The darker the skies, the brighter the aurora appears. Light pollution--the faint light reflected into the sky from nearby homes and buildings--is a problem for both astronomers and aurora watchers. While easily accessible by road, The Point Lodge is far enough from developed areas that light pollution isn't a problem. It's likely that the only lights you'll see will be those from the lodge, and we turn them off to watch the aurora.
From the lodge, the view of the aurora is across the open vista of Lake Louise. There is nothing to obstruct your view. From the Wrangell Mountains in the east, the lights arc high above the peaks of the Alaska Range to the north.
While many of our guests view the northern lights from the grounds or out on the lake, others choose to stay on our spacious deck and sip hot cocoa. Still others find the viewing is best from the comfort of the lounge or dining area that are flanked on three sides by large windows.
Overall, the auroral activity follows the 11-year cycle for sunspots. That cycle was at a low in 2007, so for the next few years the northern lights should be growing even more spectacular. Don't be put off by the fact the cycle isn't at its peak--while the displays may not be as grand during the low parts of the cycle that is offset by the fact that they are a bit more predictable then.
The best time of year for viewing the aurora is around the spring and autumn equinoxes. In the summer, it either doesn't get dark or the nights are too short to have much chance of seeing the aurora. While the lights can be good in the winter too, it is often so cold that it isn't as enjoyable. While the aurora may be visible any time it is dark, typically the display is best within two hours of midnight.
The aurora is so impressive that you will want to watch it for hours. It is fascinating AND DIFFERENT EVERY NIGHT! Come and see the northern lights for yourself.
