The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena on Earth. This mesmerizing light display, featuring waves of vibrant green, pink, and purple dancing across the night sky, is on many travelers’ bucket lists. Alaska, with its clear winter nights and northern latitude, is one of the best places in the world to see this celestial spectacle. If you’re lucky enough to catch a glimpse, the Northern Lights will leave you breathless. But how exactly can you chase the Northern Lights in Alaska? Let’s dive into the best places, times, and tips for capturing this incredible experience.
1. The Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
When planning to see the Northern Lights, timing is everything. Alaska’s winter months—from late September to April—are ideal, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
What to Expect:
- The peak viewing season is from late September to March, with the months of December through February offering the longest nights. During these months, the nights are long, the skies are dark, and the chances of seeing the Aurora are higher.
- Solar Activity plays a major role in the strength and frequency of the Northern Lights. The aurora is caused by solar wind particles colliding with the Earth’s magnetic field, so you’ll want to check solar activity forecasts before your trip. There are apps and websites that can help you track these solar events, increasing your chances of seeing the lights.
Pro Tip: To get the best view of the Northern Lights, you’ll want to be in a location far from city lights, as light pollution can interfere with your ability to see the Aurora. This is why many travelers choose to head into Alaska’s wilderness for the ultimate viewing experience.
2. Where to Go to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
Alaska’s wide expanse offers a variety of destinations for those looking to chase the Northern Lights, but some places stand out as the best spots for Aurora viewing.
Fairbanks: The Best Place for Aurora Viewing
- Located directly under the Aurora Oval, Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Its location far from the city lights and the fact that it’s relatively accessible make it a go-to destination for Aurora chasers.
- Fairbanks also boasts clear, dark skies, which are essential for good viewing conditions. The aurora is often visible for several hours, giving you plenty of time to catch the dazzling display.
What to Expect:
- Many tours offer Aurora viewing packages, where guides take you out to remote locations for the best viewing. In addition to the lights, you’ll also have opportunities to photograph the landscape with the glow of the aurora above.
Anchorage: Urban Access with Northern Lights Views
- If you’re looking for a more urban setting but still want to see the Northern Lights, Anchorage is a great choice. While it’s a larger city, you can head out into the surrounding areas, like Knik River or Flattop Mountain, to escape light pollution and get a better view of the Aurora.
- Anchorage is easily accessible, making it a great base for excursions into the nearby wilderness areas.
What to Expect:
- Being a city, Anchorage’s chances of seeing the aurora are a bit less than in Fairbanks, but it still offers excellent viewing opportunities on clear, cold nights.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Remote Wilderness
- If you’re looking for solitude and a truly remote experience, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park provides some of Alaska’s darkest skies. This vast national park, filled with glaciers and mountain peaks, is a hidden gem for photographers and adventurers looking to capture the Aurora in an untouched wilderness.
What to Expect:
- This park offers a chance to photograph the Northern Lights without the crowds. With minimal light pollution and stunning scenery, Wrangell-St. Elias is a dream for those looking to get off the beaten path.
3. How to Photograph the Northern Lights
Capturing the Northern Lights on camera is one of the most rewarding experiences for photographers. With a few basic tips and the right gear, you’ll be able to take stunning photos of this otherworldly display.
What to Expect:
- Camera Settings: Use a manual mode to control your settings. Set your aperture to the widest possible (f/2.8 or f/4), and adjust your ISO to a higher setting (typically between 800 and 3200, depending on the light conditions). Use a long exposure (around 10 to 20 seconds) to capture the movement of the lights.
- Tripod: Since you’ll be using a slow shutter speed, a sturdy tripod is essential to prevent any motion blur. It will keep your camera steady and allow for those beautiful, sharp shots of the aurora.
- Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens (such as a 14mm or 24mm) will help you capture the expansive sky and the landscape beneath it. The Northern Lights often stretch across the entire horizon, and a wide lens will allow you to capture it in all its glory.
Pro Tip: A remote shutter or timer will prevent any shaking when you press the shutter button, ensuring crisp, clear images.
4. Chasing the Northern Lights While Cruising Alaska
One of the best ways to see the Northern Lights in Alaska is by going to Alaska on a cruise. Many cruises offer routes that pass through the Inside Passage and along Alaska’s northern coast, bringing you closer to the Arctic Circle where the aurora is often visible. These cruises are designed to take advantage of Alaska’s stunning landscapes, giving you the perfect vantage point for viewing the lights.
What to Expect:
- Onboard Viewing: Many cruise ships are equipped with open decks that allow you to view the Northern Lights from the comfort of the ship. With warm clothes and a camera, you’ll be able to step outside and watch the Aurora dance across the sky as you glide along the Alaskan coastline.
- Northern Lights Tours: Some cruise lines offer guided tours focused specifically on chasing the Northern Lights, taking you to ideal viewing locations once you reach your port of call.
5. Final Tips for Chasing the Aurora Borealis
- Patience is Key: The Northern Lights are unpredictable. Sometimes they’re visible for hours, other times only for a few minutes. Be prepared to wait and stay bundled up in the cold—your patience will be rewarded with a spectacular light show!
- Dress Warmly: Since you’ll likely be standing outside in the cold for long periods of time, dress in layers to stay warm. A good insulated jacket, hat, gloves, and warm boots are essential for staying comfortable while waiting for the aurora to appear.
Conclusion
Chasing the Northern Lights in Alaska is an experience that will stay with you forever. From the stunning backdrop of snow-covered landscapes to the mesmerizing colors of the Aurora Borealis, Alaska offers one of the best places in the world to see this magical light show. Whether you’re trekking into the wilderness or cruising Alaska’s coastline, be sure to pack your camera and your patience—you never know when the sky will light up with the colors of the aurora, offering you an unforgettable photo opportunity.
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