Top spots in the USA to catch the Northern Lights

 In 2024, several locations in the United States offer great opportunities to witness the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). While the best chances to view this natural phenomenon are in northern regions, solar activity during the solar maximum cycle can extend aurora visibility further south. Here are some of the top spots in the USA to catch the Northern Lights:

### 1. **Fairbanks, Alaska**

   - **Why**: Fairbanks is considered one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights due to its high latitude and long winter nights. The city even offers aurora tours and lodges specifically designed for Northern Lights viewing.

   - **Best Time**: September to March.

   - **Additional Activities**: Aurora chasers can also enjoy dog sledding, snowmobiling, and hot springs nearby.

### 2. **Denali National Park, Alaska**

   - **Why**: Away from city lights, Denali offers pristine wilderness for Northern Lights viewing. The park's vast open skies and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a memorable aurora experience.

   - **Best Time**: Winter months, particularly February and March.

### 3. **Anchorage, Alaska**

   - **Why**: While slightly more urban, Anchorage still offers a great chance to see the Northern Lights. A short drive out of the city to places like Eagle River or Flattop Mountain offers clear views of the aurora.

   - **Best Time**: September to April.

### 4. **Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho**

   - **Why**: Although it’s farther south than Alaska, the Idaho Panhandle region has had increased aurora activity during times of strong solar flares. Its remote location with little light pollution makes it a possible viewing spot during higher solar activity periods.

   - **Best Time**: Fall and winter, especially during periods of strong geomagnetic activity.

### 5. **Glacier National Park, Montana**

   - **Why**: Glacier National Park offers stunning landscapes with dark, clear skies, making it one of the best lower 48 options for seeing the Northern Lights. Its remote location and high elevation enhance viewing potential.

   - **Best Time**: Fall and winter months, especially during solar storms.

### 6. **Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota**

   - **Why**: Voyageurs National Park is known for its dark skies and wilderness, making it an excellent spot for aurora viewing in the contiguous United States. It's one of the few certified International Dark Sky Parks in the country.

   - **Best Time**: Late summer through winter, especially during solar peak activity.

### 7. **Isle Royale National Park, Michigan**

   - **Why**: Located in Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park offers a remote and dark environment perfect for viewing the Northern Lights. It’s accessible by ferry during the warmer months, but even in the fall, auroras can be visible.

   - **Best Time**: Fall and winter.

### 8. **Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP)**

   - **Why**: The UP is known for dark skies and minimal light pollution, with several good viewing spots along Lake Superior’s shoreline. Places like Marquette, Keweenaw Peninsula, and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are excellent for spotting the aurora.

   - **Best Time**: Winter months, especially during times of heightened solar activity.

### 9. **Aroostook County, Maine**

   - **Why**: Aroostook County in northern Maine is known for its dark skies and clear views of the Northern Lights, particularly in winter. The rural nature of the area ensures minimal light pollution.

   - **Best Time**: Fall and winter.

### 10. **Priest Lake, Idaho**

   - **Why**: Northern Idaho is emerging as an unexpected spot to view auroras during strong solar storms. The Priest Lake area, with its low light pollution and northern location, offers occasional chances to see the Northern Lights.

   - **Best Time**: Fall and winter months.

### **Tips for Aurora Viewing**

   - **Check Forecasts**: Use aurora forecasting apps or websites like [SpaceWeatherLive](https://www.spaceweatherlive.com/en/auroral-activity) to monitor solar activity and predict aurora visibility.

   - **Head North**: Northern areas offer the best chances for viewing, but during periods of high solar activity, more southerly locations can also see the lights.

   - **Dark Skies**: Head to areas with little to no light pollution for optimal viewing.

   - **Best Time of Year**: Fall and winter provide long, dark nights ideal for aurora hunting.

By planning your visit around these locations and taking note of solar activity, you can increase your chances of seeing this mesmerizing natural light show in 2024!