Best Places to See the Northern Lights in America
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are one of nature’s most spectacular displays, painting the night sky with vibrant colors that dance and shimmer in the darkness. While this phenomenon is often associated with countries near the Arctic Circle, there are several locations in the United States where you can witness this magical light show. From the remote wilderness of Alaska to the northern reaches of the Lower 48, here are the best places to see the Northern Lights in America.
1. Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks is widely regarded as the best place in the United States to see the Northern Lights. Located just below the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks offers ideal conditions for aurora viewing, with clear, dark skies and frequent aurora activity.
Why It’s Special:
- Aurora Season: The Northern Lights are visible in Fairbanks from late August to mid-April, with the peak viewing season occurring between December and March.
- Aurora Borealis Lodge: For an unforgettable experience, book a stay at the Aurora Borealis Lodge, where you can watch the lights from the comfort of your own room or step outside to view them from a scenic overlook.
- Chena Hot Springs: Combine aurora viewing with relaxation at Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you can soak in natural hot springs while watching the Northern Lights dance above you.
2. Denali National Park, Alaska
Denali National Park is another top destination in Alaska for viewing the Northern Lights. The park’s remote location and lack of light pollution make it an ideal spot for witnessing the aurora in all its glory.
Why It’s Special:
- Wilderness Experience: Denali’s rugged wilderness provides a stunning backdrop for aurora viewing, with the towering peaks of the Alaska Range adding to the drama of the light show.
- Winter Activities: In addition to aurora viewing, winter visitors to Denali can enjoy activities such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
3. Anchorage, Alaska
While Anchorage is a bustling city, it’s still a great place to see the Northern Lights. On clear nights, you can often see the aurora from the city itself, or you can take a short drive to find darker skies for even better viewing.
Why It’s Special:
- City Convenience: Anchorage offers the unique opportunity to experience the Northern Lights while staying in a city with all the comforts and amenities you could want.
- Glen Alps: For a nearby escape from city lights, head to Glen Alps, a popular spot just outside Anchorage that offers great views of the aurora on clear nights.
4. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Isle Royale National Park, located in Lake Superior, is one of the most remote national parks in the United States, making it an excellent location for Northern Lights viewing. The island’s isolation ensures minimal light pollution, providing dark skies ideal for aurora spotting.
Why It’s Special:
- Wilderness Adventure: Getting to Isle Royale requires a ferry or seaplane, adding a sense of adventure to your aurora chase. Once there, you can enjoy the park’s pristine wilderness and stunning views of the night sky.
- Summer and Fall Viewing: While aurora activity is strongest in the winter, Isle Royale’s northern location means you can sometimes catch the Northern Lights during the late summer and early fall.
5. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Voyageurs National Park, located on the border of Minnesota and Canada, is another fantastic spot for seeing the Northern Lights in the Lower 48. The park’s remote location and expansive wilderness provide ideal conditions for aurora viewing.
Why It’s Special:
- Water-Based Viewing: Voyageurs is known for its interconnected waterways, making it possible to view the Northern Lights from a canoe or kayak for a truly unique experience.
- Winter Wonderland: In winter, the park becomes a snowy paradise, with opportunities for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, all while keeping an eye on the sky for the aurora.
6. Upper Peninsula, Michigan
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is one of the best places in the continental United States to see the Northern Lights. The region’s northern location and lack of major cities make it ideal for aurora viewing, especially along the shores of Lake Superior.
Why It’s Special:
- Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: This state park, located on the western edge of the Upper Peninsula, offers some of the darkest skies in the region. The park’s Lake of the Clouds overlook is a popular spot for aurora viewing.
- Marquette: The city of Marquette, located on the shores of Lake Superior, offers both convenience and great views of the Northern Lights. Head to Presque Isle Park or the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse for some of the best vantage points.
7. Aroostook County, Maine
Maine’s Aroostook County, located in the far northeastern corner of the United States, offers a surprising opportunity to see the Northern Lights in the Lower 48. The county’s rural landscape and dark skies make it an excellent spot for aurora viewing.
Why It’s Special:
- North Woods Splendor: The remote and rugged landscape of Aroostook County provides a serene setting for aurora viewing, far from the distractions of city lights.
- Allagash Wilderness Waterway: This 92-mile-long protected area offers some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States, making it a prime location for spotting the Northern Lights.
8. Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania
Cherry Springs State Park is renowned for its incredibly dark skies and is one of the best places in the northeastern United States to see the Northern Lights. While auroras are less common this far south, they do occasionally make an appearance, especially during periods of high solar activity.
Why It’s Special:
- Dark Sky Park: Cherry Springs is an International Dark Sky Park, known for its pristine night skies, making it a popular destination for stargazers and aurora chasers alike.
- Stargazing Facilities: The park features dedicated observation areas, complete with benches and charts to help visitors identify constellations, planets, and, when they’re visible, the Northern Lights.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list adventure that offers a glimpse into one of nature’s most mesmerizing phenomena. Whether you’re venturing to the remote wilderness of Alaska or exploring the dark skies of the Upper Peninsula, these locations offer some of the best opportunities to witness the aurora borealis in the United States. As you prepare for your Northern Lights adventure, don’t forget to bundle up in your Eleven Elfs vests and coats. Their stylish designs and superior warmth will keep you comfortable as you gaze up at the night sky and marvel at the beauty of the Northern Lights. Happy aurora hunting!