When to Watch Aurora in Alaska: A Guide to Witnessing the Northern Lights

Do you want to witness the breathtaking beauty of Aurora Borealis, popularly known as Northern Lights, in Alaska? Aurora is a natural light display in the Earth’s sky, predominantly seen in high-latitude regions like Alaska. Numerous tourists travel to Alaska just to witness these stunning lights. However, planning the itinerary can be quite tricky, especially if you are unsure of when to watch Aurora in Alaska.

In this guide, we will share with you everything you need to know about the best time and location to see the Northern Lights in Alaska.

What are the Northern Lights?

First, let’s quickly understand what these Northern Lights are. The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon that occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. When the excited particles return to their original state, they release energy in the form of lights, creating a beautiful auroral display of greens, blues, purples, and reds.

When is the Best Time to Watch Aurora in Alaska?

The best time to watch Aurora in Alaska is during the winter months from September to April. During this season, the nights are long, and therefore, you have a better chance of seeing the lights. However, the prime months to watch the Northern Lights in Alaska are from December to February when the sky is clear, and the temperatures are tolerable.

It’s important to note that Aurora prediction is more of an art than a science, and they don’t appear on a schedule. Therefore, it’s imperative to have patience, and you may want to allocate a few days to watch the lights. However, if you plan to visit Alaska and witness the Northern Lights, we recommend booking at least a two-week trip for the best chances of seeing Aurora.

Where is the Best Place to See Aurora in Alaska?

Alaska is a big state with several places where you can watch Aurora. However, some of the best locations include Fairbanks, Anchorage, Denali National Park, and Nome.

Fairbanks is one of the best places to view the Northern Lights because of its Aurora activity. The city has over 200 clear nights per year, and it’s in the auroral oval, an area where Aurora activity is high. Anchorage, on the other hand, may have fewer Aurora sightings, but it’s an excellent location for a variety of activities.

Denali National Park is another amazing location to watch Aurora. The clear winter sky, the beautiful wilderness, and the towering mountains provide a stunning backdrop for the Northern Lights show. Nome, on the other hand, is more remote, and it can be challenging to reach it. However, the location is worth it because the skies are generally much darker, providing a better chance of seeing Aurora.

What Time of Night is Best to Watch Aurora?

The best time to watch the Northern Lights in Alaska is between 10 pm and 2 am. This is the time when Aurora activity is typically at its peak, and the skies are relatively dark. You can also watch the lights during the early morning, but keep in mind that the sun begins to rise as early as 4 am in some parts of Alaska.

What Other Things Should You Consider?

If you want to witness the Northern Lights in Alaska, there are a few other things to keep in mind.

First and foremost is to check the weather forecast. Aurora is only visible when the skies are clear, so you want to make sure you check the weather before planning your trip. You should also consider dressing appropriately because the temperatures can plummet to sub-zero temperatures.

Additionally, you should plan to stay in a dark and secluded location for the best viewing experience. Avoid staying in well-lit areas, and try to stay away from any light pollution. Consider renting a cabin or driving to a secluded location where it’s dark, quiet, and away from the city lights.

Lastly, try to avoid moonlit nights because the bright moonlight can make the lights harder to see. Instead, choose nights when there’s no moon or when the moon is near its new phase.

Conclusion

In conclusion, witnessing the Northern Lights in Alaska is a magical experience that you should try at least once in your lifetime. Now that you know when and where to watch Aurora in Alaska, you can plan your trip and make sure you have the best chances of catching the beautiful lights. Remember, patience and preparation are key, and with a little bit of luck, you’re all set for an unforgettable Northern Lights adventure.