Have you ever dreamed of standing under a sky so alive with dancing lights it feels like the heavens are performing just for you? That dream is real — it’s called the aurora borealis, or more commonly, the northern lights. And one of the absolute best places to see them is Alaska. But there’s a catch: you need to know exactly when to go.
This guide will answer the most popular questions people ask, such as:
- When can you see the northern lights in Alaska?
- Is 2024 or 2025 a good year?
- What about Fairbanks, Alaska?
- Did you miss out in 2022?
Let’s explore everything you need to know to catch the aurora in all its glory — including the best months, the best places, and tips you won’t find elsewhere.
When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska? (General Overview)
Let’s start with the big picture.
In general, the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska is from late August to mid-April. The aurora is most visible during the darkest months — especially from September to March.
That’s because the northern lights require dark, clear skies and solar activity. During summer, Alaska’s long daylight hours make it almost impossible to see them.
Best Time of Night:
- Between 10 PM and 2 AM
- On clear, cold nights
- Away from city lights
When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska 2024?
Wondering if 2024 is your year to finally see the aurora?
You’re in luck — 2024 is actually an excellent year for northern lights viewing.
Why?
We’re approaching the solar maximum, which happens about every 11 years. During this phase, the sun is more active, sending out more solar flares and coronal mass ejections. These disturbances interact with Earth’s atmosphere and intensify the aurora.
Key Months for 2024:
- September to March will be prime time
- Especially around equinox periods:
- March 18–21
- September 20–23
Tip:
Plan a trip during a new moon phase to avoid light interference. Use moon calendars to find dates where the sky will be darkest.
When Can You See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks Alaska?
Fairbanks is considered the aurora capital of Alaska — and for good reason.
It lies within the Auroral Oval, the circular region around the poles where auroras are most likely to be seen.
Best Time in Fairbanks:
- Late August to early April
- With peak viewing in February and March
Bonus:
Fairbanks even has aurora tracking tours, heated domes, and lodges with 360° views to maximize your chances.
Personal Anecdote:
In 2022, a traveler from Oregon booked a winter lodge stay just outside Fairbanks in March. She was nervous the sky would be cloudy the whole time. But on the third night, the sky cleared, and she saw brilliant greens and purples swirling for nearly two hours. “It was so magical, I cried,” she said. “I felt like I was witnessing something ancient and powerful.”
When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska 2025?
Planning ahead for 2025? You’re smart — because 2025 is predicted to be even better than 2024 for aurora activity.
According to NASA and NOAA solar scientists, we’ll be near the peak of Solar Cycle 25, which means stronger and more frequent aurora displays.
Hot Dates for 2025:
- January – March 2025: Highest activity expected
- September – October 2025: Strong solar storms likely
Pro Tip:
Look for solar storm forecasts or sign up for aurora alert apps. These will notify you when aurora conditions are strong.
Popular apps include: - My Aurora Forecast
- Aurora Alerts
- AuroraNotifier
When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska 2022?
If you missed your chance in 2022, don’t worry — you’re definitely not alone.
Why 2022 Was Just Okay:
- It was still early in the solar cycle, meaning weaker displays.
- Some months had unpredictable weather and cloud cover.
But hey, if you went in 2022 and didn’t see much, now’s your time for a do-over. With increasing solar activity, the next few years are your golden window.
How to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Aurora in Alaska (Step-by-Step)
Even in the best season, seeing the aurora isn’t guaranteed. But you can seriously boost your odds by following this step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Choose the Right Time
- Pick dates between September and March
- Look for a new moon period
- Plan for at least 3–5 nights, in case of cloudy skies
Step 2: Choose the Right Place
Top spots include: - Fairbanks
- Coldfoot
- Denali National Park (winter only)
- Nome
- North Pole, Alaska (yes, it’s real)
Step 3: Use Aurora Forecast Tools
Check: - NOAA Aurora Forecast
- Aurora Borealis Forecast
- Aurora tracking apps (mentioned earlier)
Step 4: Stay Warm and Be Patient - Wear layered clothing — it gets extremely cold!
- Have snacks, drinks, and warmers with you
- Keep watching the sky for several hours, especially between 10 PM–2 AM
Step 5: Capture the Moment (Optional)
Use a camera with: - A tripod
- Long exposure (10–30 seconds)
- A wide-angle lens
Your smartphone might not do it justice, so consider renting a camera if needed.
The Science Behind the Northern Lights
In case you’re curious, here’s a quick explainer:
The northern lights happen when charged particles from the sun slam into Earth’s magnetic field. These particles interact with gases in the atmosphere (like oxygen and nitrogen), which release light — creating colorful displays that shimmer and dance across the sky.
Different gases produce different colors:
- Green: Most common, caused by oxygen
- Red: Rare, also oxygen (at higher altitudes)
- Purple and Blue: Caused by nitrogen
What Should You Pack for a Northern Lights Trip to Alaska?
Here’s a quick checklist so you’re prepared:
Packing List:
- Heavy down jacket
- Thermal underwear
- Wool socks and gloves
- Waterproof boots
- Neck gaiter or balaclava
- Portable phone charger
- Hand and toe warmers
- Camera gear (tripod, batteries, SD cards)
- Travel insurance (especially in winter)
Common Questions About Seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska
Can I see the aurora from Anchorage?
Yes, but it’s harder due to city lights. Drive 30–60 minutes outside for better visibility.
Is December a good month?
Yes, December is great for darkness and activity, but you’ll need to brave very cold temperatures.
Do I need a tour guide?
Not necessarily, but tours often provide transportation, warm gear, and expert knowledge. They increase your odds — especially if you’re short on time.
Final Thoughts: Title – When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alaska
The answer? From late August to early April, with the best viewing months between September and March.
But to truly increase your chances, plan your trip around a solar maximum year, like 2024 or 2025, aim for dark, clear skies, and go to aurora hotspots like Fairbanks.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first winter trip, witnessing the northern lights in Alaska is an unforgettable, bucket-list experience. And now, you know exactly when and how to make it happen.