The Northern Lights… These swirling, pulsating ‘living lights’ have intrigued and mesmerized humans for millennia. This spectacular and mysterious light show is even more intriguing when viewed up close and personal right here in Alaska!
However, knowing where to go and how to get there can be a challenge for visitors to this northern region. Knowing the best time to visit is another puzzle to solve in your quest to see this elusive natural phenomenon.
When To Come See the Northern Lights In Alaska
Alaska is widely acknowledged as the best place in the US to enjoy the dynamic curtains, spirals, and rays that make up the fascinating and colorful Aurora borealis. That’s because this natural light show is best viewed at high latitudes near either the Arctic or Antarctic Circles. Since roughly a third of Alaska actually lies within the Arctic Circle, it would be hard to find a better place to view the Northern Lights than from right here in our state.
This natural phenomenon is erratic at best, so you’ll want to visit when the chances of catching the light show are at their peak. That generally means a visit to Alaska in the wintertime. Don’t worry, though — there’s plenty to see and do in Alaska in the winter while you’re waiting for the light show to begin!
How about delving into these thrilling adventures for a start?
- Take a Glacier Walk on the massive Matanuska Glacier.
- Enjoy Alaska’s official state sport with our Winter Dog Sledding adventure.
- See native wildlife like bald eagles, wolves, moose, and musk ox on the Wildlife Tour.
- And (of course!) enjoy one of our Northern Lights Getaways.
The Land of the Midnight Sun has plenty of beauty and excitement to offer. You can even be at the starting line in Willow for the beginning of the “Last Great Race on Earth” — the legendary Iditarod! This rough and rugged, nearly 1,000-mile dog sledding race immortalizes a heroic event in Alaskan history. Iditarod Aurora Tours for March 2023 will be released April 1, 2022. Book early!
What Are the Best Months to Visit Alaska to See the Northern Lights?
Aurora Season is from August 21 – April 21. The most spectacular natural light shows generally take place from early December through March. You might think that requires huddling through a bitterly cold northern night in order to enjoy the show. Not so!
We’ll even provide you with rechargeable hand warmers as part of our commitment to our visitor’s comfort as well as to the protection of Alaska’s abundant natural beauty. After all, seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska shouldn’t have to be an uncomfortable experience. We want you to remember the delight and awe you experienced, not that you had frosty cold fingers!
Come Experience Alaska with Us!
At Salmon Berry Travel & Tours, we’re proud of the beauty and excitement to be found here, and we’re always eager to share it with our guests. Let us curate the perfect Alaska travel adventure for you!
From when to see the Northern Lights in Alaska to the best nature trails to explore, our experienced Alaskan tour guides will make sure you enjoy every moment. We offer a range of activities to suit every taste, from culinary and cultural tours to flightseeing and day cruises.
Contact us for more information and let your Alaskan adventure begin!
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