Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Ontario In 2024
Written By: The Planet D
Updated On: June 11, 2024
Yes, you can see the Northern Lights in Ontario, Canada. We live in Ontario and have enjoyed exploring the best locations and times to view the Aurora Borealis. We want to share our valuable tips to make your Northern Lights adventure unforgettable. With its numerous dark sky preserves and hidden gems, Ontario is an amazing place to see this mesmerizing natural wonder.
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Discovering the Northern Lights in Ontario
We have been lucky enough to see the northern lights in many places, including Iceland, Greenland, and many spots in Canada. But did you know Ontario is home to some of the most incredible spots for viewing the aurora? You don’t even have to travel far from Toronto or Ottawa to get a glimpse of the northern lights. Many Ontario Parks, including national parks, provincial parks, and conservation areas, offer fantastic opportunities to witness the aurora borealis dancing across the sky.
If you are just looking for a quick list, here are some popular locations for Northern Lights viewing:
- Algonquin Provincial Park in Southern Ontario
- Lake Superior – Lake Superior Provincial Park , Pukaskwa National Park, Thunder Bay.
- Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, which boasts some of the darkest skies in Ontario
With so many amazing places to choose from, you’re bound to find the perfect spot for your Northern Lights viewing adventure.
What are the Northern Lights?
The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon caused by electrically charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere. This mesmerizing light show typically occurs when there’s increased solar activity, such as solar flares.
The aurora borealis can display vibrant shades of green, blue, and purple across the night sky, creating a breathtaking spectacle that draws countless visitors to Ontario each year.
Best Times to Experience the Aurora Borealis in Ontario
Observing the Northern Lights in all their splendor hinges largely on timing. Ideally, in Ontario, you should aim to catch the aurora borealis between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. The months from November to March offer the best opportunities for viewing, as the sun sets earlier and the nights are longer. Additionally, clear and cloud-free skies during the colder months in Canada make it easier to spot the Northern Lights.
Keeping tabs on the local weather forecast and aurora predictions is also beneficial. Cloud cover, precipitation, moon phase, and the aurora forecast can all impact your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. With a little patience and the right conditions, you’ll be rewarded with a truly unforgettable experience.
Top 5 Dark Sky Preserves in Ontario for Northern Lights Viewing
Dark Sky Preserves are designated areas that offer minimal light pollution, providing ideal conditions for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing. Ontario boasts several top-notch Dark Sky Preserves, perfect for experiencing the aurora borealis.
1. Quetico Provincial Park
Quetico Provincial Park is a fantastic destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts. Recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, Quetico offers a pristine wilderness experience with over 2,000 lakes and endless remote wilderness. Located west of Lake Superior and bordering Minnesota to the west, this park provides optimal conditions for aurora viewing, thanks to its shielded lighting and clear view of the starry sky.
Not only can you witness the Northern Lights, but you can also catch meteor showers and spot planets in the night sky. With year-round camping options, including rustic cabin rentals at Dawson Trail campground , Quetico Provincial Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while gazing at the stunning aurora display.
2. Manitoulin Eco Park
Manitoulin Eco Park is another excellent location for catching the Northern Lights in Ontario. With its dark skies and minimal light pollution, this park provides prime conditions for viewing the aurora borealis. Located in Tehkummah on Manitoulin Island , Manitoulin Eco Park is about two hours away from Sudbury.
The park offers various events and activities specifically for aurora viewing, making it an ideal destination for Northern Lights aficionados. Visitors can camp overnight or purchase a Night Pass for access to the park’s stargazing facilities. With its combination of pristine skies and dedicated events, Manitoulin Eco Park is a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable aurora experience.
3. Killarney Provincial Park
Killarney Provincial Park, Ontario’s first Dark Sky Preserve designated by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2018, is a renowned location for viewing the Northern Lights. Covering a vast 645 square kilometer area of untouched wilderness, Killarney offers exceptional conditions for stargazing and aurora watching.
One unique feature of Killarney Provincial Park is its observatory, making it one of only two provincial parks in Ontario with this facility. Visitors can enjoy:
- Astronomical programming led by Astronomers-in-Residence from York University
- A perfect opportunity to learn more about the night sky
- Witnessing the captivating aurora borealis
4. Lake Superior Provincial Park
Lake Superior Provincial Park, a designated Dark Sky Preserve recognized by the Astronomical Society of Canada , is an iconic location for viewing the Northern Lights. The park offers nightly telescope viewings at Agawa Bay Beach, giving visitors the chance to gaze at the aurora borealis up close.
With several campsites available, Lake Superior Provincial Park provides a variety of lodging options for visitors looking to experience the Northern Lights firsthand. Whether you’re camping in a serviced campground or enjoying the tranquility of a backcountry campsite, this park’s pristine conditions make it an ideal destination for aurora chasers.
5. Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
As the world’s first Dark Sky Reserve, Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve offers prime conditions for experiencing the Northern Lights. Located near Gravenhurst in Ontario, this preserve covers almost 2,000 hectares of Crown Land and provides 360-degree panoramic views of the night sky.
Visitors can camp overnight and explore the preserve’s hiking trails during the day. To ensure the best viewing conditions, the park offers a Clear Sky Chart online , allowing visitors to check the weather before their visit. With its pioneering status and exceptional viewing conditions, Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve is a must-visit location for anyone seeking to witness the Northern Lights in all their splendor.
Tips for Northern Lights Viewing In Ontario
Considering weather conditions and ideal viewing times is a surefire way to maximize your chances of seeing the Northern Lights in Ontario. Cold, clear nights provide the best opportunities for witnessing the aurora borealis. The months from November to March are prime time for viewing, as the sun sets earlier and the nights are longer and darker.
So, you are planning to chase the Northern Lights? Great! Remember, the place you choose should be away from the city lights. And don’t forget to keep an eye on your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to check the local weather forecast. You know, things like cloud cover, whether it’s going to rain or not, the phase of the moon, and of course, the aurora forecast.
All these factors can make or break your Northern Lights experience. But hey, don’t worry too much. Just be patient, wait for the right conditions, and I promise, you are in for a treat. Experiencing the Northern Lights is truly unforgettable.
Northern Ontario’s Hidden Gems for Aurora Viewing
Northern Ontario is a treasure trove of hidden gems for aurora viewing, offering both pristine conditions and unique experiences. We now shift our focus to some lesser-known locations in Northwestern Ontario that are fantastic vantage points to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. These include North Bay, Cochrane, Moosonee, and Chapleau.
6. North Bay
North Bay is a city located in northeastern Ontario. It is a great destination for viewing the Northern Lights. With its numerous outdoor trails, landmarks, and live entertainment options, North Bay offers a fantastic destination for aurora enthusiasts. Some of the best places to witness the Northern Lights in North Bay include the waterfront and the provincial parks around the town.
The best time to visit North Bay for Northern Lights viewing is between September and November, with the optimal viewing hours between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. The Fred McNutt Family Trail and the Richardson Ridge Trails provide excellent vantage points for admiring the dazzling aurora borealis display in the night sky.
7. Cochrane and Moosonee
Cochrane and Moosonee offer great opportunities for aurora viewing, thanks to their picturesque landscapes and scenic train rides. Cochrane is known for its fantastic Northern Lights viewing conditions, as it’s far away from light pollution. Moosonee, one of the northernmost towns in northeastern Ontario, is easily accessible by train and offers stunning views of the Moose River and James Bay.
For a truly local experience, consider staying at Moosonee Lilypad or The Sunflower Guesthouse , or camp at Tidewater Provincial Park. These charming accommodations provide a cozy base for your Northern Lights adventure, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the aurora borealis.
8. Chapleau
Chapleau, a small town with historic significance and the largest wildlife preserve on the planet, is an ideal location for Northern Lights viewing. Established in 1885 as a connection point for the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Hudson’s Bay Company Trading Post, Chapleau has evolved into a hub for mining, lumbering, and other industries. Its northern positioning and lack of light pollution make it a perfect spot to witness the Northern Lights.
The best time to visit Chapleau for Northern Lights viewing is between October and late March.
Tips for Capturing the Perfect Northern Lights Photo
Capturing the perfect Northern Lights photo can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. The key to success lies in adjusting your camera settings and experimenting with composition. To get the best shots, follow these steps:
- Set your aperture (f-stop) to at least f4 or f2.8 for a wide lens opening.
- Go manual and set focus to infinity.
- Adjust your ISO and shutter speed accordingly.
- Use evaluative or matrix metering mode to ensure proper exposure.
- Include something or someone in the foreground for better composition.
Choosing the right camera and lens is also crucial for photographing the Northern Lights. Some great options for cameras include:
- Sony A7SIII
- Canon EOS R6
Wide-angle lenses with a minimum aperture of f/2.8 – f/4 are ideal for capturing the aurora borealis and the surrounding landscape. You are also going to want to have a solid tripod. With the right equipment and settings, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning images of the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Preparing for Your Northern Lights Adventure
Before you head out on your Northern Lights adventure, it’s important to be well-prepared. One thing to keep in mind is that the best viewing conditions usually happen on cold, clear nights, so dressing appropriately is a must. Here’s what you should consider wearing:
You can’t go wrong with wool clothing. Think wool beanie, winter boots, wool socks, a wool sweater, long wool underwear, and mittens. We recommend Merino Wool , it not only keeps you warm but it keeps you dry. Cotton, on the other hand, isn’t the best choice because it won’t keep you warm. Also, don’t forget to bring extra layers and blankets to keep you cozy.
Safety is another thing you should be thinking about when planning your Northern Lights trip. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Try to pick a viewing spot that’s free of light pollution. Always be aware of your surroundings. And don’t forget to check the local weather forecast for cloud cover, precipitation, moon phase, and the aurora forecast to make sure you’ve got the best viewing conditions possible.
By getting everything ready in advance, you’ll be all set to fully enjoy your unforgettable aurora adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can i see the northern lights in ontario.
The best time to see the northern lights in Ontario is during the colder months of September and October and late at night from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m. when skies are clear and free of clouds. Look out for waning or new moons for an even better viewing experience.
Where can you see the northern lights in Ontario?
See the Northern Lights in Southwestern Ontario at Point Pelee National Park, Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington’s Point Farms Provincial Park, Bruce, Grey and Simcoe, Kawarthas and Northumberland, Southeastern Ontario’s Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley, Muskoka, Parry Sound and Algonquin Park or Northeastern Ontario.
Can you see the northern lights in Sault Ste Marie?
Yes, you can see the northern lights in Sault Ste Marie during peak Aurora activity every 11 years. Algoma District, Northeastern Ontario is a great spot for catching the Aurora Borealis.
What time is best to see Northern Lights tonight?
Tonight is a good night for seeing the Northern Lights – they will be visible around midnight when the sky is darkest and clear of cloud coverage or light pollution.
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, is an incredible display of vibrant colours in the night sky, caused by electrically charged particles from the sun interacting with our atmosphere.
Ontario offers a wealth of opportunities to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. From dark sky preserves and hidden gems to expert tips for viewing and photographing the aurora borealis, we hope we have provided you with valuable information to help you plan an unforgettable Northern Lights adventure. With the right preparation and a bit of patience, you’re sure to be rewarded with a mesmerizing experience that will last a lifetime.
It seems that the Northern Lights have been spotted more and more in Ontario these days and if witnessing or photographing the breathtaking Aurora Borealis has always been on your bucket list, make your way to one of these places and keep your eyes in the skies.
Plan Your Next Trip To Ontario With These Resources
- 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City
- 33 Best Weekend Getaways in Ontario, Canada
- The Greatest Things to Do in Winter in Ontario
- Dogsledding Ontario – Your Ticket to Adventure in Canada
- 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada
Travel Planning Resources
Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.
Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.
Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.
Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO .
Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:
- Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
- Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.
Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.
Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.
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Northwestern Ontario | Destination Ontario
What are the Northern Lights
When to see the northern lights, tools to forecast the northern lights, tips for viewing the northern lights, where to see the northern lights, on this page, where to see the northern lights in ontario.
Ontario is home to several designated places and natural parks where stargazers have a great chance of seeing the majestic Northern Lights.
Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon of luminous, multi-coloured rays, ripples and curtains of colour that appear to dance across the sky.
Known as the Aurora Borealis in the northern hemisphere, this light display most commonly occurs in high-latitude regions and results from electrical, solar particles colliding with gaseous properties in the Earth’s atmosphere.
After reports of solar activity, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Ontario is when the sky is darkest, an hour or two after sunset towards midnight, and clear of cloud coverage or light pollution (artificial light). You’ll also want to avoid the bright light of a full moon, so choose a night with a waning or new moon.
Although the Northern Lights are reported every season, late fall, winter and early spring are often most favourable for viewing and stargazing in general, as the cold air contains less moisture than warm summer nights.
Scientists, astronomers and researchers can measure geomagnetic activity and predict when, based on favourable conditions, one’s chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis increase.
Helpful tools to plan your stargazing expedition include:
- Aurora Forecast
- Space Weather Canada
- Space Weather Prediction Centre (North America)
- Besides your tripod, camera, binoculars and perhaps a telescope, consider bringing a reclining camping chair, blankets and a mat for comfort.
- Wear seasonal, warm, layered clothing and don’t forget bug spray in the summer.
- Avoid using bright white flashlights or headlamps for wayfinding. Instead, use red lights, which are more conducive to stargazing.
In Ontario, there are eight designated Dark-Sky Preserves , which are natural areas identified by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) that protect the night sky from light pollution and promote sky viewing and astronomy. In addition, many of Ontario’s national parks, provincial parks, conservation areas and wilderness spaces are prime places to witness the Northern Lights.
Southwestern Ontario
Point pelee national park.
Situated at the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland, Point Pelee was designated as a Dark-Sky Preserve (DSP) by the Windsor Centre of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) in 2006 for its commitment to protecting the nighttime environment. On selected Dark-Sky Nights , the park stays open until midnight for optimal stargazing. Bring binoculars or a telescope or even view millions of stars with the naked eye.
Location: 1118 Point Pelee Drive, Leamington
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Point farms provincial park.
Just north of the town of Goderich, Point Farms Provincial Park offers an expansive view of the night sky over Lake Huron. Perched on a bluff overlooking the lake, the park also features a wide sandy beach, perfect for stargazing, viewing planets and catching the Northern Lights. Point Farms is open from May to October, with numerous camping options.
Location: 82491 Bluewater Highway R.R.3, Goderich
Bruce, Grey and Simcoe
Bruce peninsula national park.
Located at the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula near the town of Tobermory, Bruce Peninsula National Park received Dark-Sky Preserve (DSP) status in 2009. The Bruce Peninsula Dark-Sky Preserve is open year-round and offers amazing opportunities to view the night sky over the waters of Georgian Bay. You’ll find a variety of camping options, from backcountry sites to drive-in camping at Cyprus Lake Campground as well as yurt-style accommodations.
Location: 469 Cyprus Lake Road, Tobermory
Bayside Astronomy
Hosted by the Bruce Peninsula Biosphere Association , Bayside Astronomy is a free public outreach program in the small town of Lion’s Head, on the shores of Georgian Bay about halfway up the Bruce Peninsula. The program brings together amateur astronomers who set up their own telescopes for public viewing. The program typically begins with a star talk at dusk, followed by celestial viewing. When the Northern Lights are visible, this is a great spot to be.
Location: 1 Bruin Street, Lion's Head
Manitoulin Eco Park
A Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) designated commercial Dark-Sky Preserve, Manitoulin Eco Park is nestled in a pristine hardwood forest in Tehkummah on Manitoulin Island, just ten minutes from the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry in South Baymouth and about half an hour from the Little Current Swing Bridge. The preserve provides an open communal field with spectacular 360-degree viewing for stargazing. For those looking for some knowledgeable insight into the night sky and Northern Lights, the Preserve also hosts Stargazing Night Hikes and scheduled Astronomy Nights with various guest speakers.
Location: 18777 ON-6, Tehkummah
Kawarthas and Northumberland
Emily provincial park.
Despite being relatively close to the city of Peterborough, the wide-open views of the night sky over Pigeon Lake at Emily Provincial Park are great for stargazing and on occasion, catching the Northern Lights. The Peterborough Astronomy Club hosts public star viewing sessions with guest speakers and telescopes. The park also offers camping and boating on the Trent Severn Waterway.
Location: 797 Emily Park Road, Omemee
Southeastern Ontario
Charleston lake provincial park.
Located on the shores of Charleston Lake about a 45-minute drive from Kingston, Charleston Lake Provincial Park offers an abundance of clear views of the night sky. Beyond dark sky viewing, you’ll find great camping and hiking opportunities, including the nine-kilometre Blue Mountain Trail , up the tallest peak (150 metres) in the county. The park operates from May to October.
Location: 148 Woodvale Road, Lansdowne
North Frontenac Township Dark-Sky Preserve
Known for having the darkest skies in Southern Ontario, North Frontenac Township was Canada’s first municipality to earn “Dark-Sky Preserve” status from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC). In addition to exceptional night-sky viewing at the North Frontenac Dark-Sky Pad, the preserve also offers public star viewing through the 16" Fred Lossing Telescope, free parking, accessible washrooms and electrical service.
Location: 5816 Road 506, Plevna
Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley
Haliburton forest & wild life reserve.
About half an hour drive north of Haliburton, the privately-owned Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve encompasses 100,000 acres of pristine wood and wetlands, with over 100 lakes and countless species of flora and fauna. The reserve offers camping and cabin accommodations , year-round trails for hiking and snowshoeing and spectacular views of the night sky. Learn more about Haliburton Forest’s astronomy program .
Location: 1095 Redkenn Road, Dysart et al
Muskoka, Parry Sound and Algonquin Park
Algonquin provincial park.
Known for thousands of lakes and pristine wilderness Algonquin Provincial Park is also a great spot for stargazing and catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Spread out over 7,500 square kilometres of forests, bogs, lakes and rivers, the park provides visitors with countless locations for gaining a wide-open view of the night sky. A variety of backcountry and car camping options are available or book a stay at a nearby retreat, like Northern Edge Algonquin or Killarney Lodge in the park.
Location: Ontario 60
Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
Spanning almost 2,000 hectares of Crown Land west of Gravenhurst, Torrance Barrens was designated the world’s first permanent dark sky preserve in 1999 and provides an accessible spot for viewing the stars, Milky Way and Northern Lights.
The preserve publishes a Clear Sky Forecast to help you plan your visit. The prime viewing area is a smooth granite outcrop behind the Ministry sign on Southwood Road. To get there, walk along the main trail, across a boardwalk and up the first ridge. If you plan to camp, book your visit early , as there are only six campsites available.
Location: Southwood Road, Gravenhurst
Northeastern Ontario
Killarney provincial park.
An iconic 645 square kilometre landscape of untouched wilderness, Killarney Provincial Park is also a Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC) designated commercial Dark-Sky Preserve. The park offers a designated area suitable for viewing the starry sky and catching the Northern Lights and meteor showers with the naked eye, binoculars or telescope. In collaboration with York University, Killarney employs a team of Astronomers-in-Residence to deliver engaging astronomical programming. Seasonal camping and year-round, yurt-style accommodations are available.
Location: 958 ON-637, Killarney
The Town of Moosonee
For the best chance to view the Northern Lights, go north! One of Ontario’s northernmost communities, the town of Moosonee sits along the Moose River, just under 20 kilometres south of the saltwater coast of James Bay, part of the Hudson Bay Lowlands on the edge of the Arctic. Access is by train or plane, Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express offers rail service from Cochrane.
Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma
Chapleau game preserve.
Referred to locally as the “Friendliest Town in the North”, Chapleau is home to the 7,000-square-kilometre Chapleau Game Preserve, the largest crown game preserve in the world. In addition to providing a home for countless species of flora and fauna including eagles, beavers and moose, the Preserve provides incredibly clear views of the night sky with great opportunities to witness the Northern Lights.
Location: Sudbury, Unorganized, North Part
Lake Superior Provincial Park
Lake Superior Provincial Park was Ontario’s second provincial park to earn Dark-Sky Preserve status and ranks amongst the darkest of all Dark-Sky Preserves in the world. While stargazing, keep an eye out for nocturnal fauna like bats, beavers and wolves. The park offers diverse camping opportunities, with two serviced campgrounds for RVs and tent camping, plus 200 backcountry campsites open from May to October each year.
Location: 96 Broadway Avenue, Wawa
Northwestern Ontario
Sleeping giant provincial park.
East of Thunder Bay, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park features over 100 kilometres of hiking trails through pristine boreal forest on the shores of Lake Superior. By day, the park provides opportunities to view wildlife like deer, lynx and over 200 species of birds. By night, take in magnificent views of the dark sky, along with opportunities to see the Northern Lights. If the Aurora Borealis does make an appearance on your visit, look down at the lake and notice the patterns they cast on the water. With camping available year-round, including full-service cabins, Sleeping Giant should be on your night-sky bucket list.
Location: R R 1, Pass Lake
Quetico Provincial Park
An iconic wilderness park and world-famous destination for backcountry canoeing, Quetico Provincial Park is home to over 2,000 lakes and endless remote wilderness. In 2021, the park was designated as an International Dark-Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association . Camping is available in the park all year long, including winter camping and cabin rentals at Dawson Trail Campground.
Location: ON-11, Atikokan
Pukaskwa National Park
Located on the shores of Lake Superior, Pukaskwa National Park offers excellent stargazing and Northern Light viewing opportunities thanks to its remote location. Camping options include drive-in sites at Hattie Cove Campground from May to September, rugged backcountry camping between May and October (weather permitting) and oTENTik sites , a cross between a tent and a rustic cabin, also available May to October. Even outside the park, the Northern Lights have often been seen along the North Shore’s Highway 17 between Sault Ste. Marie and Thunder Bay.
Location: ON-627, Heron Bay
Ontario Provincial Parks
With over 300 provincial parks across the province, there are many more amazing places for stargazing and the opportunity to see the Northern Lights throughout the year. Follow the Ontario Park’s Eyes on the Skies blog each month for stargazing news.
A daily vehicle permit is required for each park you visit. If available, purchase your pass ahead of time and make your camping reservations well in advance.
Overall, weekends are much busier than weekdays at Ontario Parks, so plan a mid-week visit. Clean footwear and equipment prevent the spread of invasive species and staying on trails and boardwalks and a zero-litter policy helps reduce the destruction of sensitive habitats.
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Last updated: November 14, 2024
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