Where & When Can You See the Northern Lights in MINNESOTA USA?

Where and when can you see the northern lights in Minnesota USA? Here, we discuss where to go and the best time to see northern lights Minnesota, including years, months and precise viewing locations.

The state of Minnesota is most famously known as the land of 10,000 lakes and some of the most pristine wilderness in the country. It is a captivating destination for just about anyone who is looking to get out in the great outdoors.

However, Minnesota is also known as an excellent destination in the lower 48 for people looking to view the elusive Northern lights. In the northernmost reaches of Minnesota, you will find popular destinations like Voyageurs National Park as well as Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, both of which offer amazing opportunities to view and experience the aurora borealis up close and personal.

In this article, we’ll share the best places to go, and answer the question ‘When can you see the northern lights in Minnesota?’ to give you the very best chance of seeing them for yourself.

Can You See the Northern Lights in Minnesota?

Yes, you can see the northern lights in Minnesota USA… but you need to get the timing and location right, as they are not visible all the time. For most Aurora hunters, the concept of viewing the aurora borealis means getting as close to the Arctic Circle as physically possible.

During the peak of a solar cycle, however, you can view the elusive lights within the lower 48 states. It is commonplace to view the aurora borealis in Minnesota from the end of September until the early parts of April, even when it is not the peak part of the solar cycle.

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Minnesota?

Best Time to See Northern Lights Minnesota – Summary

Best Months for Aurora Activity

Although it is possible to view the northern lights during most of the winter months, the best time to see northern lights Minnesota and capture a glimpse of the ghostly lights as they dance across the night skies is between October and March. For an increased chance of viewing the natural phenomenon, it is best to plan your trip to view the lights from the shore of Minnesota’s many lakes, between December and February.

Best Years Based on Solar Cycle

Solar activity conforms to an approximately 11-year cycle. The last peak of the solar cycle occurred back in 2013, which, when the 11-year cycle is taken into consideration, ensures that the solar activity will be at its peak during the 2024-25 season. Although it is still possible to see impressive auroral displays throughout the rest of the solar cycle, the greatest opportunities to view the natural phenomenon and therefore the best time to see northern lights Minnesota is during its peak years.

Learn more about the solar cycles and best years to see the aurora in this article.

Moon Cycle and Other Timing Considerations

Always keep in mind to plan your trips around the phases of the moon. While the moon itself is not a source of light, it does a very good job of reflecting the sun’s light onto the Earth’s surface. During the middle of winter, the snow-covered landscapes can result in the moonlight obstructing the visibility of even the most impressive auroral displays. So, when during the moon cycle can you see the northern lights in Minnesota? Aim for a new or dark moon, and avoid the full moon.

Before heading out into the wilderness, make sure you check the local weather conditions as they are known to change from moment to moment. You will want to find a good viewing location along the southern shore of any one of the 10,000 lakes located throughout Minnesota, so you will have an unobstructed view to the north.

Where Can You See the Northern Lights in Minnesota?

Best Places to See Northern Lights in Minnesota

Voyageurs National Park northern lights

Closest City: International Falls, MN

Voyageurs National Park is a popular destination that is known for pristine lakes and boreal forests. The remote location provides visitors with ample opportunities to view the aurora borealis over its many frozen lakes. There are countless designated viewpoints spread out throughout the park that had been created specifically for Aurora hunters. For those who feel skeptical about can you see the northern lights in Minnesota at all, then this is a good aurora-spotting site to visit.

Considerations for Voyageurs National Park northern lights

• Dress Warmly
• Be Wary of Frozen Lakes
• Some Areas May Be Inaccessible
• Check with the Information Center upon Arrival

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)

Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/destination/boundary-waters-canoe-area-wilderness

Closest City: Ely, MN

If you are looking for a secluded setting for viewing the aurora borealis, then look no further than the Boundary Waters. This popular wilderness location is situated far away from any urban centers, which provides aurora hunters with dark skies and minimal light pollution. Although known as a popular destination for boating enthusiasts during the summer months, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness provides aurora hunters with amazing vantage points along the southern shores of the many lakes and rivers located within its borders.

Considerations

• Remember to Pack Cold-Weather Gear
• Permits Are Necessary
• Pick up a Trail Map
• Be Prepared for Wildlife Encounters

Grand Portage State Park

Closest City: Grand Portage, MN

In the northeasternmost part of Minnesota along the shores of Lake Superior, you will find the Grand Portage State Park. Known for offering some of the most breathtaking views of the night skies, the park’s rugged shorelines and dense forest offer visitors an amazing backdrop for capturing a glimpse of the elusive lights on film.

Considerations

• Check for Park Hours and Restrictions
• Remember to Bring Warm Beverages
• Snowshoes and Cross-Country Skis Are a Must

Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park

Closest City: Soudan, MN

Although known for its historic iron mine, the Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park is also a popular destination for aurora hunters who are looking for dark skies and the perfect vantage points along the shores of Lake Vermilion.

Considerations

• Check for Organized Stargazing Events
• Familiarize Yourself with Winter Safety Tips
• Pick up a Trail Map
• Stay on Marked Trails at Nighttime

Tettegouche State Park

Closest City: Silver Bay, MN

If you are looking for amazing views of the aurora borealis over the pristine and frozen shores of Lake Superior, then look no further than Tettegouche State Park. This popular destination features rugged cliffs, frozen waterfalls, and dense forests. It is also known for providing unique vantage points for those wishing to view the elusive lights.

Considerations

• Check for Trail Conditions
• Bring Snowshoes
• Pick up a Park Map at the Visitor Center
• Local Accommodations in Silver Bay and Two Harbors

Gunflint Trail

Website: https://www.gunflinttrail.com/

Closest City: Grand Marais, MN

Located deep within the Superior National Forest, you will find the scenic Gunflint Trail which offers many secluded viewing destinations that are perfect for aurora hunters. Far away from any major urban area, the trail offers visitors with dark skies and panoramic views.

Considerations

• Be Prepared for Icy Roads
• Make Sure to Inform Someone of Your Travel Plans
• Bring Cross-Country Skis or Snowshoes
• Wide Angle Lenses Are a Must

Jay Cooke State Park (Northern Lights Duluth MN)

Closest City: Carlton, MN

You will find that beautiful Jay Cooke State Park in the southwestern part of Duluth along the shores of the St. Louis River. The park is known for its historic swinging bridge and rocky riverbanks. Head out along the shores of the St. Louis River, and observe the aurora borealis as it reflects off the frozen river’s surface.

Considerations for Jay Cooke State Park (Northern Lights Duluth MN)

• Check for Bridge Access
• Be Cautious near Frozen Riverbanks
• Bring Your Snowshoes

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area

Closest City: Crosby, MN

When it comes to a picturesque destination that is perfect for aurora hunters wanting to capture amazing photographs of the elusive lights, look no further than the Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area. Countless overlooks will provide visitors with unobstructed views of the night skies.

Considerations

• Follow Park Regulations for Camping
• Join Organized Astronomy Programs
• Be Respectful of People Who Are Ice Fishing

Itasca State Park

Closest City: Park Rapids, MN

Known as Minnesota’s oldest State Park, the Itasca State Park is also home to the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River. Here along the tranquil shores of Lake Itasca, you will be presented with an unobstructed view of the northern skies. Find out why so many aurora hunters make their way to the popular Itasca State Park every single winter.

Considerations

• Check with Visitor Center for Park Hours
• Bring a Pair of Snowshoes
• Be Respectful of Historic Sites

Lake of the Woods

Closest City: Baudette, MN

Situated in the northernmost part Minnesota along the Canadian border, you will find the Lake of the Woods. This popular destination is far away from any urban areas, and provides visitors with some of the most awe-inspiring views of the aurora borealis imaginable. As you sit comfortably along the southern shores of the frozen lake, you will be mesmerized at how the auroral displays reflect off the fresh powder.

Considerations

• Be Respectful of People Ice Fishing
• Check for Ice Conditions before Traveling on the Lake
• Dress in Layers and Bring Extra Clothing
• Be Prepared for Subzero Temperatures
• Bring a Handheld GPS System

Conclusion

That’s it for our guide to where and when you can see the northern lights in Minnesota (MN). By now, you should have a clear idea of which locations to hit and timing for your next aurora hunting trip in the state. To wrap up, below is a quick summary…

Where Can You See the Northern Lights in Minnesota USA?

• Voyageurs National Park northern lights
• Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW)
• Grand Portage State Park
• Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park
• Tettegouche State Park
• Gunflint Trail
• Jay Cooke State Park (Northern Lights Duluth MN)
• Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area
• Itasca State Park
• Lake of the Woods

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Minnesota USA?

• October to March (however, best time to see northern lights Minnesota is December to February)
• Aim for the solar cycle peak, years 2024-2025
• Arrange your trip for a new or dark moon, and check the weather forecasts for clear nights with no cloud cover.

For more guides on spotting the northern lights in the US, check out our guide on Where to See Northern Lights in the US Lower 48 and check out all our Northern Lights USA articles here.

Happy aurora hunting!