easily accessible from Jackson, yet high enough to escape most of the light glow. Bring a thermos—it’ll be a chilly night up there!

meteor shower over town

Viewing Tips for the Leonid Meteor Shower

  • Get away from light pollution — The darker the sky, the more meteors you’ll catch.
  • Bring layers and blankets — Wyoming nights in November get cold fast.
  • Be patient — Meteor showers ebb and flow; plan to watch for at least an hour.
  • Check the weather — Clear skies make or break your viewing experience. If it’s cloudy, don’t despair—follow along via livestreams from NASA or the Virtual Telescope Project.

Why the Leonids Are Special

The Leonids have a long history of stunning observers, with meteor storms in the 1800s producing thousands of meteors per hour. Even when they’re quieter, they’re among the fastest meteor showers, entering Earth’s atmosphere at nearly 160,000 mph. Their speed gives them a sharp brilliance that stands out even in moonlit skies.

Turn Stargazing Into an Adventure

Wyoming Stargazing offers tours and experiences year-round, helping you catch the best celestial sights with expert guides and high-powered telescopes. Whether it’s the Leonid Meteor Shower in Wyoming or a full moon rising over the Tetons, there’s always something to marvel at.

Check out upcoming stargazing events and tours.

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