Edmonton : Seek The Aurora

Edmonton

Edmonton, the vibrant capital of Alberta, offers a surprising gateway to the wonders of the northern lights. While the city itself buzzes with arts, festivals and culinary delights, its northern latitude means that, on clear winter nights, the aurora borealis can sometimes be seen dancing above the skyline. For the best experience, visitors often venture just outside the city limits, where the dark prairie skies provide a perfect canvas for the shimmering greens and purples of the aurora. The spectacle is most likely from late autumn to early spring, when long nights and crisp air set the stage for nature’s light show.

Beyond aurora hunting, Edmonton invites travelers to explore its unique blend of urban and natural attractions. Stroll along the scenic North Saskatchewan River Valley, visit the renowned Royal Alberta Museum, or warm up in one of the city’s cozy cafés after a night of skywatching. Whether you’re chasing the northern lights or discovering local culture, Edmonton offers a memorable Canadian adventure with a touch of celestial magic.

Credit: Condor Wei
Credit: Olga MikKo
Credit: Condor Wei
Credit: Darby P
Credit: Jigar Patel
Credit: Jimmy Liao
Credit: Henry C Wong
Credit: Ali Kazal

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Edmonton. 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

There is a 0% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Edmonton area (forecast for 25 February 2026 at 5:24pm UTC)

Kp 2.67

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 2 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.

Density 0.45 p/cm³

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm³).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm³.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 550.8 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing gibbous 60%

Sunrise 7:30am

Sunset 6:03pm

Moonrise 10:33am

Moonset 4:30am

Weather Forecast for Edmonton

Clouds

0°C Feels like -4°C

High: 4°C
Low: -4°C

Chance of precipitation 0%
Cloud cover 99%
South-Westerly winds 5 km/h gusts of 14 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Edmonton

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

Free cancellation

1-Hour Edmonton River Valley Segway Tour

4.8 (22)

1 hour From £33.17

On this 60-minute Segway tour of Edmonton, Alberta, you will receive in-depth training from a certified Segway trainer. After the training, get ready for the experience of a lifetime as you ride through Edmonton’s world famous river valley.
Free cancellation

Edmonton’s 124th Food Walk Tour: Best Local Neighbourhood Tour

4.8 (30)

3 hours 15 minutes From £76.86

What sets our 124th Food Walk Tour apart is the perfect blend of insider access, local passion, and sensory surprises at every turn. You won’t just graze curbside you’ll step behind the scenes at six of 124th Street’s most celebrated eateries, hearing the personal stories of the chefs and owners who built these flavour-filled neighbourhood gems. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden murals, taste seasonal specials you won’t find anywhere else, and even pause for a mini “mountaintop” moment on the Promenade boardwalk overlooking the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Spots are limited and sell out fast. Lace up your comfiest shoes, bring your appetite, and let us show you why 124th Street captured our hearts. Book now to secure your place on Edmonton’s most mouthwatering stroll!
Free cancellation

Edmonton River Valley 60-Minute Segway Adventure

4.6 (67)

1 hour From £33.17

On this 60-minute Segway tour in Edmonton, Alberta, you will receive in-depth training from a certified Segway trainer. After the training, get ready for the experience of a lifetime as you ride through Edmonton’s world famous river valley. This tour offers multiple departure times throughout the day. Please Note: A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Free cancellation

Edmonton Indigenous Heritage Tour with Minivan Transport

5.0 (1)

6 hours From £71.33

This is more than a sightseeing tour — it’s a respectful journey into Indigenous stories, history, and land. You’ll experience Alberta through Indigenous eyes: from a scenic drive across Treaty 6 territory to one of Canada’s most immersive cultural exhibits. Along the way, you’ll meet local storytellers, see meaningful artwork, and explore how Indigenous Peoples continue to shape this land with pride, resilience, and beauty. No other experience like this is offered through major global travel platforms.
Free cancellation Private tour

Holiday Scavenger Hunt in Edmonton by Holly Jolly Hunt

No reviews

1 hour From £15.33

Holly Jolly Hunt is a scavenger hunt that is played using an app on your smartphone, that brings your entire family and friends together for holiday cheer. During the adventure you’ll be seeking out all the traditional, and even the non-traditional holiday items we all see this time of year around the city. You’ll get points for each item you find. The goal is to capture as many items as you can in order to score as many points as possible and get 1st place on the leaderboard. Along the way you’ll be asked to perform silly holiday themed tasks meant to bring laughter and smiles to everyone involved. Come play with us. Young or old, this is a scavenger hunt for everyone that enjoys this time of year. We promise you will create holiday memories that you will not forget! Holly Jolly Hunt can be played in any city!
Free cancellation

Edmonton City Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour, E-Bike Upgrade Avail.

4.8 (5)

3 hours From £82.19

Experience the charm, history, and natural beauty of Edmonton on two wheels with Toonie Tours. This guided city bike tour is the perfect way to explore the highlights and hidden gems of Alberta’s capital, all at a relaxed pace. Hop on a comfortable, high-quality bike—or upgrade to an e-bike for an easier ride—and follow your local guide through a thoughtfully curated route featuring iconic landmarks and stunning scenery. Ride past the Alberta Legislature, snap a photo on the High-level Bridge, or marvel at the history of the UofA. Hear stories of influential people in Edmonton's history while cruising through the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Stop at the vibrant Theatre District in Old Strathcona to learn more about the nightlife in the city. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and curious locals—this is Edmonton at its best, by bike or e-bike.