Can You See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks in March?

If you’re looking to witness one of nature’s most stunning displays of beauty, the Northern Lights (also known as Aurora Borealis) is an absolute must-see. This mesmerizing natural phenomenon occurs when energetic particles from the sun collide with earth’s atmosphere, causing brightly colored lights to dance across the night sky. Fairbanks in Alaska is considered as one of the best places in the world for viewing the Northern Lights. But can you see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks in March?

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks

Before answering the question, let’s first understand the best time to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks. While the Northern Lights can be seen in Fairbanks from late August to early April, the best months are from December to March. During these months, Fairbanks experiences long, dark nights and clear skies, making it an ideal location for viewing this natural spectacle.

The Likelihood of Seeing Northern Lights in March

There’s no guarantee that you will see the Northern Lights in any given month, but March is well known for its aurora activity. According to the Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Fairbanks, March is among the top three months of the year for Aurora viewing in Fairbanks, with the peak being around the vernal equinox, which falls on March 20th.

Fairbanks Weather Conditions in March

Fairbanks weather conditions in March might make it challenging for some tourists as the average temperature in Fairbanks in March is typically around −10°F (-23°C). However, the Aurora viewing locations generally have warming huts or similar facilities to take a break from cold winds. While it’s challenging to predict weather conditions far in advance, visitors should be prepared for the cold weather by dressing in layers, wearing gloves, hats, and suitable winter gear.

Best Places to See Northern Lights in Fairbanks

There are multiple viewing locations in Fairbanks, and the best one to choose is determined by local hotel, tour and travel companies, and experience. Here are some of the top places to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks:

1. Cleary Summit

Located 20 miles outside Fairbanks, Cleary Summit is well known for its incredible view of the Northern Lights. It’s accessible by car, and you can go during the daytime for the excellent viewing deck and breathtaking views of the Alaska Range.

2. Chena Hot Springs

Chena Hot Springs is a 1.5-hour drive from Fairbanks and is one of the best places to view the Northern Lights. The location has many hot springs, tours, aurora viewing packages, and options to stay overnight in cabins.

3. Murphy Dome

Murphy Dome is a popular viewing location, roughly 25 miles northwest of Fairbanks. One unique fact about Murphy Dome is that it stands at 2,866 feet, making it one of the highest viewing points in the area with incredible panoramic views.

Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights in March

If you plan to visit Fairbanks in March for the Aurora viewing, here are some helpful tips to make your experience comfortable and memorable.

1. Book in Advance

With a limited number of seats and large demand, prebooking is essential for aurora tours rather than exploring yourself.

2. Dress Appropriately

The temperature drops south of -20 in Faribanks in March, so ensure that you bring multiple layers with you and keep yourself warm.

3. Bring a Good Camera

Capturing the stunning Northern Lights’ beauty is an experience of a lifetime. So, don’t forget to bring your high-quality camera with a tripod and sufficient battery backup.

4. Patience is Key

Waiting for the Northern Lights to appear can be a test of patience, so be patient during the process. If you are at the right location, chances are that the Aurora will appear but MAYBE it will happen after an hour or two.

5. Stay Overnight at Aurora Viewing Locations

Some aurora viewing locations offer you the opportunity to stay overnight, making it an unforgettable experience. You can experience the Northern Lights at your convenience and not worry about the time.

Conclusion

March is undoubtedly an excellent time to experience the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Fairbanks. Although it may be cold, dark, and harsh, the stunning light will make up for whatever weather it may be. With its clear skies and long nights, Fairbanks presents a great chance to see the Northern Lights. Don’t miss the chance to witness this incredible natural spectacle in March’s peak season, where you’ll have the best possibility of catching the stunning light show.