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Yellowknife

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KP Index

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Magnetic Latitude

69.0°

Minimum KP

KP 1+

Aurora in Yellowknife

Yellowknife, in Canada's Northwest Territories, sits directly under the aurora oval and boasts some of the clearest skies in North America. The city claims visitors have a 90% chance of seeing the Northern Lights during a three-night stay. The surrounding lakes provide stunning reflection opportunities.

Best Viewing Season

The aurora season in Yellowknife runs from August to April. The best months for viewing are typically September, October, November, when darkness hours are longest and geomagnetic activity tends to peak.

Best Viewing Spots Near Yellowknife

City Outskirts

Areas away from city lights offer better viewing conditions.

62.4540, -114.3718 10-20 km from center

Nearby Lakes

Bodies of water provide beautiful aurora reflections.

Various 15-30 km from center

Elevated Areas

Higher ground offers clearer horizons and reduced light pollution.

Various 20-40 km from center

Nearby Destinations

Whitehorse

Canada

View Forecast Whitehorse

Churchill

Canada

View Forecast Churchill

Fairbanks

USA (Alaska)

View Forecast Fairbanks

Anchorage

USA (Alaska)

View Forecast Anchorage

Ilulissat

Greenland

View Forecast Ilulissat

Kangerlussuaq

Greenland

View Forecast Kangerlussuaq

Practical Information

The nearest airport is YZF. Yellowknife is accessible by air from major European and North American hubs. Local transportation options include rental cars, buses, and organized tours. For aurora hunting, having your own vehicle provides the flexibility to chase clear skies.
The optimal viewing time is typically between 10 PM and 2 AM local time, though aurora can appear anytime during dark hours. Plan your visit during the new moon phase for the darkest skies. Monitor the KP index and weather forecasts closely - a KP of 1 or higher is needed for aurora visibility at this location.
Winter temperatures can drop to -20C (-4F) or lower, so dress in warm layers. Expect to spend time outdoors waiting for aurora activity. Cloud cover is the biggest challenge - clear skies are essential. The aurora can appear as a faint green glow or as dramatic dancing curtains of color depending on geomagnetic activity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Yellowknife

The aurora season in Yellowknife runs from 08/15 to 04/15. The peak months are typically December through February when nights are longest. September and March also offer excellent viewing during the equinoxes when geomagnetic activity increases.

At Yellowknife's magnetic latitude of 69.0 degrees, you typically need a KP index of 1 or higher to see the Northern Lights. Higher KP values will produce brighter and more active displays. During geomagnetic storms (KP 5+), the aurora can be spectacular.

During peak aurora season (December-January), Yellowknife experiences up to 18-20 hours of darkness or twilight suitable for aurora viewing. Even in September and March, you'll have 10-12 hours of darkness. The best viewing window is typically between 10 PM and 2 AM local time.
Solar Maximum 2025-2026

Real-time alerts for Yellowknife

We're entering the most active period for northern lights in over a decade. Don't miss this rare opportunity.

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