Its gold rush history, vastness and rugged charm are sure to appeal. Canada’s Yukon territory is arguably one of the most fabled pieces of land in North America—and it’s just as epic in person.
Some come to fish in pristine glacial lakes, others to hunt elk, and others to explore the territory’s literary history à la Jack London. One thing continues to attract travelers from around world in the Yukon, even during the icy winters. northern lights.
The Yukon is an ideal place to see the northern lights. Parts of the territory are directly under the auroral circle, which is the region of the sky near the poles where the aurora is most likely. You can catch the most spectacular light show of nature anytime between late August to early April. However, the peak season is between November and February.
The northern lights were always something I thought would only happen on TV. It was a cold night outside Whitehorse and I had a heavy flannel quilt and hot chocolate with me. I watched as the gray clouds began to part to reveal ghostly greens and yellows dancing in the sky.
Harmony Hunter says that she sometimes takes it for granted how beautiful Dawson City was and what a magical place that is. Yukon First Nations Culture and Tourism Association. “When they are in front of me, I take time to stop and admire their true beauty. Then I tell myself that I’m blessed to be able to see them. Instead of ‘lights, camera, action,’ it’s more like ‘lights, pause, breathe, and enjoy.'”
Plan a trip in Yukon to experience the northern lights.
Northern Tales Travel Services
Northern Tales – Whitehorse
Since 2001 Northern Tales Many visitors have been able to see the aurora borealis. The outfitter offers experiences in the entire territory, from Dawson City up to the Southern Lakes area. The wilderness outfitter’s most popular experience is the Basic Aurora Borealis PackageIf you are staying in Whitehorse, this might be the best option for you. You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to Northern Tales private viewing site for the northern lights, which is located 30 minutes outside of city limits. The site has a fireplace, plenty of seats, and a cozy cabin for when the weather is too cold. As I can personally confirm, there are snacks and hot drinks such as hot chocolate available to make you feel even more cozy. Northern Tales offers a variety of activities, including dog mushing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.
Nomada Excursions Whitehorse
Book an aurora hunt tour if you want to be almost certain of seeing the northern lights on your Yukon vacation. Aurora hunters do not stay in a single location to see the phenomenon. Instead, they travel across the Yukon. If you can’t see the lights dancing over Whitehorse they may be appearing an hour away at Carcross. One of the most passionate guides in the territory is Sandra Peña, owner of Nomada ExcursionsSince 2006, he has been hunting auroras professionally. Peña is from the Tagish area, but will lead guests all over the Yukon based on favorable aurora conditions, forecasts, and her experience. She was born in Xalapa (the capital of Veracruz), so she is able to give tours in both Spanish and English.
Dan Carr/Travel Yukon
Mount Logan EcoLodge: Haines Junction
The northern lights don’t have to be a late-night experience. It can also be a luxurious one. Guests at the Mount Logan EcoLodge Just outside of Kluane National Park and ReserveYou can be notified by an aurora alert if the lights are visible. You can get out of bed in your slippers and walk outside to view the natural wonder. You can also choose one of the winter packages that include private guided aurora experiences, picnic lunches, and airport transfers.
The Klondike Experience: Dawson City
In general, the further north you travel, the better your chances are of seeing the Northern Lights. If you are able to make it all the way up to Dawson City consider booking through The Klondike Experience. The family-owned business offers everything from an afternoon excursion to multiday excursions exploring places such as Tombstone Territorial Park And the old goldfields. The aurora borealis tour includes midnight snacks, coffee and tea as well as access to a heated yurt and cozy campfire. While you take in the magical display, you will also hear stories about local history and legends.
Old Crow Adventures by Josie
Old Crow is the perfect place for adventurers. This town can only be reached by air. The population here hovers around 250, and there’s just one grocery store—but intrepid guests will find themselves in stunning, rugged landscapes with few people around. Book one of their night tours. Josie’s Old Crow Adventures Get the inside scoop on the terrain. You can learn about the Vuntut Gwitchin community and their significance to the northern lights while you are watching the celestial spectacle.
Hunter says, “It was the best experience of my life to have done the 3-day winter package.”
