6 Things you need to consider when planning a trip to see the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights are most visible during the winter, though they are highly unpredictable. Therefore, you need to plan your trip thoroughly, considering every aspect. Planning a trip to view the Aurora Borealis can be a daunting task. Here are some things to consider:
1. Timing
You should plan your Aurora trip between September and April. The winter months are the best time to see Northern Lights Canada. During the rest of the year, the Lights can appear, but they might not be visible or that bright due to extended daylight hours and not enough darkness. We recommend a 4-5 day trip to give yourself the best chance of catching the Lights.
2. Choose The Right Countries
One of the first decisions to make when planning your Northern Lights adventure is which country to visit. Canada is an excellent choice for an Aurora Borealis viewing trip. Some Canadian places experience a more magnificent display of colours and lights or have a more frequent show of the Lights. Some of the best places to watch the Northern Lights in Canada include Torngat Mountains National Park in Newfoundland, Banff or Jasper national parks in the Canadian Rockies, Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, and Northern Saskatchewan.
[ Read: Facts about Banff National Park ]
3. Expect Different Colors
While on the trip, be ready to see the different colours of the Northern Lights. You may anticipate seeing the green colour, which is most sighted, but you could be surprised by a spectrum of colours like red, blue, violet, and even grey. It can be challenging to spot grey if the sky is cloudy.
4. Check The Forecast
In the days leading up to your trip, keep an eye on the Northern Lights forecast. This forecast will predict each day’s Northern Lights activity. If the number on the scale is Kp=3 or higher, this will give you the best chance to view the Northern Lights after sundown. So, before you head out, make sure to check the forecast. If the skies are clear, stars are visible, and there is a good Aurora forecast, you have a high probability of seeing the Northern Lights.
5. Check The Weather
The weather has an impact on your ability to view the Northern Lights. If it is raining or there is a lot of cloud cover, then the probability of seeing the Lights is low. So, check the weather and pick a day with clear skies for the best chance of viewing the Northern Lights.
6. Plan For Winter
We recommend planning your visit to Canada during the winter months to watch the Northern Lights. You need to know the sunrise and sunset times and plan your itinerary accordingly. If you are planning to drive in Canada during the winter, roads will likely be snowy and icy. With these road conditions, you should allow more time to get to your destination and plan to arrive before sunset. You can also enjoy other Canadian winter activities while on your trip, like dogsledding, ice skating or snowshoeing.