Everything You Need to Know About Catching the Northern Lights in Colorado in March 2023

If you’re looking for a natural phenomenon that looks as if it’s straight out of a fantasy novel, then witnessing the Northern Lights is something that should be on your travel bucket list! The sparkling lights dancing across the night sky are mesmerizing, and it is a truly unforgettable experience. While many people might think that heading up north to countries like Norway or Finland is the only way to see the Aurora Borealis, but you don’t have to travel that far! In this post, we will guide you on seeing the Northern Lights in Colorado in March 2023.

What Are the Northern Lights?

Before delving into how to catch the Northern Lights in Colorado, let’s discuss what these magical lights really are. The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display that occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun enter Earth’s atmosphere and collide with its gases. These collisions then produce streams of different colors such as green, yellow, pink, and purple – creating the mesmerizing views that we know as the Northern Lights.

Why Colorado?

Colorado is well-known for its stunning natural landscapes, but it’s not usually the first place that comes to mind when thinking about seeing the Northern Lights. However, Colorado can be the perfect location to catch a glimpse of the mystical Aurora Borealis.

One of the main reasons why people choose Colorado to witness the Northern Lights is because of its location. The state is located far north enough, which increases the likelihood of being able to see the lights in the winter. With its clear skies, dry air, and minimal light pollution, the state provides the perfect environment to witness the aurora glow.

When Should You Go?

The ideal time to witness the Northern Lights in Colorado would be between the months of September and April. However, March is the best month to catch the Aurora borealis in the state.

The further away from the equinox, the darker and longer the nights become, creating an ideal environment for the Northern lights to appear. In addition, the chances of seeing the lights are also higher during the solar maximum period, which usually happens every 11 years. Luckily, 2023 is set to be a year of solar maximum!

Where Should You Go?

When it comes to catching the Northern Lights in Colorado, some locations offer a better view than others. Here are the top three locations to witness the aurora borealis in Colorado:

1. Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs is a perfect location for those who want to be outdoors and surrounded by nature when viewing the Northern Lights. Being situated in Northwest Colorado with recognizable landmarks such as Steamboat Ski Resort and the Yampa River, it provides fantastic panoramic views of the night sky.

2. Flat Tops Wilderness Area

Located only an hour away from Steamboat Springs, this remote wilderness area is an ideal location for catching the Northern Lights as it’s far away from any kind of light pollution, providing maximum visibility.

3. Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is undoubtedly one of Colorado’s most popular destinations, and during winter months, it provides opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights. Camping grounds here are perfect for astronomy enthusiasts who want to be closer to the action.

How Can You See the Northern Lights?

Keeping in mind the best time and locations, seeing the Northern Lights still depends on a few other factors such as weather conditions and solar activity. For instance, clouds and overcast weather can interrupt the visibility of the aurora. However, there are some steps that one can take to increase the chances of seeing them.

First, plan your trip in advance and check the weather condition forecasts before departure. Clear skies are necessary to see the Northern Lights. Traveling outside town to avoid light pollution and to enhance visibility is another important step to increase your chances of witnessing the Aurora Borealis.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Lights are an incredible natural phenomenon that everyone should be able to witness at least once in their lifetime. It’s not every day that you get to witness nature’s beauty in such an enchanting way. Colorado’s specialty in regards to nature makes it a unique destination that can provide the perfect opportunity to catch the Northern Lights. Be sure to plan your trip well in advance and follow the advice given for the best chance of witnessing this magical display.