Seeing a stunning display of the northern lights in Alaska is a bucket list item that can’t be missed. While planning an Alaska trip, you’ve likely taken time to figure out your transportation, activities, and lodging, but seeking out the northern lights takes some additional planning and preparation. Use this guide to make sure you have the chance to see this incredible phenomenon. 

What Should You Look For?

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon caused by solar activity. The dazzling light show is produced by charged particles colliding with oxygen and nitrogen atoms in the atmosphere above Earth. 

The northern lights can be all kinds of colors, but it’s common to see green, blue, pink, and purple. The northern lights are often visible from far north locations, like Alaska and Scandinavia. 

When Is the Right Time to Visit?

Alaska has a specific northern lights viewing season. To increase your chances of seeing the lights, you’ll want to time your visit between September and March. These are some of the coldest months of the year, so you won’t see large crowds.

You’ll still want to plan ahead to find lodging options near Denali National Park. It’s also essential to note that the intensity of the northern lights can vary each year depending on the seasons and atmospheric conditions. 

How Can You Plan for the Cold?

During the winter months, it can be extremely cold in Denali National Park. This shouldn’t scare you away since Denali is one of the best places in the world for viewing the northern lights. However, you should be prepared with thick clothing, heavy gloves, warm boots, a hat, and plenty of insulating layers.

The northern lights can only be seen in the dark, so you’ll be outside in nighttime temperatures. It’s helpful to find lodging nearby so that you don’t have to travel far with all of your heavy winter clothing. 

If you’re planning an Alaska getaway, stay just miles away from Denali National Park at the Totem Inn in Healy, AK. This full-service, family-owned motel is the perfect base for all of your Denali adventures. The professional staff can help you make the most of your Alaska trip and provide useful tips for your stay. Book a reservation by calling (907) 683-6500 or visit their website to plan your stay.