When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska 2022?

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are a spectacular natural light display that can only be seen in certain parts of the world. Alaska is one of the best places to view the Northern Lights, as it experiences clear skies and low light pollution. Not only is Alaska a good place to witness this amazing phenomenon, but it’s also home to some breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. So, when can you see the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2022?

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska is during the winter months, from November to April. At this time, the nights are longer, which means that the Northern Lights have a longer window to appear. While the Northern Lights can technically be visible on any clear night in Alaska, there are a few factors that can increase your chances of seeing them:

• Clear skies: the Northern Lights are visible during times of low cloud cover
• New Moon period: the moon’s brightness can make it harder to see the Northern Lights, so it’s best to go during a new moon phase
• Location: The most Northern locations in Alaska like Fairbanks and Nome offer the best opportunity to see Northern Lights spectacle, while Anchorage is a bit further south, and while Northern Lights can be visible in Anchorage, they’re less often seen than in more Northern areas.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and are not guaranteed, no matter when and where you go to see them. However, by going during the winter months and following the tips mentioned above, you’ll increase your chances of witnessing this incredible display.

What Causes the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with particles in the Earth’s atmosphere. When these particles collide, they release energy in the form of light, which causes the beautiful colors of the Northern Lights. The colors you see are determined by the type of particle and the altitude at which the collision occurs.

Other Things to Consider

Before you head to Alaska to see the Northern Lights, there are a few things you should consider:

• Dress warmly: The winter in Alaska can be extremely cold, especially at night, so make sure to dress appropriately with layers
• Choose a good location: The more remote areas in Alaska are generally better for viewing the Northern Lights, as light pollution can make it harder to see them in larger towns and cities
• Go with a guide: If you’re not familiar with the area, it’s a good idea to go with a guide who can take you to the best viewing spots and provide information about the Northern Lights and the local area

By keeping these things in mind and following the tips mentioned above, you’ll have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2022.

Conclusion

Although the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed, by following the tips mentioned in this blog post and going during the winter months, you’ll increase your chances of seeing this stunning natural phenomenon.

Remember to dress warmly and choose a good location, and consider going with a guide who can help you make the most out of your trip to Alaska. A little bit of planning can go a long way in ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.

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

If you’re looking to tick the Northern Lights off your bucket list, Fairbanks, Alaska should be at the top of your list. Situated under the oval-shaped “Auroral Oval,” Fairbanks offers some of the best views of the Northern Lights in the world. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take you through the best time to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, as well as local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

When to Go and Where to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks

The Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) in Fairbanks, Alaska peaks from September to April, with the most activity occurring in March. This is when the sky is darkest for the longest amount of time, which means you’ll have the best chance of seeing the lights.

The best spots to catch the Northern Lights in Fairbanks are away from the city lights, so we recommend taking a drive to the outskirts of the city. Murphy Dome, Cleary Summit, and Chena Lakes Recreation Area are all great spots to see the aurora.

Local Attractions to Visit

Apart from the Northern Lights, Fairbanks offers a bunch of interesting attractions for visitors. Here are some must-sees:

– Alaska Museum of the North: This museum showcases the history and culture of Alaska’s indigenous people and its natural wonders. You’ll find exhibits on wildlife, art, and local history in this museum.

– Pioneer Park: This outdoor museum takes you back in time to Alaska’s gold rush era. Walk through recreated gold rush cabins, visit a historic steamboat, take a train ride on the Tanana Valley Railroad, and more.

– Chena Hot Springs Resort: Visit this resort to relax in their natural hot springs, take a dip in their ice museum, and go dog-sledding.

The Best Dining Spots in Fairbanks

Here are some dining spots that offer delicious meals with stunning views:

– The Pump House: Enjoy your meal overlooking the Chena River at this historic restaurant. The food here is a mix of American and Alaskan cuisine, and they offer gluten-free options as well.

– Silver Gulch Brewing & Bottling Co: Located in Fox, Alaska, this brewery serves up locally brewed beer and hearty pub food.

– The Turtle Club: You’ll get a scenic view of the Northern Lights from this restaurant located on Tors Trail. The food here is a mix of American and seafood.

Experience Alaskan Culture

Here are some cultural experiences that you can enjoy in Fairbanks:

– Alaska Native Heritage Center: This cultural center is dedicated to educating visitors about Alaska’s indigenous cultures. You can watch traditional performances, learn about their history and traditions, and even try your hand at playing native games.

– Late Night at the Museum: The University of Alaska Museum of the North offers late-night tours that take you through their behind-the-scenes collections. These tours are available on certain Fridays during the year and are a unique experience to enjoy.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

– The Aurora Ice Museum: Located within the Chena Hot Springs Resort, this ice museum is the world’s largest year-round ice environment. Marvel at the ice sculptures, take a walk through the ice bar, and even get married in their ice chapel.

– The Trans Alaska Pipeline: This pipeline stretches over 800 miles through Alaska. There are a few different spots along the way where you can see the pipeline and learn about the history and engineering involved.

– Denali National Park: While not located in Fairbanks, Denali National Park is just a few hours’ drive away and is worth the trip. It’s home to Mount Denali (the tallest peak in North America) and is an outdoor enthusiasts’ dream, with hiking, wildlife viewing, and more.

In conclusion, Fairbanks is the perfect destination for travelers looking to witness the Northern Lights in all their glory. Take the time to explore the local attractions, dine at some of the best restaurants in town, learn about Alaskan culture and history, and take an adventure-filled trip through some of Alaska’s most enchanting landscapes.