Northern Lights Forecast near Wausau, WI: Where to See the Aurora Borealis

Wausau, WI is a beautiful place to visit any time of year, but if you’re looking to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, you’ll want to visit during the winter months. Although Wausau may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of the aurora borealis, it is possible to see them from this region. In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the northern lights forecast near Wausau, WI, including where to go, when to go, and how to increase your chances of seeing this beautiful phenomenon.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from solar storms interact with Earth’s magnetic field. This creates beautiful displays of colored lights in the sky, most commonly seen in the far north or south, close to the Earth’s poles.

When is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights Near Wausau?

The best time to see the Northern Lights near Wausau, WI is during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker. Although the Northern Lights can be seen in the area as early as September, the best time to visit is between December and February.

Where to See the Northern Lights Near Wausau?

The Northern Lights can be seen from various locations near Wausau, Wisconsin. The best place to catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis is in a dark, open area with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon. Here are a few options:

Rib Mountain State Park

Rib Mountain State Park is located about 10 miles west of Wausau, and it offers a great view of the northern horizon. This is a popular spot for stargazing and Northern Lights watching, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore during the day.

Lake Katherine

Lake Katherine is a beautiful spot with a clear view of the northern horizon. This is an especially good option for photographers as the lake offers a great reflection of the Northern Lights.

Rhinelander

Rhinelander is located about an hour and a half north of Wausau and is a great spot to see the Northern Lights. This small town has plenty of open spaces with no light pollution, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and aurora borealis watching.

How to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights Near Wausau?

Although Northern Lights sightings near Wausau are not guaranteed, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of seeing this beautiful phenomenon:

Check the Aurora Forecast

Before you head out to try and catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis, check the aurora forecast. Several websites, including the Space Weather Prediction Center, offer real-time Aurora forecast maps that can help you plan your trip.

Choose a Dark Location

As mentioned earlier, the Northern Lights are best seen in a dark, open area with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon. Avoid areas with light pollution, such as downtown Wausau or other populated areas, as this can make it harder to see the aurora.

Be Patient

Seeing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed, so it’s important to be patient. Sometimes the aurora borealis may not be visible until later in the night or even the next day, so keep checking the forecast and be prepared to wait.

In Conclusion

If you’re planning a trip to Wausau, Wisconsin during the winter months, consider spending an evening gazing at the Northern Lights. With a little bit of planning, you may be able to catch a glimpse of this beautiful phenomenon. Remember to check the aurora forecast, choose a dark location, and be patient. Have a great trip!

An Insider’s Guide to Wausau, Wisconsin

Are you planning a trip to Wausau, Wisconsin? As a local, I can tell you there’s more to this quaint city than meets the eye. Here’s an insider’s guide to the gems that make Wausau a hidden treasure:

Local Attractions

While Wausau has plenty of classic tourist spots, such as Rib Mountain and the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. But if you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out the Monk Botanical Gardens. The lush greenery and extensive plant collection are a perfect escape from the city noise.

If you’re interested in history, take a stroll through the downtown area and visit the historic buildings that line the streets. Make sure to check out the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, located in the heart of the city. It’s a lesser-known cultural gem that showcases the talent of local artists.

Dining Spots

Wausau is well-known for its signature cheese curds, but there’s so much more to the culinary scene here. Head to Red Eye Brewing Company for some locally brewed beer and savor their famous ‘jerk chicken’ or seasoned tofu. For breakfast, State Street Diner is a must-visit, offering mouth-watering classics like pancakes, French toast, and eggs benedict.

If you’re looking for something sweet, try the ‘Cream Cheese Donut’ from Sugar Doll, a bakery that serves up delicious sweets and a cozy ambiance.

Cultural Experiences

Wausau is alive with traditions, art, and culture. The city’s ‘Balloon and Rib Fest’ is a signature event that attracts visitors from across the globe. This grand festival offers hot-air balloon rides and a taste of the best barbecue in the city.

If you’re interested in visual arts, make sure to catch the annual ‘Frida Fest’ at the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art. This celebration of Frida Kahlo’s life and work is a sight to behold.

Local History

While Wausau’s rich history sometimes takes a backseat to its vibrant present, there are hidden stories that can’t be overlooked. For example, the ‘Wisconsin Valley Fair’, held annually, dates back to 1866 when it was known as the ‘Marathon County Fair’. Another interesting piece of Wausau’s past is the story of popular outlaw John Dillinger, who escaped from the city’s jail.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Wausau is blessed with natural beauty, so make sure to drive down the scenic route from Rib Mountain to Marathon City. The winding country road is mesmerizing, especially in autumn when the leaves turn different hues of yellow and red.

Another spot worth stepping off the beaten path is the Wausau mine. The mine was operational from the late 1800s till the 1940s. Visitors can explore the dark, damp tunnels to get a glimpse of Wausau’s underground mining history.

Overall, whether you’re here for the Northern Lights forecast near Wausau, WI, or just hoping to explore this beautiful city, Wausau has lots to offer. I hope this insider’s guide helps you discover a few hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories.