Aurora Borealis in Anchorage, Alaska: Everything You Need to Know
If you are a nature lover, the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, is definitely on your bucket list. One of the best places to catch this magical phenomenon is Anchorage, Alaska. With its northern location and clear winter skies, Anchorage provides a prime viewing spot for this spectacular Aurora light show. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what the Aurora Borealis is, why Anchorage is one of the best places to see it, and what the best times to visit are.
What is Aurora Borealis?
Aurora Borealis, or the Northern Lights, is a natural light display caused by the collision of charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions emit light of varying colors, including green, pink, yellow, and even red. The Aurora Borealis is visible primarily in the polar regions, and Alaska is one of the best places to view it.
Why is Anchorage a Great Place to See the Aurora Borealis?
Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska, is located in the “Aurora Belt”. This means that the city is in a prime location for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Additionally, Anchorage has relatively clear skies during the winter months when the Aurora is most visible. The lack of light pollution in Anchorage also makes for excellent Aurora viewing conditions.
When is the Best Time to Visit Anchorage for the Aurora Borealis?
The best time to view the Aurora Borealis in Anchorage is between late August and early April. During this time, the nights are longer, and the sky is darker. The Aurora Borealis can be seen as early as late August, but the winter months between November and February offer the longest and most spectacular displays. Keep in mind that the winter months can also be the coldest and most challenging time to visit Anchorage, so make sure to pack warm clothes.
How to See the Aurora Borealis in Anchorage?
To increase your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis in Anchorage, it is best to book a guided tour. Many tour operators offer Northern Lights viewing tours that take you away from the city lights to remote areas that provide the best viewing conditions. You can choose from various options from photography tours to snowshoeing trips, and some tours even include a warm cabin with hot drinks and snacks.
Tips for Viewing the Aurora Borealis in Anchorage
To ensure a successful Aurora Borealis viewing experience in Anchorage, keep the following tips in mind:
- Bring warm clothing: Winter in Anchorage can be incredibly cold, so pack several layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, and thick socks.
- Check the weather forecast: The Aurora Borealis is most visible on clear nights, so make sure to monitor the weather forecast and choose a night with clear skies.
- Choose a dark viewing location: The darker the location, the better. Get as far away from city lights as possible for the best viewing experience.
- Be patient: Aurora Borealis sightings are not guaranteed, so be patient and enjoy the experience of simply being outdoors in beautiful Anchorage.
Conclusion
Anchorage, Alaska, is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis. With its prime location in the Aurora Belt, clear winter skies, and relatively low light pollution, Anchorage offers ideal viewing conditions for this spectacular natural phenomenon. By following the tips provided in this post and booking a guided tour, you are sure to have a memorable Aurora Borealis viewing experience in Anchorage.
Aurora Borealis in Anchorage, Alaska: Everything You Need to Know
Seeing the Aurora Borealis is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you shouldn’t miss. The awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, aka Northern Lights, is a colorful light display in the sky that occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is Anchorage, Alaska. If you’re planning to travel there to see the Aurora Borealis, here’s everything you need to know before booking your trip.
What is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Anchorage?
The Aurora Borealis can be seen year-round in Anchorage, but the best time to witness the colorful display is during the winter months, particularly from September to April. During this time, the nights are longer, which means there is more darkness for the Northern Lights to be visible. You also need clear, dark skies to see the Aurora Borealis, so avoid traveling during periods of sunlight, aka summer months.
Where and how to see the Northern Lights in Anchorage?
To witness the Aurora Borealis in Anchorage, you need to go outside the city’s bright lights and find a spot that offers an unobstructed view of the sky. According to the locals, the best places to see the Northern Lights in Anchorage are:
- Flattop Mountain: A popular hiking destination that offers incredible views of Anchorage and the surrounding areas. The location is perfect for watching the Northern Lights because it’s high above the city lights.
- Hatcher Pass Recreation Area: The area is a bit outside Anchorage, but it’s worth the drive as it offers stunning views of the Northern Lights with the scenic backdrop of the mountains.
- Eklutna Lake: It’s another popular destination in Anchorage that offers a serene view of the Northern Lights reflecting on the still waters of the lake.
If you’re not a fan of hiking or traveling, you can also book an Aurora Borealis tour in Anchorage. Several tour companies offer guided tours to take you to the best locations to witness the Northern Lights in their full glory.
What to wear to see the Northern Lights in Anchorage?
When traveling to see the Aurora Borealis in Anchorage, it’s essential to dress appropriately. The winter months can be frigid, with temperatures dropping below zero degrees Celsius. Make sure to wear warm layers, including thermal underwear, a thick fleece jacket or sweater, warm trousers, thick socks, gloves, a hat, and a scarf. Moreover, if you’re planning to go hiking, make sure to wear sturdy, waterproof, and non-slip boots.
What camera settings work best for taking photos of the Northern Lights?
Photographing the Aurora Borealis is a challenge, but it’s worth the effort. Here are some camera settings that work best for capturing the Northern Lights:
| Camera Settings | Details |
|---|---|
| ISO: | 800-1600 |
| Aperture: | F/2.8 or lower |
| Exposure time: | 15-30 seconds |
| Focus: | Manual focus on infinity |
Additionally, you need a sturdy tripod to avoid camera shake, and a remote shutter release cable to prevent camera movement. Also, make sure to keep your camera batteries fully charged and carry extra batteries if possible, as temperatures can drain battery life faster than usual.
Conclusion
Anchorage, Alaska, is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis. Plan your trip accordingly, dress warmly, and find the perfect spot to experience this natural wonder. Don’t forget to capture the moment with your camera, but also make sure to enjoy the moment with your own eyes as it’s an unforgettable experience.
Table of Contents
