10 of the Best Places to See the Northern Lights in the U.S.

If witnessing amazing natural phenomenon is something you enjoy, you need to see the northern lights at some point in your life. Formally known as aurora borealis, these colorful displays of light can be seen in many northern locations around the world. Here’s how they are produced, as Travel and Leisure describes:

The northern lights are an atmospheric phenomenon in which undulating waves of green, purple, and red lights dance across the sky. They occur when waves of energized particles from the sun called solar wind bombard our atmosphere. Thanks to Earth’s magnetic field, we’re protected from the impact down here on the surface. The particles travel along the magnetic field towards the poles of the planet, where an energy exchange produces the colorful lights in the sky.

Here are some of the best places to visit to increase your chances of seeing the northern lights in the U.S.

There are few better places to see the northern lights in the U.S. than Fairbanks, Ala. Situated under the aurora oval, Fairbanks is one of the best places in the world to catch a glimpse of this natural phenomenon. And while the lights can be seen throughout much of Alaska, Fairbanks offers some unique advantages: First, due to its location near the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks has longer and darker winters, which means more opportunities to see the northern lights. Secondly, being situated in a valley also makes Fairbanks one of the darkest cities in America, providing an ideal backdrop for viewing the Aurora Borealis. Finally, Fairbanks is home to many knowledgeable guides who can help you make the most of your aurora experience.

Alaska is a land of many natural wonders, and one of the most popular attractions is Denali National Park. Located in the heart of the state, Denali is home to towering mountains, pristine forests, and abundant wildlife. But one of the park’s most alluring features is the chance to see the northern lights. While they can be seen throughout Alaska, Denali offers some of the best viewing opportunities thanks to its dark skies and wide open spaces. Visitors often come to the park in the winter months when the nights are the longest and the aurora is the most active. However, catching a glimpse of the northern lights is never guaranteed. Clouds, light pollution, and other factors can all interfere with a view of this natural phenomenon.

Anchorage is also located under the Auroral Oval, a zone where the Northern Lights are most active. As a result, Anchorage residents can see the aurora many nights between September and April. The best viewing spots are typically away from city lights, so visitors should head to one of Anchorage’s many parks or nature trails. Visitors to Anchorage can also visit the only indoor rainforest in North America and ride on the world’s largest aerial tram.

Isle Royale National Park is one of the most unique places in Michigan. Among the Great Lakes, this island chain is a true wilderness experience. There are no roads, just trails connecting different lakes and portages. The only way to get around is by foot, canoe, or kayak. In the winter, you can even cross-country ski or snowshoe, which is also a great way to see the northern lights.

For many people, the winter months in Minnesota are a time to stay indoors by the fireplace and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. But for those who are looking for something more adventurous, Grand Portage National Monument is the perfect place to explore. Located on the north shore of Lake Superior, this hidden gem is home to some of the most unique things to see and do in Minnesota—from hiking through the snow-covered forests to spotting the northern lights.

Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota is a truly unique place to visit in the winter. The sculptures made by Jack Ellsworth at Ellsworth Rock Gardens are a must-see, and the views of the northern lights, if you are lucky enough to see them, are simply breathtaking. Winter visitors can also go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and more.

While Washington State isn’t known for its clear winter skies, on the occasional clear night, Olympic National Park is the best bet for seeing the northern lights. If you do get a clear night, you also won’t typically have to bundle up quite as much as some other northern-lights-viewing destinations, as the Olympic Peninsula tends to have milder weather. Hurricane Ridge is one of the most popular places to try to see the northern lights in Olympic National Park.

If you’re on the east coast, you’ll want to head up to Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge in Maine for a better chance of seeing the northern lights. The Aroostook NWR is on part of the former Loring Air Force base, but 4,700 acres were transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services to become this National Wildlife Refuge.

Jackson Lake State Park is Colorado’s first state park to be designated an International Dark Sky Park (IDSP), so if you live in the middle of the U.S., this could be a great spot to view the northern lights. The park is about an 80-minute drive from Denver International Airport, so it’s also a great option for flying in from almost anywhere in the U.S.

The northern lights are relatively rare to see in Yellowstone National Park, but if you get lucky enough, you’ll be treated to some amazing views with Old Faithful or geothermal pools in the foreground.