Northern Lights in Alaska – Best Time & Places

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Seeing the Northern Lights from Alaska is an incredible experience you’ll never forget. The Alaska aurora borealis season lasts more than half a year, and if you stay for at least three nights, your chances of spotting the Green Lady are over 90%!

Needless to say, Alaska is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, and I’m always awestruck by the dancing colors and displays. There’s a reason I love returning here to take photographs!

Best places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

Alaska’s remote settlements and beautiful landscapes provide the perfect location for aurora chasing. In this guide, I’ll share the best time to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska, the top tours, and tips for capturing stunning images.

It’s also worth reading our guide to better understand what the Northern Lights are and how to increase your chances of seeing them.

See the Aurora Borealis in Alaska

If you want to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, you must plan accordingly. This includes knowing the best time and places to spot the aurora. Don’t worry; I’ll give you all the necessary information and tips to help you become an aurora hunting expert!

• Best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska
• Best places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska
• Best Alaska Northern Lights tours

Whether you want to find auroras on your own or join the best Northern Lights tours in Alaska, I’ve got you covered.

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

Knowing the best time to see the Northern Lights is crucial to make the most of your time. Alaska’s aurora season is from late August to late April, at least in Fairbanks. During this time, the night sky is dark enough for visible light displays. If you visit outside of this window, it’ll be too bright to see the Dancing Lady.

For those visiting Alaska primarily to see the Northern Lights, I recommend going between November and January. These are the best months to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska since the days are short and the nights are long and dark.

Best time to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

On the other hand, if you want to do some sightseeing in addition to aurora chasing, it’s better to go from August to October or from February to April. The longer daylight hours will give you more opportunities to explore during the day, while the nights will still be dark enough to see the Northern Lights.

As for the best time of day to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska, during the winter, it’s between 9:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. Basically, anytime while it’s dark. Of course, you need a cloudless night and a strong solar storm, so checking the Northern Lights forecast is essential.

Best months to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

If you have the luxury of planning your Alaska Northern Lights adventure well ahead of time, you should know the best months to visit:

• August, September, and October: Besides having visible auroras, these months are some of the warmest of Alaska’s Northern Lights season. If you don’t want to deal with freezing cold, this is the best time to come. The days are longer, too, so you’ll be able to do and see more during the day.

• November, December, and January: The nights are very long and dark during these months, creating the perfect scenario for aurora viewing, so long as the skies are clear. However, the temperatures can drop quite a bit, so bring lots of layers and warm clothing.

• February, March, and April: The days start to lengthen this time of year, so you’ll have time to sightsee during the day and chase auroras at night. The nights are still relatively long and very dark, so you’ll still have a very high chance of seeing Alaska’s Northern Lights.

Best places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

It’s a large state, so there are several different places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. Overall, the best place is Fairbanks.

Fairbanks, Alaska, has been hailed as one of the top places to see the Northern Lights in the world. This is because it’s located under the “Auroral Oval,” a zone with a large concentration of aurora activity. That said, you’ll also find great spots further north and close to the Arctic Circle. Even big cities like Anchorage offer limited opportunities for seeing the lights.

To sum up, these are the best places to visit in Alaska for the Northern Lights:

1. Fairbanks: During Alaska’s aurora season, there is a 90% chance of seeing the Northern Lights
2. Coldfoot: A quiet, remote location to see the aurora in Alaska
3. Deadhorse/Prudhoe Bay: A place to see the Northern Lights, the Arctic Ocean, and the tundra
4. Denali National Park: A unique spot to view the aurora on North America’s highest peak
5. Talkeetna: A town with good chances of seeing the Northern Lights
6. Anchorage: A city with relatively low light pollution for those who don’t want to travel far
7. Nome: A former gold rush town with low light pollution

1. Fairbanks, the most popular place to see Northern Lights in Alaska

♦ Latitude 64°

Hands down, Fairbanks is the best place in Alaska to see the Aurora Borealis. Thanks to its low light pollution and minimal rainfall, the skies are usually clear. Plus, Fairbanks is located just under the “Auroral Oval,” a ring-shaped zone around Earth’s magnetic polar cap with a high concentration of aurora activity. All of these factors make it the perfect spot to see a spectacular light display.

If you want to see the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, I recommend staying here for at least 3 nights during aurora season; your chances of seeing the lights will jump to 90%! For an unforgettable experience, book one of the top Northern Lights hotels in Fairbanks, such as Pike’s Waterfront Lodge, which has an Aurora Conservatory.

1. Fairbanks, the most popular place to see Northern Lights in Alaska

On the other hand, if you want to take a Northern Lights tour from Fairbanks, you have plenty of options. I like this full-day tour through the Arctic Circle to see wildlife and the Northern Lights. Another option is this aurora tour with dog sledding.

Not only is Fairbanks one of the best cities in Alaska to see the Northern Lights, but it’s also just 20 minutes from Chena Lake, another prime destination for aurora viewing. This beautiful area has practically no light pollution, so you can watch the lights dance over the lake. The aurora reflections in the water make for phenomenal photos, too!

Moreover, Chena Lake offers daytime activities like camping, cross-country skiing, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, so it’s worth staying overnight. My favorite place to stay is Hotel North Pole, which offers aurora wake-up calls, so you catch all the lights. Alternatively, you can take this tour from Fairbanks to Chena Lake to chase the Northern Lights and go ice fishing.

2. Coldfoot, another one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

♦ Latitude 67°

Coldfoot is another excellent place to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. Like Fairbanks, Coldfoot is directly under the Auroral Oval, specifically at 67° north latitude. Moreover, its remote location means there is almost no light pollution, creating the ideal conditions for spotting auroras.

2. Coldfoot, another one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska

An interesting thing about Coldfoot is that it used to be a gold mining settlement. These days, it’s a truck stop and a bit tricky to get to. If you’re going on your own, ensure you have a vehicle with four-wheel drive. As for overnight accommodation, most people stay at Coldfoot Camp, which is open year-round and has refurbished trailers with tidy, rustic-style rooms.

Otherwise, some Northern Lights tours in Alaska include a stop in Coldfoot, so you can save yourself the time and stress of driving to this remote locale by booking a guided excursion.

3. Deadhorse/Prudhoe Bay, a remote place to watch the Northern Lights in Alaska

♦ Latitude 70°

Does your dream itinerary include seeing the Northern Lights over the Arctic Ocean and tundra? Well then, Deadhorse/Prudhoe Bay is where you should go. This area stands out for its remote location in Alaska’s far north, providing peak conditions for aurora viewing.

3. Deadhorse/Prudhoe Bay, a remote place to watch the Northern Lights in Alaska

However, there are a few things to consider before deciding to go here. First of all, the winter temperatures get very chilly, so pack plenty of warm layers. Secondly, the town is relatively isolated and sits at the end of the Dalton Highway, so you must travel along an uneven, gravel road to get there.

If you’re still game, be prepared to enjoy the incredible Arctic Lights in Alaska. Not only that, but you can visit the tundra and look for wildlife like caribou. I recommend staying overnight at Deadhorse Camp, which has simple yet clean rooms. You can also book a tour to see the Arctic Ocean and Deadhorse’s oil fields, which provide jobs for most of the locals here.

4. Denali National Park, the most beautiful place to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska

♦ Latitude 63°

Denali National Park is known for its wild and pristine landscapes, and it’s also one of the most beautiful places to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. The park is perfect for daytime activities like biking, camping, fishing, and hiking. At night, the area comes alive with dancing aurora displays, thanks to its distinct lack of light pollution.

Best of all, you can capture the most amazing photos of the Northern Lights in Denali, Alaska, as the aurora hovers above Mt. Denali, the highest mountain peak in North America.

4. Denali National Park, the most beautiful place to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska

The national park is just a 3-hour drive south from Fairbanks or 2.5 hours north of Anchorage. If you want to stay in the area, I recommend booking a room at Grande Denali Lodge, a rustic accommodation with panoramic views of Denali Canyon. Otherwise, the nearby mining town of Healy has several great options, such as the Aurora Denali Lodge, a convenient hotel with competitive rates, and a delicious restaurant.

Also, if you’re staying in Healy, consider this guided aurora hunting tour through Denali.

5. Talkeetna, another Northern Lights location in Alaska

♦ Latitude 62°

Located at 62° north latitude, Talkeetna is another excellent place to see Alaska’s Northern Lights. This small mining town is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including boreal forests, mountain peaks, and winding rivers.

5. Talkeetna, another Northern Lights location in Alaska

Talkeetna is about 2.5 hours north of Anchorage, yet it feels like its own little world. With long dark nights and minimal light pollution, it’s a beautiful spot to visit in Alaska for the Northern Lights. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the dancing display over the Alaska Range and nearby waterways.

During the day, you can take advantage of Talkeetna’s other attractions and activities, such as the historic downtown, dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. To catch up on sleep, I recommend staying at the Talkeetna Inn, which is nestled along the Susitna River and has a quaint, rustic vibe. Alternatively, Talkeetna Hideaway is a clean and cozy cabin where you can enjoy wildlife spotting and a daily complimentary breakfast.

6. Anchorage, another Northern Lights city in Alaska

♦ Latitude 61°

Despite being the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage doesn’t get nearly as much light pollution as other major cities around the world. So, if you’re lucky, you may see the Northern Lights in Anchorage, Alaska.

Of course, you should get as far from the city center as possible. This way, you’ll improve your chances of spotting the aurora. Fortunately, you won’t have to stray too far to see a display of arctic lights in the sky.

6. Anchorage, another Northern Lights city in Alaska

Plus, Anchorage is a great home base, especially for travelers who want the amenities and comforts of staying in a large city. You’ll be close to some prime Northern Lights locations in Alaska and have countless daytime activities to choose from, such as shopping, museum-hopping, and wildlife spotting. This area also has great dining options and a unique natural phenomenon: the bore tides. After a low tide, a rush of seawater creates large waves that crash into the Turnagain Arm by Anchorage.

As for where to stay in Anchorage, I like The Hotel Captain Cook, a comfortable accommodation in the heart of downtown. Finally, if you want to work on your aurora photography skills, this small-group tour can help you capture stunning images.

7. Nome, a coastal location to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska

♦ Latitude 64°

Lastly, Nome is an isolated northern town with low light pollution, making it a good spot to chase the Aurora Borealis in Alaska. The former gold-rush town boasts a fascinating history and a unique coastal setting by the Bering Sea.

Nome is on Alaska’s Seward Peninsula, in the far western region of the state, about 165 miles from Eastern Russia. So, you don’t need to travel far from Nome to see the Dancing Lady; you’ll start seeing the lights just a mile from town.

7. Nome, a coastal location to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska

Another curiosity about Nome is that it serves as the endpoint for the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, which takes place every year in March. So, if you visit around this time, you may see the racers and their husky dogs.

For a cozy stay in Nome, I recommend booking a room at Aurora Inn & Suites, which overlooks the Bering Sea. Another great option is the Dredge No. 7 Inn, a homey accommodation run by an Alaskan mining family.

Alaska Northern Lights tours

There are many interesting Aurora Borealis tours in Alaska, so you should be able to find one that fits your budget and preferences. Many tourists visit Alaska to see this natural phenomenon, so you’ll find excursions exclusively for aurora chasing and tours that include daytime activities.

As I mentioned, Fairbanks is a hotspot for Northern Lights trips in Alaska, so many tours depart from there. A good number of excursions also explore the Arctic Circle and Denali National Park. In addition, some tour packages include meals, hot drinks, overnight lodging, and activities, so there is something for everyone.

To help you out, I’m sharing the best Alaska Northern Lights tours below. However, if you’re interested in an all-inclusive getaway, look for a Northern Lights vacation package that includes accommodation, food, guides, and more. For example, this 6-day tour package starts and ends in Fairbanks and includes aurora viewing, dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing.

Northern Lights tours from Fairbanks, Alaska

First, this guided tour from Fairbanks is an excellent option if you want something affordable. It includes pick-up from your hotel in Fairbanks and transportation to Murphy Dome, a recreational site outside the city where you can see the aurora.

Arctic Circle tour from Fairbanks, Alaska

Murphy Dome is located nearly 3,000 feet above sea level and offers 360° views of the surroundings, so it’s the perfect setting to see the Alaska aurora. While you wait for the Green Lady to show up, you can stay warm in the van and enjoy complimentary hot drinks.

• Departs from: Fairbanks
• Price from: $120
• Duration: 5 hours
• Highlights: Aurora viewing at Murphy Dome

If you’re okay with spending more, I recommend booking this full-day excursion to the Arctic Circle. You’ll depart from Fairbanks and make your way to the Arctic Circle, passing the Trans-Alaska Pipeline along the way. You’ll end up at the edge of the Yukon River, where you’ll follow your guide to a plateau on Finger Mountain. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like bears, foxes, lynxes, and moose while you wait for the Northern Lights to appear.

Aurora viewing tour from Fairbanks, Alaska

• Departs from: Fairbanks
• Price from: $290
• Duration: 14 hours
• Highlights: Arctic Circle, Trans-Alaska Pipeline, Yukon River, aurora viewing at Finger Mountain

The last Fairbanks, Alaska, Northern Lights tour I recommend is this one, which combines two unique experiences: aurora viewing and dog sledding. After getting picked up from your hotel in Fairbanks, you’ll travel to a nearby open area to enjoy a sled ride. If the aurora makes an early appearance, you can glide under the beautiful arctic lights.

Northern Lights tours from Fairbanks, Alaska

Then, your group will visit an off-the-grid yurt, where you’ll indulge in a warm meal and watch the skies. The yurt has north-facing windows, so you can see the Northern Lights from the cozy interior.

• Departs from: Fairbanks
• Price from: $315
• Duration: 6 hours
• Highlights: Dog sledding, warm meal in an off-the-grid yurt, aurora viewing

Northern Lights tours in Chena Lake, Alaska

Chena Lake is just a short distance from Fairbanks, so it’s another place with lots of cool Alaska Northern Lights tours. For example, this 5-hour excursion lets you experience the highlights of Chena Lake Recreation Area. First, your guide will share some ice fishing tips so you can try your hand at catching King salmon and rainbow trout. Then, warm up in a cozy heated cabin and dine on your catch of the day or a hot reindeer sausage. Of course, you’ll also keep an eye out for the Northern Lights throughout the night.

Northern Lights tours in Chena Lake, Alaska

Alternatively, this full-day tour from Fairbanks to Chena Lake is another excellent option. It includes pick-up from your Fairbanks hotel and transportation to Chena Hot Springs Resort. Enjoy a walk through the Aurora Ice Museum and grab a drink at the ice bar before tucking into a warm meal. Then, soak in the hot springs while gazing at the Northern Lights above.

Northern Lights tour in Denali, Alaska

If you’re looking for an excursion to enjoy the Northern Lights in Alaska’s Denali area, check out this tour. It includes pick-up from several hotels in Healy and transportation to the remote and pristine setting of Denali. A knowledgeable guide will point out the best places to spot the aurora while sharing insights into the area’s history and geography. Bring your camera because they’ll also give you tips for capturing incredible Alaska Northern Lights photos.

Northern Lights tour in Denali, Alaska

• Departs from: Healy
• Price from: $139
• Duration: 3 hours
• Highlights: Aurora viewing in the Denali area

Northern Lights chase from Anchorage, Alaska

Finally, this 6-hour tour is the best option if you’re staying in Anchorage. After getting picked up from your Anchorage hotel, you’ll visit some of the nearby natural areas, such as Chugach State Park or Eagle River, both of which provide excellent views to the north.

Northern Lights chase from Anchorage, Alaska

Then, you’ll head to Palmer, an area with beautiful scenery and dark skies. This tour focuses on photographing the Northern Lights near Anchorage, Alaska, so make sure you bring your camera. Your guide will provide a tripod and expert tips to help you capture stunning images. Plus, you can enjoy hot beverages and snacks while waiting for the aurora to appear.

• Departs from: Anchorage
• Price from: $315
• Duration: 6 hours
• Highlights: Admission to nearby state parks, aurora viewing, photography tips, hot beverages and snacks

Tips for seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska

Now that you know when and where to see the Northern Lights in Alaska, here are some tips to help you maximize your visit:

• Choose a night with clear, dark skies. You need a solar storm to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska, but even the largest storms can be masked by cloud cover.

• The moon is a big source of light, so go out on a moonless night, if possible. If you can’t, don’t worry; you can still see the Northern Lights through a moonlit sky when the solar storm is strong enough.

• Go somewhere with limited light pollution, away from cities and urban areas. The darker, the better!

• Check the aurora forecast in Alaska and use helpful apps to track the weather. I like to use Windy and NOAA to see the weather conditions and My Aurora Forecast for the KP index and solar wind.

• Consider booking a guided Northern Lights tour in Alaska, especially if it’s your first time hunting auroras. This way, you can join an expert who knows exactly where to go to spot the Green Lady.

Finally, if you want to capture fantastic photos of the Northern Lights in Alaska, I recommend our dedicated guides, where you’ll find everything from how to photograph the aurora, to the best equipment to use:

Map of best locations to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska

This downloadable Northern Lights map of Alaska includes all the cities and places I mentioned above. Feel free to save it on your phone so you can reference it while planning your trip:

FAQs – Northern Lights in Alaska

To wrap up, I want to share the answers to the most common questions about seeing the Aurora Borealis in Alaska. If you have any doubts or concerns, this section should clear them up:

That’s everything you should know about Alaska and the Northern Lights. Remember, if you want to take great photos, you’ll need the appropriate gear and camera settings. My guide to photographing the Northern Lights will walk you through the process step-by-step so you can see how I make my images stand out.

Finally, if you have any other questions or want to share your experience taking a Northern Lights tour in Alaska, comment below. I’d love to hear all about it!

Happy aurora hunting!