The Northern Lights
One item that seems to be on everyone’s bucket list is to see the Northern Lights. There are many places to see this amazing dance in the sky and many ways to enjoy them. This article will cover the most popular places, when to go, and how to get there.
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with the earth’s magnetic field. The result is an amazing show of color. Normally we think of the green hues but they can appear red, blue, orange, purple, or pink.
Depending on the source, all of the following places are the “best place to see the Northern Lights”. So, take your pick.
Norway - Although Oslo is only at 60 degrees north, the lights can be seen there but a better base would be Tromso. It is far enough north to almost certainly see them. Again, best to get away from the city lights.
Iceland - The lights are visible almost every night given the limited population and vast open spaces. Thingvellir National Park is a popular spot. You can see them from Reykjavik but may have to much ambient light. Try a ferry to see them from the water.
Finland- Due to the low population density, Finland boasts 200 days per year of viewing. Lvosto is a popular viewing spot here.
Sweden – Abisko, home of the first ice hotel and north of the Arctic circle, has clear skies and is surrounded by mountains offering a wonderful view. Northern Alaska – Fairbanks is a good base due to accessibility, hotel space and view. Take a tour away from the city for the best view. Other common places include Alberta Canada, and the Scottish Highlands or Shetland Island. Scotland calls them the Mirrie (Merry) Dancers. There are many ways to see this amazing display and most offer alerts so you don't have to stay awake all night. Tours abound, coastal cruises, ferries, and expedition cruises are all excellent ways to see the lights. If this is on your bucket list, there will be something that works for you.
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