Where to see Northern Lights in Alaska?

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

Where to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska offers numerous locations for witnessing the Northern 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 Northern 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 Northern Lights.
University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute: The university’s Geophysical Institute offers Northern Lights forecasts, viewing tips, and scientific insights, making Fairbanks a hub for Northern Lights enthusiasts.

Northern Lights Viewing Opportunities in Fairbanks

Chena Hot Springs Resort: Located approximately 56 miles northeast of Fairbanks, this resort offers Northern Lights viewing opportunities, wake-up calls, and a relaxing soak in the hot springs.
Aurora Expeditions: Take a guided tour with Aurora Expeditions, which offers Northern Lights viewing packages, including wake-up calls, photography tips, and expert guides.
Fairbanks Aurora Lodge: This lodge offers Northern Lights 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 Northern Lights enthusiasts.
Aurora viewing opportunities: While Anchorage is a larger city, the Northern Lights can still be seen in the surrounding areas, such as Flattop Mountain and Glen Alps Trailhead.
Northern Lights wake-up calls: Many hotels and resorts in Anchorage offer Northern Lights wake-up calls, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the display.
Guided Northern Lights tours: Anchorage is home to numerous tour operators that offer guided Northern Lights tours, including photography workshops and aurora viewing packages.

Northern Lights Viewing Spots Near Anchorage

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

Coldfoot

Minimal light pollution: Coldfoot is a remote area with minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot for viewing the Northern Lights.
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 the Northern Lights.
Auroral activity: Coldfoot is under the Auroral Oval, a ring-shaped zone around the North Pole where the Northern Lights are most active.
Northern Lights 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 located in a remote area of Alaska, accessible only by air or road, adding to its exclusivity and adventure appeal.

Northern Lights Viewing Opportunities in Coldfoot

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

Wiseman

Unobstructed views: Wiseman’s remote location and minimal light pollution provide unobstructed views of the Northern Lights.
High auroral activity: Wiseman is situated under the Auroral Oval, resulting in high auroral activity and frequent Northern Lights displays.
Northern Lights wake-up calls: Many lodges and camps in Wiseman offer Northern Lights 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 the science and folklore behind the Northern Lights.

Unique Northern Lights Viewing Opportunities in Wiseman

Northern Lights 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.