The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a captivating natural phenomenon known for its shimmering, colorful lights that dance across the night sky. Yellowknife, the capital city of Canada’s Northwest Territories is one of the best places in the world to witness this breathtaking display of lights. Before planning your visit, keep these considerations in mind, so you can create the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights in person!

Best Time to Visit

The best time to view the Lights in Yellowknife is typically from late November to early April when the skies are darkest. During this period, the chances of witnessing a spectacular display of the Lights are higher.

Between late August and early April, the Lights are still active often. However, they face the longer days meaning there is less time in the night for viewing.

The Northern Lights can be unpredictable, and it’s recommended to spend at least three to five nights in Yellowknife to increase your chances of catching a glimpse. This duration allows for flexibility in case there are bad weather conditions. You can even use the Aurora Forecast on the go, so you know when the Northern Lights will be active!

Weather Considerations

Yellowknife experiences extremely cold temperatures during winter, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing. It’s crucial to dress warmly in layers, including insulated jackets, thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and warm boots. Don’t forget to pack hand and toe warmers for added comfort if you plan to spend a long time outside during the night to view the lights.

Dark Sky Areas

To witness the Northern Lights, it is important to venture away from light pollution. Yellowknife offers several locations for optimal viewing, including nearby lakes, such as Great Slave Lake and Prelude Lake, which you can get to by car from Yellowknife. These areas provide expansive dark skies, enhancing your chances of seeing the lights clearly. But you can also find the Aurora Borealis from within Yellowknife. Look for the small green and white lighthouses on top of buildings that will have colours flashing for tourists and locals to know what the evening’s Aurora Forecast will be. Red is the colour that signals a bright and active night of lights.

Image of the northern lights in the night sky. — Credit: Leonard Laub

Tours and Packages

Many tour operators in Yellowknife offer Northern Lights viewing packages that include transportation, accommodations, and guided tours. These tours often take you to prime viewing spots and provide expert knowledge about the phenomenon. A popular tour that covers flights and several nights’ accommodation is North Star Adventures. You can find other variations, like smaller day trips, with Spectacular Northwest Territories that highlights many other tour companies in the region.

Photography Tips

If you’re interested in capturing the Northern Lights through photography, consider bringing a camera with manual settings. This way, you will have more control over the photographs you are capturing. Don’t forget to bring a tripod for stability, and extra batteries. Be creative and take lots of test shots if you can! But also remember to stay in the moment and enjoy the majesty of the Northern Lights because it will be something you truly never forget.

It is important to remember that the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, and while Yellowknife offers favorable conditions for viewing, it is not guaranteed. Patience is key when it comes to witnessing this incredible spectacle of nature. With over 220 nights that show Northern Lights throughout the year, you will still likely see the Light during your time in Yellowknife. Enjoy your trip and the magical display of the Northern Lights in Yellowknife!