Where in the USA you can see the northern lights: 8 places

You don't need a passport to see one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders: the Northern Lights. You don't need to go to Finland, Norway or Iceland. There are a few less expected places right in the United States where you can watch the spectacular sky show, reports Travel & Leisure.

Photo: IStock

High solar activity is essential for observing the aurora, especially in the US. When the Sun emits superheated plasma, also known as a coronal mass ejection (CME), it can create a powerful "geomagnetic storm" that causes the Earth's auroras to intensify. However, sunny weather is hard to predict, so you need to be prepared for the chance for the Northern Lights light show. Use digital tools like the NOAA Forecast Tool and Night Sky Alerts to track solar activity and get alerts for the best time to catch the Northern Lights in your area.

Locations at higher latitudes (which are closer to what is known as the "Aurora Oval" or the area with the most geomagnetic activity) are ideal for spotting the aurora borealis, so this phenomenon can be seen in the northern United States if conditions are favorable. Longer, darker nights (such as a new moon) and clear skies are best. You also need to know when the equinoxes are (September and March) because solar activity is usually high at that time due to the tilt of the Earth in relation to the Sun.

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With that in mind, here are eight of the best places in the US to see the Northern Lights.

1. Idaho

When geomagnetic storms are strong enough, the northern lights can be seen as far south as northern Idaho. Head to places like Priest Lake and the Idaho Panhandle National Forest to maximize your chances of spectacle.

2. Minnesota

The Northern Lights can be seen in parts of the Midwest, such as northern Minnesota, when the conditions are at their best. county Cook is actually one of the best places to watch this phenomenon in the 48 states.

Not only does there have to be a massive solar storm, you also need to be in a dark area free of light pollution. When a solar storm occurs, make your way out of the city and into the dark area. Park under the stars and wait for the show to start.

3. Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania has an edge when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights as it is home to Cherry Springs State. Park, dark sky preserve. There, visitors can stay overnight, join tours, and even take a photography class to improve their skills and possibly capture the Northern Lights in action. Visit Overnight Astronomy Observation Fieldto see the night sky in 360 degrees - even if you don't see the northern lights, you can still enjoy one of the best stargazing spots in the country.

4. Michigan

The Northern Lights can sometimes be seen from Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Also located in Michigan Headlands International Dark Sky Park. While the park has ideal conditions for viewing the Northern Lights, it can be unpredictable. Don't get your hopes up and you'll be pleasantly surprised if you catch a glimpse of the lights above these forests.

5. Alaska

Due to its location in the auroral oval and dark skies, Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and luckily for American travelers, you don't even need a passport to get there. Fairbanks, Utqiagvik and Coldfoot are some of the best places to visit to see the Northern Lights.

Visitors can even opt for a guided tour for expert advice. Head to the hinterland in March to see this phenomenon in Last Frontier.

6. Wisconsin

Auroras have been known to appear in the skies over some of Wisconsin's natural landscapes. Go to Apostle Islands or Washington Island in Door County to see the lights. The Great Lakes are another great backdrop for watching the colorful phenomenon, and Wisconsin is located on both Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, making it even better for watching the Northern Lights when covered in ice.

7. North Dakota

This northern state is the perfect night sky spot if you're trying to see the northern lights. scenic areas such as Theodore roosevelt national park и Mystical Horizons in the Turtle Mountains near Bottineau, perfect for those clear skies you'll need to catch the Northern Lights. North Dakota's Martens Observatory actually installed a couple cam, which provide a public night sky live feed that captures the auroras as they appear overhead.

8. Maine

The largely rural state offers many opportunities for stargazing. This is also where the dark sky sanctuary is located, Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument, making Maine the best place east of the Mississippi to see the Northern Lights. There is also an International Dark Sky Park in Maine's forests. Appalachian Mountain Club's Maine woods, as well as in other remote clean places where you can see the northern lights.

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