I. Introduction
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occur when charged particles from the sun collide with particles in Earth’s atmosphere. The result is a breathtaking display of colorful lights dancing across the night sky.
While the Northern Lights are most commonly associated with countries like Norway, Sweden, and Iceland, they can also be seen in the US. However, due to the country’s lower latitude, seeing the Northern Lights can be more challenging.
This article aims to help readers find the best places to see the Northern Lights in the US, as well as provide tips on planning a trip and capturing stunning photos.
II. Top 5 Places to Witness the Northern Lights in the US
To create this list, we considered factors such as frequency of sightings, accessibility, and overall experience.
1. Alaska
With its location close to the North Pole, Alaska is one of the best places in the US to see the Northern Lights. The state experiences nearly 240 days of darkness a year, which means ample opportunities to catch a glimpse of the phenomenon.
Some of the best places in Alaska for Northern Lights viewing include Fairbanks, Denali National Park, and Anchorage. Visitors can also book tours that specialize in Northern Lights sightings, which often include transportation, hot drinks, and expert guides.
2. Michigan
Though it may come as a surprise, Michigan is another top spot for viewing the Northern Lights. Located in the northern part of the state, near the shores of Lake Superior, the town of Marquette offers excellent viewing opportunities due to its clear skies and lack of light pollution.
Other great spots in Michigan for Northern Lights sightings include the Porcupine Mountains and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Visitors can also take advantage of local photography guides who can offer tips on capturing the best shots.
3. Minnesota
Minnesota’s northern location and vast open spaces make it a perfect destination for Northern Lights viewing. Visitors can head to the Lake Superior coast and up to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for the best chances of seeing the aurora borealis.
In addition, the town of Ely hosts an annual Northern Lights festival each winter, which includes outdoor activities, live music, and astronomy talks.
4. Maine
Maine may be known for its picturesque coastal towns, but the state also offers excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing. Head to Acadia National Park for a chance to see the aurora borealis over the rocky coastline.
Other great spots in Maine for Northern Lights sightings include Aroostook County, Baxter State Park, and Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.
5. Montana
Montana’s Big Sky Country is also a prime destination for Northern Lights viewing. Head to Glacier National Park or the town of Whitefish for a chance to see the aurora borealis over the mountains.
Visitors can also book tour packages that include snowshoeing or dogsledding, to make the Northern Lights experience even more magical.
III. A Guide to Chasing the Aurora Borealis Across America
If you’re planning a Northern Lights trip in the US, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:
1. Best time of year
The best time of year to see the Northern Lights in the US is from October to March, when skies are darker and the aurora borealis is more active.
2. What to pack
Be sure to pack warm winter clothing, including a hat, gloves, and insulated boots. You’ll also want to bring a camera with a tripod and extra batteries.
3. Finding the best viewing spots
Research your destination ahead of time to find the best spots for Northern Lights viewing. Look for areas with minimal light pollution and clear, dark skies.
IV. Discovering the Best Spots for Northern Lights Photography in the US
To capture stunning Northern Lights photos in the US, consider investing in a camera with manual controls and a wide-angle lens. Here are some specific locations in each of the top 5 places mentioned earlier for great Northern Lights photography:
1. Alaska
Head to the Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you can capture the aurora borealis over the resort’s igloos and hot springs.
2. Michigan
Marquette’s Presque Isle Park offers a stunning backdrop of Lake Superior, making it an ideal spot for Northern Lights photography.
3. Minnesota
Tofte Beach on the north shore of Lake Superior is a great spot for Northern Lights photography, thanks to its clear skies and minimal light pollution.
4. Maine
Acadia National Park’s rocky coastline and forests provide an excellent setting for capturing the Northern Lights.
5. Montana
Townsend, Montana is a top spot for capturing the aurora borealis over the mountains. Be sure to head to the Toston Dam for a great view of the horizon.
V. The Ultimate Northern Lights Road Trip: From Alaska to Minnesota
If you’re up for an epic adventure, consider a Northern Lights road trip across the US. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1-2: Fairbanks, Alaska
Spend your first two days in Fairbanks, where you can book a Northern Lights tour and take advantage of the city’s other winter activities, such as dog sledding and ice fishing.
Day 3-4: Whitefish, Montana
Drive south to Whitefish, Montana, where you can take a break from Northern Lights viewing to hit the slopes at the Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Day 5-6: Marquette, Michigan
Head east to Marquette, Michigan, where you can take a Northern Lights photography workshop and explore the town’s local shops and restaurants.
Day 7-8: Ely, Minnesota
Finish your road trip in Ely, Minnesota, where you can attend the Northern Lights festival and go snowshoeing in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Budget for this trip can vary based on factors such as transportation and lodging, but a good estimate is around $2,000-$3,000.
VI. Experience the Magic: Where to Find the Northern Lights in the US
If you’re looking to explore beyond the top 5 places listed earlier, here are some additional locations in the US for seeing the aurora borealis:
- North Dakota
- Oregon
- New Hampshire
- Idaho
- Wisconsin
Each of these locations offers unique experiences, from watching the Northern Lights over the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon to taking a snowmobile tour in North Dakota.
VII. Plan Your Winter Escape: Where to See the Northern Lights in the Continental US
While the top Northern Lights viewing locations in the US are located in Alaska and northern states like Minnesota and Maine, the continental US also offers some opportunities for seeing the aurora borealis. Here are some specific locations to consider:
- Upper Peninsula of Michigan
- Buffalo, New York
- North Cascades National Park, Washington
- Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
- Duluth, Minnesota
Be aware, however, that sightings in these areas are less frequent and may require more patience and luck to witness.
Additional tips for planning a winter trip in the US:
- Check local weather reports and road conditions before embarking on a Northern Lights trip
- Book lodging ahead of time, as winter tourism can be popular in some areas
- Consider adding other winter activities to your itinerary, such as skiing, snowshoeing, or ice fishing
VIII. Conclusion
Witnessing the Northern Lights is a truly awe-inspiring experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With these tips and information, you can plan the perfect trip to see the aurora borealis in the US.
