Nature Canada

Catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights the Canadian way

Image of Alyson BushThis blog is written by guest blogger Alyson Bush.

Despite what you have been told, you do not have to travel to Iceland or Scandinavia to get the perfect view of the northern lights. This beautiful natural phenomenon can be seen in your own backyard! Nature’s greatest light show is the result of charged particles from the sun interacting with the atoms and molecules of earth’s atmosphere. This breathtaking display has turned Canada’s wilderness and some of the coldest parts of Canada into a popular travel destination for people all over the world! So buckle up, pack warm and enjoy these top places to see the northern lights in Canada!

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

As the gateway to Canada’s arctic and a 90 percent chance of catching a glimpse of the northern lights, it’s no wonder Yellowknife is one of the best places to visit in Canada! The long nights from mid-November to the beginning of April are known to be the best time to see the northern lights. While out exploring be sure to keep an eye out for Northern Lighthouses that are scattered throughout the city. These  lighthouses are specially designed to alert you when active aurora is in the evening forecast!

Dempster Highway, Yukon

One of the best ways to feel close to nature and to truly take in the beauty of the Yukon is to cruise down the scenic 470 km Dempster highway. Drivers have been known to pull over on the side of the highway to take in the eye-catching lightshow. And after a long drive what better way to relax than taking a dip in the Takhini Hot Springs that have been around for over 100 years!

Image of Northern Lights

Northern Lights in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Iqaluit, Nunavut

The lack of light pollution and the flat landscape in Nunavut allows for optimal viewing of the northern lights year round. So plan a trip to the North to experience some of Canada’s famous extreme temperatures and to witness one of nature’s greatest light shows!

Saskatchewan

With 11 national parks just north of Saskatoon, you have an array of options to take in the northern lights! If you have the time to venture to Melfort, a small city located in the north east of Saskatchewan, it is worth the trip! It is nicknamed the “City of the Northern Lights” and with a name like that you will likely find exactly what you are looking for!

Battle Harbour, Newfoundland

Plan your trip accordingly, this National Historic District of Canada is only open from June to September. Be sure to keep your schedule clear during these months, as Battle Harbour is known to be a hotspot to see the northern lights. The resorted villages provide a truly authentic and traditional experience. You will leave Battle Harbour not only rich in beauty but feeling like a true Newfie!

Muncho Lake Provincial Park, British Columbia

What better way to experience the northern lights than watching them reflect off the beautiful jaded coloured waters of Muncho Lake with a scenic view of the mountains in the background. Keep your eyes peeled not only for the stunning lights in the sky but for moose and other wildlife that are often spotted in the many swamps within the park.

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