The Yukon is one of the best places in the world to see the magical natural phenomenon known as the northern lights or aurora borealis. As you prepare for and embark on Northern Lights Tour Yukon, keep these 5 key things in mind to make the most of your experience viewing this incredible cosmic light show.
1. Research the Bes t Times and Locations
The northern lights happen all year round, but there are certain times of year and locations that offer the very best chance to see them. The fall, winter and early spring months typically provide peak northern lights viewing opportunities. This is because skies are clearer and darker during these cooler months.
Some of the top spots to see the northern lights in Yukon include Tombstone Territorial Park, Marsh Lake, Lake Laberge, Herschel Island – Qikiqtaruk Territorial Park, and Whitehorse. Do some research ahead of time to pinpoint the locations and dates that align with your trip and offer ideal aurora hunting conditions.
2. Check the Forecast and Solar Activity
The activity of the northern lights relies heavily on solar activity and clear night skies. Be sure to check the weather forecast as you plan your northern lights pursuing adventures. Seek out forecasts that provide detailed hourly cloud cover predictions rather than vague overall forecasts for the day.
You’ll also want to keep an eye on solar activity forecasts. Sites like the Aurora Forecast offer predictions on northern lights visibility based on expected solar flares and geomagnetic storms. These are key ingredients for brilliant auroral displays, so consulting solar forecasts can further help you plan successful northern lights chasing evenings.
3. Prepare for Cold, Long Hours Outdoors
To catch sight of glowing northern lights, you need to be willing to rug up and withstand chilling temperatures and long hours outdoors in the dark. Warm, wind and waterproof clothing is essential as you may be stationary outside enjoying the night sky for hours on end. Thermal base layers, thick socks, winter boots, hats, gloves, heavy jackets and blankets are a must.
Packing hand and foot warmers can also be useful for when you need an extra dose of warmth. Bring along an insulated thermos with a warm drink as well to help warm you from the inside out. Taking measures to stay warm will allow you to remain outdoors comfortably for as long as the northern lights continue their magical performance.
4. Seek Out Dark Skies
The brilliance of the northern lights becomes muted and harder to observe under light-polluted skies. To enjoy the full glory of the auroras, it’s best chase them under dark rural skies away from city lights and light pollution. This may mean embarking on northern lights viewing adventures away from major town centers.
The dark wilderness settings of Yukon’s parks and nature areas offer ideal backdrops. You might even choose tour accommodations positioned in remote, rural locales versus staying right in central town. Seeking out Yukon’s starriest skies sets you up for the best possible northern lights viewing opportunities.
5. Have Realistic Expectations
As wondrous as the northern lights are, they can also be fickle and unpredictable. The key is having realistic expectations rather than assuming you’re guaranteed to see vibrant multi-colored auroral displays dancing across the sky every night.
There may be evenings where faint glows grace the horizon or when cloudy spells hinder visibility. Or nights when solar activity happens to be low, limiting any northern lights action at all. Going into your northern lights chasing adventures knowing the auroras aren’t something you can entirely control sets you up better to appreciate both minor shows and major wondrous displays alike.
Conclusion
Embarking on Canadian Rail Tours in Yukon offers the chance to witness one of nature’s most incredible wonders. As you prepare for and set out in pursuit of the magical auroras, keeping these 5 key things in mind assists with planning a successful and rewarding viewing experience. With warm winter gear, ideal viewing locations, managed expectations and a little luck, you’ll be richly rewarded with glowing night sky memories to last a lifetime.