What Time of Year Do You See the Northern Lights in Alaska?

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon that attracts thousands of visitors to Alaska each year. The dancing lights in the sky are a mesmerizing sight that leaves everyone who sees them in awe. However, not every time is the best time to see the lights. In this article, we will guide you on the best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Alaska.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights are a natural light display that occurs in the polar regions of the Earth. It is caused by the collision of charged particles from the sun with atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere. When this collision occurs, energy is produced, creating the beautiful and colorful light display.

Best Time of Year for Northern Lights Viewing in Alaska

While the Northern Lights can be seen in Alaska throughout the year, the best time to see them is from September to April. During these months, the nights are longer, which increases your chances of seeing the lights.

The peak season for Aurora viewing in Alaska is from December to February. During this time, the skies are clear, and the temperatures are above zero, making it more comfortable to view the lights.

The period between March and April is also a great time to see the Northern Lights, but the temperatures can be much colder. If you plan on visiting during this time, be sure to dress warmly and pack plenty of layers.

Where to View the Northern Lights in Alaska

While you can see the Northern Lights in almost any part of Alaska, some places have better visibility than others. Here are some of the best places for Aurora viewing in Alaska:

• Fairbanks: Fairbanks is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Located in the interior of Alaska, it offers an ideal location for viewing, away from the city lights.
• Anchorage: Anchorage is another great place to see the Northern Lights, especially if you’re visiting other parts of Alaska. The city has a lot of amenities, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment, making it a great base for Aurora viewing.
• Denali National Park: Denali National Park offers unparalleled views of the Northern Lights. Its remote location away from city lights makes it one of the best places to see the lights.
• Nome: Nome is a small town located on the Bering Sea coast that offers some of the best Aurora viewing opportunities in Alaska. It has little to no light pollution, which makes it an ideal location for seeing the lights.
• Chena Hot Springs Resort: This resort offers an Aurora viewing experience like no other. Situated in a remote location, it offers a clear view of the Northern Lights.

Conclusion

The best time of year to see the Northern Lights in Alaska is from September to April, with the peak season being from December to February. It is highly recommended that you visit one of the best locations we have listed for increased chances of viewing the lights.

Remember, viewing the Northern Lights is a once in a lifetime experience. So, ensure you pack warm clothing, bring your camera, and plan your visit to Alaska between September and April for the best chance to experience this amazing natural light display.

An Insider’s Guide to Seeing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a spectacular Northern Lights experience. With its prime location, visitors can enjoy the aurora borealis viewing season from September until April. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best places to witness the Northern Lights, local attractions, popular dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path recommendations.

Where to See the Northern Lights

Fairbanks is located underneath the “Aurora Oval,” making it one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights. The best viewing times are from 11 pm to 3 am. The most popular spots to see the lights are:

• The Chena Hot Springs Resort, where they offer Northern Lights tours and can even arrange to pick you up from your hotel.
• Downtown Fairbanks, particularly the Creamer’s Field State Game Refuge, where you can enjoy an unobstructed view of the sky.
• The Murphy Dome, which is a hill located about 20 miles from Fairbanks and provides an even higher vantage point for viewing.

Local Attractions

Aside from the Northern Lights, Fairbanks has numerous attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top picks:

• The University of Alaska Museum of the North showcases the history, art, and culture of Alaska’s people and wildlife.
• The Riverboat Discovery offers visitors a chance to experience the Alaskan way of life, including watching salmon spawning, dog mushing, and gold panning.
• The Fairbanks Ice Museum is a unique destination carved entirely out of ice, located in the heart of downtown Fairbanks.

Dining Spots

Fairbanks has a great selection of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Here are some of the top restaurants to try:

• The Pump House Restaurant and Saloon serves up classic Alaskan cuisine, including fresh seafood and locally sourced game.
• Lavelle’s Bistro is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner, with a menu that features contemporary American cuisine and a great wine selection.
• The Cookie Jar Restaurant is a popular breakfast spot that serves up hearty comfort food and delicious homemade pastries.

Cultural Experiences

Fairbanks is rich in culture and history, and visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the unique lifestyle of the Alaskan people. Here are some of the top cultural experiences to try:

• The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center offers exhibits on Alaska’s indigenous people, as well as displays on modern life in Alaska.
• The Alyeska Pipeline Visitor Center provides visitors with interactive exhibits and educational displays on Alaska’s oil pipeline.
• The Fairbanks Community Museum showcases the history of Fairbanks and the surrounding area through artifacts and photographs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Recommendations

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Fairbanks has plenty of hidden gems to discover. Here are some unique off-beat attractions to try:

• The Aurora Ice Museum, located in the Chena Hot Springs Resort, is the perfect spot for an icy adventure. The museum features incredible ice sculptures and even a bar made entirely out of ice.
• The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum has an incredible collection of perfectly restored vintage cars as well as showcasing the culture of early 20th century Alaska.
• The Santa Claus House in nearby North Pole is a year-round Christmas destination and home to the world’s largest fiberglass statue of Santa Claus.

In conclusion, Fairbanks, Alaska is not only a prime destination to witness the Northern Lights, but also boasts an array of other attractions, dining options, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path recommendations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Fairbanks.