Spruce Knob

The Perseids Meteor Shower Will Peak This Weekend

"A West Virginia summit served as the backdrop for a striking photo of the Perseid meteor shower on Aug. 11, 2021, capturing a bright meteor streak during the annual display. The image underscores why the Perseids are a stargazing highlight: at peak in mid‑August observers can see as many as 50–100 meteors per hour and numerous bright fireballs that produce colorful, long-lasting trails. Best viewing is after local moonset (around 11:20 p.m. that night) into the early morning—particularly after 1 a.m.—with an unobstructed northwestern sky, minimal light pollution, and an open hilltop or field; DarkSky-certified parks or purpose-built stargazing accommodations offer optimal conditions." - Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion is a travel journalist and photographer covering culture and adventure for Travel + Leisure Outside, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines