Exploring the Magic of the Northern Lights in Juneau, Alaska

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, chasing the Northern Lights in Juneau, Alaska, is a must-do. This natural phenomenon, also known as Aurora Borealis, is a magnificent display of colorful lights dancing across the night sky. Each year, thousands of visitors travel to Juneau, Alaska, to witness this breathtaking spectacle.

When to see the Northern Lights in Juneau, Alaska

Despite popular belief, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Juneau, Alaska, is not during the wintertime. The ideal season to witness this spectacle is during the months of September, October, and November. Even though the winter months offer more extended periods of darkness, there is a higher chance of experiencing cloudy skies, making it challenging to see the lights. Fall’s lower chances of cloud cover make it an ideal time to witness Aurora Borealis.

Where to Watch the Northern Lights in Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska, is one of the best places globally to witness the Northern Lights. There are several spots to catch a glimpse of this breathtaking phenomenon. One of the most popular places to watch Northern Lights is the Eaglecrest Ski Area, located at the top of a mountain. This vantage point offers stunning views of the lights and the surrounding areas, making it a great spot to take remarkable pictures.

If you’re looking to combine viewing Aurora Borealis with natural hot springs, then head to Chena Hot Springs Resort. This resort, located about 60 miles from Fairbanks, offers nightly Northern Lights viewing, making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind in one of the hot spring pools while watching the lights.

Another fantastic spot to view the Northern Lights is from the Mendenhall Glacier. This glacier provides an unobstructed view of the night sky, allowing visitors to witness the lights at their fullest potential.

How to View the Northern Lights in Juneau, Alaska

To view the Northern Lights, it is recommended to take a guided tour. There are plenty of tours available in Juneau, Alaska, that offer guided transportation to different popular viewing spots, including the ones mentioned above. Taking a guided tour has several advantages, including having an experienced guide who knows the best spots and can provide informative commentary about the lights’ phenomena. Tour operators also usually provide equipment, including tripods and specialized cameras, to capture stunning images.

What to Wear When Viewing the Northern Lights in Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, Alaska, can experience extremely cold temperatures in the fall months, and it is recommended that visitors dress appropriately to stay warm while viewing the Northern Lights. Dress in layers, with a waterproof jacket and insulated pants and boots. Gloves, hats, and scarfs should also be worn to cover exposed areas. It is recommended to pack hand warmers and a thermos filled with warm liquids to remain comfortable during the experience.

Conclusion

Viewing Aurora Borealis in Juneau, Alaska, is a fantastic experience. With the right timing, location, and clothing, visitors to Juneau can witness this natural wonder up close. Remember to book a guided tour to have the best experience and make unforgettable memories. Be sure to take along your camera to capture this beautiful natural phenomenon.

Insider’s Guide to Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, the capital city of Alaska, is the perfect destination for travelers who want to explore the unspoiled natural beauty of Alaska in all its grandness. Sitting along the Gastineau Channel, Juneau is renowned for its towering glaciers, rugged mountains, and dense forests. Visitors are often thrilled by the spectacular scenery that surrounds the city making it the perfect place to go on a Northern Lights adventure. Here is our Insider’s Guide with local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your trip to Juneau memorable.

Local Attractions

Juneau offers tourists a range of activities and attractions to explore. Here are a few of the top attractions in the city:

• Mendenhall Glacier – An awe-inspiring glacier, absolutely stunning. There is a visitor center and trails that you can hike alongside the glacier.
• Mount Roberts Tramway – Take a scenic ride on an aerial tramway to the top of Mount Roberts to see breathtaking panoramic views of the area, eat at a restaurant, and explore the Alaska Native cultural center.
• Glacier Bay National Park – A destination for most tourists, this park features over 3 million acres of wilderness highlighted by rivers of ice and snow-capped peaks.
• Whale Watching Tours – Get up close and personal with whales and other marine wildlife with a guided tour of the waters around Juneau.
• The Alaska State Capitol – A must-see landmark of the city, home to the state’s governor and legislative sessions open to the public in the winter.

Dining Spots

Juneau has a unique culinary scene thanks to the abundance of fresh seafood, game meats, and locally grown vegetables. Here are a few of the best restaurants in Juneau:

• SALT – A seafood-centric restaurant featuring fresh, local ingredients, and unique flavors.
• Tracy’s King Crab Shack – A popular spot for tourists, this shack serves some of the freshest crab in the area.
• The Rookery Cafe – A cozy cafe using locally sourced, organic ingredients to create delicious meals for any dining occasion.
• The Island Pub – Known for its fish and chips, this pub has a laid-back atmosphere and offers delicious beers and cocktails.
• In Bocca al Lupo – A fine-dining stand out in Juneau, offering Italian cuisine with a modern twist.

Cultural Experiences

Juneau has a diverse cultural scene with various festivals, events, and museums that reflect the indigenous people of the area and the gold rush era. Here are few cultural experiences to add to your itinerary:

• Alaska State Museum – A museum that tells the story of Alaska’s rich history from the early days to the present.
• The Juneau Arts and Humanities Council – Attend theater, music, and art performances throughout the year or participate in a local workshop.
• Tlingit Culture Tour – Learn about Alaska Native history, visit local enterprises owned and operated by Alaska Natives, and hear traditional drumming and songs.
• Juneau Gold Rush Historic District – Step back in time to the days of Juneau’s gold rush with a walking tour of the district.
• Juneau Maritime Festival – A summer festival celebrating the area’s thriving maritime culture, featuring music, demonstrations, and fresh seafood.

Local History

Juneau is full of history and culture. Here are a few historical places to visit in the city.

• Last Chance Mining Museum – A museum located in a restored miner’s bunkhouse that offers an immersive experience of the gold rush era complete with exhibits of mining tools and machinery.
• St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church – This church is a historical landmark in the city and is noteworthy for its traditional Russian architecture.
• Alaska Governor’s Mansion – A beautiful colonial-style mansion that has been the residence of Alaska governors since 1912.
• Red Dog Saloon – A famous historical landmark of the city known for its memorabilia of prospectors and miners that once filled the city streets.
• Alaska State Capitol Building – A stunning building with a rich history, the Alaska State Capitol Building is a symbol of Juneau’s importance in the state’s history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Juneau is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and you can find hidden gems here in equal measure. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for you to explore:

• Nugget Falls – Take a trail that will lead you to the Nugget Falls, this hidden gem is an incredible sight.
• Mount Juneau Trail – If you like hiking, then the Mount Juneau trail is a must-do. It offers picturesque views of the city and a quiet getaway into nature.
• The Juneau Panhandle Ice Fields – Helicopter over the ice fields and get up close to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
• Alaska State Library Historical Collections – The collection contains more than 15,000 historical photographs of Alaska and is a great attraction for history enthusiasts.
• Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventures – A unique botanical experience visiting the rainforests of Southeast Alaska.

With its unspoiled natural beauty and unique cultural experiences, Juneau is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and culture buffs. Use our Insider’s Guide to Juneau to help plan your trip and make your visit to Juneau unforgettable.