Northern Lights in Alberta 2024-2025

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Northern Lights at Fort McMurray

©hibru

Alberta features over 600 lakes, Rocky Mountains, and vast prairies. This diverse landscape could be a perfect backdrop for northern lights phenomenon that can be observed in the province quite frequently. Northern lights happen when the so-called solar winds reach the Earth and get affected by its magnetic field. The phenomen is best seen over North and South Poles. The further north you travel in Alberta, the higher are your chances to see the beautiful aurora borealis.

The best time to see Northern Lights

The aurora can be seen year-round across Alberta. However, the darkest period of the year, from September to May, is considered to be the best for northern lights chasing. As geomagnetic activity is always on the rise during autumn and spring equinoxes. September, October and March are peak months to see northern lights.

Wood Buffalo National Park and Fort McMurray

Wood Buffalo National Park is the northernmost preserve of Alberta, located on the border with Northwest Territories. It is also the world’s largest dark-sky preserve where artificial light is almost non-existent. All this makes it an attraction for aurora chasers who long to see greens and red lights dancing in the skies. Aurora borealis can be observed here starting from late August and early September when the nights are still warm. Lake Athabasca, located near Wood Buffalo National Park in about 140 mi (223 km) north of Fort McMurray, is the perfect destination for a northern lights chase due to the beautiful scenery and reflections in the water. Fort McMurray, located in northeast Alberta, is also known as a reliable aurora watching spot. Nestled between boreal forests and the Athabasca oil sands, Fort McMurray has lots of lakes and rivers that may create interesting reflections for your aurora photo shoot.

County of Northern Lights

Yes, Alberta has the County of Northern Lights, located in the northwestern part of the province. And, sure thing, you can head there to see the beautiful natural phenomenon it's called after. Try Notikewin Provincial Park or Twin Lakes Provincial Park; both are about a 1-hour drive north of Manning.

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park is located on the shore of Lac la Biche in Central Alberta. The park, located on a secluded island, boasts dark skies and suits perfectly for chasing aurora borealis. The park is located about 140 miles (220 km) northeast of Edmonton.

Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve, Edmonton

Located in just a short drive from downtown Edmonton, Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve occupies 116 sq mi(300 sq km) of forests, lakes, and prairies. It features such scenic areas as Elk Island National Park and Cooking Lake Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area, both of which offer a good backdrop for aurora pictures. The preserve is holding the annual Star Party in September, attracting aurora chasers and astronomy enthusiasts.

Banff and Jasper National Parks

Jasper National Park Dark Sky Preserve is one of the best aurora borealis spots in Alberta thanks to its beautiful scenery and the absence of light pollution. With 4,247 sq. mi (11,000 sq. km) of wilderness around, stargazing at Jasper can be a great experience. Head to Old Fort Point, Lake Annette, Pyramid Lake, and Maligne Lake to enjoy the magical dancing lights display. The Jasper Dark Sky Festival is held every fall. Constellations are guaranteed, aurora borealis — possible, with some luck. Banff National Park, located south of Jasper, also offers a number of good spots for Northern Lights chasers. Lake Minnewanka, Castle Junction, and Peyto Lake have proven to be excellent locations to see aurora borealis in that area. Vermillion Lakes is another very scenic spot for a perfect aurora shot.

Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area, Calgary

The Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area is aday use natural area and nocturnal preserve, spanning 4800 acres. The park was chosen by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada for guided walks under the night sky and lectures on astronomy, constellations, and more. The park is located just 22 mi (36 km) southwest of Calgary.

Horseshoe Canyon

Horseshoe Canyon, located in 10 mi(17 km) west of Drumheller, is often called the Canadian Badlands. The canyon offers stunning scenery during the day. At night, it gets even better with an open view of the northern sky. If you get lucky to catch the Northern Lights in such a place, it's going to leave lifetime memories for sure.

Aurora viewing tips

To avoid disappointment, it's essential to check the weather forecast for clouds as well as the aurora visibility forecast to find out whether the northern lights will be visible in your area. Among the best sources to consult are Space Weather Prediction Center of the US National Weather Service or Space Weather Canada measuring the intensity of geomagnetic activity. Bring your camera, which can see aurora borealis better than the naked eye, and, of course, dress warmly and pack some hot beverages and snacks!