For the first time in 26 years, a total solar eclipse will pass over the United States on Aug. 21, 2017, and people are ready. Hotel rooms in cities that fall under the “path of totality”—a narrow corridor where the total eclipse will be visible—are already selling out.
But there are still options. Cities outside the path that are a relatively short drive away still have room, which means you can spend the night and then find your way to a good eclipse-viewing spot within the path.
There are also packages for rafting trips or other creative ways to be near the action. Here are some of the possibilities.
Mahoney Creek USFS Airport-0U3, Challis, Idaho
Adventure travel company Mountain Travel Sobek recently realized their Middle Fork of the Salmon River Adventure on August 18 in Idaho will give rafters a chance to see the eclipse from the river.
The six-day trip will put you at Tappan Falls on the morning of the eclipse, just along the path to see the total eclipse.
1535 North East Butte Road, Jackson, Wyoming
This resort falls squarely within the path of totality and has a remote location and panoramic views.
When the eclipse falls here at 11:36 a.m. CDT, you can view it from the resort’s open deck.
Its rooms are already booked, but you can contact them to be put on the waitlist.
3385 Cody Lane, Teton Village, Wyoming
This lodge sits in the path of totality and also is one mile from Grand Teton National Park and next to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
It has a rooftop terrace, perfect for viewing the eclipse, and will be hosting an astrology chat.
890 Buttermilk Creek, West Yellowstone, Montana
Instead of staying in a hotel, you could try a pop up luxury tent. The camp is 10 miles from Yellowstone National Park and just outside the path of totality.
The company will also plan an itinerary centered around the eclipse.
2525 Allison Lane, Newberg, Oregon
This inn just north of Salem, Oregon is a short drive from the path of totality.
It’s also in Oregon’s wine country and has terraces and balconies, plus 35 acres of land for outside viewing.
Grand Teton National Park
The park in Wyoming falls squarely within the eclipse’s path, and is planning viewings and other events related to the eclipse.
If you are headed to the area, a good option for lodging are five dude ranches located in or right next to the park: Moose Head Ranch, R Lazy S Ranch, Heart Six Guest Ranch, Lazy L&B Ranch, and CM Ranch.
10269 WY-789, Riverton, Wyoming
This hotel and casino falls directly within the path of totality, and has Wyoming’s weather going for it, too.
“Our high altitude and dry climate make clear morning skies on Eclipse Day nearly certain, it hasn’t rained before noon here on August 21 in over 25 years,” says Casey Adams, a spokeswoman for the hotel.
The hotel is planning eclipse presentations, star-viewing parties and Arapaho star stories, songs, and dances. During the eclipse, the hotel will host an Arapaho ceremony to bring back the sun.