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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The mesmerizing Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a breathtaking natural spectacle that paints the night sky with dazzling colors. Ranging from ethereal greens and deep blues to striking pinks, violets, yellows, and fiery reds, this elusive phenomenon occurs when charged particles from the sun collide with Earth’s magnetic fields.
There are plenty of places to see the Northern Lights, each showcasing an enchanting celestial dance of vibrant hues. If you are currently in Canada, consider planning a stargaze trip to these scenic locations.
6 Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Northern Lights Canada, Destination Canada, and National Geographic all crowned Yukon as the best place to see the Northern Lights. Read on to discover other top-rated sites worth visiting below:
1. Yukon - Outdoor gleaming party
Situated under the aurora oval, Yukon in the northwest of Canada is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, with multiple viewing times available. Amidst the mountainous gusto of Mount Logan, this destination is a tempting feast to all senses. With a strategic location and breathtaking landscapes, Yukon has something for everyone, from indulging in wildlife wonders and basking under the vibrant night sky, to the exciting snowshoeing.
Prime time: between November and March
Main locations: Yukon River, Arctic Range Adventures’ Aurora Centre, the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs.
2. Manitoba - Wildlife immersion
The dreamy settings of Manitoba’s Churchill allow space enthusiasts to combine aurora and wildlife viewing. Under the glamorous hues of the Northern Lights, travelers can participate in a unique exploration alongside animals such as polar bears, Arctic foxes, belugas, moose, and snowy owls.
Prime time: between January and March.
Main locations: The Churchill River, the Manitoba Museum, the Aikens Lake.
3. Nunavut - The Winter wonderland
Nunavut becomes one of the best locations to see the Northern Lights when Canada welcomes longer nights from October to April. As December rolls in, stargazers are treated with shorter daylight of just four hours every day, presenting an even higher chance to meet the spellbinding spectacles. As the locals suggest, planning a trip to Nunavut during this season translates to a day filled with aurora displays.
Prime time: October to April.
Main locations: Kimmirut, Whale Cove, Arctic Haven Wilderness Lodge.
4. Ontario - Dazzling indulgences
To chase after the dramatic aurora display in Ontario, there is an array of stunning locations promising an indelible impression of the celestial phenomenon. Top places to see the Northern Lights in Ontario vary from the pristine wilderness of Killarney Provincial Park to the towering cliffs of Bruce National Park, providing avid astronomy dwellers with a plethora of options.
Prime time: September and October.
Main Locations: Bruce Peninsula National Park, Point Pelee National Park, Point Farms Provincial Park, and Manitoulin Island.
5. Newfoundland and Labrador - Unspoiled wilderness
Lock into a complete solitude away from the bustling light pollution in the remote area of Newfoundland and Labrador, where travelers can take a respite under the Northern Lights embrace. Head to viewing spots such as the area up north, within the national parks, or remote sites near the coast.
Prime time: September to October and March to April
Main Locations: Torngat Mountains Base Camp and Research Station.
6. Alberta - Astronomy tourism
Nestled in Northern Alberta, Athabasca University’s Geophysical Observatory serves as a hub for studying the fascinating effects of the aurora on Earth. Thanks to its prime location, this site is hailed as one of the top spots in Canada to witness the dazzling Northern Lights. For those eager to experience this celestial wonder, the best viewing period falls between September and mid-May, renowned as the peak season for aurora activity.
Prime Time: September to May.
Main Locations: Lake Minnewanka, Castle Junction, and Herbert Lake.
Whether you find yourself in the rugged landscapes of Yukon, the remote beauty of Nunavut, or the unspoiled wilderness of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada offers some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in all their glory.
NORTHERN LIGHTS CANADA | DESTINATION CANADA | NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC
Editor’s Choice: All Eyes on Aurora: Here's How to See Northern Lights from a Plane
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