The 5 Best Places to See Northern Lights in Canada (Tips from an Award-Winning Aurora Photographer)
- Dre Erwin
- May 4, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Introduction: The Ultimate Canadian Chase
If you're chasing the Aurora Borealis, you're chasing the light of a lifetime. But the secret to finding the most spectacular displays—like the ones that look like fire dancing above the treeline—isn't just luck; it's knowing where and how to look. I'm Dre Erwin, and after years dedicated to capturing the cosmos, my mission is to share the awe-inspiring magic of the Northern Lights. As a CBC-featured nurse and photographer, I've explored the Canadian North extensively, using the calming, transformative power of this light to foster resilience and mental well-being. Here is my ultimate, permanent guide to the best locations, along with actionable tips to make your viewing a success.
Section 1: The Essential Forecast Factors (Revised Science)
To maximize your chances, you need to know three things about the sky, regardless of the season:
Solar Activity: The Aurora is closely linked to solar flares and coronal mass ejections. Periods of heightened activity lead to more frequent and vivid light shows.
Geomagnetic Conditions: Geomagnetic storms amplify the auroral activity, often resulting in widespread visibility outside the typical polar regions.
Atmospheric Conditions: Clear skies and minimal light pollution are non-negotiable for optimal viewing.
Section 2: The 5 Best Places to Hunt the Aurora (Focus on Saskatchewan)
While Alaska and the NWT are known destinations, there are incredible secrets closer to home, offering unforgettable experiences:
Saskatchewan's Best-Kept Secret: Pinehouse Lake. Forget the crowds. The remote wilderness areas of Northern Saskatchewan, like Pinehouse Lake, offer breathtaking, dark skies and unique viewing experiences over vast frozen landscapes.
Northern Canada's Big Three: Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut provide optimal, dark conditions due to their proximity to the Arctic Circle.
Alaska
Northern United States
Section 3: Practical Tips & Your Visual Anchor (Conversion Funnel)
Actionable Tips for Auroral Viewing:
Monitor Reports: Stay informed by monitoring geomagnetic activity reports and aurora forecasts.
Be Patient: The Northern Lights can be unpredictable—prepare to spend time outdoors.
Capture the Moment: Bring a camera with manual settings to photograph the light show.
Anchor Your Intentions: The awe you feel under the Aurora is the perfect frequency for manifestation. If you can’t get north right now, bring the light to you. Shop our high-resolution Manifestation Art Prints that serve as a daily visual anchor for healing and abundance.
➡️ Click here to shop the Manifestation Collection and own a piece of the cosmos.
Dre Erwin, a former Canadian Armed Forces member and dedicated nurse, is an inspirational figure in mental health support. His passion for therapeutic photography and youth well-being has earned widespread recognition. Dre authored the bestselling children's book 'The Little Boy Who Found Happiness in the Most Unusual Place' and was featured in the CBC documentary 'A New Lens on Life' for his innovative approach to mental health challenges. His story inspires nurses and healthcare providers to think creatively and make a positive impact in their practice.
Stay connected with us on Facebook for additional tips and tricks: Follow Dre Erwin Photography at https://www.facebook.com/DreErwinPhotography.
Comments