Discover the best CANADA MANITOBA Northern Lights viewing locations. From remote wilderness to accessible viewing points, find your ideal location to witness the aurora in Manitoba.
The northern lights, without question, are one of the most mesmerizing natural phenomena on the planet. They have captivated adventurers and dreamers from around the world for millennia.
And, while there are many excellent destinations in the northern hemisphere to view the aurora borealis, Manitoba Canada offers one of the most unique sets of options. Not only does it offer vast open skies, but it is on the edge of pristine wilderness, and its strategic position under the auroral oval makes it a perfect destination.
Aurora hunters from all over the world make their way to Manitoba every single year to capture a glimpse of the elusive lights. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the top destinations in Manitoba to see the northern lights.
Why Manitoba is a Prime Spot for the Northern Lights
When it comes to the auroras, Manitoba is a hidden gem. Most people when they think of the northern lights in Canada, they immediately think of Yellowknife. But there are countless other amazing destinations throughout the country to see the ghostly lights as they dance across the night sky. Since the vast majority of Canada falls well within the auroral oval, just about any location that is far enough away from a major city, will offer some surprising viewing opportunities.
The auroral oval plays a crucial role in determining how visible the auroras are in a given area. It is an imaginary oval that covers the North Pole. But, due to the tilt of the earth, the vast majority of the oval is over North America. And, while there are many excellent destinations in Europe to view the northern lights, some of the best locations in the world lie within North America.
The Best Viewing Spots for Manitoba Northern Lights
Let’s take a closer look at the best viewing spots in Manitoba to see the northern lights.
Churchill: The Aurora Capital of Manitoba
Located along the shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill is one of the most well-known locations in Manitoba for viewing the northern lights. The town which is famous for its polar bears and beluga whales, also serves as an aurora hunter’s dream during the winter months. The remote village has limited artificial lighting, which helps to reduce the amount of light pollution that can interfere with your viewing experience.
Due to its location along Hudson Bay, Churchill offers aurora hunters an unobstructed view of the night sky. There are many different places to stay in Churchill that specifically cater to the northern lights. One of the most popular options is the glass-domed “aurora pods” which are located out on the tundra and can be accessed by buggy.
Thompson and the Mystery Lake Region
Then we have the Thompson and the Mystery Lake Region in northern Manitoba. Also known to locals as the “hub of the north”, Thompson offers visitors easy access to the wilderness and some of the darkest skies that the province has to offer. Located nearby you will also find the Mystery Lake Region, which is celebrated for offering some of the most serene viewing experiences. So, if you are looking for more than just aurora hunting, then Thompson serves as a convenient gateway to many nearby adventures like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and tundra expeditions.
Winnipeg and Surrounding Areas
Winnipeg is the largest city in Manitoba, which means that it’s also a very popular destination for people visiting the province and for those looking for the Manitoba Northern Lights experience. For most aurora hunters, being near an urban center is generally considered a no-no. After all, urban centers have a lot of artificial light which can interfere with the viewing experience. Nevertheless, countless viewing spots are located a mere 30 to 60 minutes outside of the city limits.
One of the more popular destinations outside of Winnipeg is the Birds Hill Provincial Park which offers visitors dark clear skies that are free from the glare of city lights. There is also Lake Winnipeg which is a popular destination for both locals and visitors Ultimately, So, for anyone who wants both urban comfort and natural wonder, Winnipeg is the perfect option.
Riding Mountain National Park
In the westernmost part of Manitoba, you will find the popular Riding Mountain National Park. The park offers visitors breathtaking landscapes and elevated terrain over sprawling meadows. This creates an amazing opportunity for anyone wishing to view the northern lights, as it also provides a picturesque setting for photography. For those who also love nature, the area is teeming with Canadian wildlife including elk, wolves, and moose.
Planning Your Manitoba Northern Lights Trip
It’s important to remember that Manitoba is a very popular destination for viewing the northern lights, so it’s important to plan your trip far enough ahead of schedule.
When to Visit
The northern lights can be seen throughout Manitoba at just about any point of the year, but it’s best to visit the province between January and March. The winter months offer the clearest skies and the longest nights, which maximizes your chances of seeing a more vivid display. If the winter is too cold for you, you can still visit between September and October, but it’s important to visit the northernmost regions of the province.
Practical Tips for Transportation
The easiest way to get to Manitoba is to fly into James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. The airport is the main gateway to the entire province. And, once you arrive in Winnipeg, you can visit just about any destination within the province by plane, train, or car. While the highway system is extremely reliable, it’s important to remember that driving in winter conditions can be extremely challenging. The challenge is quickly exasperated as you venture further out into more remote regions. If you plan on driving, make sure that your vehicle is equipped with the proper equipment for icy roads, and that you are familiar with how to use it.
Accommodation Options
For those planning to visit Churchill, there are a number of different specialized lodges and hotels that offer Northern Lights viewing packages. Many of the other accommodations within the area will also offer a wide selection of guided tours, and outing options that will help you to make the most of your trip.
However, if you plan on going to Thompson, then you should choose from any one of the many local hotels or guest houses. There are quite a few to choose from, but just make sure that you select one that caters specifically to aurora seekers. Those that cater to Aurora hunters, will offer wake-up services whenever the lights make their appearance.
Of course, if you simply opt to stay in Winnipeg, the options are endless. There are a wide array of fancy resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly motor lodges. Take your time making a good selection, and ensure that your reservation is secured long before you arrive.
Packing Essentials
Let’s face it, Canada can be quite cold in wintertime. To truly enjoy the northern lights experience, you need to pack for extreme winter conditions. Here are the packing essentials for your Canada Manitoba Northern Lights excursion:
- Thermal Underclothes
- Insulated down Jackets
- waterproof boots That
- Water Resistant Pants with Thinsulate Lining
- Several Wool Hats
- Thinsulate Gloves
- Scarves
- Photography Equipment
- Headlamps
- Portable Chargers
- Thermos for Hot Drinks
Conclusion
Always make sure to plan ahead for your Manitoba Northern Lights experience. Due to the large influx of visitors to the region during the winter months, waiting too long can result in finding no vacancies across the province. Regardless of whether you are choosing to visit the tundra of Church Hill or the tranquil wilderness near Thompson, you are bound to find the perfect viewing location for you. So, pack your bags, prepare for the cold, and head out to Manitoba to illuminate your nights with one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena.
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