There’s something magical about standing under the vast Canadian skies, waiting for the elusive aurora borealis to dance across the horizon. I’ve spent the last three years chasing this wonder of nature, traveling to some of the most remote and breathtaking places in Canada, and each time, the northern lights leave me in awe. From the moment the first shimmering green waves appear, it’s as if the universe is unveiling a secret just for you.
Canada is one of the best places in the world to witness this celestial phenomenon, offering endless opportunities to watch the skies light up. Whether you’re new to aurora hunting or as seasoned as I am, this guide will take you through the ultimate list of the best places to see the northern lights in Canada. From the rugged beauty of the Northwest Territories to the scenic shores of Newfoundland and Labrador, get ready to embark on a journey through Canada’s top aurora-viewing destinations. Let’s chase the lights together!
Table of Contents
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The northern lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere. The sun sends out solar wind—streams of these particles—that get caught in Earth’s magnetic field and interact with atoms in the atmosphere. Oxygen creates the green and yellow lights, while nitrogen is responsible for the purples and reds. The lights occur mainly around the polar regions because the magnetic field is strongest there, making Canada a top destination for viewing.
Why Are the Northern Lights So Special?
Seeing the northern lights is a bucket-list experience that goes beyond words. Each display is different, and witnessing it in real-time feels like you’re connected to something ancient and vast. There’s an emotional depth to standing under a sky that feels alive, with streaks of green, pink, and purple lighting up the night. It’s these moments that inspire people to chase the aurora again and again.
When and Where Can You See the Aurora in Canada?
Auroras are most visible between September and April when the nights are longest and the skies are darkest. Although you can sometimes spot them as far south as Ontario or British Columbia, your best chances are in northern regions like the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. The further north you go, the more frequently you can see the lights.
Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories is a premier destination for aurora chasers, often hailed as one of the best places in the world to witness the northern lights. The region’s minimal light pollution, vast wilderness, and consistently clear skies make it an ideal spot for uninterrupted aurora viewing. Whether you’re exploring remote communities or sticking to the more accessible areas, you’ll find that the northern lights often light up the sky, especially during winter months. What truly sets the Northwest Territories apart is the frequency and intensity of its auroral displays. With the region situated directly under the auroral oval—the zone where the lights are most active—you’re almost guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
Top spot:
Yellowknife – Known as the “Aurora Capital of the World,” Yellowknife offers some of the most consistent and vibrant displays of the northern lights. The city’s location under the auroral oval ensures breathtaking views throughout much of the year. What makes Yellowknife especially appealing is how accessible aurora viewing is from the city itself. You don’t need to venture far to witness the magic—just a short drive out of town will get you to prime viewing locations. Many tour operators in the area offer specialized aurora packages, including heated viewing huts, snowmobiling, and photography workshops, making it an ideal spot for both first-time visitors and seasoned aurora chasers.
Best time to visit:
Late August to mid-April – Yellowknife boasts up to 240 nights of visible aurora activity each year. The best months are between September and March when the nights are longest and darkest. If you’re looking for the most optimal time, aim for late September or March when the skies are dark, but the weather isn’t as harsh as mid-winter. In the colder months, the frozen lakes surrounding Yellowknife provide stunning reflective surfaces for the aurora, creating even more mesmerizing visuals.
Additionally, visiting during the fall means you can enjoy other outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, or exploring the rugged wilderness before the deep freeze of winter sets in. For the full aurora experience, winter is unmatched—the longer nights, snow-covered landscapes, and the sheer intensity of the lights make Yellowknife a dream destination for aurora lovers.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador provide a more off-the-beaten-path experience for aurora chasers, combining the thrill of seeing the Northern Lights with breathtaking coastal views. The rugged, remote landscape amplifies the beauty of the aurora as it dances over the Atlantic Ocean and across dramatic cliff sides, offering a serene and intimate connection with the lights away from large crowds. It’s perfect for those looking for solitude while immersing themselves in nature’s grandeur.
Top spots:
- Torngat Mountains National Park: Nestled in Labrador’s northernmost region, this park is not only a gem for aurora viewing but also offers stunning landscapes of towering fjords, rugged mountains, and clear skies. Far from urban light pollution, it’s one of the most remote yet rewarding places to experience the Northern Lights. Plus, the park’s isolation adds to the adventure, making it ideal for those who want to explore a more untouched part of Canada.
- Fogo Island: Known for its unique geography, this island offers spectacular views of the aurora reflecting off the ocean. Its isolation, combined with the small local population and lack of light pollution, makes Fogo Island a top destination for aurora enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, immersive experience.
Best time to visit: Winter months from December to March are ideal for viewing the aurora in Newfoundland and Labrador, as long, dark nights provide optimal conditions. January and February tend to have the clearest skies and cold temperatures, which often enhance the visibility of the lights.
Alberta
Alberta is a spectacular destination for aurora viewing, thanks to its expansive, open skies and breathtaking mountain scenery. The contrast of the vibrant Northern Lights against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies creates a photographer’s paradise, offering unique opportunities for capturing the lights in a stunning natural setting. Beyond aurora chasing, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and soaking in hot springs, making it an ideal year-round destination.
Top spot:
- Jasper National Park: Renowned as one of the best places in Canada to witness the Northern Lights, Jasper is part of a designated Dark Sky Preserve. This means that strict measures are in place to minimize light pollution, ensuring that the skies remain as dark as possible for optimal aurora viewing. With its high elevation and vast wilderness, Jasper offers an unobstructed view of the celestial display. The park’s open spaces, like Pyramid Lake and Maligne Lake, provide breathtaking vantage points, allowing you to marvel at the lights reflecting off the water.
Best time to visit: September to March is the ideal timeframe for aurora viewing in Alberta. During this period, the nights are long and dark, creating perfect conditions for spotting the aurora. Among these months, December to February is particularly advantageous, as the crisp winter air often leads to clearer skies, giving you the best chance to experience the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights.
Ontario
Ontario, with its well-developed infrastructure and accessibility, serves as an ideal location for those seeking to experience the Northern Lights without venturing deep into the remote wilderness. While it may be located further south compared to other premier aurora-viewing destinations, Ontario still offers captivating views of the aurora borealis under the right conditions. This makes it a fantastic option for travelers from southern regions, as they can easily reach excellent viewing sites without extensive travel.
Top spot:
- Thunder Bay: Nestled on the north shore of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is a hidden gem for aurora enthusiasts. Positioned far enough north to experience regular auroral activity, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and access to nature. From popular local spots like Fort William Historical Park to the serene landscapes of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, there are plenty of vantage points to catch the lights. The combination of the aurora with the stunning backdrop of Lake Superior makes Thunder Bay a picturesque setting for your aurora chase.
Best time to visit: Late winter to early spring is the prime time for aurora viewing in Ontario, particularly from February to April. During these months, the skies tend to be clearer, and the nights are long enough to increase your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon. Additionally, the colder temperatures often lead to crisp, clear nights that are perfect for aurora spotting.
Manitoba
Manitoba is a treasure trove for northern lights enthusiasts, with Churchill earning its reputation as one of the top aurora-viewing destinations in the world. This remote town, located on the shores of Hudson Bay, is not only famous for its polar bears but also for its stunning displays of the aurora borealis. The unique geographical positioning of Churchill under the auroral oval ensures frequent and vibrant light shows that leave spectators in awe. The combination of the lights with the breathtaking arctic landscape makes for an unforgettable experience.
Top spot:
- Churchill: As the “Aurora Capital of Canada,” Churchill offers some of the most spectacular auroral displays on the planet. Its remote location means minimal light pollution, allowing for optimal viewing conditions. The interplay of the northern lights with the snowy terrain creates a mesmerizing spectacle, as the vibrant greens and purples of the aurora reflect off the icy landscape. Furthermore, Churchill provides various tour options that combine polar bear viewing with aurora watching, adding to the allure of this unique destination.
Best time to visit: The best time to view the northern lights in Manitoba is from February to March. While the aurora can be visible year-round, the winter months provide the clearest skies and the longest nights, maximizing your chances of catching the lights in all their glory. During this period, temperatures may drop significantly, so come prepared with warm clothing to enjoy the experience comfortably.
Yukon
The Yukon is a dream destination for aurora chasers, celebrated for its expansive wilderness and stunning natural beauty. This northern territory boasts dark skies, which are crucial for optimal aurora viewing, making it one of the best places in Canada to experience the magic of the northern lights. The remote landscapes are not only picturesque but also relatively untouched, allowing for breathtaking displays of the aurora borealis that seem to dance across the sky.
Top spot:
- Whitehorse: As the capital city of the Yukon, Whitehorse serves as an ideal base for aurora viewing. Its proximity to numerous accessible wilderness areas offers ample opportunities for witnessing incredible auroral displays. Just a short drive from the city, you can find various locations with minimal light pollution, where the northern lights can be seen in all their glory. The surrounding natural beauty, including mountains and rivers, provides stunning backdrops for photographers eager to capture the perfect shot of the aurora.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Yukon for aurora viewing is from September to April. During this period, the long nights create excellent opportunities for witnessing the lights. Winter months, especially from December to February, are particularly noteworthy as they offer peak aurora activity. With the cold, crisp air, the skies are often clear, maximizing your chances of seeing the lights. Be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly during these months, but the experience of seeing the northern lights in the serene Yukon wilderness is truly worth it.
Nunavut
Nunavut is a haven for those seeking the most remote and untouched landscapes for aurora viewing in Canada. This vast territory, known for its pristine natural beauty, offers an authentic Arctic adventure unlike any other. The sheer isolation of Nunavut means you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing for a serene environment where the northern lights can be witnessed in their full glory. With minimal light pollution and expansive, open skies, Nunavut presents unparalleled opportunities to experience the magic of the aurora borealis in its most unspoiled form.
Top spot:
- Iqaluit: As the capital of Nunavut, Iqaluit is a fantastic base for aurora chasers. The city sits on the southeastern tip of Baffin Island and provides some of the most stunning, unpolluted views of the northern lights in Canada. With its unique Arctic setting, Iqaluit’s landscape offers dramatic backdrops for your aurora photography. You can find many spots within a short drive or even walk from the city that allows you to soak in the breathtaking sights without the distractions of artificial light.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Nunavut for aurora viewing is from December to April. During these months, the long, clear winter nights create ideal conditions for witnessing the northern lights. The deep winter temperatures can be quite frigid, often plunging well below freezing, but this cold air typically corresponds with clearer skies, enhancing your chances of seeing the aurora. December, with its extended darkness, can be particularly enchanting, offering long hours of potential viewing.
Top Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights
To make the most of your northern lights adventure, consider these tips:
- Check the forecast: Apps like Aurora Forecast can help predict geomagnetic activity, so you know when the lights will be active.
- Photography gear: Bring a tripod and a camera with manual settings to capture long-exposure shots of the aurora.
- Dress warmly: Winters in Canada can be harsh, so make sure to wear plenty of layers, especially if you’ll be standing outside for long periods.
- Choose remote locations: The further you are from light pollution, the better your chances of seeing the aurora in all its glory.
- Book with a guide: Local guides often know the best spots and can offer insider tips on aurora chasing.
Related Destinations for Aurora Viewing
If you’re planning a trip specifically to see the northern lights, here are some additional top destinations to consider:
Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories is widely recognized as one of the top locations in the world for aurora viewing, with Yellowknife often taking the spotlight. However, there are several other fantastic spots to experience the lights:
- Fort Smith – Located in the southern part of the territory, Fort Smith boasts clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it an excellent alternative for aurora viewing.
- Inuvik – Known for its rugged beauty, Inuvik offers a unique chance to see the aurora above the picturesque Mackenzie Delta.
- Hay River – This charming community provides accessible viewing areas along the Great Slave Lake, ideal for aurora enthusiasts.
- Nahanni Butte – A remote community with spectacular landscapes, Nahanni Butte presents a pristine backdrop for witnessing the northern lights.
- Tuktoyaktuk – Situated right on the Arctic Ocean, this location allows for breathtaking views of the aurora reflecting on the water.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland and Labrador offers a more intimate experience with the aurora, where you can enjoy the lights dancing over dramatic coastal landscapes. Here are some noteworthy locations:
- Gros Morne National Park – This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning scenery and great conditions for aurora viewing.
- Labrador City – Situated in central Labrador, this area experiences frequent auroral displays and has minimal light pollution.
- St. Anthony – Located on the northern tip of the island, St. Anthony provides breathtaking views of the aurora above the Atlantic Ocean.
- Terra Nova National Park – Known for its rugged coastline and rich wildlife, this park is a fantastic spot for enjoying the northern lights.
- Twillingate – Famous for its icebergs, Twillingate also offers excellent conditions for aurora viewing, particularly in the winter months.
Alberta
Alberta’s stunning natural landscapes, including the Canadian Rockies, offer exceptional opportunities to witness the northern lights. Some great spots in Alberta include:
- Banff National Park – With its dark skies and beautiful mountain scenery, Banff is a fantastic location for aurora photography.
- Canmore – Just outside Banff, Canmore provides great views of the lights over the Bow Valley.
- Kananaskis Country – This less-visited area offers excellent dark skies for viewing the aurora.
- Lethbridge – Located in southern Alberta, Lethbridge frequently experiences auroral activity due to its clear skies.
- Edmonton – The capital city has several nearby parks and natural areas where you can escape light pollution for a chance to see the aurora.
Ontario
While Ontario is located further south, several areas still provide fantastic opportunities for aurora viewing:
- Thunder Bay – This northern city is well-positioned for regular auroral activity, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
- Manitoulin Island – As the largest freshwater island in the world, Manitoulin offers great conditions for viewing the northern lights over the Great Lakes.
- Lake Superior Provincial Park – The remote wilderness of this park creates a perfect backdrop for witnessing the aurora.
- Algonquin Provincial Park – Known for its stunning landscapes, this park offers dark skies ideal for aurora chasers.
- Killarney Provincial Park – This beautiful park features clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it a great spot for aurora viewing.
Manitoba
Manitoba is renowned for its consistent and spectacular displays of the aurora borealis, particularly around the town of Churchill. Other notable locations include:
- Winnipeg – The capital city has accessible spots just outside the urban area that are great for aurora viewing.
- Riding Mountain National Park – With its elevated terrain and dark skies, this park provides a beautiful setting for the lights.
- Steinbach – Located southeast of Winnipeg, this town is far enough away from city lights for excellent aurora viewing.
- Bissett – A small community with minimal light pollution, Bissett is an ideal location for observing the northern lights.
- Hecla Island – Situated in Lake Winnipeg, this island offers dark skies and stunning views of the aurora.
Yukon
The Yukon is a dream destination for aurora chasers, with its remote wilderness providing incredible opportunities for viewing:
- Whitehorse – The capital city serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby wilderness areas with excellent aurora viewing.
- Carcross – This charming village near Whitehorse offers stunning landscapes for observing the northern lights.
- Kluane National Park – Known for its rugged beauty, this park is a fantastic location for aurora photography.
- Dawson City – The historic town provides a unique backdrop for experiencing the northern lights amidst its gold rush heritage.
- Watson Lake – Known for its stunning night skies, Watson Lake is another great spot to witness the aurora in all its glory.
Nunavut
Nunavut offers the most remote and untouched landscapes for witnessing the aurora borealis. Here are some exceptional locations to consider:
- Iqaluit – As the capital, Iqaluit provides excellent access to unpolluted views of the aurora.
- Rankin Inlet – This community on the western shore of Hudson Bay offers stunning views of the lights against a backdrop of snow-covered landscapes.
- Arviat – Known for its rich Inuit culture, Arviat also offers great opportunities to see the northern lights.
- Pangnirtung – Situated on Baffin Island, this small hamlet provides breathtaking views of the aurora against the rugged terrain.
- Baker Lake – Located in the Kivalliq region, Baker Lake offers clear skies and stunning views of the aurora borealis.
FAQs About Northern Lights in Canada
Here are the answers to your questions:
- Can you see the northern lights every day?
While it’s possible to see the northern lights frequently, sightings depend on solar activity and weather conditions. Clear, dark skies away from light pollution increase your chances.
- What should you avoid doing at the northern lights?
Avoid using bright lights or flash photography, as they can ruin your night vision and disturb others trying to enjoy the experience. Also, stay quiet to fully appreciate the beauty of the lights.
- Are the northern lights good or bad?
The northern lights are generally seen as a beautiful natural phenomenon and a source of wonder. They are not considered bad; rather, they inspire awe and fascination in those who witness them.
- Do you need to face north to see the northern lights?
While the northern lights are most visible in northern latitudes, they can appear in various directions. It’s best to scan the entire sky rather than just facing north.
- What are the superstitions about the northern lights?
Various cultures have superstitions surrounding the northern lights, often viewing them as spirits or messages from the dead. Some believe that seeing them brings good luck or forebodes change.
- Do the northern lights make sounds?
Some people claim to hear faint sounds associated with the northern lights, like crackling or hissing. However, scientific evidence for audible sounds is limited, and most experiences are visual.
- Can you smell the northern lights?
The northern lights themselves do not have a smell, as they are a visual phenomenon caused by charged particles in the atmosphere. However, the environment where you see them, like snowy landscapes, may have its own scents.
Final Thoughts
After three years of chasing the northern lights across Canada, I can confidently say that no two displays are ever the same. Whether it’s a quiet evening in Yukon’s wilderness or a vibrant burst of light over the snowy plains of Churchill, the northern lights never fail to inspire awe. Canada’s vast, pristine landscapes and consistent aurora activity make it the ultimate destination for any aurora chaser. If you haven’t yet experienced the beauty of the aurora borealis, now’s the perfect time to start planning your trip. With so many incredible destinations to choose from, the only question left is: where will you chase the lights next?
