Where & HOW To See The Northern Lights in Banff (2024)

Town of Banff - Alberta - Canada

Yes, you can see the northern lights in Banff. The Aurora Borealis make an appearance several times throughout the year. Visitors have the best chance to spot the lights is during the winter months from October to May. However, thanks to little light pollution and crisp mountain air, it is possible to see them during the summer months.

Witnessing the Aurora Borealis is always an extraordinary experience, and only more so over the craggy peaks of the Canadian Rockies. We’ve witnessed the northern lights in several dream-worthy destinations like Iceland, Alaska, Norway, and Yukon .

However, we were surprised you could catch the Aurora Borealis in the Canadian Rockies when we first learned. Here is where you can see the northern lights in Banff. With patience and an eye on the aurora forecast, you can spot them, too!

How To See The Northern Lights in Banff

The dark skies of the canadian rockies.

The town of Banff at night from Vermillion Lakes

Alberta happens to be home to some of the world’s largest dark sky preserves with Wood Buffalo and Jasper National Park . This means there are strict laws and regulations to minimize any form of light pollution. It ensures amazing night sky viewing experiences even if you aren’t lucky enough to spot the northern lights.

As locals, we’re spoiled by the night skies and often forget that most don’t enjoy a sky littered with more stars than we could ever hope to count. It doesn’t matter if the northern lights appear, as it’s still wonderful observing the night sky on a clear night.

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Banff?

Stumps Along the Lake in Jasper with the Northern Lights over head

It’s impossible to predict exactly what day the aurora borealis will appear. The aurora borealis can shine any time of year, but they are best from October to mid-April when the night sky is darkest. Generally, the northern lights in Banff shine their brightest during the winter months of December to February.

Your best chance to see them is on clear nights with a new moon. Keep in mind they are geomagnetic activity and have their own set of circumstances; just because it’s a clear night does not mean the northern lights are visible or active.

northern lights tours banff canada

Don’t count out the summer months, as it is possible to see them anytime. However, it is not likely, and I would not plan a trip around it. Word of warning, if they appear in the summer months, it will likely be around 2:00 to 3:00 in the morning as nights are quite short. It may be helpful to learn more about when the best time to visit Banff is for you.

Look at The Aurora Forecast

The Northern Lights over cabins in Jasper

I would not advise out-of-province visitors to plan a trip around spotting the northern lights in Banff. The lights are too unpredictable in the Canadian Rockies, and the forecast is accurate only a few days if not a few hours in advance.

However, it may be worth it for Albertan residents to set an aurora alert and occasionally watch the weather. Visitors and locals should keep an eye on the forecast if they have hopes to witness the lights. Luckily, several institutes put out a forecast for the northern lights.

banff northern lights

The University of Alberta manages an Aurora Watch that provides email alerts. Their updates are for the Edmonton region, but if they’re visible over Edmonton , they’ll likely appear in Jasper, Banff, and possibly even Calgary, too! Another useful site is the University of Alaska at Fairbanks, as they run the Geophysical Institute and provide an aurora forecast for North America .

Weather & Lunar Cycle

The Northern Lights in Banff over Peyto Lake

It should go without saying, but weather plays a large role in your ability to see the lights. Cloud coverage can greatly impact your ability to see the lights. A bit of flexibility and a long night can help your chance, as a drive up or down the Icefields Parkway can help you find a clear sky.

Clouds might be an easy consideration, but another important factor is the lunar cycle. The moon is the brightest object in the night sky and can really reduce your ability to see the stars and northern lights in Banff. The best chance is a moonless sky when the moon sets or rises late. Of course, a new moon is ideal, but getting that to line up with a cloudless night with the Northern Lights is pure luck. Keep an eye on the weather and lunar cycle before you venture out.

Where To See the Northern Lights in Banff

Northern Lights in Jasper

If you want to see the lights, you’ll need to avoid light pollution. Although, it is possible to see a faint glow above the town on very active nights. We have several recommendations for areas that are good to see the lights.

Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is the best location to spot the lights near town as it is only a short drive. It’s about a ten-minute drive from the town center and offers an expansive night sky from the dam walls.

Vermilion Lakes

While they’re still pretty close to town, the third Vermilion Lake offers some great vistas with the least amount of light pollution.

Castle Junction

This junction is halfway between Banff and Lake Louise along the Bow Valley Parkway and offers some nice vantage points along the Bow River with Castle Mountain in the foreground. You can also get to Castle Junction easily right off the Trans Canada.

The Peyto Lake overlook offers an exceptional vantage point to see the night sky. It also happens to be one of our favorite photo locations that can be easily accessed.

Along Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is far from any sort of light pollution and offers plenty of photography locations. Just be prepared for a long night as it’s far from town and the lights often make late-night appearances. Some of the best areas for viewing along the parkway are Waterfowl Lakes or Bow Lake.

Naturally, Jasper is an exceptional place to photograph the night, thanks to its designation as a dark sky preserve.

How To Photograph Northern Lights in Banff

The Northern Lights Over Cascade Mountain in Banff

If you see the lights, it’s only natural that you’ll want to take a few photos. If you plan to photograph the northern lights or do any night photography, you’ll need a tripod and a camera that allows for manual controls.

A typical northern lights shot is around 30 seconds and requires the camera to be stationary. Before your trip, head out on your own to a quiet and light-free place and practice some nighttime photography to get the basics down. It’s best to play around and learn all about different ISO settings, aperture, and shutter speed.

Tips to Catch the Northern Lights in Banff

Herbert Lake At Night

Learn the KP Index

Kp refers to a scale of numbers between 0 – 9 that is known as the planetary index. A 9 on a clear night in will be a full-blown show, though even a 3-4 will can be visible, as the scale refers to how far south the lights will be visible. Download an app to help you watch the Kp index.

You’ll want some warm clothes to brave the nights in the Rockies, even in mid August. We would advise to pack a bit more than a ski jacket since you’ll be stationary and staring at the sky in the winter. Ski jackets are best for constant movement.

As a great cold-weather outfit, we suggest you wear thermal underwear, wool socks , a sweater, down jacket or parka , windproof pants (ski pants), a scarf, and a toque .

A Thermos Is Key

No one will ever complain about bringing along a hot drink whilst staring at the sky in the cold. I love to bring some decaf tea in a thermos, but hot chocolate is a classic! Our favorite brand for keeping our drinks warm is Stanley.

Plan to Lose Some Sleep

northern lights in banff

The northern lights aren’t on a nice and convenient schedule where you can expect to see them every night at 9:00 pm. Some nights they’ll make an appearance in the early morning hours, while others, it may be just after nightfall.

You won’t need to stay up all night, but if you are hard set on trying to see the northern lights in Banff, you should be prepared to be woken after falling asleep in the middle of the night, or staying up and not hitting the sack until 2-3am.

**Author’s note: The cover image of this post is heavily edited. It’s doubtful you’ll see the northern lights over the town of Banff and Cascade mountain due to the light pollution generated from the town.

Hop on a tour! No specific tours center around seeing the northern lights in Banff, but there is a fantastic stargazing tour offered throughout the year!

Our Favorite Banff Hotels

northern lights tours banff canada

Banff Springs Hotel

northern lights tours banff canada

Baker Creek Lodge

northern lights tours banff canada

Rundlestone Lodge

Hopefully, this helped you determine how to see the northern lights in Banff!

If you have any other questions leave a comment or see our canadian rockies travel guide for more articles about photography spots, lakes, hikes, and everything else., plan your trip to the canadian rockies.

  • Hiking in the Rockies: Purchase an AllTrails subscription to have a mobile map on you as you hike.
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  • Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
  • Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service that will connect you right from YYC to the town of Banff or Canmore.
  • Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
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northern lights tours banff canada

About Cameron

Cameron is a resident of Canmore, Alberta. After traveling the world for six years, he settled down in the beautiful Bow Valley with Natasha. He has been featured as a travel expert with numerous publications worldwide and has spoken on several occasions about the power of travel. He has a passion for all things in the Canadian Rockies and loves to spend his time snowboarding, scrambling, camping, biking, and trail running. Conservation is a deep fundamental in his life, and he aims to inspire others to care about our natural world. You can learn more on the about us page. If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

10 thoughts on “Where & HOW To See The Northern Lights in Banff (2024)”

I returned today from a fur day trip to Banff national park. I would like to plan future trips. When is the best time to see water flowing down the mountains with the ice melting.

Well, that’s any day in the summer! However, the peak would be starting in mid-June to early July. In June, we biked one day to Moraine Lake and spent an hour watching hundreds of avalanches come off of Mount Temple.

What are your recommendations on sightseeings and tours in early November? thank you

You can see all our recommendations here! https://thebanffblog.com/banff-in-november/

We’re so happy to have found this beautiful and informative site. We’re planning a trip to see the Northern Lights in January-February 2024. You said explicity that one should NOT plan a trip to Banff to see the Aurora, so we will continue to search options. However, you’ve made Alberta and Banff very inviting, with lights or not. Thank you!

Hey Mary, thanks so much for the kind words. We definitely stand behind that statement. However, you could always tack up a trip up to the Yukon where you will have excellent chance to see the Northern Lights. 🙂

Capturing the northern lights by camera is on my bucket list. Do you provide guide services to the places mentioned in this blog? If not, can you recommend someone?

We don’t offer this service unfortunately. I’m also not aware of any guiding service offering this as it’s not as common to see them here unlike other places like Iceland, Alaska, Norway, etc. With a rental car and following these tips you don’t need a guide though!

I have a timeshare and my friend of 58 yrs wants to see the Northrrn Lights unfortunately the closest the time share takes us us WorldMark Canmore-Banff. It has nothing in Norway etc.Could you recommend late February for a glimpse of the lights????? Do you recommend that hotel. We could go to the National park or Lake Louise in an attempt. Probably a week would be good could you recommend a date or us late February good as any?

Hey MaryEllen we can not recommend a time for the Northern Lights as they are unpredictable, especially in the winter here as days can often be cloudy. The Northern Lights happen a handful of times a year here, definitely not worth planning a trip over. However, there is no bad time to visit the Canadian Rockies and there is plenty of things to do during the day.

We’ve personally done Northern Lights trips to the Arctic Circle where they’re much more reliable and predictable — Norway, Alaska, and Iceland are all far better destinations for the lights.

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Northern Lights Tours & Trips in Canada

Find a Northern Lights tour that explores Canada. There are 12 adventures to choose from, that range in length from 3 days up to 17 days. The most popular month for these tours is March, which has the most tour departures. Find here the best Canada vacations .

42 Northern Lights tour packages in Canada with 104 positive reviews

Aurora Borealis Adventure from Vancouver Tour

  • Northern Lights
  • Christmas & New Year

Aurora Borealis Adventure from Vancouver

I had a wonderful time and the tour company was very well organized and friendly. I would definitely use them again.

Hiking, Wildlife, Hot Springs and Northern Lights in the Yukon with Air from Vancouver Tour

Hiking, Wildlife, Hot Springs and Northern Lights in the Yukon with Air from Vancouver

Best Value Aurora Viewing | Wildlife & Hot Springs Tour

  • Wildlife & Nature Photography

Best Value Aurora Viewing | Wildlife & Hot Springs

What a wonderful experience! Got to see the Aurora Borealis on our last night but every other viewing night was filled with facts, fun and fellowship :0) The guides are friendly, professional and very knowledgeable. They were also very kind and thoughtful, checking in on us every day. I throughly recommend this tour…we will be going back! And try the dog sledding and animal preserve…all I can say is WOW!!!

Best Value Aurora Viewing | Basic Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Photography

Best Value Aurora Viewing | Basic

A very well run tour. The guides were fantastic, had great knowledge about the northern lights and were amazing at helping with camera settings for your personal cameras. Very efficient with pick up times and explaining how the tour would run. The day tour to the wildlife preserve and hot springs a must do. I’m so glad we paid for this tour as opposed to doing it ourselves as it made it very easy and we got the expert knowledge of the guides about the animals. It was also very cold so we were grateful we had a warm bus to get into between animals. It was all amazing and we would certainly recommend this tour company or do another tour with this company again. Communication was easy too with quick responses.

Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights Tour

  • Active Adventure

Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights

the trip overall was good but a few things to be aware of: The Edmonton Sky shuttle has not been in service since 2020! You must take a taxi. The guide was surprised that we were told to schedule extras through her and by the time the trip started, much of what we wanted was already booked out. You must book the extras yourself. Neither intrepid nor tour radar does this. this was unclear in all the communications. you can't talk to a tour radar person. on line chat is fine if you are not in a hurry for answers. That aside, the guide was knowledgeable, pleasant, and worked hard to give all tour participants an extraordinary time.

The Golden Peninsula of Ungava Tour

The Golden Peninsula of Ungava

Northern Lights Nights in Canada. Once in your life experience. Tour

Northern Lights Nights in Canada. Once in your life experience.

Arctic adventures were very good. They have very helpful and knowledgeable staff. The only thing I would change is the hotel. we were put up in days inn. The room was quite shabby and there was no housekeeping done during our five days there.
  • €140 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Aurora Hunting Tour - Find incredible northern lights Tour

Aurora Hunting Tour - Find incredible northern lights

Everything went well and almost perfect with the exception of the selection of the hotel .Even if I have to pay a little extra we should know in advance the property name and the address in order to be able to see reviews ,pictures and sorrow ding of the hotel that you select for us during our stay. I love the tour radar ,the arctic tours I give them five stars. But the quality inn hotel at Yellowknife is in bad to poor conditions . The only good thing about it was the staff and the nearby restaurants.

Northern Lights and Winter Nights - Photo Adventure Tour

Northern Lights and Winter Nights - Photo Adventure

I would like to commend PJ - he really did work so hard. He wanted to give us the

Arctic Roadtrip - Winter Adventure in the North Tour

Arctic Roadtrip - Winter Adventure in the North

Northern Lights and Gold Rush Glory Tour

Northern Lights and Gold Rush Glory

Roam Responsibly Under the Northern Lights Tour

Roam Responsibly Under the Northern Lights

Northern Flavours Aurora Getaway from Vancouver Tour

Northern Flavours Aurora Getaway from Vancouver

Our plane was delayed for 7 hours before coming to Whitehorse. The company did nothing to compensate our distress n frustration even before the tour started which was such a let down!! Being in the Inn on the lake was a memorable experience. The snowmobile activity was especially interesting. The chef gave meals which were unique n delicious.

Lakefront Cabin Stay Under the Aurora Skies from Vancouver Tour

Lakefront Cabin Stay Under the Aurora Skies from Vancouver

Yukon Northern Lights Experience from Vancouver Tour

Yukon Northern Lights Experience from Vancouver

Reviews of northern lights tours in canada.

Great tour. Enjoyed our time in the Yukon and had fun on nights even with no Aurora. Great guides and very helpful
The guides were very nice and knowledgeable, the service and help throughout was really wonderful. The first night we were lucky to see an aurora on the way to the viewing location and they pulled the buses over so we could get out and look, which was very nice. Then we saw them that night and the following night. The wildlife and hotsprings were great and my only minor negative would be that the city tour was on Sunday and almost everything was closed on Sunday, so we couldn't buy souvenirs or anything then. Would recommend scheduling the trip so the city tour is on a day where more things are open. Once in a lifetime experience, definitely recommend this company and their hospitality.
Good accommodations Good equipment Very Good guides The Wildlife tour is not a good value.

Regions in Canada

  • Yukon and Northwest Territories (24)
  • West Coast Canada (12)
  • Canadian Rockies (11)
  • Alberta (10)
  • The Prairies (10)
  • Canadian Shield (7)
  • Banff National Park (6)

Travel Styles

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International Versions

  • Deutsch: Kanada Polarlichter Reise Rundreisen
  • Français: Canada : Circuits aurores boréales 2024/2025
  • Español: Aurora Boreal Circuitos en Canadá
  • Nederlands: Noorderlicht Rondreizen in Canada

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See The Northern Lights In Banff (Explained!)

Northern Lights Over Banff Town

If you visit Banff in the winter, you may be lucky enough to see the northern lights over the Rockies. So you absolutely wanna know what to expect and where to find the best spots to see aurora borealis. Because missing out on this opportunity would be a shame! This guide tells you all you need to know to see the Banff Northern Lights.

The north of Alberta in Canada is known for the majestic appearance of the northern lights. Although it can be seen more often there than in Banff, it doesn’t mean you can’t also enjoy this magical natural spectacle in the Rockies. The dancing green, blue and red lights are also observed in the Rockies with some regularity, often several times a year.

If you are in Banff in the winter, it is probably worth checking whether it is possible to see the northern lights. If so, it is not difficult to imagine that it will provide stunning pictures.

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Banff?

Experts say the best time to see the northern lights is between October and March. Keep in mind that this is highly dependent on solar activity and solar wind. Ultimately, any time can be an excellent time to see the northern lights. It all depends on the sun.

For Banff National Park , you have the best chance of seeing aurora borealis from December through February. You may be lucky enough to see the northern lights in the summer, but you will have to stay up until the wee hours to do so because of the short nights.

How Well Can You See the Northern Lights?

In Banff National Park, you don’t have much trouble with so-called light pollution. Therefore, many places in the park are excellent for seeing the northern lights.

It goes without saying that it is best to avoid Banff town in particular for the best view of this natural phenomenon. The bright city lights that illuminate the sky make auroras of low intensity invisible. Although it is certainly possible to see the northern lights here as well. 

Fortunately, Banff is just a town and light pollution does not reach far. Unfortunately, Banff National Park is not considered a so-called Dark Sky Preserve. In these preserves, artificial light pollution is restricted.

The purpose of these is generally to promote astronomy. Still, the Dark Sky Preserves are also ideally suited to witness the northern lights. In Alberta, five areas have been designated as Dark Sky Preserves. The closest one to Banff is Jasper National Park.

Where to Go for the Northern Lights?

In Banff, there are many great locations to see the northern lights. The list below includes sites that are easily accessible by car. This is helpful because the northern lights are difficult to predict. Sometimes it only becomes apparent a few hours in advance that aurora borealis will be visible that night.

I can imagine thinking of Lake Louise as a dream location to photograph the northern lights but aurora borealis is unfortunately not often observed there. Moraine Lake then? Bummer. You can’t get there in winter because the road to the lake is closed due to avalanche danger.

Fortunately, there are plenty of other opportunities to see this natural phenomenon in the park. Whatever you do, look around you, and not just to the north. The northern lights can appear anywhere in the sky.

Lake Minnewanka

About a ten-minute drive from Banff, you’ll find Lake Minnewanka . This is the largest lake in the park, and partly because of that, it offers expansive views and a “big” sky. Here you can count on a beautiful, dark night. In other words: little effort, great result. Highly recommended in terms of location.

Vermilion Lakes

Vermilion Lakes is literally around the corner from Banff town. You can walk there from Banff, what more could you want? Because Vermilion Lakes, like Lake Minnewanka, offers a beautiful clearing in the Rockies, it lends itself as an excellent place to see the northern lights. You can expect light pollution here because of its proximity to Banff to the east. Still, the light is likely to come from the north, so the visibility of the northern lights usually won’t be affected much here.

Castle Junction

Located halfway between Banff and Lake Louise, at the foot of Castle Mountain . This spot is easily reached via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) or Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A). Around the interchange, you can easily find a place to safely park and set yourself up.

Located on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N), Peyto Lake is easy to reach. From the Peyto Lake Lookout you have a fantastic view of the lake but, more importantly, a view of an endless sky. The only disadvantage is that you have to walk uphill to get to the lookout. Doing this in the dark is probably not so pleasant. Make sure you bring a good flashlight and spare batteries. The light from your phone camera is perhaps not enough.

Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N) in itself makes an excellent location for seeing the northern lights. This road between Lake Louise and Jasper is considered one of the most beautiful roads on earth. A spectacular backdrop is guaranteed if you are lucky enough to see the northern lights here.   

Northern Lights in the Rockies

How Are the Northern Lights Created?

Everyone knows the northern lights, has seen them in photos or videos, those stunning colors in the night sky. But what exactly is this spectacular natural phenomenon?

The northern lights appear as red or green light streams in the sky, especially near the northern or southern magnetic poles. This natural electrical phenomenon is caused by the interaction of charged particles from the sun with atoms in the upper atmosphere. The energy released in the process results in light of varying color and intensity.

These charged particles are hurled into the universe by the sun. This stream of particles is called solar wind. These solar wind particles travel at speeds between 300 and 1000 kilometers (185 and 617 miles) per second, covering the distance between the sun and the earth in two to three days. This makes it possible to predict significant auroral phenomena several days in advance.

Solar activity is variable and cyclic, which means it constantly changes but follows cycles. These cycles last for eleven years. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict solar activity. Therefore, you have to be a bit lucky to be in the right place at the right time to see aurora borealis.

Colors of the Northern Lights

The northern lights present themselves in several colors. Green, blue, red, and violet are the most common, but white-gray light is observed as well. Green occurs from 100 to 240 kilometers (62 to 148 miles) above the earth’s surface. Blue and violet appear below 100 kilometers (62 miles) and red above 240 kilometers (148 miles). The color you see the most is green.

How to Prepare for the Northern Lights?

If you want to see the northern lights in Banff, you should check the forecasts. You can find them on University of Alberta’s Aurora Watch , or check Auroraforecast.com for the level of geomagnetic activity, responsible for the northern lights. You can also visit Spaceweather Canada. The site has a separate page on geomagnetic activity .

In addition, it is wise to consult the so-called KP index. This index indicates disturbances in the “horizontal component of the Earth’s magnetic field” on a scale of 0-9. The number 1 indicates calm or quiet, 5 or more indicates a geomagnetic storm. In the latter case, the chances of seeing the northern lights are real.

If the forecasts are in your favor, head out, and make sure you put on warm clothes (the chances of seeing the northern lights are most significant in winter). Take a good photo camera with you, and allow for a short(er) night’s sleep.

What Are the Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights?

The chances are, unfortunately, not very high. There are many factors on which you depend. And it’s not just about the value of the KP index. You also need a clear night without clouds.

Moon light can also act as a disturbance. Especially if it is a full moon. So, again, check the local weather forecast before you head out.

Overall, to maximize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Banff National Park, you’ll want to choose a clear night with minimal light pollution. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and lunar calendar, and be patient – the northern lights’ appearance can be unpredictable.

Can You See the Northern Lights from Banff Town or Lake Louise?

In theory, you can see the northern lights from Banff or Lake Louise. But due to the relatively high level of light pollution the location is not ideal. Of course, should it be visible, you’ll walk outside quickly enough.

Do You Need Eye Protection?

The northern lights in the sky above a forest in the Canadian Rocky Mountains in winter. Lots of snow covers the ground.

No, fortunately not. The luminosity of the aurora borealis is so low that you can see it with the naked eye without any problems. In fact, sometimes the northern lights are not visible to the naked eye when they are actually present. Still, it is advisable to bring sunglasses, even when dark. Ultraviolet reflects four times harder than usual on snow.

What Tours Are Available to See the Northern Lights?

A tour for Banff National Park itself is not available unfortunately. Because the northern lights are best and most often seen in the north of Canada, several northern lights tours can be booked for this part of Canada.

You must think of a trip from Yellowknife in Northwest Territories. This is no less than 1865 km (1151 mi) from Banff. From Vancouver, you can also book an aurora tour. Still, you’ll travel to faraway Whitehorse in Yukon Territory on this four-day trip.

What’s the Best Way to Photograph the Northern Lights?

Now that you’re heading out to see the northern lights, you’d better capture them, too, especially with those fantastic colors. So take your camera along, and you might just take the most beautiful pictures you’ve ever taken.

You Will Need the Following Equipment:

  • A camera that allows long exposures (at least 10 seconds)
  • A sturdy tripod against vibrations
  • A cable release or remote control, also to prevent vibrations
  • A wide-angle lens (not necessary, but recommended)

To photograph the northern lights, f/2.8 is recommended or the largest available aperture in your lens, ISO 3200-6400, and a shutter speed of 1 to 15 seconds. The ideal shutter speed depends on the activity of the northern lights. Adjust your white balance to 3500K. The faster the aurora moves, the quicker you should set your shutter speed.

How Do I Do this with My Cell Phone’s Camera?

You can capture the northern lights on your smartphone using landscape mode. Turn off your flash and set the focus to manual. Then put your camera to night mode and use the highest resolution possible. For better results, use a tripod and a BlueTooth remote control.

Quick Tips for Watching the Northern Lights in Banff

  • Plan your visit during the fall or winter months, as this is when the northern lights are most visible.
  • Check the forecast for aurora activity before you go out to view the lights. You can find this information on websites like  SpaceWeatherLive  or  AuroraWatch .
  • Find a spot with a clear view of the northern horizon, away from any light pollution. Banff National Park has plenty of great spots for viewing the northern lights, such as Lake Minnewanka or the Vermilion Lakes (see above).
  • Dress warmly and bring plenty of layers, as temperatures can drop well below freezing at night.
  • Bring a camera with a tripod to capture the beauty of the lights. A wide-angle lens and a remote shutter release can also be helpful.
  • Be patient and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the experience. The northern lights can be unpredictable, so you may need to wait a while for them to appear.

Northern Lights FAQ

1. are the northern lights and the southern lights the same.

The northern lights and the southern lights are not the same. The northern lights, or aurora borealis, occur in the northern hemisphere, while the southern lights, or aurora australis, occur in the southern hemisphere.

While they are both caused by the interaction between charged particles from the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field, they can appear differently due to differences in the magnetic field and atmosphere of each hemisphere.

2. How does moonlight affect the Northern Lights?

Moonlight can affect the visibility of the northern lights. A bright moon can create light pollution, making it more difficult to see the lights. Therefore, it’s best to view the northern lights during a new moon or a moonless night.

3. Can you see the Northern Lights from space?

Yes, the northern lights can be seen from space. Astronauts on the International Space Station have reported seeing the lights from above, and satellites have captured images of the aurora from space.

4. Are the Northern Lights harmful to humans?

The northern lights are not harmful to humans. They are a natural phenomenon caused by the interaction between the sun and the Earth’s magnetic field, and pose no danger to human health.

5. Do sunspots affect the Northern Lights?

Yes, sunspots can affect the northern lights. Sunspots are areas of intense magnetic activity on the sun’s surface, and when they release energy in the form of solar flares or coronal mass ejections, they can cause geomagnetic storms on Earth that can trigger the northern lights.

6. Is wildlife affected by the Northern Lights?

It’s unclear whether wildlife is affected by the northern lights. While there have been reports of animals reacting to the lights, such as reindeer herding towards the aurora, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that the northern lights have a significant impact on wildlife behavior or health.

7. Do the Northern Lights make a sound?

The northern lights do not make a sound. While there have been reports of people hearing crackling or hissing sounds during auroral displays, these sounds are not actually caused by the northern lights themselves, but rather by other natural phenomena such as electrical discharges in the atmosphere.

Banff Travel Guide and FAQ

Where is banff national park, canada.

Banff National Park is in the southwest of the province of Alberta. It’s home to the towns of Banff and Lake Louise and borders the province of British Columbia in the west of Canada. You can easily access famous places like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake and the stunning Icefields Parkway from these locations.

Banff and Lake Louise are situated in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, close to the boundary with British Columbia, as shown on the map of Banff National Park below.

Is Banff, Canada safe?

Generally speaking, yes. Like most areas, Banff has crime, but it’s still a safe travel place. But Banff has a lot of wildlife, including bears and cougars, so you should always carry bear spray and exercise caution when hiking in the mountains.

What is the best time to Travel to Banff, Canada?

The best time to travel to Banff, Canada, depends on your reason for visiting the park. If you’re going for the stunning nature the park’s famous for, you’d better visit from June to September. The best months to ski are from January through March. 

WEATHER IN BANFF, CANADA: AVERAGE TEMPERATURE

Average min and max temperatures in Banff, Canada

The worst months to visit Banff National Park are November, April and May. It’s too chilly to go sightseeing in November, and there isn’t enough snow on the slopes yet. The iconic lakes in the park are still frozen in April and May, and it can still be quite cold.

How do I travel to Banff, Canada?

Want to fly to Banff ? Calgary International Airport (Code: YYC) is the closest airport. It’s 130 kilometers (81 mi) to the east of Banff.  

Several cities, including Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, and Dallas/Fort Worth, have direct flights into Calgary.

Pick up a rental vehicle at Calgary International Airport, or take a private transport service to your destination. The trip to the park takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. 

Viator has several good options . Click the link to check the options and latest rates.

Banff Car Rental

Want to rent a car during your stay in Banff National Park? Rent one at Calgary International Airport or in the city of Calgary. Yep, there are rental firms in Lake Louise and Banff, but as these are small towns, your rental options can be limited.

Avis is a reputable car rental company, which I’ve used many times. Book now with Avis

What do I pack for Banff, Canada?

The time of year will affect what you should bring with you on your trip to Banff, Canada. If you plan to spend your summer vacation in Banff National Park, you should be okay with light-colored, breathable clothing. Bring a few sweaters, too, as Banff’s summer evenings can be chilly. You’re in the mountains, after all. 

When visiting in winter, bring a heavy jacket, such as a parka, and other winter clothing, such as warm pants, long underwear, and (fleece) sweaters. Don’t take it lightly because Banff’s wintertime lows can reach well below zero.

Banff Travel Planning Guide

Do i need a visa for banff.

Most likely not. Citizens of the US, most European countries, Australia and New Zealand don’t need a visa to enter Canada. Not sure? Click  the link  to see whether you need a visa or not. The typical length of stay in Canada for people with visa-exempt passports is 90 days.

Do I need travel insurance for Banff ?

You bet. Feel confident while traveling with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the top names in travel insurance, for just USD 10 on average per day.

What’s the best way to book my Banff accommodation?

If you plan to book a hotel, hostel or bed & breakfast,  Booking.com  is your best bet. It has the most hotels listed and often offers the best rates.

Do I need to rent a car in Banf?

Absolutely. While Banff is one of the few national parks in North America with a sizeable public transport network, I strongly advise renting a car if you want to make the most of your visit.

Will my phone work in Banff?

It depends. In the towns of Banff and Lake Louise, you should have good to excellent reception. However, in more remote areas, the signal is spotty. In many places, there will be no signal at all.

What’s the best site to buy Banff flights? 

If you’re looking for cheap flights to Banff, I recommend Skyscanner. No surprises with suddenly increased rates (for taxes, seats or luggage) upon checkout. What you see is what you get. 

As a former Banffite, I love writing about my favorite part of the world. I keep coming back to enjoy the park's mesmerising beauty. It never fails to impress me. With my extensive knowledge of the area, I aim to provide you with the best information on Banff that you can find on the internet.

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Home » Canada » Alberta » Banff » Banff Northern Lights: Your Complete Guide to Seeing Them!

northern lights tours banff canada

Banff Northern Lights: Your Complete Guide to Seeing Them!

banff northern lights

Viewing the Northern Lights should be a must-do on anyone’s bucket list since it is one of the most stunning natural occurrences on the planet! The aurora borealis is a stunning show of color and light that dances across the night sky, and seeing it in the magical town of Banff is an absolute must-do at least once in your life.

Seeing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime event for many individuals, and will hold a particular place in their hearts. It’s an opportunity to observe nature’s grandeur and magnificence in a manner that few other experiences can compare, and when you’re able to view it from amongst the majestic mountains, there’s really nothing else like it.

banff northern lights

What are the northern lights, or aurora borealis?

The Northern Lights, commonly known as the Aurora Borealis, are a breathtaking natural phenomena that happens in the Earth’s atmosphere. They are formed when electrically charged particles from the sun clash with atoms and molecules in the Earth’s atmosphere, also known as solar winds.

As these particles collide, they create a stunning and colorful show of light in the night sky. The colors of the Northern Lights are determined by the type of gas with which they impact; oxygen generates green and red colors, while nitrogen provides blue and purple hues.

The Northern Lights’ intensity and frequency change according to the sun’s activity and the Earth’s magnetic field. When the sun is very active, it may emit a tremendous quantity of energy in the form of solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These occurrences can disrupt the Earth’s magnetic field, resulting in a more active aurora.

Scientists track the Earth’s geomagnetic activity to forecast the likelihood and intensity of the Northern Lights. To evaluate the intensity of the aurora, they employ instruments such as the Kp index, a measurement of geomagnetic activity on a range of 0 to 9.

Because the Earth’s magnetic field is highest near the poles, the Northern Lights are most typically observed in polar locations such as Alaska, Canada, Norway, and Sweden. They are, however, occasionally spotted in other regions of the world, including Scotland, Iceland, and Russia.

For millennia, the Northern Lights have been a source of surprise and curiosity, and they have been studied by scientists for many years. Many people now go to isolated regions to witness the Northern Lights and marvel at the majesty and beauty of this natural phenomena.

The Northern Lights are also culturally and historically significant in many regions of the world. For ages, they have been the topic of tales, stories, and folklore, and they have inspired innumerable painters, authors, and scientists.

northern lights tours banff canada

Why is Banff National Park a Great Place to see the Northern Lights?

Banff National Park is located in Western Canada in North America in a secluded location far from any major cities, thus there is little light pollution, which is integral for good northern lights viewing conditions. The dark sky offers a wonderful background for the vivid display of lights, making it an ideal spot for seeing the Northern Lights.

The magnetic pole is the location in the Earth’s atmosphere where the magnetic field is the strongest. This increases the visibility of the Northern Lights in regions near the magnetic pole, such as Banff National Park. Banff National Park lies near the magnetic pole, increasing the likelihood of being able to see the Northern Lights.

Banff has a location famed for its bright sky, which makes viewing the Northern Lights easier. The park has low humidity and is high in elevation, which helps to lessen atmospheric interference and boost visibility.

Banff also provides a variety of vantage spots for seeing the Northern Lights, as you’ll read more about below. These places provide breathtaking views of the Northern Lights against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, creating a memorable experience.

banff northern lights

When is the best time to see the northern lights in Banff National Park?

Banff National Park is one of the greatest places in the world to see the northern lights! Here are some details about when the best time is to see the northern lights in Banff:

Best Season to See Northern Lights in Banff:

The best time to see the northern lights in Banff is during the winter months, specifically from November until March. During this time, the longer evenings and clearer night skies provide excellent aurora borealis viewing opportunities in the Canadian Rockies. The winter months also coincide with the height of aurora activity, making brighter and more frequent displays of the northern lights more possible.

The summer months in Banff are lovely and perfect for hiking, but there is so much to do in winter in Banff National Park , too. Plus, winter is by far the best time to increase your chances of seeing this incredible display by Mother Nature!

Best Time of Day to See Northern Lights in Banff:

Because the northern lights are visible in the night sky, they are best seen during the hours after sunset and before sunrise. However, it’s so important to know that the northern lights are unpredictable and might appear at any time of the night! Your best bet is to book one of the amazing hotels in Banff National Park so that when the northern lights are out, you’ll be ready to jet from your hotel room to one of the prime viewing locations, below.

Best Weather to See Northern Lights in Banff:

Dark and clear skies are required to see the northern lights, so it is important to check weather forecasts before venturing out in search of northern lights. A foggy or cloudy sky can make seeing the northern lights difficult or impossible. However, the winter months in Banff are often drier and clearer. Heading out on a clear night will allow for a greater chance of sighting this incredible natural phenomenon.

For the best chance of witnessing the northern lights, you’ll want to choose a location that is distant from city lights and light pollution.

Continue reading below for some of my favorite places to see the northern lights in Banff!

banff northern lights

What are the best places to see northern lights in Banff National Park?

Here are some gorgeous viewpoints that make for a perfect place in Banff to hunt for the northern lights:

Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is a favorite location for watching the northern lights in Banff. It is the biggest lake in Banff National Park and is located only a short drive from the town of Banff. The lake is surrounded by mountains, making for a wonderful setting for the northern lights!

The Lake Minnewanka Scenic Road and the Lake Minnewanka Boat Launch are two locations around the lake where you may park and observe the aurora.

Vermilion Lakes

Another excellent spot for watching the northern lights in Banff is Vermilion Lakes, a favorite of many locals. The lakes, which are located just outside of Banff, are excellent for photography and animal observation. The lakes are surrounded by forested areas and mountains, making for a beautiful backdrop for the northern lights, with gorgeous Mount Rundle the prominent focal point. There are a number of pullouts along Vermilion Lakes Road where you can park and see the aurora.

Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway is a picturesque road that connects Banff town with Lake Louise. The parkway runs adjacent to the Trans-Canada Highway and offers multiple possibilities for seeing the northern lights. Because the parkway is distant from city lights, it is an excellent site for astrophotography and aurora watching alike. There are various pullouts along the parkway from which to view the northern lights from.

Mount Norquay

Located just west of Banff, Mount Norquay is a popular ski resort in Banff National Park. The resort even provides a dedicated northern lights-watching experience during the winter months, which involves a gondola trip up the mountain to a designated viewing spot. The viewing spot is isolated from city lights and offers an unimpeded view of the aurora borealis.

Cascade Ponds

Cascade Ponds is a beautiful and tranquil spot located just outside of Banff on the way to Lake Minnewanka. This area has a number of little ponds with breathtaking views of Mount Rundle in the distance. The area is far enough away from Banff that the sky is dark enough to see the Northern Lights, yet it is still easily accessible by vehicle. Come back here during the day to enjoy a lovely picnic!

Peyto Lake is a stunning blue glacier-fed lake in Banff National Park, along the Icefields Parkway. The lake is known to be in the shape of a dog or wolf head. The area is secluded and distant from any city lights, making it perfect for seeing the Northern Lights. However, access to Peyto Lake is often restricted during the winter months due to the closure of the Icefields Parkway, so make sure to check road conditions before departing to Peyto.

Located close to Peyto Lake, Bow Lake is a picturesque glacier-fed lake located between Banff and Jasper National Parks on the Icefields Parkway.  The region also provides breathtaking vistas of the Canadian Rockies and the Bow Glacier. Again, you’ll need to check road forecasts before embarking on this drive.

Lake Louise

One of the most famous places in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is noted for its turquoise waters and gorgeous mountain background. The lake is also a good place to watch the Northern Lights, especially in the winter when the sky is clearer. There are various places surrounding the lake from which to watch the aurora.

banff northern lights

What are the best aurora forecast websites for seeing northern lights in Banff?

Several websites provide Aurora forecasts and can help assist you in planning your journey to view the aurora light show in Banff. Some of my favourite Banff aurora prediction websites are:

Aurora Watch is a University of Alberta website that provides an aurora alert for Western Canada. The website includes a color-coded map that depicts the projected intensity of the Northern Lights, as well as a text-based prediction with extra information.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) operates the Space Weather Prediction Center , which provides a 3-day aurora prediction for the Northern Hemisphere. The website also provides real-time data on solar activity, geomagnetic storms, and other space weather phenomena that may have an impact on the visibility of the Northern Lights.

Soft Serve News is a website that delivers a wide range of space weather information, including aurora forecasts. The website provides a three-day prediction as well as live data on solar activity and geomagnetic storms.

The Weather Network is a renowned weather service that also gives aurora forecasts for sites around Canada, including Banff National Park. The website provides a 3-day prediction as well as a map of the Northern Lights’ projected visibility.

These websites can help you plan your journey to see he Northern Lights in Banff National Park by offering information about the aurora’s possibility and intensity. However, keep in mind that aurora forecasts are not always precise, and witnessing the Northern Lights is dependent on a number of elements, including weather conditions and geomagnetic activity.

banff northern lights

Tips for Capturing Great Northern Lights Photography

Taking great photos of the Northern Lights can be a complex but rewarding experience. To get the best results, learn about camera settings and methods that can help you capture the magnificence of this natural phenomena. Here are my best tips:

Use a Tripod

To begin, while taking long exposure photography, a sturdy tripod is incredibly helpful. This aids in maintaining camera stability and preventing fuzzy or blurry shots. A remote shutter release or self-timer can also assist in preventing camera wobble (set the timer to 2 seconds so there is no camera shake from you pressing the shutter button).

Use a Fast Lens with a Wide Aperture

To catch as much light as possible, a fast lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or wider) will be your best friend. This will help in increasing the shutter speed of your camera settings and reducing the likelihood of blurry photographs. Keep in mind, however, that selecting a larger aperture will result in a shallower depth of field, which might compromise image clarity unless your focus is correctly set.

Learn to Shoot in Manual Mode

Shooting in manual mode allows you to have complete control over your camera settings. This allows you to modify the exposure time, aperture, and ISO to meet the unique circumstances of shooting the northern lights.

Use a Higher ISO

In low-light settings, using a high ISO level (such as ISO 1600 or above) will alloe you to capture more pixel information. But be aware that using an ISO that is too high might create noise and grain into your photographs. It’s all about learning to balance your camera settings (shutter speed, aperture and ISO) to create the perfect blend of settings for your chosen image goal.

Select A Longer Shutter Speed

Using a longer exposure period of 10-30 seconds is the best way to capture the movement and colors of the Northern Lights. This allows the camera ample time to catch the aurora’s weak light. However, if the camera or subject moves during the exposure, a long exposure duration might add undesired motion blur (this is why a tripod is especially recommended).

Set Your Focus Manually

In low-light settings, manual focusing is usually required since autofocus may struggle to lock onto the target. One method is to focus on a brilliant star or distant light, or to zoom in and manually change focus using live view. Learning your camera settings inside out will help you greatly with night photography!

Shoot in RAW Format

Shooting in RAW format allows you to capture more detail and also allows much better post-processing versatility. This allows you to fine-tune the exposure, color, and other parameters to bring out the most in your photographs without the image quality getting “crushed” like it would with a JPG image.

The ideal camera settings for photographing the Northern Lights may vary depending on the weather and your equipment. Experimenting and practicing can help you find the best settings for capturing the breathtaking splendor of the Northern Lights!

Where to Stay in Banff to See Northern Lights:

Here are some of the best places to stay at in Banff to see the northern lights during your visit.

My selections are chosen based on proximity to Northern lights viewing spots, hotel amenities and service, and my own personal experience.

If you’re interested in staying in a cozy cabin instead during your visit, check out my blog:

The Cutest Cabin Rentals in Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta

Fairmont banff springs.

This opulent castle-style hotel provides breathtaking mountain views, a spa, and indoor/outdoor pools.

Rimrock Resort Hotel

This hotel has an amazing setting overlooking the Bow River Valley and provides a variety of facilities, including a full-service spa and various dining options.

banff northern lights

Moose Hotel And Suites

This chic and contemporary hotel features large suites with mountain views, an outdoor rooftop hot tub, and a fitness center.

Read my entire review of Moose Hotel and Suites

Banff Park Lodge

This hotel in the center of Banff provides a variety of facilities such as various dining options, a spa, and an indoor pool.

Hidden Ridge Resort

Hidden Ridge Resort provides charming condominiums and cottages with fully furnished kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and gorgeous outdoor hot tubs.

Mount Royal Hotel

This freshly remodeled hotel features modern and trendy rooms as well as a rooftop lounge and a fitness facility.

Elk + Avenue Hotel

Located in downtown Banff, this hotel features contemporary rooms, a fitness facility, and a restaurant.

The Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa

The Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa provides beautiful accommodations, an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness center, and a full-service spa.

Canalta Lodge

This contemporary and affordable hotel features beautiful accommodations, an outdoor pool, and a variety of eating options.

Banff Rocky Mountain Resort

Banff Rocky Mountain Resort provides large apartments with fully furnished kitchens, indoor/outdoor pools, tennis courts, and a fitness center.

Or, if you’re interested in staying in a cozy cabin during your visit, you’ll love this blog:

What to pack for viewing the northern lights in Banff?

While preparing for a trip to see the Northern Lights in Banff, remember that really cold temperatures and fluctuating weather conditions are common in Banff in the winter. The following are some necessary items to pack for your aurora adventure:

Warm clothing: Layering your clothing is critical for remaining warm and comfortable on chilly winter evenings. Include a thick coat, insulated pants, thermal underwear, wool socks, a toque and glove (perhaps multiple pairs!)

Warm Grippy Footwear: For walking on snow and ice, excellent quality winter boots with sufficient traction and insulation are recommended.

Camera gear: A camera that allows manual settings and a wide-angle, fast aperture lens can help you capture the magnificence of the Northern Lights. Remember to bring additional batteries, memory cards, and a tripod to stabilize your camera during long exposures.

Aurora forecast apps: Download aurora forecast apps like Aurora Watch or My Aurora Forecast to your smartphone to stay up to speed on aurora activity in your region. And remember to bring a phone charging cable for your car and mobile devices can die quickly in cold weather!

Snacks and water: Staying hydrated and energetic is critical while spending time out in the cold. Bring food and drink in your bag to keep you going on your Northern Lights expedition.

Portable hand and foot warmers: These aren’t mandatory but are useful for keeping your hands and feet warm in extreme temperatures!

First aid kit: It’s usually a good idea to keep a basic first aid kit on hand, which should contain supplies like bandages, pain relief medicine, and disinfectant.

Pack light and only carry what you need for your Northern Lights-watching experience. Also, before leaving the house or hotel, check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

What are some other great places in Alberta to see the Northern Lights?

Alberta is a wonderful place to watch the Northern Lights, with many fantastic viewing places available. Here are some additional locations that are great for watching the Northern Lights in Alberta:

Jasper National Park: Situated in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is famed for its darkskies and breathtaking natural beauty. This makes it one of the very best places for seeing the Northern Lights. It is also a certified Dark Sky Preserve, and Jasper hosts a dark sky festival each year! Pyramid Lake and Lake Annette are good spots in Jasper to watch the aurora borealis.

Find amazing cabins to stay at in Jasper during your aurora-chasing adventures.

Also, winter is the best time in Jasper to see northern lights – here is my guide to what to do and see in Jasper in winter .

Wood Buffalo National Park: The biggest national park in Canada and a certified Dark Sky Preserve, Wood Buffalo National Park is located in northern Alberta. This means it has some of the best options for astronomy and observing the Northern Lights!

Elk Island National Park: Located just outside of Edmonton, Elk Island National Park is another Dark Sky Preserve that is ideal for astronomy and observing the Northern Lights.

Kananaskis Country: This Rocky Mountain wilderness region offers spectacular mountain vistas and bright night sky for witnessing the Northern Lights.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: Located in southern Alberta, this park is a designated Dark Sky Preserve and offers breathtaking views of the Milk River Valley and the Northern Lights.

Waterton Lakes National Park: Located in southern Alberta, this park offers breathtaking mountain scenery as well as dark skies for watching the Northern Lights.

Fort McMurray: Fort McMurray, located in northern Alberta, is an excellent site for watching the aurora borealis. Fort McMurray’s distant position and little light pollution provide for excellent, unhindered views of the night sky.

Watching the aurora borealis from Banff is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget. I hope this guide was helpful in planning your trip!

Hope you have so much fun checking this off your bucket list!

JennExplores Signature Love Jenn

Other Banff & Area Blogs You Might Also Like:

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Best Time to See Northern Lights Aurora in Michigan

The Best Time to Visit Banff

Johnston Canyon Winter Hike: Exploring frozen waterfalls in Banff National Park

Things to Do in Banff – 13 Winter Activities for an Unforgettable Trip!

Best Places to Go Ice Skating Outdoors in Banff

Best Spas in Banff

The Best Lakes in Banff National Park

Banff Via Ferrata Tour at Norquay

The Best Hotels in Banff & Canmore, Alberta for a Romantic Getaway

Alpinist Route Review: Banff Via Ferrata Tour at Mount Norquay

Horseback Riding in Banff: Best Things to Do in Banff

Banff Meadow Spa & Pools: Best Things to Do in Banff

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Winter Getaway to Jasper National Park: Best Things To Do, Jasper Hotels and Where to Stay

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Northern Lights in Banff: how to see aurora borealis

If you’re wondering if you can see the northern lights in Banff, the answer is YES!

Most of us dream of seeing them at some point in our lives. Though it is a common misconception that you have to trek far up north to see them, the spectacular aurora borealis can actually be seen from Banff.

Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies offer some of the best viewings for these magical light displays.

It’s fine-tuning the timing, having a clear sky, strong solar activity, and little light pollution that makes sighting the aurora borealis ideal.

Here’s how you can optimize your chances of seeing the northern lights in Banff National Park and elsewhere in Alberta.

northern lights in Banff National Park

The northern lights + STEVE

What are the northern lights.

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon caused by electrically charged particles from the sun interacting with the earth’s atmosphere.

These interactions create vivid displays of light in the night sky visible in certain parts of the world.

This produces an incredible display of light and an array of colors, such as green (the most common), pink, dark red, blue, and purple.

STEVE: Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement

STEVE is another amazing phenomenon, which you might not have heard of. 

What makes STEVE so unique is that it doesn’t look like regular auroras, it has a distinctive violet ribbon of light, which you can sometimes see with the northern lights.

STEVE was discovered by Chris Ratzlaff in 2016, who is the founder of the Alberta Aurora Chaser Facebook group, which I highly recommend joining.

STEVE and northern lights in Alberta

When is the best time to see the northern lights in Banff?

People think you can only see the northern lights in Banff in the winter months , but you can actually see them any time of the year. All you need are the right conditions.

Between September and April is the best time to spot them as the nights are longer and darker. From 9 pm to 3 am is when the lights are most likely to be seen.

During a new moon phase, auroras tend to be even more visible since there’s less light pollution from the moon.

Clear skies are vital, as clouds or other weather conditions will prevent you from witnessing them.

What are the chances of seeing the northern lights in Banff?

Compared to more northern parts of Canada, the chances of seeing the northern lights in Banff are not as high.

As much as we would like to be able to plan for them, seeing them is dependent on several unpredictable elements.

But it is still possible. Good weather, clear skies, and a strong aurora forecast increase your chances of seeing a display.

An important predictor is the KP index, which measures geomagnetic activity on a scale of 0-9.

A high KP index gives you a much better chance of seeing the northern lights from Banff. However, even if the KP index is high, you still need a cloudless night.

The location also plays a key role, so to boost your chances, head out of town and away from any light pollution.

Where to see the northern lights in Banff

Luckily, there are plenty of places around Banff National Park to view the aurora.

Whether you’re searching for seclusion or socializing with other stargazers, the following are the best spots in the park:

Head to Vermilion Lakes if you’re looking to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights without venturing too far away from Banff town.

You’ll get to view nature’s own light show over Mount Rundle.

Cascade Ponds are only a 5-minute drive north of town nestled within a forest and offer an amazing view of the night sky and aurora borealis.

Lake Minnewanka has one of the best views of the night sky with practically no light pollution, even though you are only a 10-minute drive from Banff town.

This is the most popular place with stargazers and others hunting aurora.

Two Jack Lake is also near the town of Banff and offers some great views of this natural phenomenon.

Castle Junction is another popular spot and is halfway between Banff and Lake Louise, at the foot of Castle Mountain.

You can get here either on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) or the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A).

Icefields Parkway winds through Banff National Park from one end to the other, it provides magnificent views along its entire length.  This is especially worthwhile driving to at night when you want to see the northern lights.

Peyto Lake is on the Icefields Parkway/93 N and is another great spot to watch aurora displays.

Drive up Highway 93N to Bow Lake , which is a 25-minute drive north of Lake Louise. Here you will find perfect dark skies with pretty much zero light pollution.

No matter which location you choose, if the KP index is high enough then anywhere around Banff is good for seeing the dancing lights.

The best northern lights trackers + alerts

To give yourself the best shot at seeing the northern lights in Banff, check out these helpful resources. They will help you track and receive aurora alerts for when the lights are most likely to be visible.

AuroraWatch provides real-time monitoring in the Edmonton area, but when solar activity is high, this will also cover most of Alberta.

Sign up for alerts and choose to receive “Red Alerts Only” or “Both Yellow and Red Alerts.” I get both alerts, which always seem to be in the middle of the night when I’m asleep!

You can also follow them on Twitter for live updates.

Aurora Forecast provides a detailed 3-day aurora forecast for the northern hemisphere, including predictions of when and where the lights will be visible.

Alberta Aurora Status allows you to put in your location and gives the current status as well as a 3-hour KP prediction.

Space Weather Live is great for checking out the current auroral activity. You can also follow them on Facebook.

My Aurora Forecast + Alerts is an app, but its accuracy seems to be hit or miss at times.

Alberta Aurora Chasers is an active Facebook group that I belong to. It was founded by Chris Ratzlaff, the guy who discovered STEVE, as mentioned above.

The community is great and shares real-time sightings and locations from all over Alberta, including Banff.

Where else can you see northern lights in Alberta?

Alberta is known as “big sky country,” as the sky seems to go on forever, making it the perfect place to view the majestic northern lights.

The other good thing about Alberta is that you don’t have to drive too far to get away from the city lights.

Here are some other parts of the province where you have a good chance of seeing a light display.

Jasper National Park

Jasper is a must-see destination for stargazers. With its incredibly expansive 11,000 square kilometers of space, Jasper is one of the largest dark skies preserves in the world.

Popular aurora borealis viewing spots include Lake Annette, Pyramid Lake and Island, and Maligne Lake.

As if this wasn’t enough to entice you, Jasper also plays host to the Dark Sky Festival every October, which features celebrity speakers and interactive events.

Wood Buffalo National Park

This national park is located in the far north of the province, near the Northwest Territories, and is said to be the world’s largest dark sky preserve.

With over 40,000 square km you can be sure there will be complete darkness.

Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve

This 300-square km dark sky preserve is just east of Edmonton and incorporates Elk Island National Park and the Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area.

The preserve also hosts events throughout the year, including stargazing parties and educational programs.

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

This park is situated in the southeastern corner of Alberta and straddles the border with Saskatchewan. It’s one of the darkest and most accessible dark sky preserves.

Fort McMurray

Located in Northern Alberta, Fort McMurray is in a remote location and lacks light pollution, so this city offers amazing views of the aurora borealis.

Lakeland Provincial Park

Just east of Lac La Biche is this 590 square km dark sky preserve that has five observing sites that you can get to by car.

Waterton Lakes National Park

This stunning national park is located in the southwest corner of Alberta. It is designated as an International Dark Sky Park as it borders Glacier National Park in the US.

As it is much farther south, there is less chance of seeing the lights, but it is not impossible.

Even if you don’t see them, this is still a great place for stargazing. We’ve seen the Perseid meteor shower here, and it was amazing because the sky was so dark and you really got to see so much more.

Tips to keep warm and safe

When packing for a night of aurora watching in the Canadian Rockies, be prepared for the cold temperatures, even in the summer months.

As you might be waiting outside for hours for the lights to show, you’re going to want to keep nice and toasty, so remember your toque (hat) and gloves. Layers and a warm jacket are a must.

Warm socks and sturdy boots are just as important. Even if you bring a camping chair, you’ll still be sitting or standing still most of the time.

And don’t forget to bring a hot drink and some snacks to keep your energy levels up.

Make sure you grab a headlamp or flashlight (and spare batteries) before you go so you can see where you’re walking.

Take bear spray and be aware of any wildlife in the area .

Inform others about your whereabouts, and ensure your phone has service and is charged.

Tips for photographing the northern lights in Banff?

As I’m not a professional photographer and I’ve only used my cell phone to capture the aurora, I’ve searched for the best tips on how to photograph the northern lights. These are:

  • Invest in a tripod to keep your camera steady while taking long-exposure shots and it ensures clear images even if there’s movement around you.
  • A remote shutter release will prevent camera vibrations while capturing the northern lights. A self-timer can be used, but a remote release is more precise.
  • An ultra-wide-angle lens with a wide aperture (f/2 or f/2.8) is perfect for capturing both the northern lights and the landscape in one shot, allowing more light to reach the sensor for the best results.
  • Adjust shutter speed to 4-20 seconds based on activity (faster for fast displays and slower for slow ones), and set ISO between 1600-6400 based on night sky brightness. Experiment and review for the best settings.
  • Set manual white balance using Kelvin mode (3000K-4000K) for natural-looking northern lights. Avoid auto or preset modes.

Whether you’re using a professional camera or your cell phone camera, make sure you take time to enjoy the moment, that’s the most important thing.

Banff northern lights

Seeing the northern lights in Banff is a truly special experience. With clear skies, dark nights, and very little light pollution, this part of the Canadian Rockies makes for a perfect spot for viewing the aurora.

Plus, you can’t beat enjoying them with the majestic background of the Rocky Mountain peaks. 

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Banff National Park

Northern Lights In Canada – How To See Them in Banff National Park

northern lights tours banff canada

In the history of legendary quests, none perhaps is more famous than King Arthur and his pursuit of the Holy Grail. Many avid stargazers consider the aurora borealis, and in particular, the northern lights in Canada, to be on par with the legendary cup—greatly desired, but frustratingly elusive. But fear not, noble reader. While Arthur never succeeded in locating his grail, there are a number of helpful tips that can aid your quest to see nature’s spectacular theater in the sky.

So, if you’re ready to take up the gauntlet, read on to learn more about the borealis’ mythical history and the best times and places to spot it. 

Table of Contents

The Aurora Borealis Is A Natural Phenomenon

A natural phenomenon, the northern lights are a beautiful display of dancing colors arcing over the night skies in the northern hemisphere. Scientifically known as the aurora borealis , they have a counterpart in the southern hemisphere known as aurora australis . In either hemisphere, the event is a glorious spectacle to behold. But as beautiful as the event is when it occurs, it derives from the violent collision of particles into the Earth’s atmosphere. Fortunately, we don’t suffer any ill effects from this bombardment, protected by the Earth’s magnetic field. It’s the exchange of energy that occurs when the particles bounce along the magnetic field that causes the fireworks that have fascinated both amateur and professional stargazers alike.

northern lights tours banff canada

When many people think of the northern lights, they call to mind undulating curtains of ephemeral green. Quite often, however, many of the spectrum’s colors are woven into the dazzling displays across Canada’s night skies. There’s no Instagram filters changing the colors in the sky, though. The variations in colors, ranging from pulsing clumps of blue violets or pulses of ruby red to sweeping curtains of the familiar green are affected by several factors. Depending on the particular type of ions and atoms that collide with the Earth’s atmosphere and at exactly what altitude the collision occurs, you will see a varied palette dance across the dark canvas. If an ion makes contact with the atmosphere under 60 miles up, you’re likely to spot colors at the violet end of the spectrum—deep blues and reds tinged with purple. More intense light glows green when the collisions occur from 60-150 miles. You’ll probably spot a jeweled red tone if it occurs above that. In any case, nature takes a cue from Jackson Pollock and splashes the sky in beautiful randomness that attracts thousands of visitors every year. But to increase your chances of spotting this beautiful phenomenon, there are certain times of year that make it a bit easier to spot.

Best Time To See the Northern Lights in Banff

It’s always a roll of the dice when it comes to being in the right spot at the right time to see the northern lights. The view can be marred by clouds or there may just not be enough activity to generate the awesome light show. With the right planning, however, you can dramatically increase your odds of seeing this natural wonder. One factor to keep in mind as you plan your next quest to see the northern lights in Canada is knowing the best time of year to see them.

While it does not have to be frigid to spot the aurora borealis—in fact, you can spy it throughout the entire year if you’re lucky—you DO increase your chances by visiting in the darker, chiller months. Plan a visit sometime from September to May if you want to heighten your prospects. One of the reasons for this concerns the geomagnetic activity on the planet which peaks in September and October, then again in March, at the equinoxes.

Top Spots in Banff National Park to See the Northern Lights

Just as important as knowing when to visit Canada to spot the Northern Lights is knowing where . While there are multiple locations in Alberta where the lights can be viewed, we’ve complied a short list of the best places to spot them.

northern lights tours banff canada

Of course, it only makes sense—if you want to see the northern lights, point yourself toward the North Pole. But you don’t have to go as far as Santa’s fabled workshop to get the gift of seeing the northern lights. Many places in Alberta offer fantastic viewing opportunities to enjoy this natural wonder. Just make sure whichever you choose is as dark and free of light pollution as possible for the best experience. You can increase your odds of spotting them the further north you go. Plus, you get the added bonus of seeing the borealis at its most intense. No matter where you choose to witness the show, Alberta has a host of destinations available to make your experience memorable.

Let the Lights “Rock” Your World

Seeing the northern lights traipse through the mountaintops makes for a truly magical experience. If Banff, there is a fabulous opportunity to see the lights dance over the peaks of the Canadian Rockie s at Lake Minnewanka. With the purchase of a National Parks Pass, Lake Minnewanka is free to visit, and there are many interesting winter activities, like ice bubble hunting, to entertain you during the day as you wait for darker skies to spy the borealis.

Fort McMurray’s Fantastic Feature

northern lights tours banff canada

One of Fort McMurray’s best features is the sheer number of opportunities visitors are afforded to see the famous northern lights. If the weather is hospitable, the opportunities to see the borealis can number into the triple digits each year! The tourism industry in Fort McMurray also offers a number of tours to increase your odds of spotting them. 

County of Northern Lights

Head west of Fort McMurray and you’ll find a whole county named after the atmospheric phenomenon. A bit off the beaten path, the County of Northern lights caters more to the visitor looking for a more back-to-nature experience.

Jasper National Park

northern lights tours banff canada

Arguably one of the best spots to view the lights near Alberta, Jasper National Park is what’s known as a “dark sky preserve.” Special efforts have been made to keep the expanse of sky over this park as free from light pollution in all its forms as possible. This keeps the black canvas of sky free and for the aurora borealis to paint its spectacular colors without interference. From October 14-23, 2022, visitors can take part in the Jasper Dark Sky Festival . Speakers and artists take to the stage to share their thoughts on everything from space exploration to nature photography. In and about the park and town, there are activities like a geocaching dark sky treasure hunt, an dining in the dark experience, yoga under the stars, and much, much more!

Forecasting When the Northern Lights in Canada Will Appear

You can increase your chances even more by making use of some handy aurora apps for iOS and Android. Download one of these suggested apps to find out when the most favorable conditions for aurora viewing will be. 

  • My Aurora Forecast . If you’re gung-ho to complete a northern lights quest, this app for Android and iPhone will even stir you from a midnight snooze to let you know there is auroral activity in your neck of the woods. The great thing about this app is it takes the local weather and cloud conditions into consideration to ensure you have the best chance of spotting the northern lights.
  • Aurora Alerts-Northern Lights . This app, available for iPhone and Android users monitors real-time aurora activity and can be set to alert you if northern lights may possibly be visible.

Tips When Venturing Out to See the Northern Lights

To make the most out of YOUR grail quest, there are some key tips to consider to help ensure you enjoy a fantastic Northern Lights experience. First, take the time to download a quality stargazing app like My Aurora Forecast or Aurora Alerts-Northern Lights. You’ll greatly increase your chances of spotting the Northern Lights with the aid of one of these helpful apps. They make predicting where and when the lights will appear a breeze—no astrophysics degree needed!

The darker the better. Do your research and find locations with as little light pollution cluttering the night sky as possible. Take advantage of nearby “dark sky preserves” which are specifically suited for viewing nature’s phenomenal light show.

northern lights tours banff canada

Pick the proper time of year. The best months of the year to spot the Northern Lights are September, October, and March. These months traditionally see the most Northern Lights activity.

Plan for long hours. Catching a spectacular glimpse of the aurora borealis is not as simple as flipping a switch. Viewers need to be prepared to hunker down and wait for the waves of light to start their dance across the skies. Once they do, you’re sure to want to stay as long as possible to enjoy the show!

Bring lighted headgear. A great safety tip, particularly if you’ve chosen to watch the lights in one of the dark sky preserves, a lighted headlamp can help you find your path safely.

Bundle up, because it gets cold out there! Layered clothing and blankets are a definite must if you want to ensure a cozy, comfortable experience. Don’t forget the hot cocoa or coffee!

Exercise patience. Even with aurora forecast apps, sometimes you have to wait around a bit for the light show to start. Mother Nature keeps her own schedule.

Northern Lights Photography Tips

There are some great hints for capturing the northern lights on film and preserving the memory of your visit for years to come. If you want to catch a truly Insta-worthy photo, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be certain you station yourself in a truly dark viewing area, like Jasper National Park. Be sure you set your camera on a tripod and use a wide-angle lens. You’ll achieve a much better photo if your camera is stationary. If you have the means to adjust your f-stop, set it to the lowest setting possible and shoot at 30-second exposure. Including a foreground will make your photos even more interesting—in case the northern lights weren’t enough!

Where in Canada can I watch the Northern Lights?

There are many spots to watch the Northern Lights in Canada. For places closest to Alberta, Lake Minnewanka, Fort McMurray, County of Northern Lights, and Jasper are most highly recommended. Further afield, you can experience the Northern Lights in places like Whitehorse, Yellowknife, Manitoba, and, while a bit more difficult to get to, Kuujjuaq is one of the best spots to watch the lights in Quebec.

What time can you see the Northern Lights in Canada?

There are opportunities throughout the entire year to spot the Northern Lights in Canada. Some areas have a higher occurrence of the natural phenomenon during certain parts of the year.

Can you see Northern Lights in Banff?

The Banff area offers one of the best spots to view the lights in Jasper’s Dark Skies Preserve. The strict limitations on light pollution help viewers get the clearest, unobstructed view of the aurora.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Banff in September?

You can spot the Northern Lights in Banff in September , but again, you better your chances at the dark sky preserve.

Can you see the northern lights in the Canadian Rockies?

With proper planning, it is possible to see the northern lights in the Canadian Rockies, but be advised. The lights are slightly more unpredictable in the mountains.

When can I see northern lights in Alberta?

September through March, sometimes trickling into May is the best time to spot the Northern Lights. Be advised, the darker, winter months often afford more opportunities.

What is the cheapest way to see the northern lights?

While the total cost of a Northern Lights vacation will vary greatly depending on your origin point, how you’re traveling, and how long you plan to vacation, generally speaking the most cost-efficient way to spot the Northern Lights is to book a tour.

Is a Northern Lights tour worth it?

Most tours can greatly increase your chances of witnessing the glorious Northern Lights. Tour operators are intimately familiar with borealis hotspots, and tours take a lot of the worry off your shoulders when planning a trip.

northern lights tours banff canada

Melinda Falgoust

An international, award-winning writer, Melinda Taliancich Falgoust regularly travels the world. She enjoys immersing herself in the culture of wherever the wind may take her and sharing her experiences with readers, both as a blogger and author.  From the historical steps and closes of Edinburgh to the lush tropical shores of Hawaii, she loves to weave the magic of the places she visits into her writing encouraging people to explore the world we live in. Her work has been honored by the New York Book Festival, the Oshima Picture Book Museum International Picture Book Competition, the Clive Cussler Adventure Writers Society, the Green Book Festival, and Readers’ Favorite. The veteran of the United States Navy as well as an actor of stage and screen, Melinda now writes full time. She also presents regularly on writing and craft at conferences and festivals such as the Japan Writers Conference, the Orange County Children’s Book Festival, the Hawaii Book and Music Festival, and many more.

Banff National Park Campfire Rules and Safety – Visitor’s Guide

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Road Trip Alberta

How to See Northern Lights in Alberta (updated for 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team / Written by Dalene Heck

Last updated on January 1, 2024

Growing up in far northern Alberta, I saw bright green lights dance across dark night skies countless times. I saw them so often that I thought they were actually pretty unremarkable! It never occurred to me that they are a unique natural phenomenon that causes some people to travel from afar to see them. Now I realize that seeing the northern lights in Alberta is a pretty special experience.

This is why I am eager to share these tips on how to best enjoy them.

Camping under the Northern Lights in Alberta

About Northern Lights

Also known as  aurora borealis , northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun meet the earth’s upper atmosphere. Or rather, they actually violently slam into it! The earth’s magnetic field then redirects them toward the north pole. That process creates the lights that streak across the sky, dazzling anyone who sees them. 

The first suspected record of northern lights is  a cave painting from 30,000 BC . They have since been integrated into many legends, folklore, and teachings. For the Cree, a significant Indigenous nation in northern Alberta, the translation from their language means  the spirits are dancing . Without a doubt, they have long fascinated humans.

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Alberta

The tricky thing about seeing northern lights in Alberta (or anywhere on Earth) is that they can truly be hit or miss. There is no guarantee that you will see them, no matter how badly you want to. Even if there are enough energetic electrons to light up the sky, clouds can also ruin a viewing. The key is to be patient, plan your trip in the right season, follow alerts and weather forecasts, and hope for the best.

Northern Lights in Banff National Park over Lake Minnewanka

Northern lights can be visible all year round, but most likely in the colder, darker months from September to mid-May (which is why aurora borealis spotting is one of the best winter in Alberta activities). Geomagnetic activity is highest during autumn and spring equinoxes, making September, October, and March the peak months.

When you’re in the province, there are two great, frequently updated options for finding out if the conditions are favourable to see them:

  • My Aurora Forecast.  Download the Aurora app  to see the likelihood of viewing the aurora borealis no matter where you are, taking into account the activity and cloud coverage. You can also set alerts to notify you when the lights are most active in your area. If you’re game for a 2 am wake-up call to hustle you outside to see them, this app will give you a notification.
  • Aurorawatch.  The University of Alberta (based in Edmonton) set up a website to track northern lights activity in the area, and some other parts of Alberta. It’s not the most well-constructed website, but the information is up-to-date and helpful.

A man meets the Aurora's in Jasper National Park

Where to See Northern Lights in Alberta

If you want the best chance, you guessed it…head north! (And out of town, as you want to the sky to be as dark and light-pollution-free as possible.)

While every region of the province will likely get at least one opportunity to view the lights in a year, the farther north you go, the better your chances are. And the more brilliant they will be! That said, there is also something pretty magical about seeing them dance around mountains, so even though the Rockies don’t extend very far north, we’ve included some central and southern Alberta options as well.

Northern Lights in Fort McMurray

This most populous city in northern Alberta is one of the best places to head to spot the lights. They are said to be possibly visible 300 nights of the year (if the conditions are right).  Rumor has it  that glass igloos are on the way, too, which means that you can quite literally sleep under the lights as they dance. (Although, who’s really going to be sleeping?)

There are a number of great places in Fort McMurray to view them, including:

  • Raphael Cree Boat Launch is in the city’s Waterways neighbourhood and thus is a good place to view them without having to venture too far.
  • Parsons Creek Park is near Coventry Drive, on the Parsons access road.
  • OHV Staging Area (Tower Road) is popular and only 2 km from Tower Road.
  • Wood Buffalo National Park is a bit of a journey, but as the world’s largest dark sky preserve, will provide the absolute optimal viewing spot. If you’re equipped for winter camping , then this will be a truly unforgettable experience.

Northern Lights in Fort McMurray

In addition, there are local operators offering tours:

  • Birch Mountain Outfitters is a brand new Indigenous-led experience that runs two tours per week for three nights. Get set up in a heated trapper’s cabin or teepee in a well-equipped camp to spot the lights during the night. By day, enjoy dog-sledding or ice-fishing.
  • Beyond Adventures offers a wilderness experience where you will be based in an outfitter’s tent until 2 am, enjoying the silence, stars, and lights. Snowshoes are provided as well as tea, coffee and snacks.

County of Northern Lights

It’s in the name! Starting just north of the town of Peace River, this county crosses the same latitude as Fort McMurray but is on the western side of the province. A little more difficult to get to (there are few, and expensive, flights to Peace River from Edmonton), a trip to this county will promise a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

Dark Sky Preserves

Alberta has a lot of wide-open spaces, and many regions have smartly protected their skies with a special commitment to preserve the night by minimizing light pollution in all its forms. Visiting any of these places will ensure that your aurora borealis viewing will be most optimal.

Jasper National Park

If you want to be in the mountains enjoying the northern lights in Jasper is your best bet. Note that, regardless of aurora spotting, this also happens to be our personal favourite spot in Alberta for outdoor adventures (and lots of other great  things to do in Jasper , including the Dark Sky Festival they hold every October).

Northern Lights dance over Pyramid Lake Island in Jasper National Park

Elk Island National Park – Beaver Hills

East of Edmonton, this dark sky preserve includes Elk Island National Park , and the Cooking Lake Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area. This is where the Royal Astronomical Society of Edmonton often meets. There are plenty of spots to see the northern lights in Elk Island National Park if the forecast is good.

Wood Buffalo National Park

Almost as north as north can go – this large swatch of land is north of Fort McMurray. Catching the northern lights in Wood Buffalo National Park should be easy if the weather is good as it is the world’s largest dark sky preserve. It’s not the easiest to get to, but the effort is definitely worth it.

Northern Lights in Wood Buffalo National Park

Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Encompassing a parcel of land in southeastern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan, the gently rolling hills of Cypress can provide a pretty backdrop for aurora borealis photos.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Added just in 2021, this beauty of a park, along with Glacier National Park in the USA, became  the first International Dark Sky Parks  spanning both sides of an international border. And because  Waterton Lakes National Park  is up against Alberta’s southern border, there is a diminishing opportunity to see northern lights, but the night skies are stunning nonetheless. Operators have recently opened in the area to offer interpretive stargazing tours.

Northern Lights in Waterton Lakes National Park

Lakeland Provincial Park

The newest of the provincial parks to be added, Lakeland is north of Edmonton and just east of Lac La Biche. They even hold a Dark Sky Celebration on the third weekend of September each year.

See the Northern Lights in the Canadian Rockies!

There are plenty of spots to see the northern lights in Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. To get that perfect backdrop, we suggest heading to Pyramid Lake ( Jasper ), Abraham Lake (David Thompson Country), and Lake Minnewanka ( Banff ). These spots are beautiful day or night, and in the absence of any light pollution, will offer excellent backdrops for viewing and photos.

Camping and Northern Lights

Anywhere in Alberta !

As we have previously mentioned, if the forecast is strong for aurora and the weather forecast is clear, then your chances of seeing the northern lights will be very good. There’s even a chance you’ll see the northern lights as far south as Lethbridge and Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park . The key is finding a spot that is void of light pollution so that you can see them clearly in the sky.

There are a lot of open spaces with perfectly dark skies that will allow you to view and photograph northern lights with minimal light disruption. Use this  dark sky finder  to find the nearest spot. It is fairly intuitive – the black spots are those that are darkest – but note that it does not take current weather (cloudy skies) into account. Nor does it consider localized lights (i.e. a bright security light on a remote farmhouse) that could impede viewing.

From the hoodoos in Drumheller , to the prairies, to the mountains, Alberta is one of the best spots for northern lights in Canada.

Hoodoos and Aurora

Tips to Photograph the Northern Lights

Seeing the aurora borealis is a magical experience! But do you know what’s even better? When you can capture those special moments with a camera and relive them for years to come.

Photographers travel from around the world to capture the northern lights in Alberta and you don’t need to be a pro to get a good shot of the green lights dancing. There are certainly some key photography tips to employ to capture the perfect shot:

  • As we’ve said above, a dark night with a clear sky is paramount. Use the apps and websites referenced above to seek out a good place to plant your tripod.
  • While the cameras on phones are getting much better with every release, it is possible to get good aurora shots using their dark mode setting. Ideally, using a DSLR camera is still better. And in either case, having a tripod is also important. Your camera needs to be perfectly still to avoid any blur in your photos.
  • Using a wide-angle lens is ideal.
  • You need a camera that has more than “auto” mode, as being able to control various settings is essential. 
  • Start with these manual settings: Turn your aperture as low as possible (f4, or f2.8 if you can) to let in as much light as possible. Adjust your ISO will starting with 3200-6400. Turn the white balance to “daylight”, and shutter speed to a 5-15 second exposure. Take a couple of shots that way, and then adjust if necessary. If the aurora is very bright and active, then you’ll want to reduce your ISO and/or shutter speed.

Capturing Northern Lights in Alberta

  • To add some dimension, focus your camera on the closest interesting element. Perhaps a person standing in front, or maybe a fence post or a tree. If that is not available or you want to get the sky on its own, then focus on the brightest star or planet in the sky.
  • It helps to have a cable release for your camera in order to press the shutter remotely. Remember that any movement to your camera can cause blur, so try and keep your fingers off of it. Another option is to set your camera to a “timer mode” to reduce any vibration from hitting the shutter.
  • As the optimal aurora viewing times are in the colder months, dress warmly! Bring a thermos filled with something warm to drink, and be prepared to spend time waiting. Photographing the northern lights in Alberta can require a lot of patience.

Additional Resources

  • Edmonton’s Chapter of the Royal Astronomical Society of Alberta has published “ dark sky etiquette ” to ensure that anyone who is out enjoying the lights is respectful of others who are as well.
  • There is a very active “ Alberta Aurora Chasers ” Facebook group that lives up to its name. If you want to chase the northern lights in Alberta – get in there!

If you’re out chasing northern lights in Alberta during the darkness of night, you’re going to want a good hotel to rest your head in after! Here’s our advice on where to stay in the tourist hot spots:

  • Best Hotels in Banff
  • Accommodations in Jasper
  • Where to Stay in Calgary
  • Best Hotels in Edmonton

northern lights tours banff canada

Dalene Heck is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. She was born in Edmonton, grew up in the Peace Country, and has ventured to almost every corner of Alberta and the world (she’s travelled to 60 countries)! She is a serial blogger, the CEO of HMI Marketing , co-creator of the Trip Chaser card game, a leukemia-slayer, and cat whisperer.

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An elk chews on grass in Jasper National Park

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How to Plan a Trip to See Northern Lights in Canada

The Northern Lights are considered the world’s most spectacular natural light show. People from all over the world travel to see Northern Lights, and Canada is one of the best places to do this. Watching shades of pink and green twist and turn across the sky is unforgettable.

Northern Lights in the sky above the trees

For a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience, book your Northern Lights Canada tour early. The Insiders at Canadian Train Vacations have put together a guide on how to plan a trip to see the Northern Lights. This guide contains everything you need to know about the Northern Lights in Canada.  

#1 Travel tip: go with a guide

The safest and most comfortable way to see the Northern Lights is with an experienced guide. Not only can they bring you to a location far from light pollution, they can provide a comfortable place to stay warm while you're waiting for the lights to appear.

northern lights tours banff canada

What Are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), one of several astronomical occurrences known as Polar Lights, are curtains or shafts of coloured light that appear in the night sky occasionally. They occur when the sun's energized particles, known as the solar wind, bombard our atmosphere. The magnetic field of Earth deflects these particles towards the poles of our planet, where they connect with our atmosphere, accumulating energy and causing vibrant colours in the sky. The colours are created by the atmosphere’s chemical composition. The dominant colours are green and red, produced by oxygen molecules and nitrogen molecules respectively. 

Pink, purple and green colours of the Northern Lights above mountains and reflected in a lake

Where Can the Northern Lights Be Viewed?

The auroral zone, the area of the Northern hemisphere within a 1,500-mile radial distance of the magnetic north pole, is the best place to see the Northern Lights. It extends from 60 to 75 degrees latitude and includes Iceland, Finland, Russia, Alaska, northern parts of Sweden, Norway, Canada, and southern Greenland. The Northern Lights can move further south during powerful periods of solar wind (geomagnetic storms), even appearing in places like the United States. However, aurora activity varies, and the Auroral oval shifts constantly. Because it is impossible to predict when these geomagnetic storms will occur, your best bet for seeing the Northern Lights is to visit locations within the auroral zone, where the phenomenon is most common. It is important to avoid artificial light sources, such as street lighting, when viewing the Northern Lights. The further you travel from the bright lights of human civilization, the more remarkable the spectacle.  

Wide view of the Northern Lights above a frozen landscape

When Can the Northern Lights Be Seen?

The Northern Lights appear nearly every day of the year, but they are not always visible. The Aurora Borealis is often at its peak around the equinoxes, whenever the sun is directly above the Earth's equator, and day and night are roughly equal in length. This is most common between late September and late March. Viewing the lights on a very dark night is best. If there is a full moon, the light will dim the aurora effect. When you are planning your trip, remember to check Canada’s cloud cover and aurora forecasts.  

Green streaks of the Northern Lights above jagged mountains

Keep reading or discover more travel inspiration in our brochure. This guide showcases our world-famous train journeys, with ideas for personalizing your Canadian vacation.

How Can I See the Northern Lights in Canada ?  

There are various options for viewing the Lights no matter when you visit or what the weather patterns are. You could join a tour group, stay at a hotel in an Aurora viewing area, or enjoy a self-drive adventure. There are numerous Northern Lights Canada packages to choose from. These range from single-day or night tours to multi-day packages that include lodging and meals.

A group tour may include visiting multiple Aurora viewing locations. You'll also be with local specialists who are familiar with the forecast and hot spots. Here are some options for seeing the Northern Lights in Canada.   

Seeing the Northern Lights from a Town

You might be able to see the Northern Lights while staying in a town or city. If you view the Lights from an urban area, light and noise pollution could affect your experience, and viewing space may be limited. Canadian places to see the Northern Lights include Yellowknife (Northwest Territories), Whitehorse (Yukon), Churchill (Manitoba), Jasper (Alberta) or Banff (Alberta).

Bright green Northern Lights over houses and city lights in Whitehorse

Taking a Tour  

You can take a tour to see the Northern Lights of Canada . There are different touring options available that you can choose from. The best thing about a tour is that you have a guide. The guides will take you to the best viewing spots and may suggest how and where to take photographs. You will also meet new people while watching the Aurora Borealis, and you can interact with the locals and learn some fascinating facts and stories. You’ll be driven around by someone who is familiar with the roads and the weather conditions. Look at our Northern Lights to Churchill and Northern Lights to the Yukon packages for more information.  

Explore: Northern Lights Tour Canada

Driving Yourself 

This option is perfect for independent travellers . Hiring a car means that you can travel on your own schedule. During the winter, roads may be covered with ice and snow and can be challenging to navigate if you are not used to driving in these conditions. You can usually rent a car in Canada with a valid driver’s license from your home country.  

Person looking up at the Northern Lights in the Canadian Rockies

#2 Travel tip: use a tripod for photos

Sharing your photos is a big part of the Northern Lights experience. Use a tripod for stability and use the fastest shutter speed possible.

Blog Author - Athena McKenzie

6 Things you need to consider when planning a trip to see the Northern Lights  

The Northern Lights are most visible during the winter, though they are highly unpredictable. Therefore, you need to plan your trip thoroughly, considering every aspect. Planning a trip to view the Aurora Borealis can be a daunting task. Here are some things to consider:

1. Timing  

You should plan your Aurora trip between September and April. The winter months are the best time to see Northern Lights Canada. During the rest of the year, the Lights can appear, but they might not be visible or that bright due to extended daylight hours and not enough darkness. We recommend a 4-5 day trip to give yourself the best chance of catching the Lights.  

2. Choose The Right Countries  

One of the first decisions to make when planning your Northern Lights adventure is which country to visit. Canada is an excellent choice for an Aurora Borealis viewing trip. Some Canadian places experience a more magnificent display of colours and lights or have a more frequent show of the Lights. Some of the best places to watch the Northern Lights in Canada include Torngat Mountains National Park in Newfoundland, Banff or Jasper national parks in the Canadian Rockies, Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, and Northern Saskatchewan.  

3. Expect Different Colors  

While on the trip, be ready to see the different colours of the Northern Lights. You may anticipate seeing the green colour, which is most sighted, but you could be surprised by a spectrum of colours like red, blue, violet, and even grey. It can be challenging to spot grey if the sky is cloudy.  

4. Check The Forecast  

In the days leading up to your trip, keep an eye on the Northern Lights forecast. This forecast will predict each day’s Northern Lights activity. If the number on the scale is Kp=3 or higher, this will give you the best chance to view the Northern Lights after sundown. So, before you head out, make sure to check the forecast. If the skies are clear, stars are visible, and there is a good Aurora forecast, you have a high probability of seeing the Northern Lights.  

5. Check The Weather  

The weather has an impact on your ability to view the Northern Lights. If it is raining or there is a lot of cloud cover, then the probability of seeing the Lights is low. So, check the weather and pick a day with clear skies for the best chance of viewing the Northern Lights.  

6. Plan For Winter  

We recommend planning your visit to Canada during the winter months to watch the Northern Lights. You need to know the sunrise and sunset times and plan your itinerary accordingly. If you are planning to drive in Canada during the winter, roads will likely be snowy and icy. With these road conditions, you should allow more time to get to your destination and plan to arrive before sunset. You can also enjoy other Canadian winter activities while on your trip, like dogsledding, ice skating or snowshoeing.  

Blue shades of the Northern Lights in the sky above a bear road sign in Churchill

How to pack for watching the Northern Lights in Canada  

You’ll probably be travelling in the winter as this is the best time for Northern Lights Canada, so you should prepare for cold weather. Make sure you pack warm clothes and lots of layers. You’ll be spending time outdoors, so check the weather conditions, layer up, and choose an outer layer that is wind and waterproof. You can carry a thermos filled with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea to keep you warm during the night while you watch the Lights. Here is a simple packing list to get you started.

  • Base layers of clothing - tops, shirts, and trousers 
  • Multiple pairs of thick socks 
  • Jumpers and sweaters made from wool or fleece 
  • Woolen scarf, thick gloves, and hat 
  • Sturdy, waterproof boots 
  • Windproof and waterproof jackets and pants 

Wearing thick gloves can make it difficult to operate your camera and cellphone, which makes it tricky to take pictures. You could wear microfiber gloves underneath and remove the thick gloves when you want to take pictures.  

Couple talking behind a campfire on a Yukon Aurora Tours

How Much Does It Cost To See The Northern Lights?  

Northern Lights Canada t rips vary in price. The cost of a Northern Lights t our depends on your chosen destination, the tour duration, dates, hotels, and more. Our 7-day Northern Lights package to the Yukon starts from $2,440 USD per person. Schedule a call with one of our Canadian Insiders to learn more.  

Person standing on a snowy hillside looking up at the Northern Lights in Whitehorse 

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Frequently asked questions, what month is best to see the northern lights.

Autumn and winter are the best seasons for a trip to Northern Lights Canada. For Northern Lights trips to the Yukon, you should travel between November and March. If you’re looking to go to Churchill, Manitoba, then January, February, or March is ideal.

Is 2023 a good year for Northern Lights?

Yes, 2023 is a great year to capture the Northern Lights. Solar activity follows an 11-year cycle. For the current cycle, 2025 is predicted to be the solar maximum, the peak of increased solar activity. 2023 may provide more opportunities to view the Northern Lights as we move closer to this solar maximum.

Do the Northern Lights show every night?

No, the geomagnetic storms which are the cause of the spectacular display of the Lights don’t take place every night. Also, they are mostly not visible during the summer months of May to August due to the constant daylight.

Where is the easiest place to see the Northern Lights?

Some of the easiest places to see the Northern Lights include the Yukon and Churchill, Manitoba. Generally, you are more likely to see the Northern Lights in remote communities up North.

Can you see Northern Lights with your eyes?

Yes, you can sometimes see the Northern Lights with your naked eyes, but the colours only appear in shades of gray and white. The light is too faint to be detected by our colour-sensing cells.

Can you see Northern Lights with a phone camera?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights with your phone camera, and it’s also convenient to take a good photo with your smartphone. You will need to configure specific settings on your phone to capture the Lights.

Do you need special equipment to see the Northern Lights?

No, you do not need special equipment to see the Northern Lights.

What are you not supposed to do at the Northern Lights?

Some cultures say you should not whistle, wave or sing while viewing the Northern Lights.

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About the author: Louise Weiss is Director of Legendary Hospitality with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for more than 25 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in North Vancouver and has spent time...   Read more

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Northern Lights Tours in Canada

Canada Winter Trips | Rocky Mountaineer Train

Northern lights tours in Canada are many things – spectacular, spiritual and awe-inspiring to name a few. 

A natural phenomenon better viewed than explained, you can witness the aurora under the velvety night sky of the yukon or winnipeg, where the purples and greens dance some 100 miles high in the distance. , best seen between late-august and mid-april, we recommend at least three nights for optimal viewing. , during the day, try other northern activities like ice fishing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling, then turn your eyes back to the sky come night for a show you won’t forget..

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16 Day Inspiring Canada & Alaska With Northern Lights

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Moderate Pace

7 Night Alaska Cruise

A portion of this tour runs as a group tour where you will be escorted by an expert tour leader. Another portion is self-guided, whether conducted by rail, cruise or land, and you will travel between destinations on your own, with free time to explore at your own pace.

This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.

A land of rugged hills, rushing waters and undisturbed wildlife, Alaska is as big as it is wild. Whether you're watching whales splash in the Pacific Ocean, gazing up at towering ice formations like the Hubbard Glacier or journeying by train deep into the last frontier on Anchorage's Coastal Classic Railroad, Alaska is sure to quench any explorer's thirst.

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

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✓ Incredible sightseeing including Banff National Parks snow-capped peaks, explore Vancouver and Calgary's cosmopolitan heartbeat, visit iconic Lake Louise, cruise the Inside Passage to Alaska and marvel at the natural Aurora Borealis ✓ 8 nights accommodation in comfortable 3-star accommodation ✓ 7 nights Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean including gratuities ✓ Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 7 dinners ✓ English speaking Tour Director throughout The Rockies (Day 1 to 5) ✓ Expert local guides in Whitehorse ✓ Dedicated transportation as outlined in the itinerary ✓ Internal flight from Vancouver to Whitehorse ✓ All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary ✓ Porterage at hotels for one piece per person

northern lights tours banff canada

Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.

Day 1 Calgary

Welcome to Calgary! Make your own way to your downtown hotel where upon checking-in, you have the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is located approximately 20km from downtown Calgary. There are a range of transportation options available. You can purchase a private airport transfer when completing your booking, or taxis are available for approximately CAD$45-55 per vehicle.

Day 2 Calgary Banff National Park Lake Louise Canmore

This morning we set out to meet fellow travellers at breakfast before we tour the sights of Calgary. We admire such modern and historic landmarks as the Calgary Tower, Fort Calgary and the skyscrapers of the commercial district. Leaving Calgary behind we set our sights on the Rocky Mountains, which can already be seen, far off in the distance. Experience the majesty of the mountains as we first travel through the foothills and then enter Banff National Park. Enjoy a tour of Banff National Park, featuring the Banff town site, Tunnel Mountain, a spectacular view of the Banff Springs Hotel, Johnston Canyon, the Hoodoos, the Bow Valley Parkway, and the world-famous Lake Louise. 

Day 3 Banff National Park

Today is yours at leisure to further explore Canmore and Banff National Park. You may wish to take part in an optional tour to the Icefields Parkway and Columbia Icefield.

 Note: If you do not select the Columbia Icefield optional tour, you may still travel with the coach to the icefield for time at leisure while the other travellers are riding the Ice Explorer.

We travel north along the Icefields Parkway to experience a wealth of breathtaking scenery. Crystal blue-green lakes, fresh mountain streams, deep forests, and snow-capped mountain peaks are the order of the day. After taking a snow coach ride along the Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefields, return to Canmore in late afternoon. NOT AVAILABLE ON APRIL/EARLY MAY DEPARTURES

Day 4 Canmore Vernon

Our drive today is on the famed TransCanada Highway, following a route chartered by the railroad engineers and fur traders of the mid 1800's.

Kicking Horse Pass leads us from the Rockies into the Columbia River Valley before we climb through Rogers Pass in Glacier National park. The Selkirk Mountains receive massive amounts of winter snow and are home to over one hundred active avalanche zones.

We continue through the Monashee Mountain Range to the rugged interior town of Vernon.

Day 5 Vernon Vancouver

Today, we leave the Okanagan Valley and mountains behind, passing through the lower mainland. Few roads in Canada pass through a greater variety of vegetation within such a short distance, than Highway 3 between Osoyoos and Tashme. At the western end there are dense rain forests; to the east is a desert where prickly pear cactus thrives.

We drive the Coquihalla Highway and then enter Vancouver. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Vancouver featuring highlights as Stanley Park to see the collection of totem poles, English Bay, trendy Robson Street, Gastown, Chinatown, Canada Place and the Cruise Ship Pier.

Day 6 Vancouver Embark Cruise

You have some time this morning for some last minute shopping before being transferred to the Vancouver Cruise Terminal for your journey to Alaska. Your included transfer to the cruise port departs at approximately 1pm.

Once you have checked in to the cruise, begin exploring all that your ship has to offer. 

Ports of call may vary cruise to cruise based on ship schedules. 

Day 7 Inside Passage

Your ship offers the perfect platform for viewing British Columbia’s Inside Passage. This archipelago spans 25,000 miles from Seattle to Prince Rupert near the Alaskan border. Here you’ll ply calm waters sheltered between the British Columbia mainland and Vancouver Island. Along the way catch a glimpse of breathtakingly rugged scenery, plus staggering wildlife like salmon sharks, white spirit bears, and millions of seabirds.

Day 8 Sitka

Sitka truly offers the best of Alaska. Its small-town appeal stems from a unique blend of Russian, Tlingit and American history. Its snow-capped peaks and volcanic Mount Edgecumbe pose amongst the state’s most postcard-worthy scenes. And its rare wildlife astounds, from Saint Lazaria Island’s orange-beaked puffins to Alaska Maritime Refuge’s 40 million seabirds. This is off-the-beaten-track Alaska, where you can kayak Sitka Sound alongside swimming sea otters or fly-fish for the world’s biggest halibut. Whether it’s hiking along Baranof Island trails or listening to tribal stories passed down for generations, in Sitka the midnight sun never sets on adventure.

Day 9 Juneau

You can’t get to Juneau easily without a sprint by air or by sea. But once you arrive you’ll find majestic views and rich culture in every corner. With its snowcapped mountains, misty rainforests, massive glaciers and bounty of wildlife, Alaska’s remote state capital is the perfect place to dive into nature. Framed by Mount Juneau and Mount Roberts, the city’s picturesque central area offers centuries-old bars, boutique shops and historical landmarks. For a taste of the local culture, visit the historic district and the Alaska State Museum. And for outdoor thrills, you can take your pick of activities ranging from whale watching in Auke Bay Harbour to tundra trekking over Mendenhall Glacier, and even try your hand at gold panning in Last Chance Basin.

Day 10 Skagway

The tiny town of Skagway still looks like it did during the Klondike Gold Rush over 100 years ago – and today it remains an outpost for thrilling Alaskan adventure. An old-time tram ride along bustling Broadway Street reveals well-preserved buildings, including the state’s oldest hotel. You can see engraved walrus tusks at the Corrington Museum, or get lost in riveting historical reenactments around town. If outdoor adventure is more your thing, there are plenty of ways to ramp up the adrenaline, from sledding with Alaskan Huskies on Laughton Glacier to rafting on Lynn Canal, the longest fjord in North America.

Day 11 Tracy Arm Fjord

Tracy Arm Fjord extends over 30 miles alongside the wilderness of Tongass National Forest. Sailing through this deep and narrow passage delivers some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll find in Alaska. See active glaciers carved into 7,000-foot-tall mountain peaks and plunging waterfalls burrowed into evergreen-clad cliffs. Glimpse native wildlife and watch deep blue icebergs float past the ship.

Discover the twin Sawyer Glaciers at the end of Tracy Arm Fjord. While viewing the massive face of these tidewater glaciers, spanning more than a half-mile wide, you can hear the roar and feel the rumble of huge pieces of ice calving into the water in spectacular display.

Tracy Arm Fjord is home to a spectacular array of wildlife. See pigeon guillemots, kittiwakes and arctic terns. Mountain goats graze on rocky slopes, while newborn seal pups sun on ice floes. Glimpse black bears hunting for lunch and soaring eagles— or watch for the fluke of a whale diving below.

Day 12 At Sea

Today is a full day to relax and enjoy the many activities, restaurants and entertainment your ship has to offer.

Day 13 Vancouver Whitehorse

This morning you will disembark our Inside Passage Cruise and be transferred to Vancouver Airport in time for your included flight into the Yukon.

Upon arrival at Whitehorse Airport you will be greeted by a local representative of Northern Tales Travel Services who will welcome you to the Yukon and transfer you to your hotel.

Once you have checked in you will receive an orientation meeting describing what to expect during your stay. The rest of the day is yours until your first evening viewing of the Aurora Borealis. The Aurora Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, is a spectacle of magnetic and electrical charges in the air, colouring the sky a multitude of majestic hues. 

Tonight is your first chance to view this spectacular show. Departing the hotel at 22:00 in groups, you will be taken to a prime viewing area and treated to snacks and hot drinks during your viewing. Contemplate the sublime beauty of this fascinating array of blues, reds, greens and violets in this idyllic setting as you relax in a cosy heated cabin or walled tent. 

Return to the hotel at approximately 2:30am.

Day 14 Whitehorse

This morning, you are treated to a tour of the scenic city of Whitehorse, a former gold rush settlement set against a stunning backdrop of mountains. 

Discover the highlights of this town such as Main Street, the Train Depot of White Pass, Log Skyscraper, Log Church, the Sternwheeler SS Klondike, fish ladders and Schwatka Lake. 

Spend this afternoon at your leisure. You have multiple options to book activities (directly with the accommodation) such as; dog sledding, ice fishing, flightseeing or snowshoeing. 

Later tonight, you will have an opportunity to view the Aurora Borealis. Whilst waiting for the lights to appear, you are invited to sit at a roaring bonfire, roast marshmallows, have tea and hot chocolate, chat with local guides, try out snowshoeing, tobogganing on a small hill.

Day 15 Whitehorse

Spend today at your leisure, in and around Whitehorse.

You have multiple options to book activities (directly with the accommodation) such as; dog sledding, ice fishing, flightseeing or snowshoeing. 

Day 16 Whitehorse

Today, your northern experience comes to an end as you check out of your hotel and are transferred to Whitehorse Airport (YXY) in time for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • Incredible sightseeing including Banff National Parks snow-capped peaks, explore Vancouver and Calgary's cosmopolitan heartbeat, visit iconic Lake Louise, cruise the Inside Passage to Alaska and hunt for the Aurora Borealis in Whitehorse
  • 8 nights accommodation in comfortable 3-star accommodation
  • 7 nights cruising the Inside Passage and Alaska with Royal Caribbean
  • Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
  • English speaking Tour Director throughout The Rockies
  • Expert local guides in Whitehorse
  • Gratuities whilst onboard the Inside Passage Cruise
  • Dedicated transportation as outlined in the itinerary
  • Internal flight from Vancouver to Whitehorse
  • All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Porterage at hotels for one piece per person

Sightseeing Highlights

  • Calgary - Admire the modern and historic icons of the city on a guided tour
  • Banff National Park - Travel to Lake Louise known for its turquoise, glacier-fed lake ringed by high peaks and overlooked by a chateau
  • Banff National Park - Enjoy witnessing the stunning national park, one of Canada’s most spectacular landscapes
  • Banff National Park - Enjoy a dazzling display of vast icefields, deep canyons, dense forests and glacier-fed streams
  • Vancouver - Explore the metropolis on a sightseeing tour, including Stanley Park, Prospect Point, English Bay, historic Gastown and bustling Chinatown
  • Inside Passage Cruise - Board a deluxe cruise to travel the through the breathtaking waterways to Alaska
  • Inside Passage Cruise - Get an up-close view of Alaska’s wild seascapes 
  • Inside Passage Cruise - Feel the pioneer spirit of Alaska, from First Nations tribes to early Russian settlers to Gold Rush prospectors
  • Whitehorse - Venture into the wilderness whilst hunting for the Aurora Borealis

Cruise Line Details and Upgrades

Give your routine a rest and press pause on reality, because adventure is well within reach. Whether you’re dining in one of the onboard restaurants or soaking up the sunshine poolside at the adults-only Solarium, Brilliance of the Seas is what getaway goals are made of.

Spend your time poolside soaking up sunshine and serenity,or fill your days with new ways to play and non-stop action on every deck. On this ship, how you live it up is entirely up to you.

Stateroom Details; Each stateroom aboard Brilliance of the Seas includes the following services and amenities; Complimentary 24-hour In-Room Dining Daily Housekeeping Nightly turndown service Generous Storage Safes for your valuables

INSIDE - Included Two lower beds convertible to one Royal King bed, with seating and a desk. Each room includes a private bathroom, vanity area, hair dryer, TV and phone. (Approximately 12 square metres). OCEAN VIEW - FROM an additional $372 per person, twin share (Single additional $744) These staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one Royal King bed—includes seating and a desk, with a window allowing natural light into the room. Each room includes a private bathroom, vanity area, hair dryer, TV and phone. (Approximately 12 square metres). OCEANVIEW BALCONY CABIN UPGRADE - FROM an additional $1,728 per person, twin share (Single additional $3,456) Sliding glass doors open onto your private balcony from this comfortable stateroom, which includes two lower beds convertible to one Royal King bed. Each room includes a private bathroom, vanity area, hair dryer, TV and phone. — (Approximately 18 square metres with a 4sqm balcony).

Please note your upgrade request in the 'Special Request' field whilst making your booking. Once your upgrade has been confirmed, the additional amount will be added to your invoice and payable with your final payment.

Payment Terms

Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person. Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options. Instalment Schedule:

  • At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
  • Pay a 1st installment of $500.00 per person within 7 days.
  • Pay a 2nd installment of $1,000.00 per person within 90 days.
  • You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Flight requests & booking information

This package is sold as land only, however you do have the option of adding domestic & international airfares to your booking. Simply click on’ book now’, and under upgrades ,  you will be asked “Would you like us to contact you around our flight service?” . By selecting this option Inspiring Vacations will contact you to discuss adding flights to your chosen destination. We can then assist with turning your booking into a flight inclusive package. Upon completing the purchase of your package and fulfilling the following booking requirements, you will be granted access to our flight portal via your Traveller Hub.

  • 1st installment or full payment has been made
  • Your booking is within 11 months of departure
  • Your booking is labeled as ‘confirmed’ in Traveller Hub

Once these criteria have been met, access will be made available to you via Traveller Hub to book your flights via our flight portal. The following requests are able to be processed through the online flight portal:

  • Airline Preferences - You may wish to fly with a particular airline
  • Cabin Preferences - These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
  • Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) - You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.

The online flight portal is unable to process the following requests and you must book these yourself independently:

  • Stopovers - Is where you might want to stop in transit for a certain amount of days prior to your tour or after your tour.
  • One way flights
  • Different start or end city to the tour - you may not amend the arrival or departure city of your itinerary. 
  • Around the world tickets  - Is when a ticket includes multiple stops in different continents.
  • Return home to a different city from the one you departed.
  • Frequent Flyer point redemption - Is when an airline allows you to redeem points to pay for your flights or upgrade your ticket.  

Online check-in 

Some airlines may not permit online check-in where flights have been booked by a travel company. Where unavailable to do so online, you will be required to check-in at the airport. Inspiring Vacations cannot check-in online on behalf of our customers

Important Information

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorized as a ”3”

3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping  A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.

Single Supplement Single supplement is $2,826.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.

Triple Share Not available.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE .

Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.

Visa & Passport information It is the traveler's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.

Visas may be required.

Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.

Group Size 20-50 Persons

Children Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

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13 Best Canada Northern Lights Tour and When to Go (2024)

Table of Contents

Looking for the best Canada Northern Lights tours ? Then you’re in the right spot!

If you’re searching for an awe-inspiring natural spectacle, there’s nothing quite like the northern lights.

Canada is one of the best places in the world to see them, and with a little planning you can ensure that you have an unforgettable experience.

Some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada are the most remote – which is why a tour can drastically improve your chances of finding the Auroras without getting lost in the Arctic Circle!

Let’s dive into the best places, times, and tours so you can see the Northern Lights in Canada.

lightscape LtnPejWDSAY unsplash

My Favourite: 4-Day Whitehorse Northern Lights Tour

Featuring dog sledding, snowshoeing, cabin stays, and more!

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural light display in the sky that typically appears in the high latitude regions around the Arctic. These are only in the northern hemisphere.

There’s another version in the southern hemisphere: the Aurora Australis.

What causes the Northern Lights?

The Aurora occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with the upper atmosphere, causing the air to glow. The result is a beautiful light show that often appears as ribbons, curtains, or spirals in a range of colors like green, blue, yellow, pink, and purple.

The light show is ever-changing, which makes it all the more fascinating to watch.

The Northern Lights occur along the polar region of earth’s magnetic field, offering a unique experience not everyone gets to see.

To give you an idea of how special this is, Canada is actually one of only 8 countries where you can see the northern lights regularly!

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Canada

The best time to see Canada’s Northern Lights is during the winter months, from December to March. Even October to December can offer clear views of the Aurora if you are far north.

This is because you need dark, clear skies to see the Aurora – and in Canada, the further north you go, the longer the nights last.

You also want to be as close to the Arctic Circle as possible for higher chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Ideally, you want to find a spot that’s away from light pollution for optimal viewing conditions.

Solar storms sometimes make it possible to see the Northern Lights across Canada in the summer months – or even in southern cities like Toronto. (Well, outside of the city due to the light pollution.)

What month is best to see the Northern Lights in Canada?

The best month to see the Northern Lights in Canada is December, when the nights are longest and the Auroras are typically most active.

September and October are also good months to catch a glimpse of the Lights.

How much does it cost to see the Northern Lights in Canada?

It can cost of little as $0 to see the Northern Lights in Canada if you have access to a car. However, there’s no guarantee of sightings that way. I recommend a Canada Northern Lights Tour (starting at $80/person) to improve your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights.

Where is the best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada?

The best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada is the Northwest Territories. Due to the high latitude and longer nights, the aurora is visible on average 240 nights a year! This is the most reliable place and offers some of the clearest skies for it.

Other places to view the lights include Churchill, Manitoba; Whitehorse, Yukon; Banff, Alberta; and northern parts of Newfoundland.

13 Best Canada Northern Lights Tours

dog sledding northern lights

1. Northern Lights and Huskies

🤩 5 out of 5 (12 Reviews)

Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket list adventure in Canada unto itself. But why not double the fun by adding in sled dogs?

This unique tour in Whitehorse is one of my favourites BOTH for dog sledding and for seeing the Northern Lights.

Your adventure begins when they pick you up from your hotel (or the airport) in Whitehorse to take you to their unique lodge. Once you’re settled into 1 of the 4 guest rooms, you’ll to meet the team of over 100 sled dogs on the grounds!

During the day, you’ll help exercise the sled dogs, even riding golf carts alongside them as they run at top speeds (you couldn’t keep up even if you tried!).

You can even cuddle up with them inside after a long day outside.

At night, the lodge is perfectly situated away from light pollution to offer epic views of the Northern Lights when they’re active.

This isn’t a guided tour of the Northern Lights. It’s a relaxed, more natural way to experience their brilliance in the Yukon Wildlife Preserve.

“If you are looking for a Yukon Adventure and you love dogs, Muktuk is a must.” -Anonymous (Read more reviews )

Important Info:

  • Whitehorse, Yukon
  • Hotel pickup offered
  • Extra gear provided to keep you warm
  • All meals and beverages included, except alcohol
  • 8 people maximum
  • Sled dog experience
  • See the Northern Lights outside your Lodge

✅ Book the Northern Lights and Huskies Tour Today!

aurora lights black forest silhouette

2. Yellowknife Northern Lights Tour Winter 3 Days 2 Nights Budget

🤩 5 out of 5 (1 Review)

The Yellowknife Northern Lights Tour Winter 3 Days 2 Nights Budget might not have a snappy name, but it does have the best all-round experience to view the Northern Lights in Canada.

This small-group tour of just 6 people includes 3 days packed full of adventure.

On day 1, you’ll explore the city of Yellowknife of a guided tour. You’ll even get to drive on top of a frozen lake and see an ice castle!

That night, you’ll head out to the Aurora Viewing Aboriginal Village experience in Dettah. Here you’ll get to toboggan behind a skidoo, explore the frozen shore of Great Slave Lake, and learn the local Dene (Indigenous tribe)’s way of life through history, drum circles, and singing traditional songs.

On day 2, you get a free day exploring Yellowknife – which you’ll know plenty about from day 1 of the tour. At night, the tour takes you on a cozy bus journey in search of Auroras along the Ingraham Trail. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get outside and see the majestic lights, but you don’t have to freeze for hours to do it!

On the third day, you’ll get private transport to the airport or more free time in Yellowknife.

I love that this tour is so inclusive of a full Yellowknife holiday. You don’t just go into the boreal forest for the night sky and spend the day waiting around. Instead, you get to do a little bit of everything that makes northern Canada so amazing!

“Amit is the best guide, friendly, patient, and very passionate! He took unlimited photos for us even he was freezing in the -40 cold night!” -Anonymous (Read more reviews )
  • Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
  • Hotel pickup offered (or airport)
  • Includes 2 nights at a hotel
  • Snacks + drinks included
  • Maximum 6 people
  • Includes Yellowknife city tour
  • Unlimited photos

✅ Book Your Yellowknife Northern Lights Tour (3 Days 2 Nights) Now!

woman northern lights saskatchewan

3. Intimate Aurora Tours Cozy Cabin Bucket List

🤩 5 out of 5 (85 Reviews)

Get the ultimate Northern Lights viewing experience in a rustic cabin with wood carvings and no light pollution.

From the cozy cabin, you’ll be able to clearly see the Northern Lights on a good night. And even if you don’t manage it, the host is such a lovely person you’ll have an incredible time learning more about Yellowknife and the history of the area. She even offers personal recommendations for other things to do and places to eat!

You can dress up in traditional Indigenous clothing for photoshoots, but you’ll need your own gear to brave the icey cold of night when you step outside to watch the beautiful blues and greens in the sky.

“Great food and fun times with new friends as we watched the most amazing display of the Northern Lights.” -Denise (Read more reviews )
  • Costumes for photoshoots in the old-timey cabin
  • Hotel pickup and drop off offered
  • Snacks of bannock and creamy chowder
  • Tea and coffee
  • Private tour for your group only

✅ Book Your Intimate Aurora Tours Cozy Cabin Experience Today!

aurora village 2 northern lights whitehourse

4. Aurora Tour

🤩 5 out of 5 (116 Reviews)

The Aurora Tour is a 5 hour nighttime excursion along the Ingraham Trail from Yellowknife. This route is known for it’s excellent scenic spots to take in the Northern Lights.

It’s far away from city so it’s a great place to see the lights uninterupted by light pollution.

The expert tour operators at Aurora Tour will take you to the 3 best photo op spots, and offer professional photography services so you don’t have to worry about not getting a good picture.

Unlike some tours that rush you through photos, Aurora Tour allows you to capture your unforgettable experience to your satisfaction.

But be sure to bundle up! Summer months and winter months are both pretty cold this far north, and the tour doesn’t offer winter gear.

“Best Aurora tourism ever in north arctic. They know where to find best view of the northern lights.” -Guangli (Read more reviews )
  • 3 photo op spots with a professional photographer
  • Cookies and hot beverages
  • 16 people max

✅ Book Your Aurora Tour Today!

blue purple northern lights

5. Aurora Hunting Tours

🤩 5 out of 5 (147 Reviews)

This Aurora Hunting Tour is amazing for many reasons.

Firstly it only allows 5 people maximum, ensuring a near-private viewing experience. So you aren’t crowded on a bus with hundreds of people vying for photos.

Secondly, it’s Indigenous owned and run. I’m a big fan of Indigenous tour companies, as they offer amazing experiences, better history lessons than other tours, and it allows you to support the local community.

This 4 hour tour explores the best spots in the wilderness of the Yellowknife River Territorial Park, actively hunting for the undiscovered parts of the park where you can get the best views.

“Breathtaking experience!!! Period!! ” -Rahul (Read more reviews )
  • Yellowknife, Canada
  • Hotel pick up offered
  • Indigenous owned tour company
  • Snacks and hot drinks
  • 5 people max

✅ Book Your Aurora Hunting Tour Today!

northern lights male photographer

6. Half-Day Northern Lights Guided Tour from Yellowknife

🤩 4.5 out of 5 (33 Reviews)

View the Northern Lights on this epic Canadian tour , just 400km south of the Arctic Circle!

It’s dangerous to venture into the forests of Northern Canada alone. So this small-group tour is perfect to help you get away from the city lights so you can enjoy the true majesty of the Aurora Borealis.

This tour includes a photography expert who can help you get your camera settings just right to capture the Northern Lights (cause really it didn’t happen unless you’ve got a picture, right?). If you don’t have a camera and tripod, you can rent one from the tour company.

You’ll even get snacks and a warm beverage to ensure you don’t feel totally frozen in the near-Arctic.

This is a one-night tour, so if you don’t want to spend a ton of time in Yellowknife, you can see the epic lights then head off for other adventures in Canada.

They call it an Aurora hunt partially because you do have to go looking for them – kind of like looking for whales. On this tour, the guide diligently takes you to the best spots – even if it means going to a couple different areas to get the best views!

“We could see the amazing aurora lights filled up the sky and dancing beautifully. Thanks for the wonderful memories.” -Evelyn (Read more reviews )
  • Private driver and guide
  • Extra winter gear and photography equipment is an extra charge
  • Photography tips
  • 40 people max, minimum 2 required to book

✅ Book Your Half-Day Northern Lights Tour Now!

aurora village whitehouse northern lights

7. Yellowknife Northern Lights Viewing Tour Including 3-Nights Accommodation

🤩 4 out of 5 (14 Reviews)

Run by the same company as the Half-Day Yellowknife Tour , this 3-night adventure is a longer foray into the Canadian north.

Since it’s not guaranteed that the Northern Lights will be out on any given night, this tour offers a better chance of glimpsing the natural phenomenon.

You’ll sleep in a heated tee-pee each night, with lit up interiors so the darker night skies aren’t completely isolating. They even offer romantic dinner packages for you and your loved one.

During the day, you’ll have the chance to experience the Northwest Territories’ outdoor experiences, like dog-sledding and fishing.

Then at night, your guide will take you further from the brightly lit tee-pees to see the natural wonder of the Aurora Borealis.

While you’ll visit the Aurora Village, it’s harder to see the lights there thanks to the plethora of city lights.

“The team was very helpful and courteous. The sky lit up for us every night.” -Ruth (Read more reviews )
  • Included hotel stay, 2 Aurora hunting tours, and complimentary snacks
  • Dinner and winter gear can be added on for an extra fee

✅ Book Your 3-Night Aurora Viewing Tour Today!

yukon northern lights tour

8. Yellowknife 2 Nights Aurora Viewing and Hunting Experience

🤩 5 out of 5 (3 Reviews)

This 2 night Aurora viewing experience is the perfect blend of actively hunting down the Auroras, and getting to stay in a cozy cabin.

The first night, you’ll be a true Northern Lights hunter looking for the dancing lights. The second, you’ll be able to spot them from your stay at a traditional log cabin.

My favourite part of the tour is the option to add-on a traditional meal of bannock and fish chowder. I’m a big fan of Indigenous Canadian food, and the fish in the Territories is incredibly fresh!

Since the tour only allows up to 15 people, you’re better able to interact with your guide as you learn about the reason we have the Northern Lights and more about the Northwest Territories.

My favourite feature is the included 2 photos of you beneath the Northern Lights! For people like me who … let’s say aren’t photographically gifted, this is a great way to ensure you don’t just get photos of your thumb on the screen or a completely dark sky by accident.

“Tracy was absolutely wonderful.” -John (Read more reviews )
  • 2 free photos
  • Snacks + hot beverages
  • Winter clothing rentals for extra fee
  • Stay overnight in a wood cabin

✅ Book Your 2-Night Aurora Tour Now!

northern lights yukon green

9. 4-Day Whitehorse Northern Lights Tour (Round Trip from Vancouver)

Getting to the Territories in Canada can be very difficult. Skip the hassle by booking this tour in Whitehorse that includes airfare to and from Vancouver!

With 3 nights to see the Northern Lights, you’re sure to the spot the Aurora!

You may ask, “what is there to do for 4 days in Whitehorse??” So much!

This tour includes a one-day tour around Whitehorse, including a 2-hour Klondike steamboat tour of the Yukon River, part of the original gold rush. You’ll also get to tour the city and nearby geological features.

On day 2 and 3, there are optional excursions to go dog sledding, snowshoeing, or ice fishing for an additional charge. Or just cuddle up at your hotel with a good book if it’s too cold to face.

Each night you’ll have the opportunity to see the Aurora from either a cabin or a walled tent, if you don’t want to stand in the cold. The clear skies provide amazing views that will take your breath away!

“Very nice place to view Northern Lights with the clear skies!” -Anonymous (Read more reviews )
  • Whitehorse, Yukon (but runs from Vancouver)
  • Flights to and from Vancouver
  • 2 hour Klondike steamboat tour of the Yukon River
  • 3 nights hotels
  • Sightseeing tour of Whitehorse and Miles Canyon
  • Airport transfer
  • Multiple chances to see the Northern Lights
  • Max 20 people

✅ Book Your Northern Lights Tour From Vancouver Now!

10. Yukon Aurora Viewing Package | 4 Days

🤩 5 out of 5 (18 Reviews)

If you’re looking for an amazing Canada northern lights tour, look no further! This 4-day Whitehorse tour includes everything you need to see the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.

With 3 nights of viewing and a variety of activities available, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

These details may sound familiar: that’s because this tour is the same as the Vancouver round-trip, but starts and ends in Whitehorse rather than Vancouver.

Day 1: Upon arrival in Whitehorse, enjoy a one-day tour around the city. Highlights include a 2-hour Klondike steamboat tour and a visit to some geological features.

Day 2 and 3: Optional excursions are available for those who want to go dog sledding, snowshoeing, or ice fishing. Or just relax at your hotel if it’s too cold outside.

Day 4: Depart Whitehorse with private transfer to another hotel or to the airport.

Each night you have the ability to see the Aurora from a cabin or walled tent, or outdoors for an unrestricted view.

“Even the cold didnt take from the excitement of seeing the lights!” -Maria (Read more reviews )
  • 3 nights at hotels

✅ Book This Yukon 4 Day Tour Today!

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11. Deluxe Coach Aurora Viewing Tour

🤩 5 out of 5 (22 Reviews)

One of the best ways to view the Aurora is over the frozen lakes in northern Canada.

With the right conditions, the lakes offer large, empty areas to see the majesty of the Northern Lights.

Since a lot of uninhabited area around the north has forest, this ensures you get an uninterupted view of the lights.

The Deluxe Coach tour takes you on a comfy coach bus to 3 lakes: Prelude Lake Territorial Park, Prosperous Lake Territorial Park, and Yellowknife River Territorial Park.

As this is a night tour, expect to be up late! The pick up is around 10:30PM and you won’t get dropped off at your hotel until 2AM – but that’s the best time to see the Northern Lights!

Luckily they provide coffee and tea to help keep you awake.

“A great experience!” – Kathy (Read more reviews )
  • Hot drinks and snacks
  • Tour guide helps takes photos
  • Guide on how to take night photos

✅ Book the Deluxe Coach Aurora Viewing Tour Today!

luke stackpoole 5Qqkjn4PFPA unsplash

12. Banff Sunset & Stars Walking Tour

🤩 4.5 out of 5 (24 Reviews)

Banff National Park is one of the best places to see the northern skies at night. While the Northern Lights don’t always show through, this walking tour of the constellations and the sunset are stunning every night!

You can call ahead to ask about the best time of year to visit to potentially see the Northern Lights, which do tend to show up in Banff in winter.

Do expect a hike with this tour! It’s about 5km of walking and exploring the Canadian Rockies’ trails of Banff in the evening.

It is cold in Banff in winter! I recommend this tour one night, and the next day a visit to the local hot springs to warm up and relax.

“I would highly recommend! We even saw two moose!” -Teresa (Read more reviews )
  • Banff, Alberta
  • Certified guide
  • Ice cleats provided, when required
  • Headlamps and lanterns included
  • 15 people max

✅ Book Your Banff Sunset & Stars Tour Now!

luke stackpoole BIzowjmRc g unsplash

13. Northern Lights Winter Nights Adventure in Churchill

Churchill, Manitoba is the polar bear capital of the world.

But it’s not just known for polar bears! It’s also an amazing place to view the Northern Lights in Canada.

This 6-day Northern Lights Winter Nights Adventure is led by a photo specialist who will help you capture the best views of the Aurora Borealis.

On top of viewing the aurora through multiple nights, with secluded stays so you don’t have to risk light pollution ruining the view, you’ll also get excellent day time adventures!

From dog mushing in a boreal forest to touring the Itsanitaq Museum to snowshoeing to an exclusive dinner on the frozen banks of the Churchill River – this tour covers all the best things to do in northern Manitoba.

While this tour isn’t about beluga whales or polar bears, you may get a chance to spot some on your journey by adding on one of Frontier’s other tours. And of course, you can visit polar bears at the Polar Bear Jail in Churchill city.

“This trip is much more than just the lights.. which we saw every night.” -Pookthepooch (Read more reviews )
  • Churchill, Manitoba
  • 20 people max
  • All meals, except alcohol, included
  • Dog sledding, snowshoeing, museum and history tours, and more!

✅ Book Your Churchill Northern Lights Tour Today!

Are Northern Lights tours worth it?

Yes, Northern Lights Tours are definitely worth it – especially if you want to see the Aurora in some of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes like Banff or Churchill. Not only will you get to see the Aurora Borealis, but you’ll also get an amazing Canadian adventure out of it too!

Without a tour, you’re likely to either drive around aimlessly, sit outside a random hotel with too much light pollution, or look in entirely the wrong place!

There’s nothing worse than finding out the lights were out in full force, but you were too deep in a forest to see them or drove west instead of east.

Plus, with the Aurora being out so late at night, you’ll have a driver who can ensure your safe journey through the night.

Which Northern Lights tour is best?

The best Northern Lights tour is the Aurora Tour, for a traditional Northern Lights viewing.

However, my favourite tour is the 4-Day Whitehorse Tour with dog sledding, snowshoeing, and more!

Tips for Northern Lights Tours

  • Dress very warmly. You will be spending a lot of time standing outside in the cold (something down to -40C). Bring double the layers you think.
  • Layers help!!
  • Bring your camera, some extra snacks (especially if, like me, cookies make you too jittery from the sugar), hand and feet warmers, and your sense of adventure! You don’t need a ton of stuff, so don’t weigh yourself down for nightly viewings.
  • Viewing is not guaranteed on any tour. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon. The guides cannot control the weather or the clouds – just like a whale watching tour can’t control whether the whales are out from one day to the next.
  • You will be staying up late so take a nap the day before and don’t plan a ton of things to do the day after if you don’t do well on limited sleep.
  • These are remote locations, so they’re challenging to get to solo. Except that there will be some driving required to get away from the light pollution.
  • The Northern Lights show up better on camera than they do to the naked eye. Bring your camera and set the shutter speed as fast as possible, balance it on a tripod, and use a fast lens.

What part of Canada is best to see the Northern Lights?

The best part of Canada to the see the Northern Lights is the northern Territories and northern parts of the provinces. The Northwest Territories offers over 240 days of Aurora viewing. Yukon, Manitoba, and northern Alberta are also good places.

What time do the Northern Lights come out in Canada?

The Northern Lights are visible from September to April. They are best seen in the dark skies of winter, away from city lights. The peak time is from 11pm to 2am on clear nights. If there has been a solar storm, southern provinces may also see the Northern Lights.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Canada in July?

Not usually. The Northern Lights typically are visible during the winter months when the nights are long and dark. However, if you are very very lucky, you might see the Northern Lights in Canada in July or August if there has been a solar storm or if you are northern enough.

Can you see the northern lights in Montreal Canada?

No, it is too bright in Montreal due to light pollution for you to see the Northern Lights. Outside of Montreal, you may see the Northern Lights if there is a geomagnetic storm or solar flares on rare occasions. You’ll have better chances in northern Quebec.

Can you see the northern lights in Ontario Canada?

Yes, sometimes you can see the Northern Lights in Ontario. The best places to see the Aurora in Ontario are around the Great Lakes, in Muskoka, or in Thunder Bay around Hudson’s Bay. On rare occasions when there has been a geostorm, you can even see them from Algonquin Park!

Can you see the northern lights in Whitehorse Canada?

Yes, Whitehorse is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada. After Yellowknife, this is the best city in Canada to see the lights. But it’s best if you go slightly beyond the city to a cabin or a provincial park to get a view unmarred by light pollution.

Where in Canada can you see the northern lights in the summer?

The Northern Lights are harder to find in Canada in the summer. The best regions tend to be in Alberta in Banff and Jasper . However, chances are slimmer due to fewer hours of darkness. The best time to see the Northern Lights in Canada is during winter.

Can you see Northern Lights in Banff Canada?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Banff, Canada. Banff National Park is a stunning place to witness the Northern Lights during winter or after a solar storm.

How far south can you see the Northern Lights in Canada?

It is possible to see the Northern Lights in southern Canada, but it’s rare. Places as far south as Lake Erie has had reported sightings after a solar storm. But on average, the southernmost point that gets semi-regular views of the Northern Lights is northern Ontario.

What are the Northern Lights called in Canada?

Canadians call the Northern Lights just that: the Northern Lights. We also refer to them as the Aurora Borealis, the Latin name.

When can you see the northern lights in Jasper Canada?

You can see the Northern Lights in Jasper Canada from September to April. They are best seen in the dark skies of winter, away from city lights. The peak time is from 11pm to 2am on clear nights.

What months can you see the Northern Lights in Canada?

The best months to see the Northern Lights in Canada is typically from September to April. However, you can sometimes see them as early as August and as late as May depending on where you are in Canada. In rare cases, you can see the Northern Lights in the summer, too.

When can you see the northern lights in Churchill Canada?

Churchill Canada is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. They are typically visible from October to November and again from February to March.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Canada in June?

It is possible to see the Northern Lights in Canada in June, but it is very rare. The best time of year to see the Northern Lights is typically from September to April. However, if there has been a recent solar storm, you may be able to see them as early as August or as late as May depending on where you are in Canada. The further north you go, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights will be.

Can you see the Aurora Borealis in Alberta Canada?

Yes, you can see the Aurora Borealis in Alberta Canada. The best time to see them is typically from September to April. Banff and Jasper National Parks are two of the best places in Alberta to see the Aurora.

When can you see the aurora borealis in Canada?

The aurora borealis, or Northern Lights, are typically visible in Canada from September to April. The best time of year to see the Northern Lights is typically from December to February. You will need to stay up until around 2 am to get the best views!

How far in advance can Northern Lights be predicted?

The Northern Lights are notoriously hard to predict. They can’t accurately be said to appear until about 2 hours before they happen. Many clickbait sites try to promise them even days in advance, but there are no guarantees. There is no real control over whether or not they’ll appear. They require a certain KP-index to determine the latitude, where the Auroral oval zone is will determine a 500 mile radius of the lights’ appearance and intensity, and the solar rotation will determine how many solar particles are being thrown towards earth. The best way to improve your chances of seeing the Northern Lights is to go on a winter tour in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories where they get on average 240 night of the Aurora a year.

Wrap Up: Best Canada Northern Lights Tours

When planning a bucket list trip to Canada, don’t forget to add seeing the Northern Lights to your list!

Canada is one of the best places in the world to see this natural phenomenon. You’ll need a guide to help you find the best places to see the lights without getting lost in the wilderness or falling through the ice of a frozen lake!

With a knowledgeable guide and photography expert, your Northern Lights adventure will be truly a lifelong memory.

Ultimately, the best tour to see the Northern Lights is the one that isn’t JUST relying on the Aurora – it’s the one that incorporates dog sledding and local tours to help you make the most of your days as well as your nights!

Editor’s Pick: 4-Day Whitehorse Northern Lights Tour

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Canada Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Canada travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧 Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes  — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes  — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. ( Read more )

📲  Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe  — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com . For hostels, I use Hostel World . If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not  — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do ( check here! ). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

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Experience the extraordinary

Marvel at the splendour of the Northern Lights on your unforgettable Canadian vacation.

Our local experts take care of all your trip details so you can focus on making lifelong memories

Waves of shimmering greens and pinks, dancing across the sky — seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list travel experience. The northern regions of Canada are some of the best places in the world to observe this natural phenomenon. Our team of local travel experts work with you to create your perfect trip, including accommodation, local transport and unique excursions.

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It was amazing!

"Our trip to the Yukon was a celebration of our 50th wedding anniversary. It was made extra special by the way Fresh Tracks arranged everything. The purpose of the visit was to see the Northern Lights, which we saw over two nights. It was amazing..."

Roger Marling, USA

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Best times to see the Northern Lights

Best times to see the Northern Lights

Northern Lights explained: a guide to the aurora borealis

Northern Lights explained: a guide to the aurora borealis

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Northern Lights in Canada – Best Places & Time

Home | Travel | North America | Canada | Northern Lights in Canada – Best Places & Time

If you want to see the Northern Lights in Canada , you’re in luck. Depending on the area you visit, you can see the Aurora Borealis in Canada at just about any time of year if the weather conditions are good.

The first time we saw the Green Lady was during our trip through the Canadian Rockies . We were traveling in late May, which isn’t even during Aurora season in Canada , so we were excited to spot it!

Of course, if you want to visit Canada specifically to see this natural phenomenon, I recommend planning your travel itinerary accordingly. Don’t worry; in this guide, I’ll share the best time to visit Canada for the Northern Lights and the places you should go for the best chance of seeing a spectacular light show. I’ll also provide tips on where to stay and what tours you can take to make the most of your visit, so keep reading.

See the Northern Lights in Canada

You’ll find everything you need to know in this article, including where to watch the Northern Lights in Canada and tips to help you capture incredible photos. Here’s what we’ll cover:

  • When to see the Northern Lights in Canada

Where to see the Northern Lights in Canada

Best northern lights tours in canada, tips for seeing the canadian northern lights.

At the end of this guide, you’ll find a map with Northern Lights locations in Canada that you can use to plan your itinerary and route .

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Canada

While there are some parts of the country where it’s possible to see the aurora any time of year, the Northern Lights season in Canada runs from October to March , when the skies are darker for longer.

If you’re traveling outside the Northern Lights season , particularly in April, May, August, and September, there are a few hours of darkness in the southern provinces. So, if there is a good solar storm, you may be able to view the Canadian Northern Lights  there.

However, there are only a couple of times a year when solar storms are high enough to reach the southern area. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and have your heart set on seeing the aurora in Canada , it’s best to change your plans. Move your trip to late September or March, during the equinoxes, when the solar activity that causes the Northern Lights is highest.

Yoho National Park, canadian northern lights

Also, remember that the further north you travel, the more hours of darkness you’ll have in the winter (and the fewer hours of darkness you’ll have in the summer). In other words, you must plan your trip accurately to give yourself the best chance of spotting the aurora borealis in Canada .

It also helps to learn how to predict the Northern Lights . We use an app called My Aurora Forecast , which notifies us when solar activity suddenly increases. You should also keep an eye on the weather since no matter how intense the aurora is; it’ll be hard to see anything if it’s cloudy.

To sum up, these are the best times to see the Northern Lights in Canada :

  • September – October : there is usually high solar activity, making it easy to see the aurora borealis in Canada .
  • November – February : the days are short, and the nights are very dark, so that you can see the Northern Lights in Canada’s northern provinces.
  • March – April : there is a lot of solar activity with the spring equinox, making it possible to see the Canadian Northern Lights .

I advise against traveling in the summer months, particularly in June and July. While some southern areas get a few hours of darkness, you’ll need high solar activity to see the aurora, so your chances are slim .

If you’re wondering where to see the Northern Lights in Canada , you should know that the northern provinces offer the best light shows, particularly from early fall to early spring. More specifically, these are the best places to see the aurora borealis in Canada :

  • Whitehorse (Yukon), the best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada
  • Yellowknife (Northwest Territories), another place to see the Aurora Borealis in Canada
  • Churchill (Manitoba), another good place to view the Northern Lights in Canada
  • Banff & Jasper , two places to see the Northern Lights in the Canadian Rockies
  • Iqaluit (Nunavut), a secluded place to enjoy the Northern Lights in Canada
  • Kuujjuaq , a remote place to watch the Canadian Aurora in Quebec

Overall, Whitehorse is the best place to watch the aurora borealis in Canada . In addition to its ideal latitude, Whitehorse typically has many clear winter nights, which is why it’s the headquarters for many Canadian Northern Lights tour operators .

1. Whitehorse (Yukon), the best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada

♦ Latitude 60°

The Yukon territory is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in the world thanks to its latitude and location. Ideally, you’ll stay in the Yukon capital of Whitehorse , as this city makes for a great base camp while you tour the rest of the area. Besides, some of the best Northern Lights hotels in Canada are here, such as the Northern Lights Resort & Spa , which has large glass windows so you can watch the aurora from inside.

Other excellent options include Hidden Valley Bed and Breakfast , which offers a viewing terrace and a location far from light pollution, and Triple B Bed n Breakfast , which is just outside Whitehorse and offers good value for money.

Whitehorse (Yukón), best place in canada to see northern lights

Regardless of where you stay, if you want to have the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Yukon , you should book a tour. This way, you’ll have the help of a knowledgeable guide who can take you to the best viewing spots and share tips. I like this excursion , but if you’re interested in a multi-day tour, check out this one .

In addition to seeing the Northern Lights in Yukon, Canada , you can take advantage of Whitehorse’s location to visit other fascinating sites. For example, the Yukon Wildlife Preserve is home to various species like arctic foxes, elk, lynx, red foxes, and reindeer. The city is pretty cool, with institutes like the MacBride Museum and the bank of the Yukon River, where the Klondike gold rush occurred .

2. Yellowknife (Northwest Territories), another place to see the Aurora Borealis in Canada

♦ Latitude 62°

The Northwest Territories , specifically Yellowknife , is another perfect place to see the Canadian Northern Lights . The aurora shows up here so often that Yellowknife is known as the Northern Lights Capital of the World. In addition to the aurora borealis, you can take the opportunity to visit Great Slave Lake (one of the deepest lakes in North America) and the Cameron Falls Trail , which offers year-round hikes.

If you decide to watch the Northern Lights in Yellowknife, Canada , you’ll have many tours and accommodation options. One of the best hotels is the Super 8 by Wyndham Yellowknife , which boasts an excellent location and great rates. Another nice option is Tiga Bed and Breakfast , which has a terrace overlooking the city, making it a beautiful place to view the Dancing Lady.

Yellowknife (Northwest Territories), best time to visit canada for northern lights

The chances of spotting the aurora borealis in Yellowknife, Canada , are very high, but if it’s your first time here and you traveled solely for the Northern Lights, it’s best to book a tour. This 4-hour excursion is a great short-term option, although there is also this 5-day tour .

If, for whatever reason, you decide not to go to Yellowknife, another city in the Northwest Territories to consider is Tuktoyaktuk . At a latitude of 69°, it offers good chances of seeing the aurora, but remember that it’s much more remote, with fewer hotels and services .

3. Churchill (Manitoba), another good place to view the Northern Lights in Canada

♦ Latitude 58°

Churchill is among the best places to see the Northern Lights in Manitoba, Canada . This city is known as the Polar Bear Capital, featuring a large population of these bears in October and November. There are other attractions in the area that are sure to please, such as the Itsanitaq Museum , Wapusk National Park , and the Prince of Wales Fort , which overlooks the ocean.

Churchill (Manitoba), when can you see the northern lights in canada

If you want to see the Northern Lights in Canada from Churchill, stay at the Churchill Hotel , a simple yet comfortable accommodation with an ideal location to see the aurora. Another option is the IceBerg Inn , a small hostel with basic amenities, affordable rates, and clean and comfortable facilities.

Of course, you’ll have the most luck seeing the aurora borealis in Canada if you book a tour. In this case, the best option is this 8-day excursion through Manitoba , an all-inclusive package that includes your hotel, Northern Lights night tour, and other iconic attractions in the region. Be aware that this excursion departs from Winnipeg but includes the flight to Churchill in the price .

4. Banff & Jasper, two places to see the Northern Lights in the Canadian Rockies

♦ Latitude 52°

When there is sufficient solar activity, the Canadian Rockies are a wonderful place to see the Green Lady despite being at a lower latitude. Within this mountain range, four national parks are scattered between Alberta and British Columbia: Banff National Park , Jasper National Park , Yoho National Park , and Kootenay National Park .

I was in the Canadian Rockies when I first saw the Northern Lights, so it will always be a special place for me. One of the advantages of this region is that it still gets some hours of darkness even during months when the sun never sets in the northern areas. With a bit of luck, you can spot the aurora while enjoying this incredible natural environment.

Emerald Lake, banff national park aurora borealis

If you decide you want to see the Northern Lights in Jasper National Park , I recommend staying at the Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels , an excellent accommodation with a modern bar, terrace, pool, and sauna.

Another option is the Emerald Lake Lodge in Yoho National Park. Considered one of Canada’s best Northern Lights hotels , it features cozy wooden cabins and a breathtaking lakeside location. This was where I was fortunate enough to see the Northern Lights for the first time!

If you want to see the aurora in Banff , check out our guide on the best hotels in Banff . We also have a complete guide to where to stay in Jasper if you’d like more suggestions.

As for tours, I like this excursion that includes admission to the Planetarium Dome Theatre and this multi-day tour through the Canadian Rockies .

5. Iqaluit (Nunavut), a secluded place to enjoy the Northern Lights in Canada

♦ Latitude 63°

You can also see the Northern Lights on Baffin Island , the largest island in Canada. More specifically, the capital of Nunavut , in Iqaluit , is an excellent viewing location, given its remoteness and high latitude of 63°. Just be prepared for freezing weather!

Iqaluit (Nunavut), canada northern lights season

Being in such a remote place, there aren’t any guided tours available here, so if it’s your first time visiting Canada for the Northern Lights , it’s not the best place to go. As for accommodation, the only option is The Frobisher Inn hotel . It offers all the facilities of a standard hotel, including restaurants, a gym, and spacious rooms .

6. Kuujjuaq, a remote place to watch the Northern Lights in Quebec, Canada

While it’s not impossible to see the Northern Lights in Quebec, Canada , you’ll have the best chances if you go to the northern part of this territory, such as to the town of Kuujjuaq . That said, this place is very remote, with practically no hotels or Northern Lights tour operators. So, I recommend checking out one of the other options in this guide before resorting to Quebec.

Kuujjuaq, aurora borealis quebec

People often ask us if it’s possible to see the aurora borealis in Montreal or Quebec City. The reality is that it’s extremely difficult, not only because of the light pollution but also because of the lower latitude. Again, it’s much better to go to other destinations I mentioned or, at the very least, to a northern town like Kuujjuaq .

Aurora chasing is one of the most popular things to do in Canada, and this country is the best place in North America to see the Northern Lights.

To make the most of your trip to see the Northern Lights , I recommend traveling with an experienced guide who knows the best locations and can factor in solar activity and weather conditions. There are many organized tours, so let me help you decide which one suits your needs.

Below, you’ll find the best Canadian Northern Lights tours , including durations, prices (in Canadian Dollars), and what’s included.

Northern Lights tours in Whitehorse, Canada

If you’re in Whitehorse, you can take this tour to see the Northern lights in Yukon . The excursion includes a bus ride to the observation center, where you can watch for auroras in the sky. Plus, the center is surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape, so that you can capture some fantastic photos.

Aurora tour in Whitehorse, canada aurora map

If you have more time and want to increase your chances of seeing the Northern Lights, consider this four-day excursion . It includes a day tour of Whitehorse’s popular attractions like the Old Log Church (the oldest building in the city), and the SS Klondike. At night, you’ll venture to the places with the highest likelihood of showcasing the aurora. This tour also includes transportation and accommodation.

Northern Lights tours in Yellowknife, Canada

There are also tours to see the aurora borealis in Yellowknife, Canada . If you’re short on time or money, consider this tour that runs along the Ingraham Route, a spot that is known for experiencing the Northern Lights. The excursion includes transportation and hot drinks to keep you warm while you await the Green Lady. In addition, you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide and a professional photographer who can help you capture the experience.

Aurora tour in Yellowknife, aurora borealis yellowknife canada

If you have more time, the best option is this multi-day excursion , which will give you several opportunities to see the aurora. During the day, you can discover the Yellowknife region and some of its main attractions, while at night, you’ll go aurora chasing.

The best thing about this tour is that you’ll be with an expert guide who will take you to the places where you’ll have a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights. With their insider tips, I’m sure you’ll see the aurora before the tour is over! Plus, this tour package includes your transportation and accommodation, including a night in a tipi cabin, which is quite a unique experience.

Northern Lights tours in Churchill, Canada

If you plan to look for the Northern Lights in Manitoba, Canada , then I recommend booking this 8-day excursion .

This is a very comprehensive tour, beginning with some time in the city of Winnipeg, where you’ll visit the Manitoba Museum and other attractions. Then, you’ll fly to Churchill, where you’ll go aurora hunting every night. In the mornings, you can take advantage of nearby sites like the Polar Bears International House and the Itsanitaq Museum.

Aurora tour in Churchill, northern lights in manitoba canada

This is an awesome excursion for those who want to explore one of the best places to see the aurora borealis in Canada without worrying about all the details. The tour includes transportation, flights between Winnipeg and Churchill, accommodation, meals, your tour guide, and entrance fees to museums and attractions.

  • Departs from : Inn at the Forks hotel, Winnipeg
  • Price from : C$ 6846
  • Duration : 8 days
  • Highlights : Eight-day trip through Winnipeg and Churchill, Manitoba; daytime activities and sightseeing; night excursions to see the Northern Lights. Accommodation, transportation (including flights between Winnipeg and Churchill), tour guide, and meals included

Northern Lights tours in the Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are one of my favorite places on the planet since this is where I first saw the Northern Lights. If you’d like to experience the magic of this region, book this multi-day tour .

Aurora tour in the Canadian Rockies, where to watch the northern lights in canada

These mountains contain four national parks: Banff National Park , Jasper National Park , Yoho National Park , and Kootenay National Park . If you book the tour I mentioned, you’ll visit Banff and Jasper, where you’ll see some of the most impressive landscapes in the country.

During the day, you can spot bears, coyotes, moose, and other wild animals, while at night, you can see the aurora in Canada if there is strong solar activity. Without a doubt, this is one of the best tour packages for those who are passionate about nature. The excursion includes your guide, transportation, accommodation, and meals, so you can just focus on enjoying the trip.

  • Departs from : Edmonton, Canada
  • Price from : C$ 5193
  • Duration : 11 days
  • Highlights : 11-day trip through the Canadian Rockies; visits to Banff and Jasper National Parks; guided excursions to see the Northern Lights (solar activity permitting). Accommodation, transportation, and meals included

Northern Lights tours from Vancouver

Due to its lower latitude, seeing the Northern Lights in Vancouver, BC , is extremely difficult. That said, some tours depart from the city, specifically this four-day excursion .

This tour includes your flight from Vancouver to Whitehorse, one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada . There, you’ll be able to visit some beautiful sites like Marsh Lake and participate in activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing. At night, you’ll venture out in search of the aurora borealis.

Aurora tour in Vancouver, northern lights vancouver bc

This excursion is the best option if you want to see the aurora borealis in Vancouver, Canada . Depending on how much time you have, it’s also worth going whale-watching in Vancouver ; it’s one of my favorite things to do here.

  • Departs from : Vancouver
  • Price from : C$ 2296
  • Duration : 4 days
  • Highlights : Four-day Whitehorse trip from Vancouver; daytime activities and sightseeing; night excursion to see the Northern Lights. Accommodation, tour guide, meals, and round-trip flights from Vancouver included

See the Northern Lights on your own or with a guided excursion

By now, you may be wondering whether it’s best to see the Canadian Northern Lights on your own or with a tour group.

If you already have experience chasing auroras, and you’re going to have a vehicle that will let you get to more remote places, then going out alone shouldn’t be an issue.

Yoho National Park, northern lights in canada in october

See the Northern Lights in Canada on your own or with a guided excursion

However, if this is your first trip to Canada to see the aurora, and you haven’t seen the Northern Lights before, I highly recommend booking a tour. This way, you’ll be accompanied by someone who understands the aurora season in Canada and the locations with the highest likelihood of witnessing this natural phenomenon. In addition, most organized tours include transportation, so you won’t have to worry about driving at night.

Also, remember that there are some places in Canada where it’s pretty tricky to drive at night, so if you aren’t familiar with the road or the area, it’s better to have a guide .

Now that you have all the information about where, how, and when to see the Northern Lights in Canada , here are some tips to help you make your trip even more enjoyable:

  • Carefully choose your viewing location to see the Northern Lights in Canada . If you’re not sure where to go, I suggest booking an excursion that includes a knowledgeable tour guide, transportation, and accommodation. You can’t go wrong with one of the tours in Whitehorse or Yellowknife.
  • Choose the best time to visit Canada for the Northern Lights , ideally between October and March. Avoid the summer months.
  • Download an app that can predict the Northern Lights forecast in Canada . Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
  • Always move away from big cities, towns, and areas with light pollution . The darker, the better!
  • Wear the appropriate clothing and footwear . Temperatures drop at night, so it’s important to dress warmly, especially since you’ll probably end up waiting for the aurora to appear.
  • Be patient and wait . The Northern Lights usually take a while to appear, and you may not see anything your first night. Wait it out, and don’t give up because witnessing Canada’s aurora borealis is totally worth it.
  • Don’t forget to charge your camera before heading out !
  • If you’re passionate about photography, consider joining us on one of our photography tours . We organize photography trips around Iceland and photography tours through the Lofoten Islands to enjoy the Northern Lights. In my experience, it’s easier to spot the aurora in these locations.

Finally, make sure you savor the moment and enjoy the entire experience. Seeing the Northern Lights in Canada is something you’ll never forget.

Map of best locations to see the Northern Lights in Canada

Throughout this article, I’ve mentioned several places where you can watch the Northern Lights in Canada , so here is a map highlighting those locations:

Use this map to plan your ideal trip, and remember that the best places to view the Northern Lights in Canada are remote and dark.

Best images of the Northern Lights in Canada

If you want to capture the best photos of the Northern Lights in Canada , I recommend reading our specific guides:

Northern Lights canada where to see

How to photograph the Northern Lights

Senja Northern Lights, when to see northern lights in canada

How to photograph the Northern Lights with a GoPro

Photographing the Northern Lights with a GoPro

Senja Northern Lights, aurora borealis in canada

Best camera for Northern Lights photography

Best camera for Northern Lights photography in 2024

Lofoten Northern Lights, watch the aurora borealis in canada

Best lenses for Northern Lights photography

Best lenses for Northern Lights photography in 2024

You can also look at our Canada gallery to see our best images of the aurora borealis in Canada .

FAQs – Northern Lights in Canada

In case you have any other doubts about the Canadian Northern Lights , here are the answers to some common questions:

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Canada?

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Canada is from October to March.

Where can you see the Northern Lights in Canada?

The best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada are Whitehorse (Yukon), Yellowknife (Northwest Territories), and the Canadian Rockies. It’s also possible to see the aurora in Churchill (Manitoba), Iqaluit (Nunavut), and Kuujjuaq (Quebec).

Can you see the Northern Lights from anywhere in Canada?

You can view the Northern Lights in Canada practically anywhere, provided there is minimal light pollution. That said, the northern part of the country is the best place to see the Canadian aurora borealis , particularly between early fall and early spring.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Vancouver, BC?

Seeing the Northern Lights in Vancouver, BC , is quite difficult because of all the light pollution. Also, Vancouver is typically too far south, so you’ll need extremely high solar activity to spot the aurora.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Toronto?

No, seeing the aurora in Toronto, Canada , is rare due to the light pollution. If you’re in Toronto, you can try getting away from the city center, but you’ll need extremely high solar activity to see the Northern Lights.

Do you need to go to a remote area to see the Aurora Borealis in Canada?

Yes, the darker and further away you are from urban areas and light pollution, the better!

What should I wear to see the Canadian Northern Lights in winter?

If you plan to view the Northern Lights in Canada in winter , wear comfortable and light layers. Ideally, you’ll have an inner thermal layer and outerwear to withstand the freezing night temperatures. Also, don’t forget to pack gloves, a hat, a scarf, and any other items that will help you stay warm.

Do you need to book a tour to see the Northern Lights in Canada?

You don’t need to book a tour to see the Canadian Northern Lights , but it will increase your chances, especially if it’s your first time aurora hunting.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Canada without a guide?

Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Canada without a guide, although joining a tour will improve your chances of spotting the aurora.

That’s everything you should know about the Aurora Borealis in Canada . If you have any other questions or you’d like to share your experience watching the Northern Lights from Canada , please leave me a comment. I’d love to hear from you!

Stay safe and enjoy the Canadian Northern Lights !

northern lights tours banff canada

59 replies on “ Northern Lights in Canada – Best Places & Time ”

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Hi I’m booked to go to Yellowknife over Christmas this year. I am hoping to see the Northern Lights at that time.

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I wish you the best. Yellowknife is one of the best places to see Northern Lights in Canada!

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Which places would you suggest to experience the Northern Lights Near Saguenay ?

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We don’t have much experience seeing the Northern Lights in Eastern Canada, so I can’t help much about Saguenay.

The latitude and light pollution look great to see the lights 😉

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Hi. I am in Ottawa ontario Canada what’s the best place in Canada to see the northern lights in January2023 ?? Should I travel to Yellowknife, white horse or Churchill. Waiting to hear from you before I book

Any of those three locations are great places to see the Aurora in Canada! No one can predict how it’ll be the weather/cloud forecast so far in advance 😉

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Thanks for writing such an informational article. I am planning a trip for Northern Lights in month of December. What place do you suggest Canada or Iceland. If Canada then what place? Thanks a lot in advance.

If Canada, I recommend Yellowknife or Whitehorse. Said that, Iceland is my favorite country to see Northern Lights.

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When is the best time in September to see the northern lights? Also, which could be the nearest place to Mississauga?

Hi Damini, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Canada is in late September and during the new moon.

Let me know if you have any questions! Ascen

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Hi, Thanks for the useful information. I’m planning to go with my mother to Yukon to fulfil her dream about seeing the northern lights. I’ve done lots of research about the best time for increasing the chance of seeing the Aurora. Between February or March which month you suggest? I don’t want to disappoint her. Thanks

I’d highly recommend beginning to mid March since the solar activity is usually higher during that period to see the Northern Lights in Canada or any other part of the world 😉

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I’m saving up for a trip to either Alaska or Iceland in 2025/26 during the next peak. My plan is to stay for about a month to ensure I get to see the lights. If you had a choice between any location at any time of year what would you choose for highest probability of seeing them? Is there any way to determine the areas with least cloud cover? I’d prefer not to freeze my toes off but if I need to go in February so be it. I just really want to ensure I don’t miss them. Thank you! this is a terrific site.

I’d opt for Iceland since it’s much easier to move around. September and March are usually great months in terms of solar activity, but there’s no way to predict the cloud forecast in places like Iceland or Alaska 😉

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Hi, is there any place where I can go see the lights between christmas and new year? Thanks!

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Hi Silvina,

You can check here the best trips to see the Northern Lights. Let me know if you have any questions,

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Hello I am currently in Ontario and Northern Lights are in my bucket list i and curious where should i go where to stay, if anyone can help me through this it would me helpful for me

Ontario is not the best place to see the Northern Lights in Canada. The best areas are very remote in the North of the Province. My advice is to visit Churchill, where you’ll have greater chances once the Aurora season kicks off.

All the best in your Aurora chasing experience! Dan

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Hello. I really loved the article. Can you please suggest any places in Ontario for northern lights in October or November? What is usually the best time to view the northern lights in Ontario?

Hello Mansi,

The best areas to see the Northern Lights in Ontario are located in the North of the Province close to the Hudson Bay, which is a very remote area with no facilities. My recommendation in November and October is to visit Churchill, Manitoba, where you can enjoy the Aurora and other activities like Polar bear watching 😉

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Hello I’d love to see the northern lights I’m near to Vancouver any chance to find in this period of the month (june) thanks

You will need a very high KP index (higher than kp 7), and since this year is a solar minimum year (as we explain on this article on how to predict the Northern Lights ) is going to be very difficult for you to see them from Vancouver in June.

Any way, Van

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Where is the best place to see northern lights in New Brunswick or the maritimes in general?

Hi Krystal,

It’s an area I don’t personally know. However, I’ve seen some nice Aurora images from Prince Edward Islands.

Wish you all the best in your Aurora chasing experience! 😉

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Hi, great information thank you! How cloudy is in march? I was planning a trip to either Whitehorse or Yellowknife from March 22-25 but found that is very cloudy basically daily on several weather sites. What are the chances to see the auroras if its indeed that cloudy? what other places have more clear skies? thank you in advance!

Hi Juan, You need clear skies to see the Northern Lights. It’s a matter of having good luck. However, if you want to increase your chances, I would go to Iceland where you have at least a clear sky per week during the winter.

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Thanks for such an informative blog. Which place would you recommend visiting for the northern lights in September? I want to do a birthday trip with family so a less freezing location would be a great boon on the list.

Thanks, Yukti

September is very early for the northern locations, so I would try in the Canadian Rockies. However, bear in mind you will need a high KP, something that only happens from time to time.

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Hi from Australia!!

I have booked a six week holiday in Canada from May 3 until June 16. I’ll be mostly focusing on the west half of Canada, so mostly BC, Alberta and possibly north of here too. I’ll be travelling by Campervan. I am a semi-professional photographer and I have never seen the Northern lights. I know its not the best time of the year to see them, but what locations are going to give me the best chance to see the Northern lights?

Thankyou in advance!! David

Anywhere at the Canadian Rockies. At that time of the year, you will need at least a KP. All the pictures you see at this post were taken at the end of May with a KP of 7.6 🙂

Download the app Aurora and wait for the best.

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We are looking for a great honeymoon destination to see the Northern lights February 2-8th do you have suggestions?

If it’s in Canada, I’d definitely plan it for either Whitehorse or Yellowknife.

Wish you all the best in your Northern Lights chasing experience 😉

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Where can i go to see the northern lights in October in Canada

You got many good places like Whitehorsem Yellowknife, Churchill…do your own research to see which place looks better for you and you’ll be ready to chase the Northern Lights!

Wish you all the best during your Aurora experience,

You got many good places like Whitehorse Yellowknife, Churchill…do your own research to see which place looks better for you and you’ll be ready to chase the Northern Lights!

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Is there anywhere in Canada that would offer the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights in mid-May? Thanks so much!

Hi Cassondra,

I saw them in mid-may from the Canadian Rockies. That latitude is probably the only one from where you can see the lights at that time of the year.

On the other hand, chances are very low, since you need a huge display of Aurora to see the Northern Lights at that latitude. It’s rare but not impossible 😉

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My friends and I are thinking about making a trip to see the Northern Lights in Canada sometime in 2020. Where and when do you suggest is the best time to see the Northern Lights? Also, please include inns or hotels to stay in, and tours to see the Northern Lights. Your suggestions and advise is greatly appreciated.

I would go to Whitehorse from October to March, avoiding December and January. I recommend you to stay at Northern Lights Resorts & Spa, one of the best Northern Lights hotels in Canada. Regarding the tours, I would book this one to increase your chances of seeing this amazing phenomena.

Let me know if you have any other question.

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Hello! Thank you for such a detailed and informative article! Is there a place in Ontario where the Northern Lights can be seen during January-March? Thanks very much!

For seeing the Northern Lights in Ontario you will need a strong solar storm, something fairly unusual. If you want to see the Northern Lights in Canada, the closest place to Ontario having reasonable chances is Churchill, Manitoba.

All the best,

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Hi, I want to start planning a trip for me and family to Seattle-Vancouver area, I just recently was told about chance to watch aurora borealis lights and definitely would like to include in my plan. Please let me know of nearest place from Vancouver you recommend for this and also best time to go, but trying to get a not so cold weather because of childs. Thanks.

Even though there are chances of seeing the Aurora in Seattle and Vancouver, the chances are extremely low since you need a very high solar storm (which is a very rare event). If you want to see the Northern lights in Canada, the closest place to go having a realistic chance is either Whitehorse or Yellowknife.

In any case, I suggest downloading an Aurora Forecast app in case there is a big solar storm and you have the opportunity of seeing it when you visit the Seattle-Vancouver area.

All the best during your trip and hope you can see the green lights!

We will be going to Yellowknife the beginning of November, what are our chances of seeing the Lights?

Hi! You have chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Yellowknife in November. All depends on the solar activity and clouds forecast.

All the best in your Aurora chasing experience ;)!!

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Please send me some info on prices

Hi Sandra, at the moment we don’t offer any tour to see the Northern Lights in Canada yet.

However, we offer other tours for photographing the Aurora in Iceland and Norway. You can find more info here .

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Such a great read, so much information. I will be looking at going to Canada over the Christmas new year period, i will be ticking off many bucket list items. Go to Canada, have a white Christmas, hopefully go on the Rocky mountaineer, and see the northern lights. If I do go on the rocky mountaineer – where would you suggest to see the northern lights

See the Northern Lights in the Rocky mountains is a matter of luck. You will need a KP over 6.5 at least and this doesn’t happen every year.

We were very very lucky. If you are too, I will suggest you to go to Peyto Lake or Emerald Lake.

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Hi, thank you for this wonderful guide. I noticed that there is no listing for May. I will be visiting Yukon in May 2020, is there a possibility to see the Northern lights there? Thank you.

Hi Roselle,

There is too much light at such latitude to see the Northern lights in Yukon in May.

You’d better travel by as late as mid-April to see the Aurora in Canada in that region.

Hello, We’ll be visiting Whistler in late September. Do you think we’ll be able to see the northern lights there?

Chances are very low as Whistler is not located at very high latitude.

In any case, September is usually a very active month in terms of Northern Lights so I’d recommend to download the App Aurora and check it daily in case there is a big solar storm that could trigger a Northern Lights display there.

All the best during your trip!

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Hey!!!! I’m Crazy in love for this Guide!! You’re amazing!! I’m from Brazil, and september 2020 i’m going to study english in toron, after that, I want spend 5 days hunting north lights…I was Reading a lot about, but now I’m delighted for you site!! So in the end of september, are you recommend me Canadian Rockies? I’d like camping there…It would be possible? Thanks a lot!!

Camping in September at the Canadian Rockies is amazing. I would do it for sure. However, if you want to assure seeing the Northern Lights, I would go north (Yellowknife or Whitehorse).

Whatever you choose, I am sure you are going to love it!

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Hi. We will be visiting Canada in early September this year for 2 weeks and would love to see the Northern Lights if possible, what would be the best places to visit to potentially view them? We will be travelling from Vancouver to Toronto.

I am afraid it is not the best time to see the Northern Lights but I would try in the Canadian Rockies for sure.

Let me know if you need something else, Ascen.

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We’ll be in Ontario the first 3 weeks of September and we’d like to have our Mom and Dad get (in Mom’s bucket list) to see and experience the amazing NORTHERN LIGHTS. Mom and Dad are in their 70s. We’d also love to experience that with them. We were told YUKON would be a great site to go this SEPT. Please advise including inns or hotels to stay in. Thank you

I have sent you an email with more information 🙂

Have a nice day,

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Churchill Polar Bears/ Sub-Arctic Safari/ Northern Lights Vacation in Canada

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The Ultimate Sub-Arctic Adventure Thrill to the very finest Northern Manitoba offers in a First-time offered Combo adventure.

See the Aurora Borealis as they are meant to be seen, in the primal Sub-Arctic wilderness in an intimate wilderness setting beside a beautiful lake and roaring campfire during the first week of October. Then journey to Churchill, Manitoba, famed for its resident polar bears.

Embark on your all-inclusive northern lights vacation in Canada with Gangler’s Sub-Arctic. Our Manitoba Northern lights tour offers a thrilling blend of serenity and adventure, where you can witness the celestial spectacle of the aurora borealis amidst the pristine wilderness. Enjoy wildlife, Indigenous history, unique topography by day. the stunning Auroras by night. Our all-inclusive Northern lights trip in Canada lets you explore the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of sub-arctic Manitoba.

Then venture to the famous seaport of Churchill Manitoba for the start of the Fall/Winter Polar bear season. Your 3 day Churchill adventure will include one full day on the famous Tundra Buggies looking for the town’s most famous citizens. Day three includes a full day motorized tour along the Churchill landscape  in search of the famous bears. Two trips are offered , both specially tailored to both photographers and non-photographers.

This is the Ultimate Sub-Arctic Adventure !

Availability

Now accepting 2024 reservations! Click on your preferred trip duration above to see availability. Book your primetime spot while they're available!

Transportation

Exclusive air transportation from Winnipeg to North Seal River Lodge, landing on our private 5400′ runway with licensed GPS approaches. Expediting services in Winnipeg are included.

Learn More about float planes

5-star lodge with private cabins, for two, three or four.

Our private cabins include housekeeping and full amenities. See below for more details.

Free Internet service at the main lodge. Our lodge features SIX Starlink systems to guarantee unbelievable Internet service !

Coffee Delivery

Complementary am cabin coffee delivery to your cabin for all guests.

Delicious creations from our chef including hors d’oeuvres. Enjoy a blend of traditional fare, Manitoba specialties, even local berries and smoked lake trout. Lunches will include the incredible classic Canadian Shore Lunch prepared by your Indigenous guide. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.

We feature a full-service bar and lounge area, the Timber Wolf bar,  in the lodge including Canadian favorites.

Guests staying in Churchill will stay at the Polar Inn. First day is arrival and getting settled in. Second day is an all day tour on the famous Tundra Buggy. Third day is a motorized tour in the local area for Polar Bears. There are two types of tours, one specializing in photography, another for non-photographers. Day 4 you will do a town tour in the morning with departure back to Winnipeg in the afternoon.

Accommodations

North seal river lodge.

The North Seal River Lodge is designed to be an exclusive experience accommodating a maximum of 26 guests per trip. The main lodge is the epitome of the classic remote Northern lodge, offering the full flavor of the North with its motif and decor. This is where guests will get to dine, relax, & socialize with other guests from all over the world. Our staff to guest ratio of 1:1 ensures your satisfaction.

Inside the North Seal River Lodge

The perfect combination of a rustic Northern Canadian Lodge & luxury, the North Seal River Lodge ensures that all guests have a place to relax and be close with their friends & family. Pick of pool or ping pong as you await your delicious five-star meal inspired by Northern Canadian cuisine.

Private Cabins

All guests are given their own private cabin that surrounds the Main Lodge with their party members. Each cabin is a quick & leisurely walk away from the lodge.

Inside Your Private Cabin

Our gorgeous private log cabins offer full amenities such as modern bathroom per 2 guests, heating, video TV, separate living room, comfortable beds, housekeeping service and a screened porch.

Included adventures

Northern lights.

So remote yet with 5 star comforts. In the middle of 6,000,000 acres of totally isolated wilderness yet so easy to get to ! Situated in the peak Aurora zone. Simply put, an incredible destination to bask in comfort after a day of adventures and enjoy the most spectacular Northern Lights in Canada.

Learn more about the Northern Lights

Tundra Expedition

Take a Floatplane up to the remarkable Sub-Arctic Tundra! The home of the Caribou will open your eyes to a unique and beautiful topographic feature you never knew existed.

Enjoy, experience, and learn about this unique land, its wilderness, and history through our varied tours.

You will enjoy  our staff biologists’ presentations.

Explore Wildlife

The local residents of the Sub-Arctic have no exposure to humans and may prove as curious about you as you are of them. See wolves, black bear, wolverines, moose, pine maarten, mink, otter and unique species of birds in their natural untouched habitat.

Trophy Fishing

The initial exploration of the North Seal was to open access to its 5 star fishing, some of the finest on the planet. Whether you are an experienced angler or a newbie wishing to try it, if you do, you will be amazed- and slightly terrified-  at what swims in these waters. Swimming is prohibited to ensure your safety!

Learn more about Trophy Fishing

Esker Hiking/Biking

The transitional aspect of the Boreal forest lends a perfect habitat to enjoy our fat Tire bikes. Whether you choose to ride an esker  or explore one of our remote back trails, you will enjoy a ride unlike any other.

Water Activities

The surrounding lakes, rivers, and streams of the North Seal watershed are its lifeblood. You can choose between canoeing, kayaking, or rafting as you enjoy exploring these serene waterways.

Photography

The photographic opportunities at the North Seal are unlimited. Northern Lights, wildlife, and the unique topography and botany will overwhelm you with unique options to explore. Whether working individually or with a group,  our in-house staff and guides will be onhand to assist you in getting those amazing shots.

Learn more about Photographic Safaris

Numerous bird studies have been done in our various locations and several rare species call it home. All of our adventures provide great birding opportunities whether by binoculars or camera.

Learn more about our Tours

Floatplane Ride

See the North Seal River watershed and surrounding eskers high in the sky in one of our famous floatplanes!

Learn more about this activity

Day 2 is an all day tour on the famous Tundra Buggy. Day 3 is an all-day motorized tour in the local area surrounding Churchill for Polar Bears. There are two types of tours, one specializing in photography, another for non-photographers. Day 4 you will do a town tour in the morning,

8 Day Trip: 2024

Looking to save on trip price? Pair up with another party or bring your family in a 4-person cabin and receive discounted pricing! 4-Day: $9,595 USD per person.

8 Day Ultimate Sub-Arctic Adventure

Based on double occupancy

$ 9995 USD from Winnipeg

Trip terms and conditions, 8-day trips, $9,995 usd from winnipeg.

All of our prices include roundtrip airfare from Winnipeg to our Lodge, meals, lodging, guiding, fishing rental equipment (if needed), and over six different sub-arctic tours/activities (listed above). Looking to save on trip price? Pair up with another party in a 4-person cabin and receive discounted pricing! 4-Day: $9,595 USD per person.

Related Trips

Sub-arctic safari/churchill combo, stevens/nicklin boreal forest northern lights safari, courage lake northern lights tundra safari, boreal outpost & tundra combo, canadian sub-arctic safari/northern lights.

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Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights

  • Get inspired by the possibilities.
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  • Uncover the awe-inspiring beauty of the Canadian Rockies on foot.
  • Explore Banff National Park and relax in the Banff upper hot springs.
  • Visit the natural beauty and turquoise waters of renowned Lake Louise.
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  • North America
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  • Banff, Alberta
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Full Itinerary

Day 1: edmonton, alberta, day 2: edmonton | peace river, alberta.

  • 1 Breakfast
  • Edmonton - Royal Alberta Museum
  • Peace River - Bonfire and Smore's

Day 3: Peace River, Alberta

  • Peace River - Snowshoeing

Day 4: Jasper, Alberta

  • Jasper National Park

Day 5: Jasper, Alberta

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch
  • Jasper - Maligne Canyon Icewalk
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Day 6: Lake Louise, Alberta

  • Icefields Parkway - Hike to toe of Athabasca Glacier

Day 7: Lake Louise, Alberta

  • Lake Louise - Snowshoeing
  • Lake Louise - All Canadian Lunch
  • Lake Louise - Sleigh Ride
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Day 8: Banff, Alberta

  • Banff - Johnston Canyon Icewalk

Day 9: Banff National Park

  • Banff - Guided snowshoe hike on Top of the World
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Day 10: Banff | Canmore, Alberta

  • Canmore - Grotto Canyon Guided Icewalk
  • Canmore - Dog-sledding
  • Canmore - Fat Biking Tour
  • Canmore - Cross-Country Skiing

Day 11: Calgary, Alberta

Accommodations, metterra hotel on whyte, dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $400 per person, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check, or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and a maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

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We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

  • Intrepid Travel - Terms and Conditions - Intrepid Travel

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

  • 10 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches
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  • 11 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
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  • Activities as listed
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YELLOWKNIFE TOURS

“2015 nwt operator of the year award” "2017 akaitcho business of the year award" "2018 citie the best outbound travel operator prize" "2020 ai business excellence award" "2021 luxlife travel and tourism awards" "2023 tripadvisor travellers' choice award".

We would like to welcome you to experience the world-class Aurora Borealis viewing in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada

Yellowknife & Aurora

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Experience the natural spectacle

Yellowknife is the premium location to view Aurora Borealis, also known as Northern Lights.

Our Activities

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Enjoy what nature has to offer

There are plenty of other fun-filled activities to complement the natural beauty of Aurora Borealis.

About Yellowknife Tours

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Adventure With Us

Our experienced, friendly tour guides will make sure you get the most out of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

northern lights tours banff canada

DOGSLEDDING IN YELLOWKNIFE AMPLIFIES NORTHERN LIGHTS EXPERIENCE

northern lights tours banff canada

YELLOWKNIFE CABIN RETREAT: AN ENCHANTING WAY TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

northern lights tours banff canada

NORTHERN LIGHTS IN YELLOWKNIFE: DON’T LET THE COLD GET IN YOUR WAY

northern lights tours banff canada

Five Reasons Why Yellowknife, Canada Is The Best Place To View Northern Lights

Yoriko from Japan

“Thank you very much for your kindness while we were in Yellowknife. We really had a good time there. We never forget the beautiful Northern lights, dog sledding, kind people etc. We have a lot of wonderful memories and hope to see you again”

Yoriko from Japan

Stephen from Vancouver

Once in a life time……lucky and amazed Twice….fulfilled and praised Third time ?! Crazy but blessed. Stole some time and went there last weekend for two nights. Another taste, another mood, dark blue starry night. The daytime dogsled race was a bonus!  

Stephen from Vancouver

彼得仔

看到如此有水準的北極光下影到的大自然和人之間的和諧,告誡我們要更加愛護保護大自然。大自然偉大,而你能無私地將自己的熱情和攝影技術與過客分享,這樣的精神也是傑出偉大的!通過你的指導,在場的拍友個個學會了極光下影人的技巧,你亦師亦友、人人沒齿難忘!今我收到這些極光照片不僅快樂幸福,其留念價值則無可估量。再次向你說聲,謝謝……”  

Libert from Vancouver

Verda, very glad to know you and your family and thanks for your help in Yellowknife, NWT. We have a pleasant tour in NWT by your help. Actually, we learned a lot from you. If you plan to be in Vancouver someday, please let me know and I really like to be your friend in the future.

Libert from Vancouver

Wu from Vancouver

Verda, Angela & Law, Really have to say many thanks to you guys, all the arrangements and warmest hospitality, which made every one of us feel like home. Every day’s programme was full of excitement. Law is really a professional tourist guide, that’s why we called him a life directory of Yellowknife. Verda, you made me so warm when I first touched ground of Yellowknife. Once again thanks for the Law family, hope to see you soon in Vancouver or again in Yellowknife.

Wu from Vancouver

Lucia Wang & NG from Hong Kong

婷婷:謝謝你們一家親切、熱情、盡責的服務,令我們有賓至如歸的感覺,這幾天辛苦晒了!我們對你一家的服務態度非常滿意,希望在不久會再次到黄刀市找你們幫忙。希望你們的生意蒸蒸日上,成為全世界最出名觀賞北極光的旅行社。

Lucia Wang & NG from Hong Kong

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Experience The Northern Lights From A Private Teepee In Canada’s Aurora Village

northern lights tours banff canada

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  • Activities and Interests
  • Destinations
  • Northern Lights
  • Northwest Territories
  • Outdoor Activities

If you really want to do something different, something so unique, something so out of your comfort zone, then this journey is the one you’ve been looking for. The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are one of the most magical visual experiences one can have on Earth, and the Aurora Village may just be one of the best places on Earth to see it.

Aurora Village in Yellowknife, Northern Territories, Canada.

LeeSensei / Shutterstock

Where Is Aurora Village?

Aurora Village is owned by an Indigenous family that has called the area home for generations. Here, they share the heritage, culture, and traditions of the Dene and Metis peoples, who live traditional and modern lives of fishing, trapping, and hunting.

In two decades, Aurora Village has grown to become one of the premier destinations in the world to view aurora borealis. Located along the Ingraham Trail near Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, which are directly north of Alberta. Here, the northern lights are visible around 240 days out of the year, which is why it’s called the “Aurora Capital of North America,” as we’ve reported before .

Aurora Village in Yellowknife, Northern Territories, Canada.

Inside Aurora Village is where you’ll find the Teepee Village , “a picturesque gathering of 21 traditional Teepees and hilltop viewpoints surrounding a pristine frozen lake.” Here, guests can view the splendor of the aurora while enjoying a cozy wood-burning fire and hot beverages inside their own teepee.

From there, the night is yours. Guests are free to roam the property to find the perfect viewing spot, using the teepee as their base of operations, so to speak. In the winter season, be prepared for colder temperatures, but the village itself is protected from the subarctic winds by the surrounding forests. From the village, lantern-lit pathways are yours to explore. Groomed trails wind up and down the hills to provide everyone with optimal viewing opportunities.

Guests are also invited to upgrade to the ViTeepee Experience, which includes a three-course meal in the comfort of your private teepee. The menu features either fresh Great Slave Lake Whitefish or slow-roasted smoked bison prime rib.

Aurora Village in Yellowknife, Northern Territories, Canada.

Are There Accommodations At Aurora Village?

While the teepees do sound inviting, they are not for overnight lodging. Aurora Village is more of a tour company and they take guests on varying tours on or around the village. They work with all the hotels in Yellowknife and provide transportation to and from the village.

Aurora Village in Yellowknife, Northern Territories, Canada.

Murat Can Kirmizigul / Shutterstock

When To Visit Aurora Village

“When is the best time to see the northern lights?” is the most common question Aurora Village employees get. The oft-given answer is, “At night.” Ha, ha — the real answer is that while the aurora can be seen more than 240 days of the year, there are never any guarantees on any given night. Packages for the winter and spring seasons normally run November through April, while the summer and fall seasons run August through October.

northern lights tours banff canada

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What Else Can Visitors Expect?

While viewing the northern lights is the highlight activity at the village, that only occurs at night. But the village has much to offer in the hours leading up to the viewing. Various packages are available that could include an afternoon with your own dog-sledding team. That’s right, you and your “team” can ride through the wooded trails around the village. Or, if you’re feeling physical, strap on some traditional wooden snowshoes and hit the trails that way.

If you travel to Aurora Village during the winter months, dressing appropriately for the cold is required. But just in case you forget your layers, they actually do rent winter clothing if you find you need anything extra .

While you’re in a northern lights state of mind, these articles might hit the spot:

  • 9 Magical Places To View The Northern Lights In Iceland
  • 10 Hotels With Incredible Northern Lights Views
  • The Northern Lights: My Biggest Travel Regret Turned Life-Changing Experience
  • 6 Reasons Norway Needs To Be On Your Travel Bucket List

Image of Jordan Palmer

Jordan worked at KSDK from 1995 to 2020 and has produced every show from news to specials during his tenure, including creating Show Me St. Louis, The Cardinal Nation Show, and the Rams Tailgate Show. Jordan has won four regional Emmy awards and two Edward R. Murrow awards for journalistic excellence. Additionally, Jordan runs a local blog focusing on the responsible drinking community of St. Louis, called Drink314 .

Jordan has been married for 23 years and is the father of two children. He is an avid biker and snowboarder. He collects baseball cards, old toys, and tacky salt n’ pepper shakers. He has an incredible and vast knowledge of useless information and is the grandson of a former Cleveland bootlegger.

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northern lights tours banff canada

Live the Adventure!

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Yellowknife Northern Lights Adventure

Discover the aurora borealis, yellowknife northern lights adventure.

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The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The city of Yellowknife lies directly underneath the aurora oval, giving an unparalleled front row seat to this most astonishing of natural wonders. Yellowknife is known as the Aurora Capital of the World and is also a winter wonderland with many adventures to experience such as dog-sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and more.

Need flights? Ask us for a quote! As a division of Uniglobe Specialty Travel, we have access to travel services and flights around the world. We can arrange flights from your preferred departure city, based on available schedules.

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change due to unforeseen (weather) conditions. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and we cannot guarantee that you will see them. We will ensure that your trip remains a bucket list experience, even if you are not fortunate enough to see the Aurora Borealis!

Depart for Yellowknife

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  • Depart for Yellowknife. Flights can be arranged through Discover Canada Tours from your preferred departure city based on available schedules.
  • Once you land in Yellowknife, you will be greeted at the airport by your friendly Yellowknife guide and transferred to your hotel for check in.
  • Your clothing rental will be ready for you at check in.
  • Evening free to explore Old Town and dinner at leisure depending on your flight arrival.
  • 8:55 pm: Transfer to Aurora Village for a chance to watch the Northern Lights. You’ll have a warm (shared) Teepee to use throughout the night and a guide to tell you when the lights appear (weather permitting). Transportation returns at 1am to your hotel.

AirFare

Yellowknife

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  • Today you will have your day time activities scheduled, including Dog Sledding (15 minutes), and a Snowshoeing experience (60-75 minutes). You can also enjoy unlimited use of the Giant Slide and marshmallow roast and campfire to warm up in between. Return transfers to your hotel this afternoon.

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  • Option to book an ice fishing demonstration (available January through March, r equires minimum 4 passengers).
  • 8:55pm: Transfer from your hotel to Aurora Village to watch the Northern Lights. You’ll have a warm (shared) Teepee to use throughout the night and a guide to tell you when the lights appear (weather permitting). Transportation returns at 1am to your hotel.

IceFishing

Return from Yellowknife

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  • This morning is free to enjoy Yellowknife. You may wish to walk around Old Town and pick up some souvenirs or book an optional tour. Two of our favourite restaurants are Bullock’s Bistro and NWT Brewery Company/ Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery.
  • Transfer to airport and depart Yellowknife to your return city. Flights can be arranged through Discover Canada Tours to your preferred destination based on available schedules.

Speak to an agent today to inquire about booking this tour for your group.

Explore the rest of our NorthWest Territories tours .

Photos courtesy of Lisanne Smeele / Aurora Village / City of Yellowknife / Chris Van Dyke / Tourism Northwest Territories / CTC

Speak to an agent to request a quote and to book available dates in winter 2024/25.

Contact us for a quote for November 2024 - April 2025!

duration

  • A chance to experience the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, one of the seven natural wonders of the world
  • Enjoy Yellowknife, known as the Aurora Capital of the World and a winter wonderland
  • Many adventures to experience such as dog sledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and more

Bed

  • YELLOWKNIFE - Hotel & Northern Lights viewing package at Aurora Village, including transportation

Bus

  • Dog Sledding
  • Snowshoeing

ArticClothes

Optional Add Ons

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Roundtrip flights

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Ice fishing demonstration

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Yellowknife city tour

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For a Richer Northern Lights Experience, Go With an Indigenous Guide

By Megan Spurrell

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“They say you can hear the northern lights crackle. Even after years of living amongst them, I’ve only heard it once,” says Dave Daley, a long-distance dog sledder and Métis tour guide based in Churchill, Canada. He was 250 miles north of home when it happened, crossing the Hudson Bay as his dogs stopped to look at the display, spanning shades of pink, green, and white. “The lights made a wall in front of us, and for 10 minutes we were in a trance. Why did they appear at this moment? It was my ancestors making sure I got to my destination safely.”

Daley is the Métis founder of tour company Wapusk Adventures , which he runs with his wife and two sons in the small Arctic town of Churchill (population 900)—a.k.a. the Polar Bear Capital of the World . Stories like this are what make his northern lights experiences unique. Instead of treating the lights as a rare entity to catch, or capture, he uses the natural phenomenon as a launchpad to share his heritage—and stories—with visitors to the far north. “We have a program we call Tipi Tales , where people come out in the summer, and I tell stories,” says Daley, who says warmer weather lends to better lights viewing. Guests get to meet his dozens of loving sled dogs (he's best known for offering dogsled rides) while chatting under the stars for a couple of hours, hoping to see the sky come to life. “My son, who is 28 and growing up in the north might share his experiences too," he says. "There’s a lot of oral history about the northern lights.” Daley hopes the lights will show—but with the right programming, it’s okay if they don’t.

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Dogsledder Dave Daley (Métis) and his family offer northern lights experiences in Churchill, Canada.

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Daley's company Wapusk Adventures invites travelers to cozy up in a tipi and hear stories while the aurora dance overheard.

In the same way that northern lights tourism in Churchill plays a supporting role to the hottest ticket in town, polar bear excursions, Indigenous storytelling is a way that Native travel guides are enriching aurora borealis viewing for visitors. It’s fitting, given that the lights have a long history of significance for Indigenous communities from Alaska to Lapland to Siberia . Doing so makes an evening about more than just getting the shot—perhaps a crucial frame-of-mind when pursuing an activity entirely dependent on changing weather conditions, and that offers zero guarantee of a sighting. “There’s no schedule to wildlife, and there’s no schedule to the northern lights,” says Daley.

There’s no one meaning as to what they represent, either. “I believe the Northern Lights are the souls of our ancestors watching over us,” says Daley. “Other people believe it’s our ancestors dancing in the sky; Inuit believe it’s their ancestors playing soccer with a walrus skull. Some tour companies get their people to whistle at the lights, to get them to dance—but some people believe they’ll come down and smack your soul [if you do that].” In a toasty tipi, waiting for the lights to appear, these stories shape the perspective travelers apply to the night sky. Or, if you join local Katie deMuelles (Métis) and Nanuk Operations , also in Churchill, that might take place in a warm yurt with local wine served.

“There are various understandings,” says Wilfred Buck (Opaskwayak Cree), a science facilitator at the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre and an ‘Indigenous star lore expert.’ There are even multiple names within Buck’s nation alone: “My people call the Northern Lights wâwâhtêwa (the shimmering lights up in the sky) and cîpayak kâ-nîmihitocik, which refers to when they are dancing so bright that you can feel the energy, and the hair on your arms and neck will stand up.” And that's what, essentially, makes an Indigenous northern lights tour so unique: Depending on where in the world you go, you'll learn something new every time.

Some 3,000 miles away in Finnish Lapland, Aurora Holidays is a Sámi family-owned lodge north of the Arctic Circle in Utsjoki. They have been running northern lights tours with cultural storytelling elements for seven years. They also offer experiences that teach guests about Sámi traditions like reindeer herding, snowshoeing, and hiking under the midnight sun. During northern lights outings in the fall and winter, travelers warm up in a small hut beside the revered Teno river while guides contextualize the lights. You may hear stories about how the lights are believed to speak (and listen); or how others have traditionally feared them, staying inside while the aurora dances, just to be safe. “There are as many Indigenous perspectives as there are Sámi people,” says Jonna Wood, the company's marketing lead. “Though the culture and history is shared, the modern-day Sámi population is a varied bunch and not a stereotypical group that can be put in a box and labeled.”

In neighboring Kiruna, Sweden, Kerstin Nilsson (from the Leaváš Sámi community) doesn't plan her experiences around the lights. Rather, the display is a bonus to the Icelandic horse rides she and Mats Blind-Berg (Girjas Sámi) offer through their tour company, Ofelaš . To Nilsson, the “magic phenomenon” of the lights, and Indigenous interpretations of them, are a means of more broadly understanding the Sámi connection to the land. “It is not just the scientific way of looking at northern lights—it has to do with the way of living and thinking,” says Nilsson. “You need to be aware of what the nature is telling you.” On blustery horse rides, greeted by the aurora or not, Nilsson hopes travelers will pay attention to the world around them in the way that Sámi locals long have. It's the kind of experience that sticks with most travelers longer than any photo will.

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COMMENTS

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    Where & HOW To See The Northern Lights in Banff (2024) Yes, you can see the northern lights in Banff. The Aurora Borealis make an appearance several times throughout the year. Visitors have the best chance to spot the lights is during the winter months from October to May. However, thanks to little light pollution and crisp mountain air, it is ...

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    Because the northern lights are best and most often seen in the north of Canada, several northern lights tours can be booked for this part of Canada. You must think of a trip from Yellowknife in Northwest Territories. This is no less than 1865 km (1151 mi) from Banff. From Vancouver, you can also book an aurora tour.

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    Banff National Park is one of the greatest places in the world to see the northern lights! Here are some details about when the best time is to see the northern lights in Banff: Best Season to See Northern Lights in Banff: The best time to see the northern lights in Banff is during the winter months, specifically from November until March.

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    Alberta is one of the best provinces of Canada to observe the northern lights. But if you get lucky enough to see the natural phenomenon in Banff National Park, it will be a truly magical experience. Impressive mountain ranges, perfectly still reflective lakes, and fresh snow is a beautiful setting for the nature's show.

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  8. Northern Lights in Banff: how to see aurora borealis

    People think you can only see the northern lights in Banff in the winter months, but you can actually see them any time of the year. All you need are the right conditions. Between September and April is the best time to spot them as the nights are longer and darker. From 9 pm to 3 am is when the lights are most likely to be seen.

  9. Northern Lights In Canada

    There are many spots to watch the Northern Lights in Canada. For places closest to Alberta, Lake Minnewanka, Fort McMurray, County of Northern Lights, and Jasper are most highly recommended. Further afield, you can experience the Northern Lights in places like Whitehorse, Yellowknife, Manitoba, and, while a bit more difficult to get to ...

  10. How to See Northern Lights in Alberta (updated for 2024)

    See the Northern Lights in the Canadian Rockies! There are plenty of spots to see the northern lights in Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. To get that perfect backdrop, we suggest heading to Pyramid Lake , Abraham Lake (David Thompson Country), and Lake Minnewanka . These spots are beautiful day or night, and in the absence of any ...

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    Check The Weather. The weather has an impact on your ability to view the Northern Lights. If it is raining or there is a lot of cloud cover, then the probability of seeing the Lights is low. So, check the weather and pick a day with clear skies for the best chance of viewing the Northern Lights. 6.

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    Ice Fishing, Winter activities and Northern Lights Adventure. Stay in a Fly-In Lodge north of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Availability March - April. Duration 2-5 nights. Departs From Yellowknife, NWT. View Tour. 1 305 USD. Northern Lights Tour.

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    Specializing in Northern lights tours in Canada, our local experts have over 22 years experiences creating aurora borealis tours in Northern Canada. LIMITED TIME OFFER: Book now and enjoy saving up to $4,800 on your Train Trip or up to $1,200 per couple on a Road Trip adventure. Schedule a Call Email us. 1 800 217 0973 US.

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  15. 13 Best Canada Northern Lights Tour and When to Go (2024)

    Best Time to See Northern Lights in Canada. The best time to see Canada's Northern Lights is during the winter months, from December to March. Even October to December can offer clear views of the Aurora if you are far north. This is because you need dark, clear skies to see the Aurora - and in Canada, the further north you go, the longer ...

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    It is predicted that 2023 will be a great year for spotting the Canadian Aurora Borealis. Here are the best places to see the Northern Lights in Canada. [ Explore: Northern Lights Canada Tours] Churchill, Manitoba. Found along the shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill is the best place in Canada to see the Northern Lights.

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  22. Experience The Northern Lights From A Private Teepee In Canada's Aurora

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    The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The city of Yellowknife lies directly underneath the aurora oval, giving an unparalleled front row seat to this most astonishing of natural wonders. Yellowknife is known as the Aurora Capital of the World and is also a winter wonderland ...

  24. For a Richer Northern Lights Experience, Go With an Indigenous Guide

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