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This Is One of the Most Remote Places in North America--and It Has Amazing Northern Lights Views

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, November 2nd 2025 at 5:47 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Seeing the Northern Lights in Yukon: A Practical Guide

For travelers drawn to the shimmering curtains of color that paint the polar sky, Yukon, Canada, offers a front‑row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular displays. The territory’s remote, low‑light‑pollution landscape, combined with its high latitude, creates ideal conditions for auroral sightings. The Travel + Leisure article “Northern Lights Guides: Yukon, Canada” distills the essential information for anyone planning an aurora adventure in this rugged region.

When to Go

Auroras can appear year‑round, but the best viewing window in Yukon falls between late August and early May, with peak activity in the winter months of December, January, and February. The article notes that the equinoxes (late September and late March) often bring heightened auroral intensity. Long, dark nights in the winter give travelers plenty of twilight for watching the lights, while the milder late‑autumn months offer easier travel conditions without sacrificing a decent chance to see the aurora.

Where to Look

Whitehorse

The territory’s capital, Whitehorse, is the most accessible base for aurora seekers. With an international airport and a network of lodging options—from boutique hotels to cozy lodges—the city offers a convenient entry point. The article recommends heading to the outskirts of town, such as the Whitehorse Northern Lights Centre or the more secluded areas along the Whitehorse River, to avoid city light pollution. Visitors can also book organized night‑time tours that take groups to dark spots on the outskirts, with knowledgeable guides explaining the science behind the phenomenon.

Dawson City

A short drive (about 150 km) north of Whitehorse, Dawson City boasts a historic ambiance and a dedicated aurora viewing centre. The city’s heritage architecture provides a unique backdrop for stargazing, and local tour operators offer “Aurora and Old‑West” packages that combine daytime Gold Rush history with nighttime sky watching. The article highlights that Dawson’s remote location reduces interference from streetlights, making it a favored spot for both novice photographers and seasoned skywatchers.

Kluane National Park and Reserve

For the adventurous, Kluane National Park presents an untamed wilderness setting. The park’s vast, open spaces—particularly near the St. Cyr Icefield—provide dark skies ideal for aurora viewing. The Travel + Leisure piece underscores that the park’s northern latitude amplifies auroral intensity, though the rugged terrain demands a higher level of physical preparedness. Local tour companies offer guided hikes and night‑time aurora camps that include warm shelter, hot beverages, and safety briefings.

Teslin and Atlin

Both Teslin and Atlin lie near the southern tip of Yukon but still receive notable auroral displays. The article points out that these smaller communities offer a quieter experience and often a more affordable accommodation option. Visitors can stay in local lodges or campgrounds, then venture out after dusk to the surrounding hills and lakes where the lights dance over reflective water surfaces.

How to Maximize Your Experience

Use Aurora Forecast Tools

The article stresses the importance of checking real‑time auroral forecasts before heading out. It references the “Aurora Forecast” service maintained by Canadian agencies, which provides a 72‑hour outlook based on solar activity. Complementing this, smartphone apps like “Aurora Alerts Canada” send push notifications when geomagnetic activity peaks, ensuring travelers are alerted to prime viewing moments.

Gear and Photography Tips

A common theme in the article is the emphasis on preparedness for cold weather and long exposure photography. Recommended gear includes a sturdy tripod, a wide‑angle lens (f/2.8 or lower), a camera capable of manual settings, and spare batteries—cold temperatures drain power quickly. Settings such as ISO 800–1600 and exposure times of 15–30 seconds strike a balance between capturing enough light and avoiding star trails. The guide also suggests using a remote shutter release to prevent camera shake and setting the focus manually to infinity before taking shots.

Safety First

Yukon’s wilderness can be unforgiving. The article encourages travelers to dress in layers, carry a warm emergency blanket, and inform someone of their itinerary. When venturing into remote areas, it advises sticking to marked trails or hiring local guides who are familiar with the terrain and know how to handle sudden weather changes. The piece also highlights that during winter months, snow and ice can create hazardous driving conditions, making organized tours a safer and more reliable option.

Cultural Context

Beyond the science and logistics, the Travel + Leisure article touches on the cultural significance of the aurora for Yukon’s Indigenous peoples. For many First Nations communities, the lights are seen as a natural manifestation of stories and spiritual beliefs. Some tours incorporate Indigenous storytelling sessions, allowing travelers to appreciate the aurora from a perspective that transcends mere spectacle.

Practical Travel Tips

1. Book Early: December and January are peak periods for aurora tourism. Hotels and guided tours book up months in advance, so planning early ensures availability.
2. Flight Connections: Whitehorse’s Yellowknife‑Yukon (YUX) airport is the primary gateway. Flights connect from Edmonton, Vancouver, and, on some routes, directly from Toronto. From there, short domestic flights or drives can take you to Dawson City or deeper into the wilderness.
3. Stay Warm: Many aurora tours recommend bringing a thermal backpack with hand warmers, a hot beverage, and a lightweight sleeping bag, especially if you’ll be outside for extended periods.
4. Respect the Environment: Leave no trace. The article urges visitors to stay on marked paths, pack out all trash, and keep noise levels low to preserve the natural ambiance for future travelers.

Final Thoughts

The article paints Yukon as a veritable auroral playground, offering a mix of accessible urban centers and remote wilderness retreats. By timing visits during the darker, winter months, choosing low‑light‑pollution locations, and employing the right gear and local expertise, travelers stand a high chance of witnessing the Northern Lights in all their glory. Whether you’re a seasoned astrophotographer or a curious wanderer, Yukon’s expansive skies promise an unforgettable spectacle that is as much a cultural experience as it is a natural wonder.