Best Time To See Northern Lights In Alaska (Real Local Tips)
This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.
Alaska is one of the best places on earth to see the northern lights, no doubt.
But it’s important to remember that planning a bucket list trip around the aurora also means staying flexible, managing expectations, and keeping a little room for adventure.
When I lived on Murphy Dome in Fairbanks for many years, some of my favorite nights were the ones when my husband or I would step outside late, all bundled up, and just look up, realizing the lights were out and we were lucky enough to catch them.
It’s so quiet up there, all you can hear is the power lines creaking in the cold. It’s a little eerie, and when you combine that with the purple and green ribbons moving across the sky, it feels otherworldly.
If you’re hoping to catch the aurora, it really helps to know when and where to look. Local guides are also available to make your experience more successful. Timing matters, but so does patience.
I’ll walk you through all of it in this post and share my best tips.
When Is the Best Time to See Northern Lights in Alaska?
The best time to view the Northern Lights in Alaska is from late August through early April. Peak months are September through March, with optimal viewing between 10 pm and 2 am.
The aurora is most vibrant during the darkest, clearest nights, so winter is ideal. But, at the same time, some of my fondest memories of seeing the Northern Lights have been from mid-August through September in the Southcentral area, specifically McCarthy, AK.
Monthly Breakdown
- August: Late in the month, the skies darken enough for viewing. Great for combining aurora hunting with other summer adventures.
- September – October: Cooler nights, fewer crowds, and fall colors. It’s my personal favorite time of year in Alaska.
- November – February: Long nights, cold temps. This is high aurora season. Come prepared with layers and patience.
- March – Early April: Spring brings warmer temps and often very active aurora displays. March is the best winter month for viewing the Northern Lights!
Where to Go to See the Northern Lights in Alaska
The truth is, anywhere you can get away from the city lights in Alaska is going to be a phenomenal place to see the Northern Lights! But, there are some known prime spots where people flock to get their best chance.
Fairbanks
Fairbanks, a place near and dear to my heart, is known as the aurora capital of Alaska! It offers the best combination of clear skies, darkness, and accessibility.
I’ve seen countless displays from Murphy Dome right off my deck, Creamer’s Field, and even the parking lot of the University of Alaska Fairbanks after a late-night show.
🔥 HOT TIP: Your best chances of seeing the aurora? Go with a local guide. Check out my recommendations and all the details for Northern Lights tours based in Fairbanks!
Chena Hot Springs
Right down the road from Fairbanks you have an amazing opportunity to stay at a casual Alaskan-style resort and see the Aurora Borealis!
Soak in a steamy hot spring while watching the lights dance above you? Yes, please. This spot is just a 1.5-hour drive from Fairbanks and offers aurora tours and wake-up calls.
Chena Hot Springs is not a fancy polished resort and has its quirks, but it is totally worth driving out to for dinner, an overnight stay, and a visit to the ice museum on site! We enjoyed the hot springs often while living in Fairbanks.
Denali National Park
Denali is magical for so many reasons, plus it has almost no light pollution. You’ll need a solid winter setup and a bit of luck with weather, but it’s perfection if you catch the lights here!
My husband has enjoyed winter skiing/camping trips in Denali (and also lived in Denali for a few seasons) and used to catch some great Aurora displays there.
The road stays open to cars, weather permitting, until October 15 or until snow or ice closes it at Park Headquarters (mile 3.4), whichever comes first.
After that, if conditions allow, you can drive to Mountain Vista (mile 12) until winter forces a full closure back at mile 3.4.
Coldfoot and Wiseman (Brooks Range)
Much farther north and deep in the Arctic, this is one of the most reliable places in Alaska for aurora viewing. Fewer people, extreme cold, and vast wilderness.
Nome
If you’re feeling adventurous, traveling to Nome, Alaska for northern light viewing with the unique backdrop of the Bering Sea and tundra will be an incredible experience!
It’s super remote and likely unlike anywhere you’ve ever traveled before. I have fond memories from my two trips to Nome. And yes, I saw the Northern Lights!
Book your hotel in Nome in advance and rent a car while you are at it. Both the Aurora Hotel and Dredge No. 7 Inn offer car rentals.
Tips for Viewing the Northern Lights
- Check the forecast: Use aurora apps or NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center.
- Get away from lights: Even a 10-minute drive outside of town can make a huge difference.
- Stay up late: Peak aurora activity is typically between 10 pm and 2 am.
- Be patient: Sometimes it takes hours, sometimes minutes. Bring snacks, warm drinks, and a positive attitude.
- Use a tripod: If you’re photographing, a tripod and manual settings are essential.
- Dress for success: Down layers, wool socks, and hand warmers are lifesavers. You’ll be standing still outside for long periods.
FAQs: Alaska aurora season
Let’s dig into some more details about this topic! You’ve got questions and I have some answers…
What is the best month to see the northern lights in Alaska?
The best month to see the northern lights in Alaska is March. You get clearer skies, long dark nights, and slightly warmer temps than mid-winter. Plus the snow adds a beautiful backdrop! September through March are all good months, but March often offers the best balance of weather, light, and aurora activity.
Where’s the best place in Alaska to see the northern lights?
Fairbanks is the best place to see the northern lights in Alaska. It’s right under the auroral oval, has clear skies, easy access to dark spots, and tons of aurora tours. Nearby spots like Murphy Dome and Chena Hot Springs are local favorites for viewing. You’ve got great odds here on any clear night from September to March.
What are the odds of seeing the northern lights in Alaska?
If you stay in Fairbanks for three nights, you have about a 90% chance of seeing the northern lights, as long as the skies are clear. Aurora activity is common from late August through early April, but cloud cover, light pollution, and timing all play a role. The darker, clearer, and more northern you go, the better your odds.
Is Fairbanks or Anchorage better for the northern lights?
Fairbanks is better than Anchorage for seeing the northern lights. It’s farther north, sits right under the auroral oval, and has more clear nights. Anchorage gets more coastal cloud cover, which can block the view. You can see the aurora in Anchorage, but in Fairbanks, your chances are much higher, especially if you’re there for a few nights.
Can you See the Northern Lights in Summer in Alaska?
No, Alaska’s summer has nearly 24-hour daylight in many places, making aurora viewing impossible. Wait until late August for the return of darkness. The earliest I have ever seen them is August 17th from our cabin in McCarthy, Alaska.
Final Thoughts on Aurora Borealis Viewing in Alaska
Chasing the aurora is never a guaranteed experience, but when it happens, it feels otherworldly. I hope the Northern Lights come out for you on your trip!
Whether you’re watching from a hot spring, a snow-covered ridge, or your rental car in a quiet parking lot, Alaska offers front-row seats to one of nature’s most mesmerizing shows.
⭐️ If you’d like to leave the planning to someone else, these guided Fairbanks Aurora tours are the ones I’d recommend, run by locals who know how to find the best aurora views! ⭐️
Be sure to check out my full post on Winter in Fairbanks, too! You might be surprised how much you can do in the dead of winter up North. Be in touch with any questions!
