October 14, 2024

Northern Lights USA

With the 11-year Sun Cycle coming into its maximum output, the Northern Lights have been visible in places that don't normally have them. Don't worry if you missed them, there still should be a few more chances to see them before the Sun cycle calms down. Even if you can't make it out this year, there are still places in the USA where you can see them!

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is one of nature's most spectacular phenomena. Characterized by vibrant, dancing colors in the night sky, the Northern Lights are caused by the interaction between solar wind and Earth's magnetic field. This natural light display is most commonly associated with the Arctic Circle, where places like Alaska, Canada, and northern Scandinavia are popular viewing destinations. However, it is possible to see the Northern Lights in the lower 48 states of the U.S. under certain conditions, particularly during periods of high solar activity. While sightings south of the Arctic are rare, there are several places in the U.S. where, with a little luck and timing, you can catch this breathtaking celestial event. Here are some of the best locations in the lower 48 states where you can maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.


1. Northern Minnesota

Minnesota, particularly the northern region near the Canadian border, offers some of the best opportunities for viewing the Northern Lights in the contiguous U.S. The state is known for its vast wilderness areas, clear skies, and low light pollution, making it ideal for aurora sightings. Northern Minnesota experiences relatively frequent auroras due to its proximity to the northern magnetic pole.

Voyageurs National Park: Voyageurs National Park, located near the Canadian border, is one of the top destinations in Minnesota for aurora viewing. The park's remote location and dark skies make it perfect for nighttime skywatching. You can camp or take a boat out to one of the park's many islands to catch the aurora in all its glory. Winter months offer the best chance, as the long nights provide ample viewing opportunities.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: Another popular spot in northern Minnesota is the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This vast, untouched area is free from light pollution, giving visitors excellent chances of seeing the Northern Lights. You can paddle across the serene lakes while watching the aurora dance across the sky.


2. Michigan's Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan (often called the U.P.) is a hidden gem for aurora chasers. Due to its northern latitude and low population density, this region experiences minimal light pollution, which enhances the visibility of the Northern Lights.

Keweenaw Peninsula: The Keweenaw Peninsula, jutting out into Lake Superior, is one of the best locations for viewing the Northern Lights in Michigan. The wide expanse of water to the north means unobstructed views of the sky. Brockway Mountain, near Copper Harbor, is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. On clear nights, this elevated viewpoint offers panoramic views of both the auroras and the surrounding landscape.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park: Located near the western end of the Upper Peninsula, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park offers some of the darkest skies in Michigan. Visitors can hike to Lake of the Clouds or one of the park's high points for an uninterrupted view of the night sky, including the auroras.


3. North Dakota

North Dakota is another underrated location for seeing the Northern Lights in the lower 48 states. The state's flat, open landscapes and minimal light pollution make it a prime spot for aurora viewing, especially in the northern regions.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, located in the Badlands of North Dakota, is a great place to see the aurora. The park's wide-open spaces, combined with its status as an International Dark Sky Park, create perfect conditions for stargazing and aurora spotting. Fall and winter provide the clearest skies and the longest nights, increasing the odds of catching a glimpse of the lights.

Icelandic State Park: Icelandic State Park, located near Cavalier in the northeastern part of the state, also offers excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities. This small park is known for its tranquil setting and dark skies, providing visitors with a peaceful place to watch the auroras.


4. Maine

Maine's remote northern regions make it a surprising yet promising location for Northern Lights viewing. While sightings here are less frequent than in the Midwest, the state's vast wilderness areas and low light pollution give it strong potential during periods of high solar activity.

Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge: Located in northern Maine near the Canadian border, Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is one of the best spots in the state to see the Northern Lights. The remote location and expansive skies provide great opportunities for aurora viewing, especially during the winter months when nights are long and skies are clearer.

Baxter State Park: Known for Mount Katahdin and its rugged terrain, Baxter State Park in central Maine is another good spot for aurora chasing. The park's high peaks and dark skies offer prime viewing conditions, and its location far from city lights enhances visibility.


5. Washington State

Washington State, particularly in the far northern areas, is another potential location for aurora sightings. The state's mountainous terrain and dark skies offer several ideal spots for viewing the Northern Lights, though sightings here tend to be less frequent than in the Midwest or the northern plains.

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: This large national forest near the Canadian border offers excellent dark sky viewing locations. The high altitude and clear air make it one of the best places in Washington to catch a glimpse of the aurora, especially on nights with high solar activity.

North Cascades National Park: The rugged wilderness of North Cascades National Park, with its jagged peaks and remote valleys, provides another option for Northern Lights enthusiasts. The park's isolation from major cities makes it a prime destination for stargazing and occasional aurora sightings.


6. Montana

Montana, known as "Big Sky Country," lives up to its name with vast, open landscapes and minimal light pollution, particularly in its northern regions. The state offers some of the most spectacular views of the night sky in the U.S., and the Northern Lights are no exception.

Glacier National Park: Glacier National Park, located in the far northwest corner of Montana, is renowned for its dark skies and breathtaking landscapes. During periods of heightened solar activity, the aurora can be seen dancing above the park's iconic peaks and valleys. The best time to see the lights is during the fall and winter months when the nights are longest.

Flathead National Forest: Adjacent to Glacier National Park, Flathead National Forest offers similarly dark skies and aurora viewing opportunities. You can camp along one of the forest's many lakes or high mountain ridges for an uninterrupted view of the aurora.

7. Idaho

While Idaho might not be the first place that comes to mind for Northern Lights viewing, the state's northern region offers several excellent spots, especially during strong geomagnetic storms.

Coeur d'Alene National Forest: Coeur d'Alene National Forest, located in northern Idaho, is a prime location for aurora spotting. The forest's remote location and low light pollution make it a great place to catch the Northern Lights during solar storms.

Priest Lake State Park: Farther north, Priest Lake State Park is another excellent location for viewing the aurora. The park's lakeside setting provides wide-open views of the sky, making it easier to see the Northern Lights when they appear.

While the Northern Lights are more commonly associated with Alaska or the far north, there are still several places in the lower 48 states where you can experience this awe-inspiring phenomenon. From the wilderness areas of northern Minnesota and Michigan to the rugged landscapes of Montana and Washington, aurora chasers have many options for witnessing this stunning celestial display. Remember that timing is everything-your best chances come during periods of high solar activity, typically in the fall and winter months when the nights are long and clear. With a bit of luck and some planning, you can enjoy the magic of the Northern Lights without leaving the continental United States.