Where to see Northern Lights in Alaska?

Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! Witnessing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience that will leave you spellbound. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best places to see them, where to stay, and expert tips for maximizing your viewing opportunities.

Where to See them?

Alaska offers numerous locations for witnessing the Lights. Here are some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska:

Fairbanks:

Location under the Auroral Oval: Fairbanks is situated directly under the Auroral Oval, a ring-shaped zone around the North Pole where the Lights are most active.
High frequency of clear nights: Fairbanks has a relatively low humidity level, resulting in clearer nights and better viewing opportunities.
Minimal light pollution: Fairbanks is a small city with minimal light pollution, allowing for unobstructed views of the Lights.
University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute: The university’s Geophysical Institute offers forecasts, viewing tips, and scientific insights, making Fairbanks a hub for enthusiasts.

Aurora Viewing Opportunities in Fairbanks

Chena Hot Springs Resort: Located approximately 56 miles northeast of Fairbanks, this resort offersviewing opportunities, wake-up calls, and a relaxing soak in the hot springs.
Aurora Expeditions: Take a guided tour with Aurora Expeditions, which offers Aurora viewing packages, including wake-up calls, photography tips, and expert guides.
Fairbanks Aurora Lodge: This lodge offers viewing opportunities, wake-up calls, and a cozy atmosphere.

Anchorage

Accessibility: Anchorage is a major city with a well-connected international airport, making it an easily accessible destination for enthusiasts.
Aurora viewing opportunities: Although Anchorage is a larger city, the Northern Lights can still be observed in the surrounding areas, such as Flattop Mountain and the Glen Alps Trailhead.
Wake-up calls: Many hotels and resorts in Anchorage offer wake-up calls, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the display.
Guided tours: Anchorage is home to numerous tour operators that offer guided tours, including photography workshops and aurora viewing packages.

Aurora Viewing Spots Near Anchorage

Flattop Mountain: Located just outside Anchorage, Flattop Mountain offers stunning.
Glen Alps Trailhead: This trailhead is a popular spot for viewing them, with minimal light pollution and breathtaking views.
Tony Knowles Coastal Trail: This coastal trail offers stunning views over the ocean.

Coldfoot

Minimal light pollution: Coldfoot is a remote area with minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot for viewing.
High frequency of clear nights: Coldfoot’s location in the Brooks Range results in a high frequency of clear nights, increasing the chances of witnessing.
Auroral activity: Coldfoot is under the Auroral Oval, a ring-shaped zone around the North Pole where the Lights are most active.
Hotel Wake-up calls: Many lodges and camps in Coldfoot offer wake-up calls, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the display.
Accessible only by air or road: Coldfoot is situated in a remote area, accessible only by air or road, which adds to its exclusivity and adventure appeal.

Aurora Viewing Opportunities in Coldfoot

Coldfoot Camp: This camp offers viewing opportunities, wake-up calls, and a range of activities, including dog sledging and snowshoeing.
Wiseman Village: Located near Coldfoot, Wiseman Village offers stunning Auroral views and a glimpse into traditional Alaskan life.
Brooks Range: Take a guided hike or snowshoe tour through the Brooks Range, offering breathtaking views and the Alaskan wilderness.

Wiseman

Unobstructed views: Wiseman’s remote location and minimal light pollution provide unobstructed views of the Lights.
High auroral activity: Wiseman is situated under the Auroral Oval, resulting in high auroral activity and frequent Lights displays.
Wake-up Hotel calls: Many lodges and camps in Wiseman offer wake-up calls, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the display.
Guided Northern Lights tours: Join a guided tour with experienced guides who will take you to the best viewing spots and provide insights into science and folklore

Unique Aurora Borealis Viewing Opportunities in Wiseman

Viewing packages: Choose from various packages, including guided tours, photography workshops, and wake-up calls.
Dog sledding and snowshoeing: Traditional Alaskan activities like dog sledging and snowshoeing offer a unique and immersive experience.
Aurora viewing at the Wiseman Trading Company: Visit the Wiseman Trading Company, a store that offers aurora viewing opportunities and insights into the local culture.