Vermont is located beyond the so-called aurora oval around magnetic poles. However, if the geomagnetic activity is high enough, Vermont residents and guests have a solid chance to see the beautiful spectacle which colors the skies in green, purple, and red. The northern lights could be seen quite well in the North Country and Upper Valley regions.
The season of northern lights chase starts in the fall. The times of autumn and spring equinoxes usually coincide with increased geomagnetic activity, hence your chances to see northern lights in Vermont grow. Winter is also a good time to chase aurora due to darker and longer nights. By April, your chance to see aurora decrease considerably. Don't forget to check KP-index of geomagnetic activity. If it's higher than 5, you can pack your photo gear and try your luck in chasing the elusive aurora.
Malletts Bay located 8 mi (13 km) north of Burlington is a popular spot for aurora borealis chasers. It forms a kind of peninsula on Lake Champlain shoreline, which provides good visibility and water reflections in all directions. Delta Park in Colchester and Colchester Point are suitable places in the area. The skiing resort of Stowe is another good spot that has advantages due to higher elevation and beautiful landscape.
Practical info
What is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Vermont?
In Vermont, the prime time to view Northern Lights is between September and March, particularly during the fall and winter months. Higher geomagnetic activity during the spring and autumn equinoxes maximize your chance of seeing Aurora. GBrowse the KP-index of geomagnetic activity to determine the prime time for viewing Northern Lights. If it is higher than five, this indicates optimal odds of seeing the Northern Lights. Show more
Where are the best places to view the Northern Lights in Vermont?
Malletts Bay, Colchester, and Stowe are three ideal locations to watch the Northern Lights in Vermont. Mallet's Bay, located eight miles north of Burlington, offers an unobstructed view in all directions along with stunning water reflections. Colchester offers two fantastic viewing sites at Delta Park and Colchester Point. Stowe, known for its elevated topography and breathtaking landscapes, is another prime location for stargazing purposes. Show more
How can I increase my chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Vermont?
To improve your odds of viewing the Northern Lights in Vermont, it is important to check the KP-index of the geomagnetic activity regularly. Pick up a high-ground spot with a clear, open view of the horizon. Carrying necessary equipment such as a tripod, camera, and warm clothing is convenient for the optimal experience of viewing the Northern Lights in Vermont. Show more
Why does Vermont offer a chance to view the Northern Lights despite not being in the aurora oval?
Vermont falls outside the aurora oval, yet it still offers a fair chance of viewing the Northern Lights due to the heightened geomagnetic activity during the peak seasons from September to March. As a result, Vermont is in the Dark Sky region, offering an excellent chance to enjoy unobstructed skies. To enhance chances of viewing Northern Lights, keep an eye on the KP-index of geomagnetic activity. Show more
