What Season Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska?

If you’re planning to see the northern lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, Alaska is one of the best places to go. Alaska often experiences the magical lights, but the natural phenomenon is not available all the time in Alaska. The northern lights appear only during specific seasons of the year. So, what season can you see the northern lights in Alaska? Let’s find out.

What are the Northern Lights?

Before diving into the details, let us understand what are the Northern Lights? Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, occur when the electrically charged particles (electrons and protons) from the sun collide with the earth’s magnetic field. These collisions create a colorful light display, which is a mix of greens, blues, pinks, and yellows in the night sky.

The Northern Lights are mostly visible in the polar regions since the auroras gravitate towards the geomagnetic poles as a result of the earth’s magnetic field.

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska?

To see the Northern Lights, you need to have a clear night sky, good weather, and in particular, luck – as there is no guarantee the lights will appear. The Northern Lights season is during the winter months when the nights are long in Alaska. The ideal time to catch the Northern Lights is from September to April, when the sky is most often dark.

September to November:

Between September to November, the Aurora Borealis is most visible. The weather is stable and often less cloudy at this time in Alaska. Moreover, you can experience the beauty of the fall colors along with the Northern Lights.

December to January:

December to January is the peak season for the Northern Lights in Alaska. During these months, the nights are longest, making it easier to see the full range of colors presented by the Northern Lights in the sky. However, due to the increasing popularity of Alaska as the best destination to witness natural phenomena, numerous tourists visit Alaska during these months. As nights can be crowded with people, it may be more challenging to find good viewing spots during peak season.

February to March:

February to March is an excellent time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. The snowfall during this period tends to be less than other months, resulting in fewer snow clouds and better visibility of the lights.

April:

April is the end of the Northern Lights season in Alaska. During this time, the nights start getting shorter, making it much harder to see the lights. However, Alaska often sees Northern Lights activity in the first half of April. If you take a trip to Alaska during April, it is always worth keeping a watchful eye on the sky.

Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights in Alaska

If you’re traveling to Alaska to see the Northern Lights, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

• Go outside of the city: City lights can be distracting and may prevent you from spotting the Northern Lights.
• Look for clear skies: The Northern Lights are not visible if the sky is overcast, so track weather conditions and go out only when the skies are clear.
• Dress appropriately: The winters in Alaska are extremely cold, so be sure to wear warm layers to stay comfortable while waiting for the Aurora.
• Prepare your camera: Bring a high-quality camera to capture the stunning lights, but make sure to take some time to appreciate the natural beauty of the lights without always being behind the lens.

Conclusion

The Northern Lights are an incredible natural phenomenon and a bucket-list experience for many. In Alaska, the lights are visible from September to April, and the best time to see them is from September to March. However, just because it’s Northern Lights season doesn’t mean you’ll see them. Consistent sightings are rare, and weather conditions can cause disappointment. But with the right planning and a bit of luck, you can experience this surreal spectacle and make memories that will last a lifetime.

An Insider’s Guide to Fairbanks, Alaska

Are you planning a trip to Fairbanks, Alaska, to chase the elusive Northern Lights? While winter draws the most visitors to Fairbanks, there’s plenty to see and do in every season. As a local, I’m excited to share some hidden gems, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make your visit an unforgettable one.

Local Attractions

While exploring Pioneer Park and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center should be on your list, how about ticking something off-beat in Fairbanks – ice fishing in the Chena River State Recreation Area? If you’re visiting in summer, you can fish for Arctic Grayling and Rainbow Trout, and if you’re a durian fan, stop by the annual Durian Fest at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where you can try this tropical fruit, which grows well in the chilly Alaskan climate.

Dining Spots

Fairbanks has a fantastic food culture, with traditional Alaska Native cuisine being the highlight. The popular Eskimo ice cream, or Akutaq, made with berries and fish oil, is something you must try. Head over to The Crepery, a quaint food truck serving up savory and sweet crepes made with locally sourced ingredients, or visit Sam’s Sourdough Cafe, a cabin-style diner that has been serving baked goods since the 1950s.

Cultural Experiences

To gain insights into Alaska Native culture, visit the Museum of the North, which showcases the history, art, and culture of Indigenous Alaskans. Attend the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics held annually in July, where you can witness traditional games like the ear-pull and the blanket toss. You can also book a tour with an Alaska Native guide to learn about their way of life and traditions.

Local History

Fairbanks has a fascinating history, and one of the most compelling stories is that of Felix Pedro, who discovered gold in a creek bed in 1902, leading to a gold rush. Visit the Pioneer Park to see some historic cabins and learn about the gold rush history. Another interesting spot is the Alaska Pipeline, a massive network of pipelines that spans 800 miles and is responsible for transporting crude oil from the North Slope to Valdez.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Take a dip in the Chena Hot Springs, a natural hot-pool that can be accessed by road or trail, and try the ice museum tour. Visit the live sled dog kennels, where you can have hands-on experience in mushing (driving the dog sleds), learn how to harness the dogs, and enjoy dog cuddles! Another must-visit spot – take a stroll around the Tanana Valley Farmer’s Market, where you can buy fresh produce, handmade jewelry, or handmade crafts from local artisans.

In conclusion, Fairbanks, Alaska, has something for everyone, from the Northern Lights to museums, from ice fishing to ice museums, and from local food to offbeat experiences. Use this insider’s guide to plan your visit to Fairbanks and fall in love with this beautiful city.