Where to See Northern Lights in Ontario 2022

Ontario is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, also known as aurora borealis. This natural phenomenon is caused by the interaction of charged solar particles with Earth’s magnetic field. It is a truly magical experience that is on the bucket list of many travelers. However, not all locations in Ontario are equally favorable for viewing the Northern Lights. In this article, we’ll tell you where to go to improve your chances of seeing the aurora borealis in all its glory.

1. Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park

Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park is located near Thunder Bay, which is about 1,400 kilometers from Toronto. The park’s location is ideal for Northern Lights watching due to its dark skies and clear views. While the park is open year-round, the best time to visit for Northern Lights sightings is between September and April, and especially from December to February, when the nights are longest. If you’re lucky, you might also see other amazing sights such as shooting stars and the Milky Way galaxy.

2. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park is located in central Ontario, about 260 kilometers north of Toronto. The park boasts some of the darkest skies in the province, making it a popular spot for astronomers and stargazers alike. In addition to the Northern Lights, you can also see hundreds of other stars, planets, and the occasional meteor. The best time to visit for aurora borealis sightings is between December and March when the park has the longest nights.

3. Lake Superior Provincial Park

Lake Superior Provincial Park is located in Northern Ontario, about 400 kilometers east of Thunder Bay. With its vast landscape of pine forests, colorful rock formations, and rugged shores, it is a favorite spot for nature lovers. The park has also become an increasingly popular destination for Northern Lights hunters. The best time to visit for aurora borealis sightings is between October and March when the nights are long and clear.

4. Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is located in Lake Huron, about 400 kilometers north of Toronto. It is the largest freshwater island in the world and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The island’s remote location and relatively low light pollution make it an excellent spot to view the Northern Lights. The best time to visit for aurora borealis sightings is between November and March when the skies are generally clear.

5. Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve

The Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Preserve is located near Gravenhurst, about 180 kilometers north of Toronto. The preserve was established to protect the natural beauty of the night sky and offers visitors a chance to stargaze in one of the best locations in Ontario. The park is a designated dark sky preserve, which means that there is very little light pollution, giving you an unobstructed view of the Northern Lights. The best time to visit for aurora borealis sightings is between late September and early April.

Conclusion

As you can see, Ontario offers plenty of opportunities to view the Northern Lights. Remember that these natural phenomena can be unpredictable, so be patient and make sure to check the weather and Aurora forecasts for the best chance of seeing the lights. Also, make sure to dress appropriately for the cold weather and bring a camera, tripod, and extra batteries to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience. We hope this article has been helpful to you and wish you the best of luck in your Northern Lights hunting adventures!

An Insider’s Guide to Ontario: Where to See Northern Lights in 2022

Ontario is one of the best places in the world to witness the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights. The northern part of the province has some of the clearest and darkest skies, making it the perfect location for stargazing and experiencing the magic of the Northern Lights. Here’s a guide to help you plan your next trip to Ontario to witness the Northern Lights, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

When you’re not busy admiring the Northern Lights, make sure to visit some of the local attractions in the area. One of the popular destinations is Algonquin Provincial Park. It is a vast wilderness reserve with several lakes, streams and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching. Also, Lake Superior Provincial Park is another stunning place that provides a serene and peaceful aura.

Another place worth visiting is Sleeping Giant Provincial Park; it’s perfect for adventure-seekers. The park offers several hiking trails and kayaking opportunities. It’s also home to unique wildlife like bald eagles, black bears, and moose.

Dining Spots

Ontario has an impressive culinary scene, and when it comes to Northern Lights hunting, it is always helpful to have a warm meal in your belly. The Kekabeka Falls Restaurant is a great spot to grab a bite to eat. It is situated on the cascading Kekabeka Falls, making for a stunning view while you enjoy your meal.

For pizza lovers, Gusto’s Pizza is a popular local spot. They’re known for their thin crust pizza and delicious toppings. If you’re looking for vegetarian options, you can’t go wrong with Cafe Natura in Thunder Bay. They offer organic and vegetarian-friendly dishes that are delicious and healthy.

Cultural Experiences

Ontario is also a hub of cultural experiences. The Thunder Bay Art Gallery should be on your list of places to visit. It features contemporary and traditional art by various artists. The gallery offers unique cultural programs, workshops, and educational opportunities.

To learn about the local history, visit Fort William Historical Park. It’s a recreation of the historic Northwest Company fur-trading post from the early 1800s. The Fort William Historical Park offers guided tours, historic demonstrations, and cultural events throughout the year.

Local History

The Thunder Bay Museum is another great place to learn about the region’s history. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits, detailing the history of the Aboriginal Peoples, the fur trade, shipping, and immigration.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Ouimet Canyon is a must-do. It’s a stunning natural formation that you don’t want to miss it. You could also visit the 17th-century Missionary Establishment of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, where you can explore the historic site and learn about the culture of the Huron-Wendat Nation.

Another place worth visiting is the Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park. It’s a natural wonder with a deep gorge and a unique microclimate, which provides a habitat for rare arctic plants and animals.

In conclusion, Ontario is a beautiful province with a lot of opportunities for adventure, awe-inspiring views and can provide an excellent opportunity for you to experience the Northern Lights. Follow this guide, and you can rest assured that you will experience the best of Ontario.