When you see the skies come alive with vibrant streams of bright green and magical flourishes of deep purple, you'll understand why people say the Northwest Territories is the home of the World's Best Aurora. Much of the NWT is under an area known as the Auroral Oval - the celestial stage where the Northern Lights give their amazing performances almost every night. The Aurora comes out for an average of 240 nights a year, illuminating our skies during two peak seasons. The Fall Aurora season runs from mid-August through to the end of September and the Winter Aurora season from mid-November through early April. Come up to see the Aurora reflected in our open autumn lakes or illuminating the snowy winter expanse - you're sure to be inspired either way. 

There are nearly limitless places to get out and see the Aurora in the NWT, and you'll always feel like you have front row seats to a dazzling dance that looks close enough to touch. Whether you're out on an Aurora hunting expedition with a tour operator, standing in awe in front of a remote Aurora lodge, or just driving 10 minutes outside of Yellowknife, your view of the Northern Lights will be like nothing you've ever experienced. Magical, humbling, extraordinary -there's no place in the world better than the Northwest Territories for a spectacular Aurora experience. 

Seeing the aurora borealis is a bucket-list experience and Northern Canada is one of the best places on earth for sightings. we suggest some unique viewing spots.

    Hot Springs, Yukon 



    The Northern Lights are frequently seen between autumn and spring in Whitehorse, Yukon's capital. Banish the cold by taking in the light show from a steaming outdoor pool at the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs. Bathers can watch the dancing sky whilst soaking in the healing waters of the pools. Each year the springs host a Hair Freezing Contest - the most creative style wins 2,000$ 
    More information in the official website of Yukon Travel Site

    Aurora Dome, Manitoba 



    Enjoy uninterrupted views of the sky from a heated Aurora Dome, operated by the Churchill Hotel. This remote location is a 20-minute drive from Churchill, ensuring the darkest of skies. Guests can sit and watch the swirling lights, comfortable and cozy in their own personal plexiglass "bubble" and enjoy a spectacular sunrise in the morning. Viewing starts around 20.00 and can go on until 03.00. 

    Tundra Buggy, Manitoba Churchill



    Manitoba, is located directly under the auroral oval, meaning 300 nights of Northern Lights viewing a year. A Northern Lights and Winter Nights adventure by Frontiers North positions visitors under the darkest skies in a tundra buggy designed for the northern landscape. From here, guests can follow the lights and visit Dan's Diner, a pop-up dining hall in the wilderness.  

    Teepee Village,Northwest Territory  



    In the Northwest Territory is a village dedicated to Aurora viewing. Located on the Ingraham Trail near Yellowknife, Aurora Village offers traditional teepees that allow visitors to view the Northern Lights in the heart of the wilderness. Guests have a 95% chance of seeing the aurora when they stay for three nights. Heated seats and winter clothing are provided. 

    Dark Sky Preserve, Alberta 



    The aurora borealis may not be as prevalent in Alberta as its northern neighbours but there is still a good chance of seeing them in one of its dark sky reserves. Each October, astronomers head to the jasper Dark Sky Festival for guided stargazing, planetarium experiences and photography classes. If the lights don't appear, the stargazing is still a must-do. 

    Blachford Lake Lode, Northwest Territory 



    Blachford offers various Aurora Packages. From mid-August the night skies turn a velvety black, and the adjoining Grace Lake begins to freeze in late October. On calm nights the lake reflects the sky, multiplying images of dancing lights. In winter, a traditional tent frame is set up on the lake, for those seeking another level of winter adventure.