Experience the Northern Lights at These Coast Hotels Locations
The northern lights, officially called aurora borealis, is a natural phenomenon that occurs when solar particles enter the upper atmosphere of Earth. There is so much energy in those particles that the interaction is actually a collision with the Earth’s magnetic field. These particles bounce off the magnetic field and head up toward the North Pole, creating a colourful display of moving lights on their journey. The lights may appear in several forms: streaky, scattered clouds; near-perfectly vertical streamers; circular arcs, shooting beams, or even solid sheets of colour.
While this entire process occurs fairly regularly, it’s somewhat rare that us people get to witness it. In addition to solar activity levels being high enough, weather conditions also have to be just right. You need an exceptionally dark, clear night, so the best times to spot northern lights are during the longer evenings of winter from November through February when the forecast doesn’t call for snow. The strongest lights tend to appear between 9pm and 2am, though the best sightings often occur between 11pm and midnight. In addition, the further north you are, the better your odds. Because of that, Alaska and northern Canada are some of the best aurora-spotting destinations on Earth.
Here’s a closer look at six specific destinations where you have great odds of viewing the northern lights. Remember, you want darkness, so get as far from the city as possible!
Dawson City, Yukon
A small community in the Yukon, Dawson City is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. It sits at a far northern latitude and it’s in a remote area with practically no light pollution. Because of this, you can see the lights from most places in town!
However, to get the best views, head up to the Midnight Dome, a vantage point with expansive views of the Yukon River and Klondike Valley. The higher elevation makes the Northern Lights seem even closer! There are also several outfitters that offer guided Northern Lights viewing tours, so all you have to focus on is getting the best photos.
Where to Stay In Dawson City, Yukon
The Downtown, a Coast Hotel, puts you in the heart of historic Dawson City with plush amenities including free Wi-Fi and a free airport shuttle, plus the infamous Sourdough Saloon onsite.
Prince George, BC
In north-central BC, Prince George is a fantastic destination for aurora spotting. While the city itself is considered the hub of northern BC, the outskirts of town have little light pollution and wide-open horizons.
Salmon Valley Church, just outside town off of Highway 97, is one of the most accessible spots for catching the lights. Summit Lake Provincial Park, about 40 kilometres north, is another excellent viewpoint. Those willing to go on more of an adventure should head to Norman Lake near Dahl Provincial Park, about an hour west of downtown.
Where to Stay in Prince, George, BC
At the Coast Prince George Hotel by APA, you’ll have quick access to the city’s attractions and several spots for northern nights viewing. After chasing the lights in the wee hours, relax in the hotel’s indoor pool or break a sweat in the fitness centre.
Anchorage, AK
It’s no secret that Alaska is one of the best places in the world for seeing the northern lights. Anchorage makes the perfect base, acting as a hub at the centre of several renowned viewing locations while also offering plenty to do and see in its own right.
While the lights frequently dance directly above the city in the winter months, you’ll have to get slightly out of town to actually see them. The Glen Alps Trailhead is just 25 minutes from downtown Anchorage and offers just enough elevation gain to provide the perfect vantage point. Point Woronzof faces north and sits on the Cook Inlet, making another ideal natural viewpoint.
Where to Stay In Anchorage, AK
From the Coast Inn at Lake Hood, you’ll be literal minutes from some of Anchorage’s best aurora spots, and just a mile away from Ted Stevens International Airport.
Canmore, AB
Regularly known as being the gateway to Banff and Jasper National Parks, Canmore is also a great jumping-off point to try and catch the northern lights. You will have to venture away from town, toward one of the national parks, but if you manage to see the lights, your efforts will certainly be rewarded. Few things are more awe-inspiring than the aurora over the Canadian Rockies!
Jasper National Park itself is a designated dark sky preserve, so that makes it a top choice. A bit closer to town, Lake Minnewanka and the Vermilion Lakes (specifically, the third lake) are easily accessible but just far enough from light pollution to spot the lights.
Where to Stay In Canmore, AB
Make a whole weekend of your aurora-chasing adventure at the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre. Enjoy the gym, indoor pool and hot tub, and the onsite Table Food + Drink.
Fort St. John, BC
Closer to the Yukon border than the southern border of BC, Fort St. John is a major destination for trying to spot the northern lights. In fact, the local college is called Northern Lights College (really!). This region in the Peace River District is remote and wide-open, a great combination for ideal aurora conditions. Even better, Fort St. John itself sits on a plateau above the valley below. That bit of elevation gain makes a world of difference!
For the best odds of spotting the lights, head out of town, either to the outskirts or out toward the wilderness. Simply find a wide-open space with an unobstructed view of the sky, of which there are plenty, and settle in to watch the sky dance!
Where to Stay in Fort St. John, BC
Make yourself at home at the Coast Fort St. John Hotel while you chase the northern lights. Enjoy spacious rooms, some with kitchenettes, and start your day with free continental breakfast.
Grimshaw, AB
Another city in the Peace River Valley, Grimshaw is remote, dark, open, and far enough north to see the northern lights several times a year. In fact, this area is affectionately known as the County of Northern Lights!
Local aurora photographers say that luckily, one of the best spots to catch the lights is just outside of town: Queen Elizabeth Provincial Park. Nearby Figure 8 Lake is also a great spot and both offer lakes for a unique photography perspective, where you may capture the reflection of the lights.
Where to Stay in Grimshaw, AB
The Coast Grimshaw Hotel & Suites is the perfect basecamp for aurora chasing, with free grab-and-go breakfast and Wi-Fi, plus spacious suites.
No matter where you choose to stay for your aurora borealis adventure, Coast Hotels has you covered with both the comfort and convenience of a home away from home. Start booking your next journey with us today!