Q: When is the best time to go to the Yukon to see the Northern Lights?

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Whitehorse is between September and early April , when the nights are long and the skies are often clear. Our local experts can work with you to find a date that aligns with your availability to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Q: How do I get to the Yukon for this trip?

For your convenience, this trip includes a flight from Vancouver to Whitehorse, Yukon, so you don't need to arrange travel to the Yukon yourself. Other travellers fly directly into Whitehorse, while some choose to drive from British Columbia. We'll make sure your travel details are handled seamlessly so you can focus on enjoying your Northern Lights adventure.

Question 1

When is the best time to go to the Yukon to see the Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Whitehorse is between September and early April, when the nights are long and the skies are often clear. Our local experts can work with you to find a date that aligns with your availability to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Question 2

Is this Northern Lights trip an escorted tour?

Accepted Answer

Our vacations are not typically escorted. You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary but rather have the freedom of independent travel.

This allows you, with the help of our travel experts, to personalize your trip to suit your interests, timeframe, and budget. We’ll guide you through the process and provide the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities tailored to your taste.

An exception to this is our Northern Lights vacations in Churchill. These are hosted trips. On these trips, you will be with the same group for each day of your trip and have a daily activity schedule. A local guide will be with you and almost all meals are included.

Question 3

What other activities can I do on a Northern Lights trip?

Accepted Answer

As Northern Lights viewing experiences take place at night, there is plenty of time in the day for other activities. Tour and activity options depend on the season and the location. In the winter, go dogsledding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling or ice fishing. In the fall, go hiking, wildlife viewing, and sightseeing. There are opportunities to learn about local culture and history too.

Question 4

Are Northern Lights trips suitable for families with young children?

Accepted Answer

Our Northern Lights trips can accommodate children, but there may be a minimum age for some day tours. Winter clothing rentals may be harder to obtain for some ages. It’s important to note that Northern Lights viewing happens late at night, so it may be tiring for some children. Please speak to one of our local travel experts and they can find the best trip options for you.

Question 5

Where do I stay on my Northern Lights trip?

Accepted Answer

We partner with a number of hotels and accommodation providers across the country that offer a variety of service levels and unique experiences. Northern Lights vacations include stays in small cities and remote locations, so there is not the same amount of choice as there would be in bigger cities. Choosing accommodation is based on local availability and personal preference.

Question 6

How do I get to the Yukon for this trip?

Accepted Answer

For your convenience, this trip includes a flight from Vancouver to Whitehorse, Yukon, so you don't need to arrange travel to the Yukon yourself. Other travellers fly directly into Whitehorse, while some choose to drive from British Columbia. We'll make sure your travel details are handled seamlessly so you can focus on enjoying your Northern Lights adventure.

Question 7

Can you photograph the Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

You can photograph the Northern Lights, but you will need a tripod and preferably a DSLR camera where you can control the shutter speed. A wide angle lens is also recommended to capture their full scope.

Question 8

What colour are the Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

The Northern Lights are most commonly a greenish-yellow hue, though they can appear pink, red, blue and even violet.

Yukon Aurora and Rockies Winter Rail

Winter wonderland adventure in Canada

Overnight journey on VIA Rail from Jasper to Vancouver

Splendour of Banff and Jasper National Parks in winter

Experience the mystical Aurora Borealis on guided viewing excursions

Discover the stunning landscape of the Yukon

Winter adventures at your own pace

Seamless transfers in each destination

Top experiences and features

Relax on the sleeper train to Vancouver

Your Questions Answered

What’s Included

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to go to the Yukon to see the Northern Lights?

Is this Northern Lights trip an escorted tour?

What other activities can I do on a Northern Lights trip?

Are Northern Lights trips suitable for families with young children?

Where do I stay on my Northern Lights trip?

How do I get to the Yukon for this trip?

Can you photograph the Northern Lights?

What colour are the Northern Lights?

Trip Itinerary

Your vacation begins - Calgary to Banff

Explore Banff

The Icefields Parkway - Banff to Jasper

Explore Jasper

VIA Rail - Depart Jasper National Park

VIA Rail - Arrive in Vancouver

Into the North – Vancouver to Whitehorse

Discover Whitehorse

Trip Itinerary

Download Itinerary

Prices

Not sure where to start? Speak to one of our local travel experts

Accommodations

Banff Caribou Lodge

Personalize this itinerary

Visit Dawson City

Discuss your Northern Lights tour with a Canadian travel expert

Sign up for travel inspiration

Explore Northern Lights

Popular Trips

Useful Links

More Fresh Tracks Canada Sites