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Best places to see Northern Lights in Canada

Top 10 Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Canada

Watching and photographing the Northern Lights is on a lot of people’s bucket lists. There are few natural phenomena that can compare to the wonder of seeing the night sky illuminated by the ethereal beauty of auroras. Canada, with its awe-inspiring landscapes and clear night skies, offers plenty of opportunities for Northern Lights watchers and photographers.

Below, I’ve listed 10 great places to see the Northern Lights in Canada. Each location offers something unique; whether it’s convenient accessibility, secluded privacy or unparalleled panoramic views. You will learn why these places are special for Aurora watching and photography, as well as any potential drawbacks or concerns you might have before visiting. So let’s get started!

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What You Need to Know About Seeing the Northern Lights in Canada

If you're lucky enough to live in Canada or plan on visiting, don't miss out on the chance to experience the awe-inspiring display of the Northern Lights. With its remote wilderness areas, sparse population and clear night skies, Canada is one of the best places in the world to witness this phenomenon.

Before you plan a trip though, there's some key information you should know. First off, timing matters. Northern Lights can be seen from mid-August until late April and are most visible between 10pm – 2am during winter months. Secondly, you'll need to make sure you're in an area with low light pollution and a clear sky—typically this means somewhere away from big cities with minimal artificial light sources.

Finally, it's important to dress appropriately for the weather as many of these spots are remote and temperatures can drop sharply overnight. Other gear to consider bringing includes a tripod for your camera and extra battery life, as capturing these lights properly requires longer exposure times.

Once all these preparations are taken care of, all that's left is for you to marvel at Mother Nature’s brilliant masterpiece!
best place in canada to see the northern lights

Top 10 Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Canada

When it comes to seeing the Northern Lights, Canada has some of the best spots in the world. From wide open spaces to stunning Arctic landscapes, here are some of the top places in Canada to watch and photograph the Northern Lights:

  • Yukon – This subarctic region of Canada is known for its untouched, stunning nature. The long winter nights create a sky that’s perfect for viewing and photographing the lights. Plus, Yukon offers some of the darkest skies in North America meaning fewer distractions from light pollution.
  • Alberta – Alberta is another great place in Canada to view and photograph this natural phenomenon. Here, you can take in some of Canada’s most impressive mountainscapes as you watch the green and purple lights dance overhead.
  • Nunavut – Nunavut is one of Canada’s northernmost territories and depending on where you go, there may be over 21 hours of darkness during winter months. The dark sky here makes for an incredibly powerful display of auroras that is unbeatable elsewhere in Canada.
  • Northwest Territories - Amongst the unspoiled landscape, pristine lakes, and waterways found here lies a great viewing spot for aurora borealis-watchers from all around the world. You’ll often hear locals describing them as “Nature’s own Las Vegas light show” – a magnificent natural sight!
  • Manitoba – Head out to Churchill in Manitoba as there are few places on Earth with more continuous observations or photography opportunities than this remote town. Generally free from light pollution, it's one of the best places on Earth to witness this incredible phenomenon.
Best places to see Northern Lights in Canada

1. Yellowknife: The Heart of Northern Lights Watching

If you're looking for the best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada, then look no further than Yellowknife. Located in the Northwest Territories and known as the 'Heart of Aurora Borealis', Yellowknife offers a unique combination of ideal viewing conditions, easy access and stunning night skies for both watching and photography.

This is what makes Yellowknife perfect for northern lights watching:

  1. Strong activity: Yellowknife has an impressively high frequency of Northern Lights sightings. This is thanks to its location right on the Auroral Oval - a ring of geomagnetic activity around the North Pole that is always lit up by the Aurora.
  2. Dark skies: Being away from large cities and their light pollution has preserved the darkness of Yellowknife's night sky, making it perfect for spotting every hue of aurora with maximum clarity.
  3. Easy access: Getting to Yellowknife is relatively easy due to its international airport, allowing visitors to fly directly to this magical destination without having to drive through stretches of wilderness.
  4. Vast landscapes: The vastness of Canada's great outdoors surrounding the city make it possible for visitors to find an ideal spot for viewing away from any kind of light pollution including Yelloknife itself - perfect for nighttime photography!
best place in canada to see the northern lights

2. Yukon: A Stunning Landscape for Taking It All In

If you're hoping to get some of the most stunning views of the northern lights, then you'll want to visit Yukon. With its vast, open terrain and jaw-dropping landscapes, it's one of the best places in Canada to take in the aurora borealis.

The vast expanse of open sky here means the lights can be seen more consistently throughout the year due to higher viewing opportunities and clear skies. Plus, with only a few cities located in Yukon, light pollution isn't an issue.

Not only does it offer a breathtaking landscape for watching the northern lights, but Yukon also has some of Canada's best horizon-to-horizon vistas — perfect for capturing a majestic image of the Aurora. It is also home to famous spots like Tombstone Mountain and Torpin Lake — prime spots for getting that perfect night time shot of the lights.

The magical moments captured here will be ones you'll cherish forever — and Yukon is one of Canada's top places for seeing and photographing them!
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3. Whitehorse: Plenty of Activities to Take Part in After Sunset

If you're looking to take in some of the top places to see the Northern Lights and have a great time afterward, Whitehorse is the place. It's one of the biggest cities in Yukon and boasts an impressive list of activities that occur after sunset. Here you'll find plenty to do, be it going out on a snowmobile adventure or skiing down a hill, or even just going tobogganing.

Whitehorse also has plenty of venues to check out during nighttime, such as pubs and clubs, with regular live music performances. You can also take part in various activities hosted by local communities from around Whitehorse like yoga classes and boardgames evenings.

The best part about Whitehorse though has to be its majestic landscape. With the Yukon River flowing through town and nearby lakes and forests poking out here and there you're sure to find a spot for yourself that will give you clear views of the night sky above – perfect for capturing those amazing Aurora Borealis moments!
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4. Churchill: Where the Polar Bears Roam and the Northern Lights Gloriously Shine

The Northern Lights have been radiating their mysterious beauty for thousands of years and no wonder why Churchill, Manitoba, is one of the best places in Canada to see them. Churchill is a small town nestled on the banks of the Hudson Bay, with temperatures that can plunge as low as -40 degrees celsius!

If you're a photographer looking for an amazing display of the Aurora Borealis, Churchill will not disappoint. Due to its position in northern Manitoba and its dark skies, it's one of the best places to take pictures of the northern lights.

Plus the landscapes here are pretty spectacular. From ethereal ice formations to majestic polar bears, Churchill has plenty of enthralling sights. Unlike other places on this list, Churchill offers unique experiences like dog sledding and snowmobiling under lights that’ll make your photos stand out from all others.
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5. British Columbia's Wild and Wonderful Northeastern Coast

For an amazing Northern Lights experience, you have to check out the wild and wonderful northeastern coast of British Columbia. This area is home to some of Canada's most spectacular locations and outdoor activities, making it the perfect place for watching and photographing the Northern Lights. Here are some of the best spots to check out:

1. Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park
This unique park located in northern British Columbia offers breathtaking views of the Northern Lights with its wide open night skies. Nature lovers will love exploring the Liard River Hot Springs, as well as its many trails, rivers, and wildlife.

2. Mount Edziza Provincial Park and Protected Area
Located in northern British Columbia’s Cassiar Range, Mount Edziza is known for its stunning scenery, meandering trails and easily accessible peak that offers incredible views of the night sky. This is one of Canada's most popular spots for watching Northern Lights displays in style!

3. Kootenay National Park
Experience a stunning display of nature's beauty at Kootenay National Park in British Columbia’s Rocky Mountains. This incredible park offers beautiful views of the night sky ideal for aurora photography as well as a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, canoeing and hiking.
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6. Alberta's Remarkable Rockies Skyline

We can't forget to mention Alberta's Remarkable Rockies Skyline in the top 10 best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada. The sky here is so clear, that you'll be able to see auroras from horizon to horizon. The best places for observation are around Jasper and Banff National Parks, as well as the Icefields Parkway linking the two.

The stars here are so crystal clear and bright that even amateurs can capture amazing nighttime photographs of the Northern Lights and get awesome shots of constellations and galaxies throughout the year.

Moreover, Alberta’s rugged mountains and glacier-fed waters lend themselves perfectly to outdoor activities like skiing and canoeing – adding a little adventure to your Aurora hunting! Thanks to its lower light pollution levels, your chances of catching a glimpse of this wondrous light show are much higher.
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7. Manitoba's Romantic Red River Valley

Be prepared to be taken away with awe to Manitoba's romantic Red River Valley when it comes to viewing the Northern Lights. The valley is a popular destination for viewing the Aurora Borealis, thanks to its lack of light pollution and long winter nights.

A Clear View of the Sky
The area is home to a beautiful display of stars, which creates a picturesque setting for Northern Lights watching from September to March. Visitors can watch from one of the many nearby parks or rent a car and drive out of town to see the lights and take photos – if you're lucky, you may even be able to capture them dancing across the sky!

Prime Photography Opportunities
The Red River Valley is also an ideal spot for photographers. With its flat landscape and lack of human-made structures, the river offers photographers an unobstructed view that allows them to easily capture the Northern Lights in all their glory. If you're feeling adventurous, you can look around for a spot where there are some trees or buildings that can add some unique perspective to your photo.

Besides being incredibly beautiful, Manitoba's Red River Valley provides viewers with plenty of opportunities for photography and a stunning backdrop. Be sure to make this spot one of your stops when looking for the best places in Canada to catch the Northern Lights!
best place in canada to see the northern lights

8. Nunavut: An Aurora Borealis Paradise

When you think about going to see the Northern Lights, Nunavut is a great option. Not only is it one of the most beautiful destinations in Canada, but it's also a great place for Aurora Borealis watching and photography.

Nunavut is known for its clear nights and long nights of winter darkness, which makes it one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada. It's so far north that you can experience an incredible view—and take amazing photos—of the lights without having to deal with any light pollution or distractions from civilization.

The atmosphere in Nunavut is perfect for catching a glimpse of the magical lights, with very few clouds and still air that helps reflect some of their brightest colors. And since it's so far away from urban centers, you'll get that rare opportunity to experience all their beauty with no outside influence apart from mother nature herself. As an extra bonus, you won't need to worry about light pollution when photographing them.

If you're looking for a unique adventure and unforgettable memories, add Nunavut to your list of places to visit!
Best places to see Northern Lights in Canada

9. Dawson City, Yukon: An Aurora Viewers' Paradise

Dawson City is the Place where to see the Northern Lights.

Dawson City, located in the heart of the Yukon, is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada. With its vast open sky, it's the perfect spot for a clear view of the Aurora Borealis.

The city is located at the confluence of two rivers and surrounded by picturesque mountains, making it the perfect spot for both photographers and viewers alike. The town is relatively small and far away from any light pollution, allowing viewers to take in the beauty of the Northern Lights in all its full glory.

Dawson City boasts some of the most beautiful sunsets in Canada, creating the perfect backdrop for the Aurora Borealis. Photographers will love the opportunity to capture the bright colors of the lights against the orange hues of the setting sun.

For those looking to veer away from the typical Aurora Borealis watching spots in the Yukon, Dawson City also offers a unique nighttime activity. Take a ride on the Midnight Dome—a carousel-like ride located on top of a hill—and experience the lights in a whole new way. As the carousel turns, take in the stunning view of the Northern Lights while sipping on hot cocoa or hot toddy. It's a perfect way to end a long night of stargazing and Aurora Borealis viewing.

After an exhilarating night of watching the Northern Lights, enjoy the rest of your stay in the city by exploring its historical sites, such as Jack London's Cabin and the Gold Rush Trail. From exploring the city's rich history to taking in the breathtaking Northern Lights, Dawson City is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
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10. Hudson Bay, Ontario: Calm and Magnificent Northern Lights place

Located in Ontario, Hudson Bay is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful, yet magnificent, Aurora Borealis experience. The bay offers beautiful views of the Northern Lights that are so clear that you can see them even on the brightest of nights.

The dark sky over Hudson Bay is perfect for Aurora viewing, with very little light pollution from nearby urban areas. This makes it a great spot for photographers who want to capture the full power of the Northern Lights without any interference.

The bay itself is also a great spot for stargazing, with its calm water reflecting the stars and making them look even brighter. The Northern Lights reflecting off of the still water creates an incredible sight that should not be missed.

For a truly unique experience, take a boat out onto the bay on a clear night and watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky. You'll be able to take in the peacefulness of the bay while basking in the majestic beauty of the Aurora Borealis.

If you're looking for a spot to experience the Northern Lights in all their glory, then look no further than Hudson Bay. With its clean sky and tranquil waters, this spot offers an unforgettable Aurora Borealis show.

Northern Lights Online Tools: Chasing Aurora Like a Pro

The most useful Northern Lights online tools for a successful Aurora hunt. Are you about to hunt the Northern Lights on your own? Then you will find these resources helpful. If you are trying to see Aurora for the first time we recommend signing up for the Northern Lights Online Course where is explained step-by-step all you need to know to see the Northern Lights in an easy way.

  1. Northern Lights essential online tools designed for beginners to help you see Aurora like the handy Aurora Mobile App and Northern Lights Online Course will help you to understand how Aurora works and to monitor real-time activity.

  2. The Northern Lights Forecast for 3 days and long-term Aurora forecast for up to 27 days ahead can be found here: Geophysical Institute Forecast, NOAA Aurora Forecast, Spaceweatherlive Forecast or in the Northern Lights App.

  3. Find the best Aurora spots with the light pollution map and cloud cover prediction.

  4. Northern Lights activity in real-time: Real-time Aurora activity (worldwide magnetometers), Solar Wind activity, Sun's activity, Aurora live Boreal webcams list or Aurora App.

  5. Additional resources to know when it will be dark enough Darkness graph & Map and how much the moon will illuminate the sky Moon Phase + Moonrise & Moonset.

  6. If you decide to go with professional Aurora hunters here you can find the top-rated Aurora Tours.

Best places to see Northern Lights in Canada

Conclusion

Seeing the Northern Lights is a magical experience. With the right planning and preparation, anyone can make a trip to one of the best places in Canada to see the Northern Lights a reality. Northern Lights viewing and photography can be enjoyed in various locations in Canada. From the Yukon’s vast and wild spaces and the remote locations of Nunavut, to the beauty of Northern Ontario’s shores and the stunning landscape of western and northern British Columbia, the Northern Lights can be enjoyed in many Canadian provinces.

Northern Lights watching is an unforgettable experience that can’t be missed. All you need is a good plan, the right timing, and the best location for you. With this guide, you can make the most out of your Northern Lights viewing and photography excursions in Canada.

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