The Northern Lights (also known as Aurora Borealis) are a captivating phenomenon that is a clear indicator of the beauty of nature that can be experienced in many parts of the world. The United States may not be the first place you would think of if you wanted to see the Northern Lights, but the truth is, there are some amazing spots where you can have your own personal Northern Lights experience. Here are some of the best places and ideas for seeing Northern Lights in the USA.
Where Are Northern Lights Visible in the USA?
The Northern Lights are visible in the northern regions of the USA, and you’ll need to go quite far north to maximize your chances of having a great view of the Aurora Borealis. Alaska is the northernmost state in the US and a great place for stargazers, but other northern states like Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, and Montana are all worth considering. Here are a few great spots for seeing the Northern Lights in the US:
• Alaska: Alaska is the prime spot for Northern Lights in the United States. Anchorage has some of the brightest and most visible displays of the Northern Lights, so it’s definitely worth checking out. Fairbanks is considered by many to be the best place in Alaska for viewing the Northern Lights.
• Maine: In Maine, the northern parts of the state allow for a great view of the aurora borealis. The northeastern state of Maine is a perfect spot to head to if you’re looking to see the Northern Lights.
• Michigan: Upper Michigan is a great spot for trying to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has an abundance of places to watch the Northern Lights, from Petoskey to Mackinaw Island.
• Minnesota: Northern Minnesota is a great option for Northern Lights spotting. The state has some of the darkest skies in the US, making it ideal for aurora-spotting.
• Montana: Montana has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the US, and they are even more beautiful when illuminated by the Aurora Borealis. Head to some of the rural areas in the state and you’ll be in for an incredible experience.
When’s the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in the USA?
The Northern Lights can be seen any time of year in the US, but there are certain times of the year when you will have the best chance of catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis. Late winter and early spring are considered the ideal times due to the long nights and clear skies. But the good news is, even during the summer months, you still have a chance of seeing the Northern Lights in certain spots.
How to See Northern Lights in the USA
Seeing the Northern Lights in the US is not just a matter of going to the right spot and waiting for the perfect conditions – there are a few other tips and tricks you can keep in mind to up your chances of seeing the magical display of lights in the sky.
• Check the Aurora Forecast: The Aurora Borealis can be unpredictable and you want to make sure you don’t miss out if the forecast calls for a good show. Thankfully, there are aurora forecast websites like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center that help you to stay up to date with predictions.
• Find Dark Sky Areas: The darker the sky, the better your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis, so it’s important to think about finding dark sky areas that have minimal light pollution. These areas tend to be located in remote and rural spots, so it’s a good idea to research the area around where you plan to be.
• Get Away from Distractions: You want to be able to be as focused on looking for the Aurora Borealis as possible, so try to set yourself up in a spot that’s away from town and traffic. Head for the high altitudes, where you’ll also be able to get away from any bad weather, and set yourself up in a comfortable spot where you can stay warm and avoid other distractions.
• Go Camera Ready: If you’re into photography, there are some great techniques that you can use to capture the best possible shots of the Northern Lights. Make sure to research the different options and practice before you head out. The best thing you can do is to experiment, since you never know when the Aurora Borealis will show up, and remember that even photos taken with a phone camera can turn out great if you follow the right tips.
• Be Alert: The trick to seeing the Northern Lights is to be alert and have patience. The Aurora Borealis can appear at any time, so it’s important to be mindful and ready to take advantage of the moment if it arrives.
The Northern Lights in the USA are an amazing natural phenomenon that is worth spending some time to experience. With a bit of research, planning, and a bit of luck, you can have your own personal Northern Lights experience in the United States. All you need to do is find a good spot, check the aurora forecast for the time that you plan to be in the area, find a dark sky area, and be patient. With a bit of preparation and a bit of luck, you will be able to experience the Aurora Borealis in all its glory.