This Remote Little Town In Southern California Is One Of The Darkest Places In The Nation
By Natasha Kayes|Published February 01, 2023
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Natasha Kayes
Author
I was born and raised in sunny Southern California and will never tire of the West Coast, although I spent several years living in Southeast Asia, about as far from California as you can get. Wherever I am in the world, I love straying from the beaten path, experiencing local life, and discovering hidden gems - camera in hand. The beach is my happy place and when I am not there (or writing), you will usually find me baking, watching movies, and cuddling my pugs. I have traveled around the country and around the world, and it never, ever gets old. Being able to combine my passion for travel and my love of writing is nothing short of a dream.
Beyond the beaches, bright lights, and city vibes, Southern California’s small towns each have their own unique character. The town of Julian, for example, is a lovely place to get away and indulge in homemade apple pie, photograph fall foliage, and tour an old gold mine, but now there is yet another reason to visit. Julian is one of the darkest places in Southern California, and in the entire country.
The tiny mountain town of Julian is an important part of California's history. It began as a gold mining camp in 1869 and grew into a lively little community.
While many other camps and “gold rush” towns were abandoned, Julian survived mainly because of its climate and fertile soil, as well as its location in San Diego County.
Locals and visitors have always enjoyed the clear, dark skies in Julian. In 2015 the Julian Dark Sky Network was founded to increase community awareness regarding outdoor lighting and protecting the darkness in the area.
The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) is the world’s leading organization when it comes to combating light pollution and recognizing communities that protect and celebrate the night sky. Julian has been certified by the IDA as an official Dark Sky Community.
As you would naturally expect, stargazing in Julian is spectacular. The Milky Way appears clear and bright above the horizon, even when there are a few clouds in the sky. At night, red lights are used as they do not interfere with the epic views above.
Each August, astronomy lovers come to Julian for Starfest, a festival complete with camping, exhibits, games, food and beverages, telescopes, a public star party, and even tours of the Mount Laguna Observatory.
If you want to see the stars like never before, it may be time for a little small town getaway to Julian. Are you an astronomy buff? Where is your favorite place for stargazing? Share with us in the comments; we love hearing about new places worth visiting. Thinking about visiting Julian? Read our previous article on the quaint mountain town of Julian.
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