Experience the Northern Lights at Mount Logan Ecolodge
At Mount Logan Ecolodge, you have two unforgettable ways to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights!
Option 1: Northern Lights from the Lodge ($149 per person)
Enjoy the magic of the Northern Lights right from our lodge’s backyard. No need to travel—our staff will keep an eye on the night sky and wake you when the lights appear. Step outside to a cozy setup featuring a crackling campfire, comfortable chairs, warm blankets, and a selection of hot beverages, including coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. We’ll even have s’mores ready for you to enjoy as you take in the breathtaking display, all without leaving the comfort of the lodge. This relaxed, all-inclusive experience is perfect for those who want to stay close and enjoy the lights in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Option 2: Chasing the Northern Lights ($299 per person)
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, join our guided Chasing the Northern Lights tour. Our expert guide will drive you to the best possible spot for viewing the lights, ensuring the clearest skies and most spectacular scenery. Once we arrive, we’ll set up camp with comfortable chairs, blankets, and a warm fire. Enjoy hot drinks and listen to fascinating stories about the Northern Lights—how they form and tips on photographing them for those perfect shots. This immersive experience is ideal for those who want to go beyond the lodge and fully chase the magic of the Yukon sky.5
Both options promise an unforgettable encounter with the Northern Lights, ensuring you stay warm and cozy while enjoying this natural wonder. Whether you choose the convenience of our lodge setup or the adventure of chasing the lights, we’ll take care of all the details for a memorable night under the stars.
Looking for a complete experience? Try our new All-Inclusive Package: Aurora Dream: A Northern Lights Getaway
The Dancing Lights... What are they?
The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a mesmerizing natural phenomenon that has fascinated people for centuries. These beautiful dancing waves of light illuminate the night sky and create a breathtaking spectacle. The name “aurora borealis” originated from the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek god of the north wind, Boreas.
The formation of the northern lights begins with the sun ejecting charged particles from its upper atmosphere, creating what is known as the solar wind. When these particles collide with Earth’s ionosphere, the aurora is born. Earth’s magnetic field plays a crucial role in redirecting these particles towards the poles. As the particles interact with the atmosphere, they deposit energy, causing it to fluoresce and giving rise to the vibrant colors of the aurora.
The specific colors observed in the northern lights are determined by the chemical composition of Earth’s atmosphere. Different atoms and molecules emit their own unique set of colors when they absorb and radiate light. For example, nitrogen molecules produce a red hue, while oxygen molecules contribute to the green color commonly seen in auroras.
The intensity and frequency of the northern lights vary over time due to the sun’s activity cycle, which lasts approximately 11 years. During periods of heightened solar activity, Earth may experience vast storms that bombard our planet with a tremendous amount of energy. These are the times when the northern lights are at their brightest and most frequent. The last solar maximum occurred in 2014, and the next one is expected around 2025.
When is it the right time to see the Northern Lights?
To witness the northern lights, it is best to travel to regions with long winter nights between September and April. During this time, the darkness of the sky allows for optimal viewing conditions. However, it’s important to consider moon phases and weather conditions as a bright full moon or cloudy skies can hinder visibility. To enhance your chances of seeing the aurora, you can monitor aurora forecasts provided by institutions like the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Geophysical Institute and NOAA. Additionally, NASA’s aurora page offers valuable information and resources to further explore and learn about the northern lights.
The northern lights are a true testament to the beauty and wonder of our natural world, captivating the imagination of all who have the privilege to witness them.
