The Northern Lights (aurora borealis) are one of those rare experiences that truly live up to the hype. Caused by charged particles colliding with the Earth’s magnetic field, this natural light show paints the sky in waves of green, purple, and pink. 

It’s no surprise that this natural wonder has made its way onto many bucket lists. And in Canada, you don’t have to go too far off the grid to see them. There are plenty of towns where your chances of catching a show are incredibly high.

If you want the best views of the Northern Lights in Canada, move these destinations to the top of your list. 

Northern Lights destinations in Canada: Top spots

Here’s a quick look at where and when to see the Northern Lights in Canada:

• Saskatchewan has some of the darkest skies in the country.

• British Columbia offers scenic views against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies.

• Fort McMurray in Alberta is located in what’s called the “auroral zone.”

• Yellowknife offers good odds during the winter season. 

• Battle Harbour is perfect for those who don’t want to brave bitterly cold conditions to see the lights.

Saskatchewan: The darkest skies

The province of Saskatchewan is home to the darkest and clearest skies in all of North America, making it one of the best spots to see the northern lights. In La Ronge, you’ll find guided tours that take you out to the wilderness for prime viewing. The rich darkness makes the colours seem even brighter as they dance among the black background of the night sky. Since the land in the area is mostly flat, your view stretches for miles in every direction.

If you’d like to fly directly to La Ronge, you can land at Barber Field. Otherwise, most travelers land at Regina International Airport or Saskatoon’s John G. Diefenbaker International Airport.

British Columbia: Incredible mountain views

The Canadian Rockies offer a surreal and picturesque backdrop for watching the Northern Lights. One of the top attractions in the area is Muncho Lake Park, where the aurora reflects off the water and adds a whole extra dimension to your viewing experience.

If you choose to fly to this location, you’ll land at the Muncho Lake Water Aerodrome. However, you can choose to fly to a larger airport like Vancouver International Airport before renting a car or taking a taxi to Muncho Lake Provincial Park.

Fort McMurray or Yellowknife: Watch the eclipse

If you want a snowy backdrop while you watch the aurora borealis, visit Fort McMurray, Alberta, or Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Both are located in prime zones for viewing the Northern Lights in Canada. Fort McMurray sits almost directly under one of the sky’s most active aurora zones, while visitors to Yellowknife enjoy a 90 percent chance of seeing the lights during the winter months.

Travellers can fly directly into Fort McMurray International Airport or Yellowknife Airport. Most flights to Yellowknife connect through Edmonton International Airport or Calgary International Airport.

Newfoundland and Labrador: Scenic views

Battle Harbour in Newfoundland and Labrador is one of the best spots to catch the Northern Lights in Canada while on summer vacation. The site is open only from late spring through early fall, and the mild weather makes it perfect for families who want to bring their children to witness the phenomenon.

The closest major airports to Battle Harbour are St. John’s International and Gander International. You can also book a flight to Goose Bay Airport, which is occasionally used by the Canadian Air Force.

Plan your Northern Lights adventure

Witnessing the incredible Northern Lights in Canada is an experience you won’t forget! Fortunately, there are many spots across the country where you can see this natural phenomenon. Whether you prefer clear skies or lake reflections, it’s easy to find a spot to see the Northern Lights in Canada that fits your budget and schedule.

Check out Skyscanner’s flight search to be one step closer to crossing this wild bucket list item off your list!