Chasing the Northern Lights in Yukon: A Complete Guide

The aurora borealis, commonly known as the Northern Lights, is one of nature's most awe-inspiring spectacles. These dancing ribbons of light that paint the night sky in ethereal greens, pinks, and purples have captivated humans for millennia. While this natural phenomenon can be observed in several northern regions around the world, Canada's Yukon Territory offers some of the most accessible and spectacular viewing opportunities. With its pristine wilderness, minimal light pollution, and ideal geographic location under the auroral oval, Yukon provides the perfect stage for this celestial show. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable Northern Lights expedition in Yukon, from understanding the science behind the aurora to finding the best viewing locations and capturing the perfect photograph.

Understanding the Northern Lights

Before planning your trip, it's helpful to understand what causes this magical phenomenon.

The Science Behind the Aurora

The Northern Lights are the result of collisions between electrically charged particles from the sun (solar wind) and gases in Earth's atmosphere. When these particles enter Earth's magnetic field, they are drawn toward the poles, where they interact with oxygen and nitrogen atoms in the upper atmosphere. These interactions release energy in the form of light, creating the colorful displays we observe.

The colors you see depend on the type of gas particles involved:

• Green (the most common) is produced by oxygen molecules about 100 km (60 miles) above Earth
• Pink and red hues come from nitrogen molecules at varying altitudes
• Blue and purple appear when higher-altitude oxygen molecules are excited at heights of up to 320 km (200 miles)

The Auroral Oval

The Northern Lights occur within a ring-shaped region called the auroral oval, which circles the magnetic North Pole. Yukon Territory sits under this oval, making it one of the world's premier aurora viewing destinations. The city of Whitehorse, Yukon's capital, is located at the ideal latitude of 60°N, placing it directly under the auroral oval.

When to Visit Yukon for Northern Lights

Timing is crucial for a successful aurora viewing experience in Yukon.

Best Months

While the Northern Lights are technically present year-round, they're only visible against a dark sky. In Yukon, the aurora viewing season extends from late August to mid-April when nights are dark enough for optimal viewing.

Here's a monthly breakdown:

• August-September: The start of the viewing season with milder temperatures. Late August marks the return of dark night skies after the summer's midnight sun.
• October-November: Excellent viewing conditions before the deep winter cold sets in. The freeze-up period creates interesting landscapes with partially frozen lakes and rivers.
• December-February: Peak darkness provides ample viewing opportunities, though temperatures can be extremely cold (-20°C to -40°C/-4°F to -40°F). Snow-covered landscapes create stunning reflections of the aurora.
• March-April: Increasingly milder temperatures make this a comfortable time to view the lights. The spring equinox in March often brings increased solar activity.

Best Time of Night

The Northern Lights can appear anytime after dark, but the statistical peak of aurora activity is typically between 10 PM and 2 AM local time. However, strong displays can occur outside this window, so it's worth staying up later if conditions are favorable.

How Many Nights Should You Stay?

The aurora is a natural phenomenon dependent on both solar activity and clear skies. To maximize your chances of seeing the lights, we recommend planning a stay of at least 3-5 nights in Yukon. This duration provides a buffer against cloudy nights or periods of low aurora activity.

Getting to and Around Yukon

Despite its remote location, Yukon is surprisingly accessible for determined aurora chasers.

Flying to Yukon

The main gateway to Yukon is Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport (YXY), which receives regular flights from Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. Major airlines serving Whitehorse include Air Canada, WestJet, and Air North (Yukon's regional airline).

During peak winter tourism season (December-March), some airlines offer additional routes. Air North sometimes operates seasonal direct flights from cities like Ottawa and Toronto.

Transportation Within Yukon

To effectively chase the Northern Lights in Yukon, you have several transportation options:

Rental Car

Renting a vehicle offers the most flexibility for aurora hunting. Major rental companies like Budget, Driving Force, and National operate in Whitehorse. In winter, opt for a 4WD vehicle with winter tires. Be aware that driving in winter conditions requires experience and preparation, including emergency supplies.

Guided Tours

Numerous operators offer Northern Lights tours from Whitehorse. These typically include transportation to optimal viewing locations, warm facilities or tents during waiting periods, hot beverages, and sometimes photography assistance. Most tours pick up guests from their accommodations in Whitehorse and last 3-4 hours, departing around 10 PM.

Public Transportation

Public transportation options are limited in Yukon. Whitehorse has a bus system, but services end before prime aurora viewing hours. For reaching aurora viewing sites outside the city, a rental car or tour is necessary.

Best Viewing Locations in Yukon

Yukon offers numerous spectacular locations for viewing the Northern Lights, from easily accessible spots near Whitehorse to remote wilderness settings.

Around Whitehorse

Whitehorse serves as an excellent base for aurora viewing, with several prime locations within a short drive:

Schwatka Lake Viewpoint

Just 10 minutes from downtown Whitehorse, this location offers views over the lake with minimal light pollution. The reflections of the aurora on the lake's surface (when not frozen) create stunning photo opportunities.

Fish Lake Road

About 15 minutes west of Whitehorse, the road to Fish Lake climbs to higher elevation, providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape and sky. Several pullouts along the road offer safe parking spots for aurora viewing.

Takhini Hot Springs

Approximately 30 minutes from downtown, these natural hot springs offer a unique way to watch the Northern Lights—soaking in warm mineral waters while the lights dance overhead. The facility is often open late during aurora season.

Beyond Whitehorse

For those willing to venture further, these locations offer exceptional viewing opportunities:

Carcross Desert and Bennett Lake

About an hour south of Whitehorse, this area features Canada's smallest desert and beautiful Bennett Lake. The open landscapes provide excellent vistas for aurora viewing and photography.

Kluane National Park

Two hours west of Whitehorse, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers some of the darkest skies in Yukon. The aurora above the park's massive mountains and glaciers creates an unforgettable scene. Kathleen Lake is a popular viewing spot within the park.

Tombstone Territorial Park

For the truly adventurous, this remote park in central Yukon (about 7 hours north of Whitehorse) offers pristine wilderness and dramatic mountain backdrops for aurora viewing. The Dempster Highway, which runs through the park, is one of the few roads in North America that crosses the Arctic Circle.

Aurora Viewing Lodges and Resorts

For a premium aurora viewing experience, consider staying at a specialized northern lights lodge:

Northern Lights Resort & Spa

Located 20 minutes south of Whitehorse in the Yukon River valley, this resort offers dedicated aurora viewing areas, glass chalets designed for aurora viewing from your bed, and wake-up calls when the lights appear.

Inn on the Lake

Situated on Marsh Lake, 35 minutes from Whitehorse, this rustic luxury lodge provides a comfortable base for aurora viewing, with staff monitoring the night sky and alerting guests when displays begin.

Sky High Wilderness Ranch

This working dog sled ranch, 20 minutes from Whitehorse, offers a unique combination of dogsledding adventures by day and aurora viewing by night. The remote location provides excellent dark skies.

Preparing for Aurora Viewing in Yukon

Proper preparation is essential for a comfortable and successful aurora viewing experience, particularly during Yukon's cold winter months.

Cold Weather Clothing

Aurora viewing often means standing relatively still in freezing temperatures for extended periods. Proper clothing is not just about comfort—it's a safety issue. Use the layering system:

Base Layer

• Thermal underwear made of synthetic materials or merino wool (avoid cotton, which retains moisture)
• Thermal socks (consider wearing two pairs in extreme cold)

Mid Layer

• Fleece or wool sweaters and pants
• Additional insulating layer in very cold conditions

Outer Layer

• Windproof and waterproof jacket and pants
• Insulated snow pants
• Down or synthetic insulated parka with hood

Extremities

• Insulated winter boots rated for at least -30°C (-22°F)
• Warm hat covering ears
• Insulated mittens (warmer than gloves)
• Thin liner gloves for operating camera equipment
• Neck gaiter or balaclava
• Chemical hand and foot warmers for extremely cold nights

Additional Gear

Beyond clothing, other items to pack include:

• Headlamp with red light mode (preserves night vision)
• Thermos with hot beverages
• High-energy snacks
• Fully charged mobile phone (though service may be limited in remote areas)
• Hand sanitizer and tissues
• Binoculars for detailed aurora viewing

Photographing the Northern Lights

Capturing the aurora borealis is a bucket-list item for many photographers. While photographing the Northern Lights presents unique challenges, even beginners can achieve impressive results with the right preparation and settings.

Essential Camera Equipment

• Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual mode capabilities is ideal. Full-frame sensors perform better in low light but are not essential.
• Lens: A wide-angle lens (14-24mm) with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or wider) will capture more of the sky and allow more light.
• Tripod: A sturdy tripod is non-negotiable for the long exposures required.
• Remote shutter release: Helps prevent camera shake during long exposures.
• Spare batteries: Cold temperatures drain batteries quickly. Keep spares in an inside pocket near your body.
• Memory cards: Multiple high-capacity, high-speed cards.

Camera Settings for Aurora Photography

While settings may need adjustment based on auroral strength and movement, these general guidelines provide a good starting point:

Basic Settings

• Shooting Mode: Manual
• Format: RAW (provides more flexibility in post-processing)
• Aperture: As wide as possible (f/2.8 or lower)
• Shutter Speed: 5-15 seconds (shorter for bright, fast-moving auroras; longer for faint, slow-moving displays)
• ISO: Start at 1600 and adjust as needed (higher for fainter auroras, lower for brighter displays)
• White Balance: Auto or 3500-4500K
• Focus: Manual focus set to infinity (∞), adjusted as needed

Focusing in the Dark

Achieving sharp focus is one of the biggest challenges in aurora photography:

• Focus on a bright star or distant light using live view with maximum magnification
• Set focus during daylight and mark the infinity position with tape
• Use a headlamp to illuminate a distant object (100+ feet away) for focusing

Composition Tips

While the aurora itself is spectacular, thoughtful composition elevates your images:

• Include interesting foreground elements like trees, mountains, or reflective lakes
• Consider the rule of thirds when framing your shot
• Experiment with different orientations (landscape vs. portrait) depending on aurora movement
• Include people for scale (using a headlamp to create a silhouette)
• Shoot multiple frames for potential time-lapse sequences

Other Winter Activities in Yukon

Since aurora viewing is primarily a nighttime activity, you'll have your days free to explore Yukon's many winter attractions.

Dogsledding

Experience the traditional mode of winter transportation in Canada's North by taking a dogsled tour. Options range from short 2-hour introductory rides to multi-day expeditions. Many tours allow you to drive your own team after basic instruction.

Snowmobiling

Guided snowmobile tours provide an exhilarating way to explore Yukon's winter landscape, from frozen lakes to mountain trails. No experience is necessary for most tours, which include all necessary equipment.

Ice Fishing

Try your hand at catching Arctic grayling, lake trout, or northern pike through a hole in the ice. Guided experiences typically include heated shelters, equipment, and lunch.

Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Many of Yukon's hiking trails transform into excellent snowshoeing routes in winter. Miles Canyon, just outside Whitehorse, offers accessible trails with spectacular frozen scenery.

Cultural Experiences

• MacBride Museum: Learn about Yukon's gold rush history and Indigenous cultures in downtown Whitehorse.
• Yukon Arts Centre: Check the schedule for performances, exhibitions, and cultural events.
• Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre: Discover the heritage and contemporary culture of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation.

Soaking in Hot Springs

Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs (formerly Takhini Hot Springs) offers the perfect way to relax after a night of aurora watching or a day of winter activities. The mineral-rich waters maintain a temperature of around 42°C (108°F) year-round.

Where to Stay in Yukon

Whitehorse offers the best combination of accessibility, amenities, and proximity to aurora viewing sites.

Whitehorse Accommodations

Yukon's capital offers options for every budget:

Hotels and Lodges

• Coast High Country Inn: Centrally located hotel with comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.
• Best Western Gold Rush Inn: Downtown hotel with a northern-themed restaurant and pub.
• Edgewater Hotel: Boutique hotel in a historic building overlooking the Yukon River.

B&Bs and Guesthouses

• Beez Kneez Bakpakers: Budget-friendly hostel with private and shared rooms.
• Historical Guest House: Charming B&B in downtown Whitehorse with a homey atmosphere.
• 1st Choice Bed & Breakfast: Comfortable rooms with full kitchen access, helpful for longer stays.

Remote Wilderness Lodges

For a truly immersive northern experience, consider staying at a wilderness lodge:

• Southern Lakes Resort: Located on Tagish Lake, this remote lodge offers cozy cabins and excellent aurora viewing directly from your doorstep.
• Sundog Retreat: Individual cabins just outside Whitehorse with mountain views and aurora wake-up service.
• Frances Lake Wilderness Lodge: For the adventurous, this fly-in wilderness lodge in southeast Yukon offers the ultimate remote experience.

Cultural Context: Indigenous Perspectives on the Northern Lights

For thousands of years before scientific explanations, Indigenous peoples of the North developed their own rich understanding of the aurora borealis, woven into their cultural traditions and worldviews.

First Nations Beliefs

Yukon is home to 14 First Nations, each with their own cultural heritage. Many Indigenous cultures viewed the aurora with deep reverence:

• The Gwich'in people saw the Northern Lights as the spirits of departed relatives trying to communicate with the living.
• Some Inuit groups believed the lights were spirits playing a ball game with a walrus skull.
• The Cree saw the lights as the spirits of ancestors dancing in the sky.
• Various northern cultures cautioned against disrespecting the lights by whistling or singing at them, as this might cause the spirits to come closer and potentially take one's soul.

When visiting Yukon, take the opportunity to learn about Indigenous perspectives through cultural centers, museums, and guided experiences led by Indigenous knowledge keepers.

Final Preparation Tips

Weather Monitoring

Clear skies are as important as aurora activity for successful viewing. Use weather forecasting services like Environment Canada or Weather Underground to monitor cloud cover predictions for your chosen viewing locations.

Aurora Forecasts

Several resources provide aurora forecasts based on solar activity:

• Aurora Forecast app: Provides real-time aurora predictions based on your location
• Space Weather Prediction Center: Offers 3-day aurora forecasts and current activity levels
• Aurorawatch.ca: Sends alerts when aurora activity is high in Canada

Health and Safety

• Inform someone of your viewing plans if heading to remote locations
• Carry a basic emergency kit in your vehicle
• Take regular warming breaks during extended viewing sessions
• Stay hydrated (cold air is often very dry)
• Consider travel insurance that covers winter activities and potential medical evacuation