The Yukon guide to the Solar MAX

Credit: Travel Yukon

Situated in Canada’s Northwest corner, near the Arctic Circle, the Yukon territory offers visitors a front row seat for the Solar Max.

The Yukon’s dark skies provides the perfect backdrop for the world’s most spectacular light show.

Here is the Yukon Guide to the Solar Max and all the essential information travelers need:

What is Solar Cycle 25?

The solar cycle is a periodic 11-year change in the sun’s activity. During the cycle, the levels of solar radiation and ejection of solar material, solar flares and coronal loops, ebb and flow to a period of maximum activity (a solar max).

During this period of time, there will be more aurora activity on earth, offering unmissable northern lights viewing.

When did Solar Cycle 25 start?

Solar Cycle 25 began in December 2019 and is set to reach its peak between now and the winter of 2025/2026.

Although this peak period will slowly ebb after 2026, aurora activity will still be dynamic, offering incredible viewing opportunities throughout the entire cycle.

When is the best time to view the northern lights?

As the current cycle will reach its peak between 2023-2026, there will be more intense and frequent aurora activity during this time. The best time to visit the Yukon to view the northern lights is from mid-August to mid-April with optimal viewing times between 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Where are the best locations for aurora viewing in the Yukon?

The Yukon is 80% pristine wilderness and even though visitors can observe the aurora borealis from the Yukon’s cities and towns, it is best to go outside away from any light pollution. The Yukon is full of tranquil locations including lodges, chalets, wilderness resorts, yurts or prospector wall tents. Visitors can view the aurora from a hot tub at resorts such as Northern Lights Resort & Spa which boasts four glass chalets for maximum viewing.

Visitors can stay in Whitehorse (the Yukon’s capital city) or Dawson City, and there are several companies that take guests on a guided aurora viewing experience. They travel out a short way into the wilderness. Some transport guests to cosy cabins with fire pits, or the more adventurous can join a snowmobile or fat bike tour during the day.

What are the top tips for viewing the aurora?

Dress warmly, including a heavy winter coat and snow/ski pants. All the gear visitors will need are available to hire in the Yukon, including snow boots, gloves, and hats. As the aurora is visible at night, guests are encouraged to get sufficient rest prior to the nightly viewing. Guests do not require 3D glasses or binoculars to view.

How can I find out more information?

View the Solar Max in Yukon brochure here or browse the dedicated northern lights page on Travel Yukon’s website.

How do I book a trip to the Yukon during the Solar Max?

Visitors can either book a longer duration package or can add the aurora experience in the Yukon onto an independent trip. Packages for both are below.

My Canada Trips offers a three-night Northern Lights from the Southern Lakes Resort package from £1129 per person. Price includes three nights at Southern Lakes Resort in a private cabin, daily breakfast and three-course dinner. It offers three nights of unguided Northern Lights viewing from the resort, and a three-hour snowshoeing excursion. Inclusive of return airport transfers and a winter clothing package. To book, visit www.mycanadatrips.co.uk 

Wexas Travel offers a 13-day Rocky Mountaineer and Yukon’s Northern Lights tour from £6835 per person, including return international flights, return internal flights from Vancouver to Whitehorse, all accommodation, three days Goldleaf service onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, and three aurora viewing excursions in the Yukon. To book, visit www.wexas.com or call 0208 223 4124

About the Yukon

Situated in the upper Northwest corner of Canada, next to Alaska, the Yukon is Canada’s most accessible northern destination. It is home to Canada’s highest mountain (Mount Logan) and the planet’s largest non-polar icefields located in Kluane National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Close to 80% remains pristine wilderness with untamed wildlife. The Yukon is home to more than 220,000 caribou, moose, mountain sheep, grizzly and black bears. The human population is just 45,000.

Visit www.travelyukon.com

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