Anchorage, the biggest city in Alaska, is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique geographical location. One of the fascinating natural phenomena to witness in Anchorage is the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights.  

It is important to note that the visibility and intensity of the Aurora Borealis can vary depending on several factors. These include the time of year, weather conditions, and light pollution.

This article provides all the information about the Northern Lights in Anchorage to ensure you make the most of your viewing trip.

 If you want to learn more about the science behind the Northern Lights, check out this article.  

Best Time to View the Northern Lights in Anchorage

The best season to view the Northern Lights in Anchorage is during the winter months, from August to April when the skies are dark enough. During this time, the nights are longer, and the skies are clearer, providing better visibility for Aurora Borealis viewing. Additionally, during the winter, the temperature in Anchorage drops, and the air becomes drier, which means less cloud cover and a better chance of clear skies.

Getting The Most Out of Your Northern Lights-Watching Trip  

Here are some tips on increasing the odds of seeing the Northern Lights when visiting Anchorage.

Check the Aurora forecast

Before going out to try and spot the Northern Lights, check the Aurora forecast website maintained by the Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska to see if there's a good chance of seeing them. It's also important to check the local weather forecast to ensure no clouds. 

Get ready for an all-nighter

The Aurora tends to be most active between midnight and 4 am, so be prepared to spend a long time outdoors.

Find a dark location

The Northern Lights are best viewed from a location with little to no light pollution. Consider traveling outside the city to areas such as Eagle River Nature Center, Flattop Mountain, or Chugach State Park for better viewing conditions. We've included a list of the best viewing places below. 

Dress warmly

The winter nights in Anchorage can be bitterly cold, so dress in warm, layered clothing to stay comfortable while you wait for the Northern Lights to appear.

Bring a camera

Capturing photos of the Northern Lights can be an incredible experience. Bring a tripod and a camera with manual settings to capture the best shots. Even though smartphones have great cameras, we recommend you use a standalone camera to capture the best images. 

Be patient

Seeing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed, and you may need to wait several hours. Be patient and enjoy the experience of being in the Alaskan wilderness at night.

Consider taking a guided tour

If you're unfamiliar with the area or want a more immersive experience, consider taking a guided tour with a local expert who can take you to the best locations for viewing the Northern Lights. 

Check out Northern Lights tours here.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Anchorage

If seeing the Northern Lights is on your bucket list, you are lucky since Anchorage has several excellent locations for viewing the Aurora. Here are our suggestions on the best spots to see this magnificent phenomenon in the Anchorage area. 

Anchorage Hillside

This location offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding wilderness, making it a popular spot for Northern Lights viewing. The hillside is easily accessible from the city and is an excellent location for those who prefer to stay close to civilization.

Eagle River Nature Center

Located about 30 minutes from Anchorage, Eagle River Nature Center offers a remote location with minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot for viewing the Aurora Borealis. 

Flattop Mountain

This popular hiking trail offers stunning views of Anchorage and the surrounding wilderness. The mountain is accessible year-round and a great spot for Northern Lights viewing during winter.

Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park is the third-largest state park in the United States and offers a range of locations for Northern Lights viewing. The park is about 30 minutes from Anchorage and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Alaska Glacier Lodge

Alaska Glacier Lodge is about an hour from Anchorage and offers a remote location with minimal light pollution. The lodge provides a range of accommodations, including cabins and yurts, making it an excellent place for those who want to stay overnight and maximize their chances of seeing the Northern Lights. 

Girdwood

If you are staying at the Alyeska Resort- nestled amidst the Chugach Mountains, you will have a good chance of seeing the Aurora. Since the hotel is located in a remote area where there is less light pollution and best of all, you can request a Northern Lights wake-up call. We recommend you head out to Moose Meadows, a flat 2-mile trail where you will get amazing shots of the lights.

Local Anchorage City Parks

You don't have to go far from Downtown to see the Northern Lights. Many city parks are great Northern Lights viewing locations. We recommend checking out Point Woronzof Park, Earthquake Park, and Resolution Park. 

In conclusion, Anchorage, Alaska, is a great place to witness the Northern Lights. Its unique geographical location and stunning natural beauty offer an unforgettable experience for those lucky to see this breathtaking phenomenon. Remember to plan your trip during the winter months, choose the right viewing location, and hope for clear skies to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis.

To check out what else to do in Anchorage during the winter, check out this article.