Giorgios Cucina : Whitehorse : Seek The Aurora

Whitehorse

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Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon Territory, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking to witness the enchanting Northern Lights. With its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant local culture, Whitehorse offers a remarkable backdrop for an unforgettable aurora experience.

Positioned under the auroral oval, Whitehorse provides excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights, especially from November to March.

The city is easily accessible, with a variety of accommodations and tour options that cater to aurora hunters.

Visiting Whitehorse for the Northern Lights is a magical experience that combines the spectacular beauty of nature with the charm of the Yukon.

Credit: Kriz Ly
Credit: Olga Kovalski
Credit: naoh cova
Credit: Ellen Borglund
Credit: Jeremy Gallman
Credit: Irinie Lee

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Whitehorse. 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 4% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Whitehorse area (forecast for 21 February 2026 at 6:30am UTC)

Kp 4.33

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 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 9 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 12 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 2.27 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 521.4 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 crescent 24%

Sunrise 9:26am

Sunset 7:01pm

Moonrise 9:45am

Moonset 4:00pm

Weather Forecast for Whitehorse

Snow

-16°C Feels like -23°C

High: -13°C
Low: -17°C

Chance of precipitation 100%
Cloud cover 100%
Northerly winds 4 km/h gusts of 6 km/h
Snow 2 mm

Book an amazing adventure in Whitehorse

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

Free cancellation

Arctic Day: Aurora Viewing Tour | late night

4.2 (76)

4 hours 30 minutes From £92.60

As one of the most sought-after Northern experiences, a Yukon vacation is only complete with a viewing of the aurora borealis cascading across the Yukon night sky. We invite you to join us at our custom built Aurora viewing location, far from the lights of the city, so you can experience the Northern Lights for yourself – and create your own legends.
Free cancellation

Whitehorse's Coziest Aurora Viewing Experience

4.5 (2)

4 hours From £94.29

Immerse yourself in the magic of the Yukon with our luxurious Northern Lights experience in Whitehorse. Enjoy an unforgettable evening in a cozy cabin featuring large windows for optimal aurora viewing, complete with a stone fireplace and heated amenities. Experience the beauty of the auroras while sipping hot chocolate and roasting marshmallows around the campfire. With a maximum group size of 24, enjoy a personalized experience with photography tips from expert guides, ensuring you capture the perfect shot of the Northern Lights. This tour is perfect for couples and families seeking a unique night out under the stars. - Tour runs from 10:00 PM to 2:00 AM, providing ample time for aurora viewing - Enjoy unlimited hot chocolate and s’mores, included in the experience - Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Downtown Whitehorse - Professional guidance and complimentary photos to preserve your memories
Likely to sell out

3-Day Aurora Viewing Tour from Whitehorse Canada

No reviews

3 days From £353.56

Whitehorse, the northernmost city in Canada, is known as one of the cities with the best quality of fresh air in the world! It is also a world-renowned spot for chasing the beautiful aurora light. It may even be possible to see the extremely rare red aurora! Experience a dog sledding, ice fishing,hot spring, big foot shoes or other rich winter activities at your own expenses! You may even explore the town of Carcross! Room Details All hotel rooms are based on two Full / Double beds or one King/Queen bed depends on what hotel availiable on the day. The maximum occupancy per room is four travelers. One Room Selection If you are a party of more than four guests or desire to have separate rooms, please provide a separate booking. Avoid traveling in a different bus? If you have more than one booking, please provide all confirmation numbers once your bookings are complete.
Free cancellation

Yukon Aurora Viewing Package | 4 days

4.8 (35)

4 days From £511.91

On this 4-day (three nights) Best Value Aurora Viewing tour inclusive City Tour, you’ll discover scenic Whitehorse, the Yukon’s capital, surrounded by endless mountains. On three successive evenings, you’ll travel just outside the city centre, but far enough from the city lights to an idyllic Northern Lights viewing location, the AuroraCentre. The evenings will feature relaxing Northern Lights viewing beside a roaring campfire - the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing vacation. Day times are free for optional sightseeing, shopping and touring in and around the capital.
Active Winter Adventure in Yukon | 5 days

4.4 (12)

5 days From £1397.13

Enjoy snowmobiling, icefishing, and the breathtaking winter scenery from above with a sightseeing flight. See wildlife up-close at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve and pamper yourself with a dive into the soothing hot water of the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs. On two evenings of your choice, you’ll travel just outside the city centre, but far enough from the city lights to an idyllic Northern Lights viewing location, the AuroraCentre. This is an eventful winter tour in the Yukon for young and young-at-heart travelers.
Free cancellation Likely to sell out

Day-Trip To Skagway - Gateway to the Klondike Goldrush

4.8 (8)

9 - 10 hours From £209.07

Follow the footsteps of the early prospectors of Klondike Goldrush. Experience a scenic drive from Whitehorse to Skagway, passing Emerald Lake, Carcross Desert, the Village of Carcross and White Pass. Enjoy the spectacular scenery on the way to the Pacific Ocean and listen to the stories from the experienced local tour guide. Please note: Some attractions are only available seasonally and might not be entirely accessible within specified times.