How to See the Northern Lights in Alaska in 2025

The northern lights are one of the most awe-inspiring natural phenomena on Earth. Also known as the aurora borealis, these celestial displays of vibrant green, purple, and red hues swirling across the sky have captivated travelers and adventurers for centuries. If seeing the northern lights is on your bucket list, then Alaska is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable aurora-chasing experience in 2025. With vast, unspoiled wilderness and minimal light pollution, the Last Frontier offers some of the best vantage points on the planet.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about witnessing the northern lights in Alaska—when to go, where to find the best views, and expert tips to maximize your chances of experiencing this magical spectacle.

Why Alaska?

Alaska’s location within the auroral oval—a ring around the geomagnetic poles where the northern lights are most commonly seen—makes it a prime spot for aurora enthusiasts. Unlike other locations around the world where aurora activity is sporadic, Alaska’s clear winter skies and remote wilderness provide an almost guaranteed light show for those who time their trip correctly.

Beyond the lights themselves, Alaska offers an enchanting landscape of snow-capped mountains, frozen rivers, and charming Arctic villages that make the journey even more magical. Whether you’re standing under a shimmering sky in Fairbanks or taking in the show from a cozy wilderness lodge, Alaska delivers an experience like no other.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Alaska (2025)

Timing is everything when it comes to aurora hunting. The northern lights are visible in Alaska from late August through mid-April, but the best months to see them are from September to March when the nights are longest and darkest. The peak of the season typically falls between December and February, when solar activity is high and clear skies are more frequent.

In 2025, solar activity is expected to be particularly strong due to the peak of the Sun’s 11-year solar cycle, known as Solar Cycle 25. This means that auroras will be more intense and visible farther south than usual, making 2025 one of the best years in recent history to chase the lights.

For the ultimate northern lights experience, aim for a trip around the new moon (when the sky is darkest) and avoid city lights that could diminish visibility. Additionally, plan for extended stays of at least three to five nights to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora, as weather conditions and solar activity can vary.

The best viewing times are typically between 10 PM and 3 AM, but auroras can appear as early as 8 PM or as late as 5 AM during periods of high activity. Be patient, dress warmly, and be ready to embrace the unpredictable magic of the Alaskan night sky.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Alaska

Discover the magic of the Aurora Borealis at these prime viewing spots across Alaska, where nature’s most dazzling light show comes to life.

Fairbanks: The Aurora Capital

Fairbanks is arguably the best place in Alaska—and possibly the United States—to see the northern lights. Located just 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle, the city sits directly beneath the auroral oval, providing spectacular displays on clear nights.

Best viewing spots in Fairbanks:

• Murphy Dome – A high-altitude spot just outside the city that offers breathtaking panoramic views.
• Chena Hot Springs Resort – Combine aurora viewing with a soak in natural hot springs for a one-of-a-kind experience.
• Creamer’s Field – A quiet, open area perfect for catching the lights without leaving town.
• Cleary Summit – A popular viewing spot known for its elevated position and clear skies.

Denali National Park & Preserve

For those who crave a rugged, wilderness experience, Denali National Park is a dream come true. Home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali, this vast expanse of untouched nature offers pristine skies with minimal light pollution. The dramatic mountain backdrop adds an extra layer of majesty to the aurora’s dance. Try staying at a wilderness lodge outside the park’s entrance for a better chance of seeing the lights.

Coldfoot & Wiseman (Gates of the Arctic Region)

For the most remote and truly Arctic northern lights experience, head to Coldfoot or the tiny village of Wiseman along the Dalton Highway. Here, the vast wilderness and extreme isolation provide uninterrupted views of the aurora without a single artificial light in sight. Coldfoot Camp offers guided aurora tours and rustic accommodations for adventurous travelers.

Nome & Kotzebue

If you want to experience the northern lights in Alaska’s Indigenous regions, head to Nome or Kotzebue. These towns, perched on the edge of the Arctic, offer stunning views of the aurora over the Bering Sea, along with cultural experiences that provide a deeper connection to Alaska’s heritage. In Nome, try the local sled dog trails at night for an unforgettable aurora-lit ride.

Anchorage & The Kenai Peninsula

While Anchorage isn’t as reliable as Fairbanks for aurora viewing, strong solar activity in 2025 means that you’ll still have a good chance of catching the lights here.

Best spots around Anchorage include:

• Flattop Mountain – A short drive from the city with expansive views.
• Eagle River Nature Center – A peaceful spot with minimal light pollution.
• Turnagain Arm – A scenic coastal area where the aurora reflects beautifully over the water.
• Hatcher Pass – A high-altitude location about an hour north of Anchorage with spectacular mountain views.

Barrow (Utqiaġvik) – The Northernmost Aurora Spot

For the ultimate Arctic experience, visit Barrow, Alaska’s northernmost city. Here, the aurora dances above the Arctic Ocean, creating an otherworldly sight that few travelers get to witness. Due to its extreme location, Barrow is best visited with an experienced guide or tour operator.

Talkeetna – The Gateway to Denali

Talkeetna, a charming small town between Anchorage and Denali, offers excellent northern lights viewing opportunities with less light pollution than larger cities. Stay in a cozy cabin and enjoy both the aurora and breathtaking views of Denali.

How to Maximize Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights

Even in prime locations, seeing the northern lights isn’t guaranteed. Here are some expert tips to increase your odds:

• Check the Forecast – Websites like the Geophysical Institute’s Aurora Forecast (from the University of Alaska Fairbanks) provide real-time updates on solar activity and aurora conditions.
• Get Away from City Lights – Even in Fairbanks, it’s best to drive 10-20 miles out of town to avoid light pollution.
• Stay Up Late (or Wake Up Early) – The best viewing times are typically between 10 PM and 3 AM.
• Be Patient – Sometimes the aurora takes its time to appear. Give yourself multiple nights to improve your chances.
• Look for Clear, Dark Skies – Cloud cover can block the aurora, so check local weather conditions.
• Book a Guided Tour – Local experts know the best spots and how to read aurora activity.
• Use a Tripod and Long Exposure Camera Settings – Even faint auroras appear more vividly in long-exposure photos.
• Plan for Multiple Nights – Your chances improve the longer you stay in prime locations.

What to Pack for an Aurora Hunting Trip

Alaska’s winter temperatures can be extreme, so dressing appropriately is key. When planning to witness the Northern Lights in Alaska, it’s essential to pack appropriately to enhance your experience. Start with thermal base layers to keep warm in the frigid temperatures. Over these, add insulated, waterproof outerwear to shield yourself from biting winds and snow.

Don’t forget accessories like gloves, hats, and scarves, crucial for maintaining body heat. Waterproof boots are a must for comfortably trekking through snowy landscapes. Hand warmers are also handy, especially for keeping your fingers nimble enough to manage camera settings. Lastly, bring a high-quality camera equipped with a tripod, ideal for capturing stunning long-exposure shots of the aurora.

Additional Activities to Enhance Your Trip

To make your northern lights experience even more unforgettable, consider these thrilling activities:

• Dog Sledding Adventures – Ride through the frozen wilderness under the aurora-lit sky while led by a team of enthusiastic huskies.
• Snowmobile Expeditions – Explore Alaska’s backcountry on a thrilling snowmobile ride, reaching remote locations perfect for aurora viewing.
• Ice Fishing in Remote Cabins – Experience the solitude of Alaska while waiting for the lights to appear over a frozen lake.
• Photography Workshops – Learn from experts on how to best capture the aurora with specialized camera settings.
• Aurora Viewing Lodges – Stay in unique accommodations like glass igloos at Borealis Basecamp or secluded cabins deep in the Alaskan wilderness.
• Northern Lights Dinner Tours – Enjoy a gourmet Alaskan meal while watching the aurora from a secluded lodge, combining luxury with nature.
• Cultural Storytelling Nights – Listen to Indigenous legends about the aurora over a warm fire, gaining a deeper appreciation for this natural wonder.
• Flightseeing Tours – Take a small-plane ride for a bird’s-eye view of the aurora over Alaska’s dramatic landscapes, offering an unmatched perspective.

Seeing the northern lights in Alaska is an experience that words can barely do justice. As ribbons of green and violet twist across the night sky, time seems to stand still. In 2025, with increased solar activity promising spectacular displays, there has never been a better time to embark on this adventure.

Whether you choose to chase the aurora from a remote Arctic village, soak in hot springs beneath the stars, or stand in awe beneath Denali’s towering peaks, Alaska offers a northern lights experience unlike any other. Plan your trip, pack your warmest gear, and get ready for a breathtaking encounter with nature’s most mesmerizing light show!