The Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

The Northern Lights, or the Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon that has captivated people for centuries. It’s a sight that has to be seen to be believed, and Alaska is one of the best places in the world to witness this amazing spectacle. But when is the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Alaska? In this blog post, we will explore the ideal time of year to see the Northern Lights, what causes them, and how to best prepare for your trip.

Why Does Alaska Have the Best Northern Lights Viewing?

Before we dive into the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, it’s important to understand why Alaska is such a fantastic place to view the Aurora Borealis. Alaska is located directly below the “Aurora Oval,” which is the area around the North Pole where the Northern Lights occur most frequently. This means that you’re more likely to see the Northern Lights in Alaska than in many other parts of the world. Additionally, because much of Alaska is rural, there is very little light pollution, which makes for even better viewing conditions.

What Causes the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are caused by the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and the solar winds. When the charged particles from the sun’s corona collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, they react with various gases, creating the light show we call the Northern Lights.

The Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

The Northern Lights are visible in Alaska from August to April. However, the best time of year to see them is during the winter months, from November to March. During this time, the nights are longer, which means that you have more opportunities to view the Northern Lights. Additionally, the cold and clear winter air creates ideal viewing conditions.

November and December

November and December are two of the best months to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. The nights are long, and the skies are often clear. However, the weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for snow and cold temperatures. This is also a great time to visit Alaska, as the winter season is in full swing and many winter activities are available.

January and February

January and February are also excellent months to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. The skies are usually clear, and the nights are still long. Many people choose to visit Alaska during this time because it’s the height of the winter season, and there are many winter sports and activities available.

March

March is another great month to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. The skies are clear, and the nights are still long. However, as the month progresses, the temperatures begin to warm up, which can make for slightly less ideal viewing conditions.

Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska to see the Northern Lights, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of seeing this amazing natural phenomenon. Here are some tips:

1. Choose a Dark Viewing Location

The less light pollution, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Try to get as far away from any city lights as possible, and choose a viewing location that is dark and quiet.

2. Check the Weather Forecast

The Northern Lights are best viewed on clear, cold nights. Check the weather forecast before you head out to your viewing location to make sure that the conditions are ideal.

3. Give Your Eyes Time to Adjust

Your eyes need time to adjust to the dark before you can truly appreciate the Northern Lights. Be patient, and give yourself at least 15-30 minutes for your eyes to adjust.

4. Bring Warm Clothing

Alaska can be very cold during the winter months, so dress warmly. This is especially true if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors.

5. Consider a Guided Tour

If you’re unsure of where the best viewing locations are, or if you’re not comfortable going out on your own, consider booking a guided Northern Lights tour. A guide can take you to the best locations for viewing the Northern Lights, and can provide valuable information about the phenomenon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Alaska is during the winter months, from November to March. During this time, the nights are long, and the skies are usually clear, creating ideal viewing conditions. With a little bit of preparation and luck, you can experience the Northern Lights in all their glory. So, pack your warm clothing, check the weather forecast, and head to Alaska for the ultimate Northern Lights experience.