Login
northern lights in yukon canada

Your Guide to Catching the Northern Lights in Dawson City This Winter

Have you ever dreamed of gazing up at the night sky and seeing the magical swirl of colors that make up the Aurora Borealis? You're not alone. The Northern Lights are a spectacular natural phenomenon that attract visitors from around the world. If witnessing this celestial show is on your bucket list, there's no better place to check it off than Dawson City, Yukon. Nestled in the heart of the Yukon wilderness, this cozy little town is one of the best spots on the planet to catch the Northern Lights. Surrounded by mountains and boreal forest, the night skies here are dark and clear - perfect conditions for the vibrant colors of the Aurora to shine through. Whether you post up along the Yukon River or head out of town to escape the light pollution, you'll have front-row seats to one of the greatest shows on Earth. The winter season from December to March is the prime time to spot the Northern Lights, so pack your winter jacket, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure under the dancing lights of the Yukon sky.

How to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights?

Did you know that over 80% of tourists miss the Northern Lights due to the lack of Aurora knowledge? Don't let that be you! The right time and the right place are the key. Northern Lights Online Course and Aurora mobile app designed for beginners will significantly increase your chances.

aurora online course

Online Course

Designed For Beginners

aurora app

Mobile App

Designed For Beginners

northern lights in yukon canada

Where Is Dawson City and What's the Landscape Like?

Dawson City is a historic gold rush town located in Canada's Yukon Territory. Surrounded by rugged wilderness and mountain vistas, it's one of the best places to catch the Northern Lights in the world.

Dawson City sits on the banks of the Yukon River, in a valley between the Ogilvie Mountains and the Klondike range. The landscapes around here are breathtaking, from snow-capped peaks to boreal forests and wild rivers. In the winter, the long hours of darkness mean prime viewing of the Aurora Borealis.
northern lights in yukon canada
The best spots to see the Northern Lights are just outside of town. Head to the Dome, a large hill that offers 360 views, or drive the Dempster Highway for sweeping vistas without light pollution. For the most vibrant show, go between 10 pm and 3 am when it's fully dark. The lights are most active during the equinoxes in March and September.

While waiting for the lights to dance, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Go dog sledding, ice fishing, or snowshoeing. Check out the historic buildings from the Klondike Gold Rush, like the Palace Grand Theater. Or cozy up by a fire with a drink at Bombay Peggy's Inn.

Dawson City comes alive under the glow of the Aurora. Experience the thrill of seeing the Northern Lights illuminate the night sky and reflect off the snowy landscape. This secluded mountain town in the Yukon is a paradise for adventurers and night sky enthusiasts alike. Come chase your dreams of gold and glory in Dawson City.
dawson city

Why Dawson City Is the Best Place to See the Northern Lights in Canada

If you want a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest shows, head to Dawson City. This historic gold rush town in Canada’s Yukon territory offers some of the best views of the Northern Lights.

Dawson City sits right in the heart of the Yukon, surrounded by pristine wilderness and under some of the darkest night skies. Far from city lights, the Aurora Borealis shines brightly here. You can see the lights directly above town, but for the very best views, head to the hills surrounding Dawson.
dawson city
Top spots include the Midnight Dome, just a 10-minute drive from town. At 8,500 feet high, this mountain gives you a 360 panorama of the sky. The Yukon River is another favorite place, especially along the Dawson City Riverfront Trail. Reflections of the colorful lights shimmer off the water.

The best time to see the lights is between 10 pm and 3 am, especially around midnight. And you’ll want to visit between December and March when the nights are longest. Bundle up, it gets cold! But the chill is worth it when the sky comes alive with sheets of green, red and blue.

Dawson City gives you the perfect combination of scenic beauty, dark skies, and cozy amenities. By day, enjoy dog sledding, snowshoeing and learning about the area’s gold rush history. By night, get ready for the light show of a lifetime. The Northern Lights are best experienced in person, and there’s no better place than Dawson City.
dawson city

The Top Spots to See the Aurora Borealis Around Dawson City

The Top of the Midnight Dome
One of the best spots to view the northern lights near Dawson City is atop the Midnight Dome, a mountain just outside of town. At 820 feet high, you’ll get panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and any Auroral activity in the night sky. The hike up takes about 30-45 minutes, so make sure to bundle up, bring a flashlight, and go with a group. Once at the top, find a spot to sit or stand and wait for the show to begin. You may even spot the lights of Dawson City flickering below.
dawson city yukon
The Yukon River
The mighty Yukon River, the same one made famous during the Klondike Gold Rush, offers another prime viewing location. Head to the river after dark, find a secluded spot away from town lights and watch the Auroras dance over the water. The reflections on the river surface as the lights move will make this an extra magical experience. You may spot some nocturnal wildlife coming down for a drink, from owls to foxes.

Just Outside of Town
Some of the best views are just a 10 to 15-minute drive outside of Dawson City. Head north on the Klondike Highway or south down the Top of the World Highway and find a wide open space to park. Without the light pollution, the night sky will be filled with thousands of stars and any Auroral activity will be clear to see. Bring a camp chair, warm blankets, a thermos of hot cocoa and enjoy the show. You may get a surprise visit from the local Northern Lights ‘ambassador’—the Yukon's mascot, the Arctic Fox!
- Stay up late or set an alarm to view between 10 pm to 3 am when activity is highest.
- Check the Aurora forecast to increase your chances. A Kp index of 5 or higher means high activity and excellent viewing conditions.
- Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture these magical moments!
dawson city yukon

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Dawson City

The Northern Lights are most active and visible between 10 pm and 3 am. The months with the highest chance of catching the Aurora Borealis in Dawson City are February through April, during the equinoxes. The Northern Lights can be seen from mid-September to mid-April.

Late Winter and Spring (February to April)
During late winter and spring, Dawson City experiences long nights perfect for Northern Lights viewing. The skies stay dark for up to 14 hours, giving you plenty of opportunity to spot the Aurora. The equinoxes in March and September also correlate with higher solar activity and geomagnetic storms, increasing your odds of a dazzling light show.
dawson city yukon
Around midnight is often considered the “prime time” for the Northern Lights in Dawson City, though they can appear at any point during the late evening and early morning hours. Don’t be discouraged if they don’t emerge right at midnight—the Aurora is unpredictable and may take a few hours to become visible. Your best bet is to find a cozy spot, get bundled up against the chill, and wait patiently. The lights will come out when they’re ready!

Some tips for catching the Northern Lights:

  • Head out of the city lights. The darker the sky, the more visible the Aurora will be.
  • Dress warmly in insulated layers, boots, hat, gloves and blanket.
  • Bring a camera, tripod and extra batteries. The Northern Lights can appear quickly and fade fast.
dawson city yukon
  • Check the geomagnetic activity forecasts to increase your chances. Higher activity means a better show.
  • Stay up late and be patient. The Aurora may not emerge until the early morning hours.
  • Keep looking up and scanning the sky, especially the northern horizon. The lights often start as a pale grey or greenish glow before intensifying into shimmering colors.

With the right conditions and a bit of luck, you'll be dazzled by the spectacular celestial show Mother Nature puts on. The Northern Lights in Dawson City are a once-in-a-lifetime experience you'll never forget!
dawson city in the yukon

FAQs About Viewing the Aurora Borealis in Dawson City

What are the best months to see the Northern Lights in Dawson City?
The Aurora Borealis is most active between 10 pm and 3 am, so the best months to spot them are those with long, dark nights - typically December through March. During these winter months, Dawson City experiences nearly 20 hours of darkness each day, giving you plenty of opportunity to catch a glimpse of the spectacular light show in the sky. The Northern Lights season starts in mid-September and ends in mid-April.

What causes the Northern Lights and why are they so vibrant in Dawson City?
The shimmering, dancing lights of the Aurora are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth's magnetic field. Dawson City's location within the Auroral Oval, its typically clear skies, and its lack of light pollution make it an ideal place to witness the phenomenon in all its glory.
dawson city in the yukon
Where are the best spots to view the Northern Lights?
Head to one of the following locations for optimal viewing:

  • Dome Road and Mary McCloud Road: These winding roads just outside of town offer panoramic views of the night sky without the glow of city lights.
  • Midnight Dome: Climb the 197 stairs to the top of this hill in the heart of Dawson for a 360-degree view of the surrounding wilderness. At 1,100 feet high, it's the perfect perch to watch the lights dance across the sky.
  • Dempster Highway: Drive 30-45 minutes outside of Dawson along this scenic highway for views of the aurora and Tombstone Territorial Park's jagged peaks silhouetted against the starry sky.
How long do the lights typically last?
The duration and intensity of the Northern Lights displays can vary significantly - from just a few minutes to several hours at their peak. The shows tend to be most active around midnight, but keep an eye on the sky from dusk until dawn for your best chance of spotting the Aurora. With some luck and patience, you'll be rewarded with a colorful spectacle you won't soon forget!
dawson city in the yukon

Top Winter Activities in Dawson City Beside Chasing the Northern Lights

Dog Sledding
One of the most popular winter activities in Dawson City is dog sledding. There are several outfitters around town that offer dog sledding tours where you can experience what it was like during the Klondike Gold Rush era. Glide through the snow-covered wilderness while a team of huskies pulls you along. Most tours range from 2 to 8 hours and travel 10 to 30 miles. It’s a fun way to enjoy the winter scenery surrounding Dawson City.

Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a great way to explore Dawson City’s trails in the winter. Rent a pair of snowshoes from one of the many outfitters in town and head out on your own adventure. There are over 180 miles of trails around Dawson City perfect for snowshoeing. Trek through boreal forest and over frozen creeks. For scenic views, check out the Midnight Dome Trail or head up to King Solomon’s Dome. Pack a thermos of hot cocoa to enjoy when you reach the top!
where to see northern lights in canada
Skating
The Dawson City ice skating rink is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Lace-up your skates and glide around the rink while enjoying panoramic views of the Yukon River and surrounding mountains. The rink is open daily from December through March, weather permitting. Skate rentals are available on-site if you don’t have your own. When you need to warm up, head to the rink-side fire pit to roast marshmallows and sip on hot apple cider.

XC Skiing
For those looking to explore Dawson City’s snowy landscapes, cross-country skiing is a great option. There are over 180 miles of groomed trails around Dawson City perfect for XC skiing. Rent skis, boots, and poles from one of the local outfitters and choose between hilly terrain or flat, groomed trails. The 8.5-mile Dome Road Trail and 5-mile Creek Road Trail are popular, scenic options for skiing.
where to see northern lights in canada

The History of Dawson City and the Gold Rush

Dawson City has a rich history tied to the Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s. Prospectors flooded the area after gold was discovered along the Klondike River in 1896. Within two years, the population grew from under 500 to over 30,000. Dawson City became the center of the gold fields activity.

A Boomtown Emerges
As word of the gold spread, prospectors from all over North America travelled north to the Yukon to seek their fortune. Dawson City was perfectly situated at the confluence of the Klondike and Yukon rivers, providing access to the gold fields. A tent city sprang up overnight and quickly transitioned into a thriving boomtown with hotels, saloons, and businesses to cater to the stampede of prospectors.
  • Wooden buildings and dirt roads defined the town.
  • Fortunes were made and lost at places like the Monte Carlo saloon.
  • At its peak, Dawson City was the largest city north of Seattle and west of Winnipeg.
where to see northern lights in canada
A City Preserved in Time
Dawson City today has preserved much of its gold rush architecture and history. Walking down its unpaved streets is like taking a step back in time. You can tour historic buildings, see authentic gold rush cabins, and learn about notable figures like Jack London who lived in Dawson City. The city celebrates its golden era with events like Discovery Days and the Yukon Gold Panning Championships.

A trip to Dawson City offers a glimpse into a defining period of Canadian history. The Klondike Gold Rush put Dawson City on the map and shaped its rugged northern character that lives on today. Visiting this historic town, it’s easy to imagine what life was like for the prospectors over a century ago in their search for Yukon gold.

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.

where to see northern lights in canada

Conclusion

So there you have it, everything you need to know to catch the spectacular Northern Lights show in Dawson City this winter. Bundle up, grab your camera, find a secluded spot away from the city lights, and wait for the dazzling display to begin. Whether you see the Aurora shimmering and dancing across the sky, or witness the sky come alive with vibrant colors, a trip to Dawson City in winter will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. The history, the adventure, the jaw-dropping beauty—Dawson City has it all. If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, make this the year you finally check them off. Head north to the Yukon, cozy up in a cabin under blankets of stars, and experience the magic of the Aurora Borealis in one of the best places on Earth to see nature's greatest light show. The lights are calling you—will you answer?

Northern Lights Online Courses

Take our online course so you are ready to see the Northern Lights and you can avoid missing the show. Enroll Now!

  • €2.99

Northern Lights Beginner

  • Course
  • 27 Lessons

Learn the basic knowledge you need to know to see the Northern Lights. This course includes Basic knowledge about the Northern Lights. Great for Beginners. Includes Certificate.
View product

  • €19.99

Ultimate Northern Lights Course

  • Course
  • 99 Lessons
  • Includes 1 additional product

Learn all you need to know to see the Northern Lights. The full package online course. This course includes Basic, Intermediate and Advanced knowledge about the Northern Lights. Great for Beginners. Includes Certificate.
View product

Includes 1 Additional Product

⟵ Back to Blog page