Find the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights

From the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard to the vast wilderness of Alaska, we help you find the best destinations for seeing the aurora borealis. Browse our guides for locations across Norway, Iceland, Finland, Sweden and Canada — with real-time aurora forecasts, cloud-cover predictions and optimal viewing seasons for each.

Canada

Dark skies and breathtaking wilderness, one of the best places to experience the northern lights in all their glory.

Banff •Churchill •Edmonton •Jasper •Whitehorse •Yellowknife

Faroe Islands

Dramatic landscapes with pristine dark skies, an exceptional place to witness the northern lights with a truly unique setting.

Tórshavn

Finland

Enjoy stunning aurora displays from cozy glass igloos or snowy forests in the magical northern wilderness.

Inari •Levi •Luosto •Rovaniemi

Greenland

The remote wilderness and minimal light pollution offer a breathtaking, serene setting to witness the northern lights in their purest form.

Ilulissat •Kangerlussuaq •Nuuk •Qaqortoq

Iceland

Breathtaking landscapes and long winter nights provide a spectacular backdrop for witnessing the aurora in a truly unforgettable setting.

Akureyri •Reykjavík •Vík

Norway

Stunning fjords and snowy peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop to the northern lights in one of the best locations to witness this natural spectacle.

Alta •Bodø •Lofoten •Tromsø

Shetland

A remote location and dark skies offer opportunities to witness the northern lights over rugged coastlines and peaceful seascapes.

Lerwick

Svalbard

Polar nights in the high arctic offer exceptional chances to witness the northern lights dancing across pristine, icy landscapes.

Longyearbyen

Sweden

Clear winter nights and pristine wilderness create an ideal place to experience the aurora in a magical Arctic setting.

Abisko •Björkliden •Kiruna

USA

Alaska’s vast wilderness and clear, dark skies create perfect conditions for experiencing the northern lights in a breathtaking natural setting.

Anchorage •Fairbanks •Healy

Plan your aurora adventure

Check tonight’s forecast, pick the best month to travel, learn what to pack and how to photograph the aurora. We’ve also got guides on chasing the lights from home and spotting them from lower latitudes when conditions are right.

Aurora Forecast

Stay updated with the latest aurora forecast including Kp-index, Bz, solar wind density and speed, plus a 3-day outlook, aurora map and top viewing locations.

Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure

When to go? What to wear? Things to consider when planning a trip to see the Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Photography

A complete guide to photographing the Northern Lights. Learn the best camera settings, equipment and composition tips for capturing stunning aurora photos.

Best Time Of Year To See The Northern Lights

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights? A month-by-month guide covering aurora season, solar cycles, equinox effects and what to expect throughout the year.

See The Aurora Without Leaving Your Home

Can’t travel to see the Northern Lights? Watch aurora live from home using webcams, livestreams, alert apps and space weather dashboards. A complete guide to remote aurora viewing.

Can You See The Northern Lights From Where You Live?

How far south can the Northern Lights be seen? A guide to aurora visibility by latitude, covering the UK, northern Europe, the US and beyond, including what Kp level you need and historic low-latitude sightings.

Discover the science, stories and sounds of the aurora

Learn how the solar wind creates the aurora, read about the myths and folklore behind the lights, browse a glossary of space weather terms, or put on a playlist while you wait for the sky to turn green.

Science Of The Aurora

Understanding the science behind the Northern Lights. Learn about the solar wind, Earth’s magnetic field and how charged particles create the stunning auroral displays.

Northern Lights Playlist

Pop on your headphones and relax. A curated playlist to accompany your Northern Lights experience.

Northern Lights Myths And Legends

Exploring the myths and legends surrounding the Northern Lights, from Norse Valkyries and Inuit spirits to Sámi beliefs, Finnish folklore and beyond.

Aurora Glossary

A comprehensive glossary of aurora and space weather terms. Understand Kp, Bz, solar wind, CME, substorms and more to improve your Northern Lights viewing.

Anchorage

Home / USA / Anchorage

Anchorage, Alaska’s largest city, is in the south-central part of the state on the Cook Inlet. It’s known for its cultural sites, including the Alaska Native Heritage Center, which displays traditional crafts, stages dances and presents replicas of dwellings from the area’s indigenous groups. The city is also a gateway to nearby wilderness areas and mountains including the Chugach, Kenai and Talkeetna

The northern lights can be seen from September to April with the best viewing in winter.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Anchorage. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

0%

There is a 0% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Anchorage area (forecast for 10 July 2026 at 11:26pm UTC)

Kp 2.33

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

  • 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
  • 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
  • 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
  • 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
HPI 32 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz -4 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 5 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Light Levels

Moon

Waning crescent 28%

Sunrise 4:41am

Sunset 11:28pm

Moonrise 12:36am

Moonset 8:53pm

Weather Forecast for Anchorage

Clouds

19°C Feels like 18°C

High
19°C
Low
12°C

  • Chance of precipitation 5%

  • Cloud cover 56%

  • South-Westerly winds 2 km/h gusts of 4 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Anchorage

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Anchorage.

  • Free cancellation

    Summer - Wilderness, Wildlife, Glacier Experience from Anchorage

    4.9 (3194)

    6 hours From £151.81

    Experience the Big Outdoors and Portage Glacier Cruise! See the amazing beauty that surrounds Anchorage. This special tour does not follow any set route. Nor does it follow a time table. Use your time wisely by going into the wilderness to see wildlife and view glaciers. Summer only: an option, on a 80 ft. cruise ship. (available 11am departure only and May 15 - Sep 15) We follow the sun, the wind and our hearts to navigate your vacation towards the most scenic locations capable for the day of your tour. The Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience includes entrance into the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. During summer you'll have an option to include a glacier cruise on the mv Ptarmigan. Learn about our rich history and see the Ring of Glaciers. This award winning tour can not be replicated by any other service or shuttle. The Wilderness Wildlife Glacier Experience offers highly trained Guides who's sole purpose is making your vacation memories last a lifetime.

  • Free cancellation Likely to sell out

    Knik Glacier Helicopter Flight-90 Mins-1 Landing-Anchorage Area

    5.0 (52)

    1 hour 30 minutes From £393.98

    See the Chugach Range from the air as your helicopter flight takes you over snow capped mountain peaks and braided river valleys to land on over 300 feet of glacial ice thousands of years old! Experience majestic blue pools, stunning, swirling moulins, deep crevasses and dramatic ice formations that continue to fascinate and attract the explorer in all of us when you step foot and trek around the surface of the Knik Glacier. The mighty Knik, one of the largest glaciers left in Southcentral Alaska, is 26 miles in length and 6 miles across at its toe and is just one of several glaciers in the ancient river valley. In addition to spotting wildlife from the air (moose, dall sheep, spawning salmon, and bears), you’ll have an eagle’s eye view of towering waterfalls, glacial iceberg-filled lakes, and the untouched wilderness of the Alaska backcountry. Enjoy a once in a lifetime Glacier Plunge in the summer months at no additional cost! Approx. 40 mins flight time w/ 45 mins on glacier.

  • Free cancellation

    Portage Glacier Cruise Experience 1 hr drive from Anchorage

    4.8 (26)

    1 hour From £44.79

    Just an hour’s scenic drive from Anchorage along the breathtaking Seward Highway, Portage Glacier offers an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. Board the M/V Ptarmigan, a custom-built sightseeing vessel designed for optimal glacier viewing, including a heated cabin with expansive windows and an open-air top deck. During the one-hour cruise, you’ll glide across the waters of Portage Lake, journeying past cascading waterfalls and steep mountain cliffs. Get up close to the towering wall of Portage Glacier, and with a bit of luck, witness the thrilling sight (and sound!) of calving ice. A U.S. Forest Service ranger provides expert narration, sharing fascinating insights into the area's history, geology, and wildlife. This budget-friendly and family-friendly tour operates daily from mid-May to mid-September, with five departures to fit your schedule. This is the perfect stop to experience one of the state's most iconic glaciers. Please note: Transportation to/from Anchorage NOT INCLUDED

  • Free cancellation

    Grand Knik Helicopter Tour - 2 hours 3 landings - ANCHORAGE AREA

    4.9 (402)

    2 hours From £578.37

    Our signature flightseeing and glacier landing tour, includes 30 mins of flightseeing and 30 mins landed at 3 Glacier areas including on the glacier itself. This tour includes an alpine landing where you will have 30 mins to see the grand size of the 5 mile wide and 29 mile long Knik Glacier with a birds eye view. Your 2nd landing takes you to a 100 foot ice wall where you may even be able to see the massive ice calve . After 30 minutes exploring you go to the glacier landing right in the middle of Knik Glacier, where you can get out of the helicopter and spend about 30 minutes exploring ancient ice. See the azure blue melt pools (summer), crevasses and ice formations created by water, wind and the sun. During your flight seeing, keep your eyes open for the area wildlife to include Moose, Mountain Goats, Dall Sheep, Bears and even wolf on occasion! WINTER OCT-APR LANDING IS NOT ON GLACIER AS POOLS ARE FROZEN- LANDING IS NEXT TO GLACIER Total tour time - 2 hours, includes 3 landings

  • Free cancellation

    Anchorage Helicopter Glacier Dogsledding Tour

    4.9 (217)

    2 hours From £583.75

    Set out for the ultimate Alaska adventure with a scenic helicopter flight and an unforgettable dogsled ride on a real glacier! Depart from our Girdwood base and soar over rugged peaks and the breathtaking backcountry of the Chugach Mountains. Your pilot will fly you to Punch Bowl Glacier, home to our summer dogsled camp. After landing, you’ll be welcomed by professional mushers and Alaskan Huskies, including adorable puppies! Learn about Alaska’s mushing traditions and hear firsthand stories from mushers who live and work on the glacier. Your visit includes an exciting dogsled ride across the snow with time for photos. You’ll also have time to meet the dogs, play with puppies, and explore the glacier before your return flight. Fly with confidence: Alpine Air Alaska is the area's safest helicopter tour company, known for expert pilots and commitment to safety. Roundtrip shuttle service from Anchorage or Girdwood is available for an additional fee—call our office to schedule.

  • Free cancellation

    Anchorage Trolley's Deluxe City Tour

    4.8 (1571)

    1 hour 30 minutes From £37.96

    Step aboard Anchorage Trolley’s Deluxe City Tour for a one-of-a-kind adventure that goes far beyond sightseeing. Over the course of 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll cover 20 miles of Anchorage’s most iconic landmarks, but what sets this tour apart is the storytelling that brings the city to life. Our dynamic guides don’t just recite facts—they share captivating tales of Alaska’s rich history from past to present. At key stops, hop off the trolley with your guide to experience Anchorage up close: Earthquake Park: Explore the landscape shaped by the 1964 earthquake. Lake Hood: See floatplanes take off and land on the water. Ship Creek: Watch anglers and salmon in action. Point Woronzof: take in stunning, panoramic views of Anchorage and capture those picture-perfect moments. Each stop offers a fresh perspective on the city's beauty and history!

Places to check out around Anchorage

Explore more nearby Anchorage

  • Beautiful afternoon in Alaska as the storm lifts, Eagle River, Alaska

    Credit: Cindy Dalton

    Eagle River

    61°20'45"N, 149°34'2"W

    Aurora probability in Eagle River: 0%

    Just 20 miles north of Anchorage, Eagle River is nestled in the Chugach Mountains. This lovely town is known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing and skiing in the winter. The scenic views and proximity to nature make it a perfect getaway for those looking to explore the Alaskan wilderness.

  • Spencer Glacier, Girdwood, Alaska

    Credit: Alexandra Tran

    Girdwood

    60°57'27"N, 149°5'53"W

    Aurora probability in Girdwood: 0%

    Located about 40 miles south of Anchorage, Girdwood is a charming mountain town known for its ski resorts and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the winter, as well as hiking and wildlife viewing in the summer. The town also offers hot springs and a variety of dining options, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Portage Glacier, Whittier, Alaska

    Credit: Lori Stevens

    Whittier

    60°45'34"N, 148°41'22"W

    Aurora probability in Whittier: 0%

    Whittier is a small town located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, accessible via the scenic Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. Known as the gateway to Prince William Sound, Whittier offers stunning fjords, glaciers and abundant wildlife.

Other places in The USA

Fairbanks•​Healy

See also

Home•​Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​Best Time Of Year To See The Northern Lights•​See The Aurora Without Leaving Your Home•​Can You See The Northern Lights From Where You Live?•​Aurora Glossary