The 2025 Ursid Meteor Shower: A Winter Treat for Wyoming Stargazers
As winter settles over the Cowboy State, the night sky brings a special gift — the Ursid meteor shower, one of December’s most underrated celestial displays. For those who brave Wyoming’s crisp winter air, the Wyoming Ursid meteor shower offers quiet beauty, bright streaks of light, and a reminder that even the longest nights can shine.
When to Watch the Ursid Meteor Shower in Wyoming:
According to EarthSky and The Planetary Society, the Ursids are active each year from December 17 – 26, with the peak predicted for the night of December 22 into the early morning of December 23, 2025.
This year, the waxing crescent Moon will set early in the night, leaving darker skies and excellent conditions for meteor viewing, a rare advantage for this subtle but beautiful shower.
At its peak, the Ursids may produce 5-10 meteors per hour, occasionally more if an outburst occurs. The meteors radiate from the constellation Ursa Minor (the Little Dipper), which stays high in the northern sky all night – perfect for Wyoming observers.
Where to Watch the Ursid Meteor Shower in Wyoming
Few states rival Wyoming for pristine, dark skies. To experience the best of the 2025 Ursid meteor shower, seek locations far from artificial light and with open northern horizons. Ideal viewing spots include:
- Grand Teton National Park – Snow-covered peaks create a magical foreground for meteor photography.
- Togwotee Pass – High elevation and minimal light pollution make this a top winter observing site.
- Curt Gowdy State Park (near Cheyenne and Laramie) – Easily accessible dark skies close to city centers.
- Wind River Range backcountry – Remote and dark, perfect for adventurous stargazers.
- Bighorn National Forest – Offers broad open skies and winter accessibility from northern Wyoming towns.
If venturing out on your own feels daunting, Wyoming Stargazing hosts community viewing events and private stargazing programs. Check the event calendar for updates or consider booking a private guided night under the Ursids.
How to See More Meteors
- Look north. The Ursid radiant lies near Polaris (the North Star). Face north and allow at least 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust.
- Dress for the cold. December nights in Wyoming often dip below zero, be sure to bring layers, blankets, and a thermos.
- Arrive early. The best viewing typically occurs after midnight and before dawn.
- Use no lights. Even brief phone or flashlight use can ruin your night vision, instead use a red-filter flashlight if needed.
- Stay patient. The Ursids are gentle and sparse, perfect for quiet reflection and long exposures.
Join Us Under Wyoming’s Winter Sky
This December as the winter solstice passes, step outside beneath Wyoming’s wide-open sky and watch as the Ursids trace fleeting paths across the heavens. Whether you’re photographing meteors from Jackson Hole or simply watching from your backyard in Lander, every streak reminds us how vibrant our night sky truly is.
Stay warm, look north, and enjoy one of the final celestial events of 2025, the Ursid meteor shower.
Check out upcoming stargazing events and tours!
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