Northern lights viewing in the Yukon

The highlight of many trips to the Yukon is the ability to spend your nights looking up at a true marvel of nature: the indescribable aurora borealis.

Your first look at the beautiful ribbons of dancing colours might come on your flight into the territory or from the window of your hotel room. But there are many different ways to weave aurora viewing into a more comprehensive or exciting experience.

Venture into the wild

Head 20 minutes into the wilderness outside Whitehorse to watch the Northern Lights at their brightest in winter’s complete darkness, with Northern Tales Travel Service. Their unique viewing site is a comfortable prospector-style wall tent once used by gold seekers and trappers. Bundle up and head outside to marvel as the night sky billows with mysterious curtains of rainbow colours from green and yellow to pink and blue. Step inside where it’s toasty, heated by a wood-fired barrel stove, and warm your hands around a mug of hot chocolate. Hear stories of Northern life from local guides who make maple syrup taffy right in front of your eyes. Then the next day, bundle up again and take in an encore performance.

The Northern Lights Resort and Spa is a great way to enjoy the spectacle in comfort, and far from any light pollution. The chalets overlook the beautiful Yukon Valley and surrounding mountain range, and provide a fantastic home base for your aurora needs.

Soak in the magic

Still not relaxing enough? For ultimate comfort, watch the Northern Lights in your bathing suit at the Takhini Hot Springs, soaking in its balmy 42-degree waters. Unlike some hot springs, Takhini Hot Springs are uniquely odorless providing a truly relaxing experience while watching the Northern Lights shimmer across the night sky.

If you happen to be visiting in the middle of winter, then you're in luck! This is known to be one of the best times to see the magic of the Northern Lights in action as they dance wildly across the sky. Whether you're looking for peaceful bliss or something that will take you into the heart of the wild to witness one of Canada's greatest treasures.