There's something magical about standing beneath a dancing sky, watching swirls of green, purple, and blue paint the darkness above. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, have captivated humans for millennia, inspiring myths, legends, and a sense of wonder that's hard to put into words. After years of dreaming about this natural phenomenon, I finally made the journey to Canada's Yukon Territory – one of the best places on Earth to witness this spectacular light show.
Why Yukon is Perfect for Aurora Viewing
The Yukon offers ideal conditions for Northern Lights viewing for several reasons. First, its northern latitude places it directly under the "auroral oval" – the zone where aurora activity is most concentrated. Second, the region's low light pollution, particularly outside of Whitehorse, provides pristine dark skies. And finally, the territory experiences relatively stable weather patterns during winter, with many clear nights perfect for stargazing.
While places like Alaska, Iceland, and Norway are also renowned for aurora viewing, Yukon offers a distinct Canadian wilderness experience, combining breathtaking landscapes with authentic northern culture.
When to Go
The prime time for Northern Lights viewing in Yukon spans from mid-August to mid-April. During these months, the nights are dark enough to see the displays, which typically peak between 10 PM and 3 AM. However, for the optimal experience, I recommend visiting between December and March. During this period, you'll find:
- Longer nights (providing more viewing opportunities)
- Colder, clearer skies (auroras often appear more vivid when it's cold)
- Snow-covered landscapes that beautifully reflect the lights
- Additional winter activities to enjoy during the day
I visited in February, which offered about 14 hours of darkness and temperatures averaging -15°C (5°F). While certainly cold, proper clothing made it entirely manageable, and the crystalline air seemed to make the auroras even more brilliant.
Where to Go in Yukon
Whitehorse and Surrounding Areas
Most Yukon adventures begin in Whitehorse, the territory's capital and main transportation hub. While it's possible to see the Northern Lights from the city itself (especially during strong displays), light pollution can diminish the experience. Instead, consider these nearby locations:
- Fish Lake Road: Just 15 minutes from downtown, this area offers elevated viewing points away from city lights.
- Takhini Hot Springs: Located about 30 minutes from Whitehorse, you can watch for auroras while soaking in steaming mineral waters – truly magical!
- Lake Laberge: About 50 minutes north of the city, this large lake offers wide-open viewing areas and beautiful reflections when the water isn't frozen.
Further Afield
If you're willing to venture further, consider these remote locations:
- Dawson City: This historic gold rush town sits further north, increasing your chances of aurora sightings.
- Tombstone Territorial Park: For the adventurous, this park offers truly dark skies and dramatic mountain backdrops for your aurora photographs.
My Experience: Aurora Hunting in the Wilderness
I spent a week based in Whitehorse, taking guided aurora tours on some nights and venturing out independently on others. The local tourism office provides daily aurora forecasts, and there are several mobile apps that alert you to increased activity.
After three nights of patience (and some brief glimpses), night four brought the display of a lifetime. Around 11:30 PM, faint green wisps began to appear overhead. Within 30 minutes, they intensified into brilliant ribbons swirling across the entire sky. The green was soon joined by purple and pink undertones, creating a breathtaking celestial dance.
Standing there in the silent, freezing night, watching colors ripple across the heavens while a distant wolf howled, was perhaps the most profound wilderness experience of my life.
Photography Tips
Capturing the Northern Lights requires some specialized techniques:
- Camera Equipment: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings is ideal. Bring extra batteries (cold temperatures drain them quickly) and keep them in an inside pocket when not in use.
- Settings: Start with ISO 1600-3200, aperture f/2.8 or wider, and exposure times between 5-15 seconds (shorter for very active displays, longer for fainter ones).
- Tripod: Essential for the long exposures required.
- Wide-angle lens: To capture as much of the sky as possible.
- Composition: Include some foreground elements (trees, mountains, etc.) to add scale and interest.
Beyond the Lights: Daytime Activities
While the Northern Lights are spectacular, Yukon offers plenty to enjoy during daylight hours:
Winter Activities
- Dog Sledding: Feel the rush as a team of huskies pulls you through snow-covered forests.
- Snowshoeing: Explore peaceful trails through pristine wilderness.
- Ice Fishing: Try your hand at catching Arctic grayling or lake trout.
- Wildlife Viewing: Look for moose, caribou, wolves, and other northern species.
Cultural Experiences
- MacBride Museum: Learn about Yukon's gold rush history and Indigenous cultures.
- Yukon Arts Centre: Explore northern art and performances.
- First Nations Cultural Centres: Gain insight into the rich heritage of Yukon's Indigenous peoples.
Practical Tips for Your Aurora Adventure
What to Pack
Proper clothing is essential for comfortable aurora viewing:
- Base layers: Merino wool or synthetic moisture-wicking fabrics
- Mid layers: Fleece or down for insulation
- Outer shell: Windproof and waterproof jacket and pants
- Extremities: Insulated boots rated for cold temperatures, wool socks, insulated mittens (warmer than gloves), and a hat that covers your ears
- Face protection: Balaclava or neck gaiter to protect your face
- Hand/foot warmers: These chemical heat packs can be lifesavers during long nights outdoors
Tour or Independent Exploration?
While independent aurora hunting gives you flexibility, guided tours offer several advantages:
- Local knowledge of the best viewing spots based on current conditions
- Transportation to remote areas with minimal light pollution
- Warm facilities for sheltering between viewing periods
- Photography assistance and tips
- Cultural and scientific context about the aurora phenomenon
I recommend a combination approach – book guided tours for your first few nights, then venture out independently once you've gained experience.
Final Thoughts
Witnessing the Northern Lights in Yukon isn't just about seeing a natural phenomenon – it's about experiencing the profound silence and vastness of the northern wilderness. Standing beneath those dancing lights connects you to generations of humans who have gazed upward in wonder, from ancient Indigenous peoples to modern-day travelers.
The lights are unpredictable and never guaranteed – there's an element of chance involved in any aurora journey. But this uncertainty only makes a successful sighting more magical. When they do appear, time seems to stop as you witness one of nature's most spectacular displays.
If the Northern Lights are on your bucket list, Yukon deserves a prime spot in your travel plans. Beyond the aurora, you'll discover a territory of untamed beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality that will call you back long after your adventure ends.