The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are one of nature's most spectacular displays, painting the night sky with swirls of green, blue, and sometimes even red or purple light. While there are several places in Canada where you can witness this phenomenon, the Yukon Territory offers some of the best viewing opportunities due to its northern latitude, low light pollution, and clear skies.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Yukon
The aurora is visible in Yukon from late August to mid-April, with peak viewing seasons being fall and winter (September to March). During these months, the nights are longer, providing more opportunities to catch the display. The best time to view the aurora is typically between 10 PM and 3 AM, with midnight often offering the most impressive shows.
Where to Go
While the Northern Lights can be seen from Whitehorse (Yukon's capital city), venturing further away from urban light pollution will provide better viewing opportunities. Popular viewing locations include:
- Lake Laberge: About 50 km north of Whitehorse, this location offers expansive views and minimal light pollution.
- Tombstone Territorial Park: Further north, this park offers incredible arctic landscapes that serve as a stunning foreground for aurora photographs.
- Dawson City: This historic gold rush town is further north than Whitehorse, increasing your chances of seeing the aurora.
Planning Your Trip
To maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Yukon, follow these tips:
1. Check Aurora Forecasts
Several websites and apps provide aurora forecasts based on solar activity. Resources like the Aurora Forecast app by the University of Alaska Fairbanks or the Canadian Space Agency's aurora forecasts can help you plan your viewing nights.
2. Allow Multiple Nights
The aurora is unpredictable, and cloud cover can obstruct your view. Plan to stay for at least 3-4 nights to increase your chances of a clear night with strong aurora activity.
3. Dress Appropriately
Winter temperatures in Yukon can drop to -30°C (-22°F) or lower. Dress in multiple warm layers, including thermal underwear, fleece mid-layers, and a windproof/waterproof outer layer. Don't forget warm boots, gloves, a hat, and face protection.
4. Bring the Right Equipment
If you plan to photograph the aurora, bring a camera with manual settings, a sturdy tripod, extra batteries (cold temperatures drain batteries quickly), and a remote shutter release. A headlamp with a red light option will help preserve your night vision.
Aurora Viewing Tours
If you prefer guided experiences, several operators in Yukon offer aurora viewing tours. These often include:
- Transportation to prime viewing locations
- Heated shelters or cabins for warming up
- Hot beverages and snacks
- Photography tips and assistance
- Cultural information about the aurora's significance to Indigenous peoples
Popular tour operators include Northern Tales, Arctic Range Adventure, and Aurora Viewing Tours by Sundog Retreat.
Beyond the Lights: Other Winter Activities
While the Northern Lights are the main attraction, Yukon offers many other winter activities to enjoy during your trip:
- Dog sledding through snow-covered forests
- Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on scenic trails
- Ice fishing on frozen lakes
- Visiting the Yukon Wildlife Preserve to see northern animals
- Soaking in the Takhini Hot Springs
- Experiencing the vibrant arts and culture scene in Whitehorse
The Science Behind the Lights
The Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere. Different colors result from different gases: green from oxygen at lower altitudes, red from oxygen at higher altitudes, and blue/purple from nitrogen.
The dancing, swirling patterns you see are the result of these collisions following the Earth's magnetic field lines around the poles. The stronger the solar activity, the more vibrant and widespread the aurora display.
Cultural Significance
For thousands of years, the Northern Lights have held cultural significance for Indigenous peoples in the Yukon. Many traditional stories explain the lights as spirits of ancestors, dancing celestial beings, or messages from another world. Learning about these cultural perspectives adds depth to your aurora viewing experience.
Witnessing the Northern Lights dance across Yukon's night sky is a truly magical experience that connects you to both the wonders of our universe and the rich cultural heritage of Canada's north. With proper planning and a bit of luck, your aurora adventure in Yukon will create memories that last a lifetime.
