Situated in the remote Northwest corner of Canada, near the Arctic Circle, the Yukon territory offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary displays: the Northern Lights. With its pitch-black sky and vast expanse, the Yukon provides the perfect backdrop for the dancing and exploding sulphurous green sheen of the aurora borealis.
Solar Cycle 25, the 11-year cycle of the sun’s activity, is currently underway. During this cycle, the levels of solar radiation and ejection of solar material, along with the number of sunspots, solar flares, and coronal loops, fluctuate. It is during periods of maximum activity, known as solar maxima, that the Northern Lights are at their most intense and frequent.
Solar Cycle 25 began in December 2019 and is expected to reach its peak between now and the winter of 2025/2026. Although the peak period will gradually diminish after 2026, the aurora activity will still be dynamic throughout the entire cycle, offering incredible viewing opportunities.
To make the most of this phenomenon, the best time to visit the Yukon is from mid-August to mid-April, during the peak of Solar Cycle 25. The optimal viewing times are between 10 am and 3 pm, when the sky is darkest and the Northern Lights are at their brightest. However, the Yukon’s cities and towns, although suitable for observation, are not the ideal locations due to light pollution. To fully immerse yourself in this magnificent display, it is recommended to venture outside of the urban areas and into the pristine wilderness of the Yukon.
The Yukon is known for its tranquil and picturesque locations, perfect for viewing the Northern Lights. Whether it’s at lodges, chalets, wilderness resorts, yurts, or prospector wall tents, visitors have a variety of options to choose from. For those seeking a luxurious experience, resorts like Northern Lights Resort & Spa offer hot tubs and glass chalets designed for optimal viewing.
While staying in the Yukon’s capital city of Whitehorse or the historic town of Dawson City, visitors can join guided aurora viewing experiences. These tours take guests into the wilderness, away from light pollution, to cozy cabins with fire pits. For the more adventurous, snowmobile or fat bike tours during the day provide a thrilling experience in addition to the nighttime aurora viewing.
When preparing for the aurora viewing, it is essential to dress warmly. Heavy winter coats, snow or ski pants, snow boots, gloves, and hats are recommended. Visitors can find all the necessary gear available for hire in the Yukon, eliminating the need to pack bulky winter clothing.
It is also important to get enough rest before the nightly viewing to fully enjoy the experience. As the aurora is visible at night, staying up until the early hours of the morning can be tiring if not properly rested. No 3D glasses or binoculars are required to appreciate the magnificence of the Northern Lights.
For more information on Solar Cycle 25 and the Northern Lights in the Yukon, there are resources available. The Yukon’s official tourism website, Travel Yukon, provides a detailed brochure on the Solar Max in Yukon. Additionally, their dedicated Northern Lights page offers valuable insights and tips for aurora viewing.
Beyond the Northern Lights, the Yukon is a destination worth exploring. Situated in Canada’s upper Northwest corner, next to Alaska, it is home to Canada’s tallest mountain, Mount Logan, and the largest non-polar icefields in the world in Kluane National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With around 80% of the Yukon consisting of pristine wilderness, visitors can encounter majestic landscapes, including towering peaks, forested valleys, unspoiled waters, and untamed wildlife. The Yukon is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including caribou, moose, mountain sheep, grizzly bears, black bears, and numerous bird species. With a human population of only 45,000, the Yukon offers a unique and untouched experience.
The Yukon’s Solar Cycle 25 presents a rare opportunity to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Northern Lights in one of the most pristine and breathtaking settings on Earth. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply in awe of the wonders of the universe, visiting the Yukon during the Solar Max is an experience you won’t want to miss.
