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Experience the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska is one of the premier destinations to witness the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis. This natural phenomenon features colorful bands of light dancing across the dark night sky, drawing travelers from around the globe. Visitors to Alaska can also enjoy winter activities such as snowmobiling, dog mushing, skiing, festivals, and sporting events.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

The optimal period to view the northern lights in Alaska is between mid-August and mid-April, when the longer nights provide darker skies ideal for aurora viewing.

How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

For the best aurora experience, it is advisable to escape the ambient light of towns and cities. While the northern lights are visible from urban areas, the outskirts or regions with clear, dark skies offer a more vivid display. The northern lights can be seen throughout Alaska but are most frequently observed in the Interior and Arctic regions.

Fairbanks is renowned for its northern lights viewing due to its geographic location, extended winter darkness, and high auroral activity. The city offers numerous tours, activities, and accommodations focused on aurora viewing. Other prime locations in the Interior and Arctic regions include Coldfoot, Wiseman, Utqiagvik (Barrow), and Prudhoe Bay/Deadhorse. Even if you’re not traveling that far north, you can still spot the northern lights in more southern parts of the state, though the chances decrease as you move south.

Guided northern lights tours are available in the Interior,

Arctic, and Southcentral regions. Tour guides can take you to remote locations with minimal light pollution, enhancing your viewing experience. Options range from single-day tours to multi-day packages, which often include meals and stays at unique, remote lodges designed for aurora viewing. If you prefer a self-guided adventure, you can monitor the statewide aurora forecast and the Fairbanks aurora tracker. Many Alaska hotels offer a northern lights wake-up call service to alert guests when the lights are visible.

The Science Behind the Northern Lights

The northern lights, or aurora borealis, occur about 60 to 70 miles above the Earth’s surface and can extend hundreds of miles into space. This phenomenon is caused by electrically charged particles traveling through the Earth’s magnetosphere and colliding with atmospheric gases, producing light. The auroral oval, a ring-like area above the geomagnetic north, is where auroral activity is concentrated. The intensity of solar flares affects the intensity and range of the aurora. The most common color seen is brilliant green, but the aurora can also display red and purple patterns.

Conclusion

A trip to Alaska offers a chance to witness the awe-inspiring northern lights and enjoy a variety of winter activities. Whether you choose a guided tour or a self-directed adventure, the experience of seeing the aurora borealis in Alaska is unforgettable.