Discovering Northern Lights in Wisconsin in August 2022: A Guide

If you’ve always dreamt of seeing the Northern Lights or aurora borealis, you may be surprised to learn that it’s possible to witness this incredible natural phenomenon in the heart of the Midwest – Wisconsin, to be precise. While you don’t usually associate the northern lights with Wisconsin, the state is one of the few places in the United States where you can spot this magical display of colorful lights, especially in August. In this guide, we will take a closer look at the Northern Lights in Wisconsin in August 2022, share the best places to see them, and essential tips to help you make the most of your experience!

The Northern Lights – What Are They?

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, is a natural light display caused by solar winds. Electrons and protons from the sun get charged and enter the earth’s atmosphere, creating a spectacular display of colorful lights visible in the northern hemisphere. The Aurora Borealis usually appear in shades of green, but you may also spot pink, blue, yellow, and red hues, depending on the altitude, oxygen, and nitrogen levels.

Why Is August a Good Time to See the Northern Lights in Wisconsin?

While the Northern Lights are visible all year round, the best time to spot them in Wisconsin is during the winter months, from December to February. But, if you’re planning to visit Wisconsin in August, you may still be lucky enough to see them. August is the start of the Aurora season, so you may spot more frequent activity in the sky, with possible sightings on clear nights.

The Best Places to See Northern Lights in Wisconsin

If you’re keen to witness the Northern Lights in Wisconsin, the first step is to find the best place to see them. The aurora is most visible in areas with minimal light pollution and clear skies. Here are some of the best spots to see them:

1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it an excellent place to view the Northern Lights in Wisconsin. You can watch the aurora from Bayfield or Meyers Beach, which offer stunning views of Lake Superior and surrounding islands.

2. Newport State Park

Newport State Park is located in Door County and is another great location to view the Northern Lights in Wisconsin. This park is known for its dark skies, making it an ideal place to stargaze and catch a glimpse of the aurora. The park is open 24 hours a day, so you can plan a nighttime trip to increase your chances of spotting them.

3. High Point State Park

High Point State Park in Ogema is known for its vast open fields, which provide unobstructed views of the sky. The park is located in the middle of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, making it an excellent location to view the Northern Lights in Wisconsin.

Essential Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights in Wisconsin

Now that you have an idea of the best locations to view the Northern Lights in Wisconsin let’s go over some essential tips to help you make the most of your experience:

1. Check Aurora Forecast

Before heading out to view the Northern Lights, check the aurora forecast, which predicts where and when the aurora activity will be at its strongest. There are several apps and websites you can use to check the aurora forecast, such as the Aurora Forecast app or the Alaska Geophysical Institute.

2. Dress Warmly

Wisconsin nights are cold, and you want to ensure you stay warm during your aurora spotting experience. Remember to layer clothing, wear warm hats and gloves, and bring a blanket to sit on.

3. Bring Snacks and Drinks

Aurora spotting can require a bit of patience, so bring along some snacks and drinks to keep you fueled while you wait for the lights to appear.

4. Have Patience

Viewing the Northern Lights is all about patience. You may need to wait for extended periods before seeing anything. So, make yourself comfortable, settle in and enjoy the experience before you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Northern Lights are unusual in Wisconsin, you can still catch a glimpse of this spectacular display of lights, particularly during August. Plan your trip to Wisconsin, choose a spot with minimal light pollution and clear skies, dress warmly and pack snacks and drinks, and wait patiently for the aurora to show up. Remember, Northern Lights spotting can be unpredictable, so have fun and enjoy the experience, regardless of the outcome!