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.

Fairbanks

Home / USA / Fairbanks

Aurora Season in Fairbanks, Alaska, is from August 21 through April 21 and spans all four seasons and nine months of the year. Plan your trip during late August and the first half of September to revel in summer activities and attractions by day and chase the northern lights at night. Autumn viewing unveils breathtaking colours and moderate weather. Winter expeditions offer long nights, dazzling snowy backdrops and unparalleled pursuits like dog mushing and giant ice-block carving. Lastly, spring is a joyful time offering winter landscapes paired with warmer temperatures.

Credit: Emeric Laperriere
Credit: K Enagonio
Credit: Bob Clark
Credit: Reagan Ross
Credit: Anastasia Nagibina
Credit: Chenghui Li
Credit: Dennis Zhang
Credit: Dennis Zhang

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

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

12%

There is a 12% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Fairbanks area (forecast for 27 July 2026 at 12:00pm UTC)

Kp 2.00

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 15 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.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing gibbous 88%

Sunrise 4:34am

Sunset 11:20pm

Weather Forecast for Fairbanks

Rain

14°C Feels like 13°C

High: 15°C
Low: 8°C

Chance of precipitation 32%
Cloud cover 100%
North-Westerly winds 3 km/h gusts of 6 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Fairbanks

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

Free cancellation Special offer

Fairbanks Top City Highlights Tour Summer/Fall

4.9 (58)

5 hours From £97.76

Operated by Heart of Alaska Tours. Fairbanks City Highlight Tour stands out because it's led by passionate locals who know Fairbanks inside and out. Rather than just visiting popular landmarks, you provide an insider's perspective, sharing personal stories, lesser-known facts, and hidden gems that most visitors miss. Your small-group approach creates a personalized experience, making guests feel like they're exploring the city with a friend rather than just following a scripted tour.
Free cancellation

1 Day Shared Tour Arctic Circle and Aurora Viewing in Alaska

4.5 (62)

12 hours 30 minutes From £251.28

One thing that sets our tour apart from other is the mobile experience of the tour. We focus on making sure we are getting the best photos of the Aurora by "chasing" it with a vehicle and stopping when we think its a good time to take photos. Customers will be thrilled by this fast and adventurous to watch the beautiful Northern Lights while taking amazing photos and appreciating the beauty of Alaska.
Free cancellation

SkyChase™ | Northern Lights Experience - Free Photography & More

4.8 (777)

5 hours From £255.87

We don’t just take you to the Northern Lights — we chase them. At Aurora In Alaska™, our exclusive SkyChase™ Northern Lights Experience uses our Lights-for-Life™ Formula to track weather, clouds, and solar activity in real time to take you to the clearest skies, at the best time. Travel in a heated, winterized Mercedes Sprinter van, relax at our mobile Aurora lodge, enjoy a twilight campfire meal, and sip drinks from our Borealis Brew Bar. Receive unlimited Aurora portraits from our pro photographers, plus night-lapse video and tripod rentals. We’re the only tour with an Aurora Guarantee: If no Aurora is visible to the eye or camera on a “guaranteed night,” you get a 50% refund or free rebooking. Disclaimer: A guaranteed night is based on real-time conditions. If any Aurora is visible by eye or camera, the night is considered fulfilled.
Free cancellation

Arctic Night Tours | Northern Lights Tour with FREE Photography

4.9 (544)

8 - 12 hours From £164.21

Discover the Magic of the Northern Lights: Aurora Tours from Fairbanks Join us on an unforgettable journey to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights! Whether near or far, we'll drive to the best locations to maximize your chances of seeing this natural wonder. Flexible Distance & Timing: We adapt our tours based on the aurora forecast, ensuring you have the best experience possible. Free Photography: Capture breathtaking memories with our complimentary photography services. Snacks & Drinks: Trips include delicious snacks and water to keep you refreshed. More Than a Tour: Immerse yourself in an amazing Alaskan adventure filled with vivid impressions, wonderful emotions, and the thrill of the wild. Fall in Love with Alaska: Let us make your Alaskan dreams come true. Book your Aurora tour today and embark on a journey you'll cherish forever!
Arctic Circle Day Tour

4.7 (711)

13 hours From £255.87

Our Most Requested Tour: Explore Alaska’s Rugged Beauty & Cross into the Arctic Journey deep into Alaska’s untouched wilderness on this full-day adventure to the Arctic Circle: our most popular tour! Travel along the famed Dalton Highway, made famous by the TV show Ice Road Truckers, and experience the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Last Frontier. Ride in comfort in our climate-controlled van as your expert guide shares stories, local history, and insights about the landscape, wildlife, and culture that define this extraordinary region. Along the way, stop for scenic views, photo ops, and a walk through the arctic tundra. You’ll even receive an official Arctic Circle certificate to commemorate your experience. PLEASE NOTE: You are eligible for a full refund up to 7 days before your tour.
Free cancellation

Electric Moose Studios Aurora Adventure W/Portraits & Hot Pizza!!

5.0 (244)

6 hours From £294.06

Nathan is a professional portrait photographer by trade, which is something you’d be hard pressed to find on any other Aurora tour in Fairbanks. He was a full time wedding photographer for 10 years before becoming an aurora portrait photographer, which he's done for over 7 years. Other tours offer “free portraits” but not to the level of expertise that Nathan provides. He uses controlled supplemental studio lighting to achieve unmatched quality and sharpness, using techniques he developed over 7 years of practicing aurora portraiture. We also provide complementary gear to help keep you warm and safe: hand/toe warmers, headlamps, water bottles etc. What everything boils down to is great photos and a personal experience. The photos speak for themselves and we want to get you some of your own. Not only will you have a top tier photographer as a guide but Nathan also has more than 20 years of Alaska artic wilderness survival skills and offers expertise in all things Alaska adventure.

Places to check out around Fairbanks

Alaska Salmon Bake

Seafood Restaurant
Alyeska Pipeline Viewpoint

Scenic Lookout
Aurora Ice Museum

Museum
Bahn Thai

Thai Restaurant
Brown Jug Fairbanks

Liquor Store
Chena Hot Springs Resort

Hot Spring
Chena River

River
Chowder House

Soup Spot
Creamer's Field

Park
DW Grill

Diner
Fairbanks Community Museum

History Museum
Fountainhead Antique Automobile and Vintage Clothing Museum

Museum
Fudge Pot

Dessert Shop
Geraldo's Italian Restaurant

Italian Restaurant
Gold Dredge #8

History Museum
Ivory Jacks

American Restaurant
Lavelle's Taphouse

Beer Garden
Mecca Bar

Dive Bar
Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

Tourist Information and Service
Pioneer Park

Amusement Park
Riverboat Discovery

Tour Provider
Sunrise Bagel & Espresso

Bagel Shop
Tanana Valley Farmers Market

Farmers Market
Tanana Valley Model Railroad

Museum
Thai House Restaurant

Thai Restaurant
The Cookie Jar Restaurant

Breakfast Spot
The Crepery

Creperie
The Pump House

American Restaurant
University of Alaska Museum of the North

Science Museum
World Ice Art Championship & Ice Park

Amusement Park

Explore more nearby Fairbanks

Credit: U.S. Forest Service

Chena Hot Springs

65°3'10"N, 146°3'32"W

Aurora probability in Chena Hot Springs: 12%

Chena Hot Springs, located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, is a renowned destination known for its natural hot springs, stunning aurora viewing opportunities and a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Credit: Dylan Sauerwein

North Pole

64°45'18"N, 147°21'12"W

Aurora probability in North Pole: 12%

North Pole, Alaska, is a small city located just southeast of Fairbanks, known for its festive Christmas-themed attractions, including Santa Claus House and its unique position as a gateway to experiencing the Northern Lights.
Credit: Blair Roberts Castagnetta

Nenana

64°33'48"N, 149°5'38"W

Aurora probability in Nenana: 12%

Nenana, Alaska, is a small town located about 55 miles southwest of Fairbanks, known for its rich history, the Nenana Ice Classic lottery and its proximity to the scenic Nenana River and Denali National Park.