Best Places to See Northern Lights
You may think that witnessing the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights is a privilege reserved only for those willing to brave freezing temperatures in remote, inaccessible locations. However, let me assure you that the best places to see the Northern Lights offer not only breathtaking displays of nature’s wonder but also comfortable accommodations and convenient amenities.
From the snowy landscapes of Fairbanks, Alaska to the enchanting glass igloos of Finnish Lapland, there are numerous destinations that provide optimal viewing conditions for this celestial spectacle.
So, pack your warmest clothes and get ready to for an unforgettable journey to the most extraordinary corners of the world.
Fairbanks, Alaska
If you’re seeking an unforgettable experience of witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights, look no further than Fairbanks, Alaska. This enchanting city offers the perfect backdrop for a celestial spectacle that will leave you in awe.
Fairbanks lies directly beneath a band of auroral activity, making it an ideal location for witnessing the lights. When planning your trip, it’s important to consider the best time to visit Fairbanks for the Northern Lights. The lights are most frequently seen between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m., so be prepared to stay up late.
One popular option for viewing the lights is at the Chena Hot Springs Resort. Here, you can soak in a natural hot tub while enjoying the mesmerizing display of colors in the night sky. The resort even offers a wake-up call service, ensuring you don’t miss the moment the aurora appears.
Fairbanks experiences a celestial display of green, yellow, and purple lights, providing a vibrant and diverse aurora viewing experience. So pack your warmest clothes and get ready to witness nature’s most spectacular light show in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Norway
If you’re looking to explore even more prime locations for this celestial spectacle, let’s take a journey to Norway.
Norway has no shortage of vantage points for viewing the lights, and two of the most remarkable places to witness this natural phenomenon are Tromsø and Svalbard.
Tromsø, the largest city in northern Norway, offers a unique array of winter activities. From dog sledding to reindeer sleigh rides, you can truly immerse yourself in the frosty wonderland of Tromsø. And when the dark season sets in, the city becomes a hub for tours dedicated to chasing the Northern Lights. One of the best views can be found atop Mount Storsteinen, where you can witness the vibrant dance of colors against the backdrop of the city’s picturesque landscape. For a more luxurious experience, head to the Skybar at Clarion Hotel The Edge, where you can sip on Akvavit while marveling at the celestial display.
If you’re seeking an even more unique experience, venture to Svalbard during the polar night. This remote archipelago offers double the opportunity to see the lights, as the polar night lasts for several weeks. Imagine the awe-inspiring sight of the Northern Lights illuminating the snowy wilderness of Svalbard, creating a mystical atmosphere that will leave you breathless.
Finland
Finland, a surreal and beautiful destination, offers a range of accommodations and approximately 200 nights per year of aurora appearances, making it a top choice for experiencing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
When it comes to unique accommodations, Finland takes the cake. One place that stands out is the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, where you can stay in glass igloos specifically designed for watching the lights dance across the sky. Imagine lying in bed, cozy and warm, while the vibrant colors of the aurora borealis swirl above you. It’s an experience like no other.
But the unique accommodations don’t stop there. Finland offers a variety of options, from seaside glass villas to cabins with large windows, all perfectly situated for optimal aurora viewing.
So, when is the best time to visit Finland for the Northern Lights? The lights make frequent appearances over Finland, particularly in Finnish Lapland, from September to March. During this time, the nights are long and dark, creating the ideal conditions for the aurora to put on its dazzling show.
Greenland
As you venture further north in search of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights, Finland may have left you breathless with its unique accommodations and frequent aurora appearances, but now it’s time to explore a destination that offers exceptional odds for viewing the lights and a pristine natural environment – Greenland.
With its unique geographical location, Greenland provides the perfect conditions for experiencing the aurora. The vastness of the country ensures minimal light pollution, allowing for unparalleled visibility of the dancing lights in the night sky.
One of the prime locations in Greenland for viewing the Northern Lights is Hotel Arctic, situated on the edge of the Ilulissat Icefjord. From here, you can enjoy not only the stunning spectacle of the lights but also breathtaking views of icebergs floating in the fjord. It’s a truly mesmerizing experience that will leave you in awe.
Another noteworthy destination is Kangerlussuaq, which boasts around 300 clear nights a year, making it an ideal spot for aurora viewing. Albatros Arctic Circle runs northern lights tours in Kangerlussuaq, offering you the chance to witness the lights in all their glory. You can even go camping on the Greenland Ice Sheet, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of the Arctic landscape.
In Greenland, the Northern Lights hold great cultural significance. The indigenous Inuit people have long revered the lights, believing them to be the spirits of their ancestors dancing in the sky. Witnessing this natural phenomenon in Greenland not only provides a breathtaking visual experience but also offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Yukon, Canada
Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Canada’s Yukon Territory, the mesmerizing Northern Lights illuminate the night sky with their enchanting dance of vibrant colors. Yukon, Canada is one of the best places to witness this breathtaking natural phenomenon. But when is the best time to visit Yukon for the Northern Lights?
The prime viewing season is from late August to mid-April, when the skies are darkest and the lights are most active. During this time, the long nights provide ample opportunities to catch a glimpse of the auroras.
To make the most of your Northern Lights experience in Yukon, here are a few tips for capturing these awe-inspiring lights. Firstly, find a location away from city lights to minimize light pollution. The Northern Lights Resort and Spa in Whitehorse offers glass chalets for aurora viewing, providing a cozy and comfortable space to witness the spectacle. Additionally, the Northern Lights Space and Science Centre in Watson Lake offers information about the lights, helping you understand the science behind this mesmerizing display.
Remember to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly during the Northern Lights season. Bring a tripod to keep your camera steady for those long exposure shots. And don’t forget to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you won’t want to miss capturing these magical moments.
With these tips in mind, get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Northern Lights in Yukon, Canada.
Scotland
To witness the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights, head to the northernmost parts of Scotland or the enchanting Shetland Islands. These breathtaking locations provide the perfect backdrop for nature’s most spectacular light show.
One of the best places to catch a glimpse of the aurora is the Keepers Cottage at Sumburgh Head. Perched on a dramatic cliff, this charming cottage offers a stunning view of the lights as they paint the night sky with vibrant colors. Imagine sitting by the fire, sipping a hot cup of tea, and watching the aurora shimmer and dance above you.
If you prefer to explore further, the Isle of Lewis is another great location to see the lights. Here, you can witness the aurora above the ancient Calanais Standing Stones, adding an air of mystery and magic to your experience.
To ensure you don’t miss out on the Northern Lights, be sure to check the alerts provided by AuroraWatch UK. These alerts provide valuable information about viewing conditions in Scotland, allowing you to plan your trip accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Month Is Best to See the Northern Lights?
The best time to witness the aurora borealis is from late August to early April. To photograph the northern lights, choose a clear night and head outside between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m.
Is Norway or Iceland Better for Northern Lights?
If you want to see the Northern Lights, both Norway and Iceland have their merits. Norway offers optimal viewing during the polar night, while Iceland provides unique cultural experiences. It’s up to you to decide which is better for you!
Where Are You Most Likely to See the Northern Lights?
To increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, head to regions near the Arctic Circle. The best time to catch this magical display is during the winter months. Don’t forget your camera to capture the awe-inspiring beauty!
Where Can I See the Northern Lights in 2024 in USA?
In 2024, you can enjoy the mesmerizing Northern Lights in Alaska, specifically in Fairbanks. The best time to visit is between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. Don’t forget your camera for capturing stunning photographs!
