Few natural phenomena inspire as much awe and wonder as the aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights. This ethereal dance of lights across the night sky has captivated humans for millennia, sparking legends and myths in cultures around the Arctic Circle. Today, witnessing this spectacular light show is on many travelers' bucket lists, and Canada's Yukon Territory offers some of the best viewing opportunities in the world.
Understanding the Northern Lights
Before planning your aurora-hunting adventure, it helps to understand what creates this breathtaking phenomenon. The Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth's atmosphere. These collisions produce energy released as light, creating the shimmering curtains of green, pink, purple, and blue that characterize the aurora.
The intensity and frequency of the Northern Lights are tied to solar activity, which follows an 11-year cycle. However, impressive displays can be seen throughout this cycle, especially in locations like Yukon that sit under the "aurora oval" – the zone with the highest aurora activity.
Why Yukon is Perfect for Aurora Viewing
Yukon Territory offers several advantages for Northern Lights chasers:
- Prime Geographic Location - Yukon sits under the aurora oval, the zone where aurora activity is most frequent and intense.
- Low Light Pollution - With a population of just 40,000 people in an area larger than California, Yukon offers pristine dark skies away from city lights.
- Reliable Clear Weather - Yukon's continental climate results in many clear nights, especially in autumn and late winter.
- Long Viewing Season - Northern Lights can be seen in Yukon from late August to mid-April, offering visitors a wide window of opportunity.
- Accessible Wilderness - Unlike some northern destinations, Yukon offers comfortable accommodation and relatively easy access to prime viewing locations.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Yukon
While the aurora can be visible from late August through mid-April, certain periods offer advantages:
September to October
Early autumn brings mild temperatures (often above freezing) and typically clear skies. Lakes haven't yet frozen, offering the possibility of seeing the lights reflected in water. This period also features less snow, making travel easier.
February to March
Late winter offers longer hours of darkness and often stable, clear weather patterns. While temperatures are cold (often -10°C to -20°C), proper clothing makes viewing comfortable, and the snow-covered landscape creates a magical setting.
Regardless of when you visit, plan to stay at least three nights to increase your chances of seeing the lights. Aurora activity follows its own patterns, independent of our travel schedules!
Top Northern Lights Viewing Locations in Yukon
Whitehorse Area
As Yukon's capital and transportation hub, Whitehorse makes an excellent base for aurora viewing:
- Takhini Hot Springs - Soak in steaming mineral waters while watching the lights dance overhead—a truly magical experience.
- Fish Lake Road - Just 15 minutes from downtown Whitehorse, this road offers easy access to dark skies.
- Lake Laberge - This large lake north of Whitehorse offers unobstructed views and the possibility of seeing the lights reflected in the water (before freeze-up).
Dawson City Region
This historic Gold Rush town in northern Yukon offers excellent aurora viewing with a dash of frontier charm:
- Midnight Dome - This viewpoint above town offers 360-degree views perfect for aurora watching.
- Dempster Highway - The first few kilometers of this wilderness road provide excellent dark-sky viewing.
Southern Lakes Region
This area south of Whitehorse features multiple lakes and mountain views:
- Carcross Desert - The world's smallest desert offers surreal dunes against which to photograph the Northern Lights.
- Atlin Road - This remote road offers pristine viewing conditions away from any light pollution.
Photography Tips for the Northern Lights
Capturing the aurora requires some special techniques and equipment:
Essential Equipment
- Camera with Manual Mode - A DSLR or mirrorless camera that allows manual settings is ideal.
- Wide-Angle Lens - A fast lens (f/2.8 or wider) with a focal length of 14-24mm helps capture the expansive sky.
- Sturdy Tripod - Absolutely essential for the long exposures needed.
- Remote Shutter Release - Helps prevent camera shake during long exposures.
- Extra Batteries - Cold temperatures drain batteries quickly, so carry spares in an inside pocket to keep them warm.
Recommended Settings
- Aperture - Use the widest aperture your lens allows (lowest f-number).
- ISO - Start at ISO 1600 and adjust based on results.
- Shutter Speed - Begin with 15 seconds and adjust based on how quickly the aurora is moving (faster movement requires shorter exposures to avoid blurring).
- Focus - Set to manual focus and focus on infinity (∞). Take test shots of stars to ensure sharpness.
- White Balance - Auto usually works well, though some photographers prefer the "Incandescent" setting to enhance the blues in the sky.
Composition Tips
- Include interesting foreground elements like trees, mountains, or cabins to add depth.
- Remember the "rule of thirds" when framing your shot.
- Consider including a human element to provide scale.
- If possible, include reflections in water for dramatic effect.
Preparing for Your Aurora Viewing Experience
Comfort is key when you might be standing outdoors for hours in potentially cold temperatures:
Clothing and Gear
- Layer Up - Use the three-layer system: moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and windproof/waterproof outer layer.
- Extremity Protection - Invest in quality insulated boots, thick socks, insulated gloves (with thinner glove liners for camera operation), and a warm hat that covers your ears.
- Hand and Foot Warmers - Chemical heat packs can be a lifesaver on cold nights.
- Thermos - Bring hot drinks to warm you from the inside.
- Folding Chair or Blanket - For comfort during long viewing sessions.
- Headlamp with Red Light - Preserves your night vision while allowing you to see equipment.
Aurora Forecasting
Several resources can help you predict aurora activity:
- Aurora Forecast Apps - Apps like "My Aurora Forecast" or "Aurora Alert" provide predictions and notifications.
- Space Weather Prediction Center - The NOAA's SWPC provides detailed aurora forecasts.
- Local Resources - Many Yukon hotels and tour operators offer aurora alert services for guests.
Guided Tours vs. Independent Viewing
When planning your aurora adventure, you'll need to decide whether to join a guided tour or venture out independently:
Guided Tour Advantages
- Experienced guides who know the best locations based on current conditions
- Transportation to optimal viewing spots away from light pollution
- Warm facilities or shelters where you can take breaks
- Photography assistance and tips from experienced aurora photographers
- Cultural context and scientific explanations of what you're seeing
- Safety in numbers when exploring remote areas
Independent Viewing Advantages
- Flexibility to chase the lights on your own schedule
- Privacy and solitude for a more personal experience
- Ability to stay out as long as you wish
- Often more economical, especially for groups
For first-time aurora viewers or those unfamiliar with Yukon, starting with a guided experience is often recommended. After gaining some experience, you may feel more confident venturing out independently on subsequent nights.
Where to Stay for Aurora Viewing
Yukon offers a range of accommodation options ideal for Northern Lights viewing:
Aurora-Focused Lodges
Several properties in Yukon specifically cater to aurora viewers with features like:
- Northern-facing windows or glass ceilings
- Aurora wake-up calls
- Outdoor viewing platforms with heaters
- Photography assistance
Wilderness Cabins
For a truly immersive experience, consider renting a cabin outside of town where you can step out your door into prime aurora-viewing territory.
Whitehorse Hotels
If you prefer urban amenities, many Whitehorse hotels partner with aurora tour operators who provide transportation to viewing locations outside the city lights.
Beyond the Aurora: Daytime Activities in Yukon
Since the Northern Lights appear only at night, you'll want engaging daytime activities to round out your Yukon experience:
Winter Activities (December-March)
- Dog sledding adventures
- Snowmobiling
- Ice fishing
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
- Visiting the Yukon Wildlife Preserve
- Soaking in Takhini Hot Springs
Autumn Activities (August-October)
- Hiking amid fall colors
- Canoeing or kayaking on lakes and rivers
- Wildlife viewing (especially for migrating birds)
- Mountain biking
- Cultural experiences in Whitehorse and Dawson City
Experiencing the Northern Lights Responsibly
As with all tourism activities, it's important to minimize our impact:
- Follow Leave No Trace principles in viewing areas
- Respect private property when seeking viewing locations
- Support local businesses and indigenous tour operators
- Consider carbon offset programs for your travel to Yukon
Plan Your Northern Lights Adventure
Witnessing the aurora borealis in Yukon is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines natural wonder with adventure in one of Canada's most pristine wilderness regions. The dance of green, pink, and purple lights across the star-filled sky creates memories that last a lifetime.
At Maple Ventures, we specialize in creating customized Northern Lights experiences in Yukon that combine optimal aurora viewing with daytime adventures tailored to your interests. Contact us today to start planning your aurora adventure!
