The Best Time to Catch the Fairbanks Northern Lights – A Guide for Nature Lovers

Have you ever dreamt of standing underneath a clear night sky and witnessing an aurora borealis phenomenon take over the sky? This dream can come true if you plan your trip to Fairbanks correctly. Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that attracts visitors from all over the world. The best place to see it is in Alaska, and Fairbanks is one of the main cities where you can see it. In this guide, we will answer the burning question – When is the best time to catch the Fairbanks Northern Lights?

What are Northern Lights

Before we dive into the best time to catch Northern Lights in Fairbanks, let’s understand what Northern Lights are. Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon caused by the collision of electrically charged particles from the sun with the Earth’s atmosphere. These particles react with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere and create lights that are visible only in the northern hemisphere. Northern Lights can appear in different colors such as green, pink, purple, and blue.

The Best Time to Catch Northern Lights in Fairbanks

The best time to witness Northern Lights in Fairbanks is during the winter months, from late September to early April. During this period, the nights are longer, increasing the chances of seeing Northern Lights. The peak season to witness Northern Lights in Fairbanks is from December to February. The winter months in Fairbanks are cold, and temperatures can drop up to 40-degrees F, so it’s essential to prepare warm clothing.

The Factors That Affect the Northern Lights Visibility in Fairbanks

While the winter months are ideal to catch Northern Lights, several factors can affect the visibility of Northern Lights in Fairbanks. Some of these factors are:

Solar Activity

One of the most significant factors that affect the visibility of Northern Lights is solar activity. It is said that during a solar maximum, which occurs in eleven-year cycles, the probability of seeing Northern Lights increases. During a solar maximum, the sun releases more charged particles, which collide with the Earth’s atmosphere and create Northern Lights. The Northern Lights activity is at its peak during a solar maximum.

Weather Conditions

Another factor that affects visibility is weather conditions. Clear skies are a prerequisite to witness Northern Lights, and if the sky is overcast, the chances of seeing Northern Lights diminish. Low temperatures, which are common during winter months, can create a crystal-clear sky, increasing the chances of catching Northern Lights.

Light Pollution

Light pollution is one of the biggest challenges that limit visibility in Fairbanks. Fairbanks city is small so that you can quickly get out of town and into remote areas to avoid light pollution. Several designated areas offer perfect views of Northern Lights free from light pollution.

How to Increase Your Chances to Catch Northern Lights in Fairbanks

While you can’t control the Northern Lights, there are several things you can do to increase your chances of catching Northern Lights:

Book a Tour

There are several tour operators in Fairbanks that offer tours specifically designed to witness Northern Lights. These tours usually take you out of the city to remote locations, with minimal light pollution, to give you the best view of Northern Lights. These tours come with a guide who can explain how the Northern Lights appear, the science behind them and provide information on photographing the lights.

Stay for an Extended Period

The chances of seeing Northern Lights increase if you stay in Fairbanks for an extended period. Some locals say that Northern Lights become a part of their lives, and they notice them more frequently after spending more time in Fairbanks.

Use Northern Lights Forecasts

Several apps and websites help provide Northern Lights forecasts. These forecasts use current solar activity, and weather conditions as input to provide a probability of Northern Lights sightings. Using these apps, you can plan your Northern Lights sighting better.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best time to catch Northern Lights in Fairbanks is between September to April. The winter months of December to February are the peak season for Northern Lights. Several factors, such as solar activity, weather conditions, and light pollution, can affect the visibility of Northern Lights. Planning your trip well, booking tours, and using Northern Lights forecasts can help you increase your chances of catching the breathtaking Northern Lights in Fairbanks.

An Insider’s Guide to Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska, is a city that promises a truly unique and unforgettable experience. From the allure of the northern lights to the captivating beauty of the natural landscapes, Fairbanks is a city that has something for everyone. If you’re planning a visit to this picturesque city, don’t limit yourself to the usual tourist attractions. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best hidden gems and unique experiences that the locals know and love.

Local Attractions

While visiting Fairbanks, a trip to the iconic Pioneer Park, showcasing the city’s gold rush days is a must. However, for a more intimate and nature-driven experience, visit Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, which provides an unparalleled view of the northern lights. Head over to the Morris Thompson Culture and Visitors Centre that showcases the beauty of traditional Alaska Native culture and their close-knit relationship with the land they call home.

Dining Spots

Fairbanks boasts a unique food culture that represents Alaska’s rich history and multicultural mix. For an authentic Alaskan experience, visit the Silver Gulch Brewing and Bottling Company that serves up a delectable array of food and beer brewed on-site. Head over to the Wolf Run Restaurant that offers some of the best seafood dishes in town, straight from Alaska’s pristine waters. Don’t miss out on the baked goods and pastries from the locally loved Co-op Market Grocery and Deli.

Cultural Experiences

The Athabascan people have deep roots in the Fairbanks community and surrounding areas. Visit the Morris Thompson Culture and Visitors Center to engage in a fascinating cultural experience with traditional arts, crafts, dance, and music performances. Also, the city never misses an opportunity to celebrate holidays and festivals, including the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics and the Midnight Sun Festival during summer solstice.

Local History

Fairbanks prides itself on its rich history, and there’s no shortage of informative and captivating stories to tell here. The University of Alaska Museum of the North showcases the culture and history of Alaska’s Indigenous peoples and the state’s diverse natural environments and geology. Visit the Pioneer Air Museum to learn more about Alaska’s aviation history and the valuable role it played in its development.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For the adventure-seeking travelers, Fairbanks has plenty of coniferous forests, wildlife, hot springs, and much more to satisfy their wanderlust. Get a bird’s-eye view of Alaska by taking the iconic Alaska Railroad and visiting Ester Gold Camp, a quaint historic gold mining village. For a breathtaking view of the aurora borealis, book a tour with an experienced guide, who can take you to the best and secluded locations outside Fairbanks for an unparalleled northern lights experience.

Final Thoughts

Fairbanks may be a small and remote city, but it offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience that will linger long after you leave. Whether you’re visiting for the first or the fiftieth time, there’s something new to discover every time. Local attractions, tourist attractions, food culture, cultural experiences, historical sites, and hidden gems – Fairbanks has it all. Use this insider’s guide, and get the most out of your travels to the beautiful city of Fairbanks, Alaska.