aleksandr popov nZZNdeuN5do unsplash 1

Watching the Northern Lights Tonight in Vermont: Tips and Tricks

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

Watching the Northern Lights Tonight in Vermont: Tips and Tricks

Are you planning a trip to Vermont in the hope of witnessing the beautiful Northern Lights? Well, you’re in luck because Vermont is one of the top locations in the United States to see the Aurora Borealis. While it is not guaranteed that you will witness the spectacular show on any given night, with the right knowledge and preparation, your chances are high.

In this blog post, we will provide you with all the necessary information needed to increase your likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights in Vermont. We will also discuss what causes the Northern Lights and how to view them properly.

What Causes the Northern Lights?

Before we dive into the specific tips on how to see the Northern Lights in Vermont, let’s take a moment to discuss what causes this beautiful phenomenon. The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are natural lights caused by particles from the sun colliding with the Earth’s magnetic field.

The Earth’s magnetic field is known to bend the path of these particles towards the poles of the Earth, exciting gas molecules in the atmosphere. This exciting process creates the glowing and dancing northern lights that we see in the sky.

When to See the Northern Lights in Vermont?

The Aurora Borealis is a natural and unpredictable phenomenon, so there is no specific season to witness the lights. However, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Vermont is from late fall to early spring, between September to April. This period is when nights are longer, providing better viewing opportunities. Moreover, the lights are more active during periods of high solar activity.

Where to Watch the Northern Lights in Vermont?

When it comes to watching the Northern Lights in Vermont, it is essential to find a location with an unobstructed view of the northern horizon. The northern lights are best viewed away from city lights, so it is essential to find a spot with minimal light pollution.

In Vermont, the best locations to see the Northern Lights include areas near Montpelier, Stowe, and Jay Peak ski resort. These areas offer terrific viewing opportunities since they are located away from city lights, and the sky is typically clear. You can also check in with local astronomy clubs, they may have insider knowledge of the best locations to see the Northern Lights in Vermont.

What to Do Before You Go Northern Lights Hunting?

If you’re going to see the Northern Lights in Vermont, there are a few things you should do before you go. First, check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies, as it is almost impossible to see the northern lights if it is cloudy. It would be best if you also aimed to plan your trip during the peak of solar activity, to increase your chances of witnessing the auroras dancing in the sky.

Moreover, it’s crucial to check the time of sunset and sunrise to determine the right time to watch for the Northern Lights. You can also use websites like the Space Weather Prediction Center, which provides Aurora forecasts that can help you plan your trip better.

Lastly, pack warm clothing, since Northern Lights hunting typically occurs in colder months when the temperature drops lower. Gloves, hats, and thick jackets are recommended to keep warm, so you can stay out for a more extended amount of time.

How to Photograph the Northern Lights in Vermont?

Seeing the Northern Lights is a fantastic experience, but being able to capture it on camera makes the moments even more memorable. Here are our top tips for photographing the Aurora Borealis:

– Use a tripod or firm surface to prevent your photographs from being blurry.
– Use a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture (f/2.8 is preferable), which allows more light and captures more of the sky.
– Set the ISO to between 800 and 3200, depending on the camera model, aperture, and overall quality of the photo.
– Use a remote control to handle the camera to avoid shaking when pressing the shutter.
– Shoot in RAW format to ensure digital post-production options.

Final Thoughts

Witnessing the Northern Lights in Vermont is an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list. While it is not a guaranteed natural phenomenon, following the tips and tricks in this blog post will increase your likelihood of seeing the Aurora Borealis. Remember, proper planning, choosing the right location, and being adequately prepared is essential to catching a glimpse of this mystical natural show.

aleksandr popov nZZNdeuN5do unsplash 1

Watching the Northern Lights Tonight in Vermont: Tips and Tricks

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!