When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alberta?

The Northern Lights, known as Aurora Borealis, occurs 24 hours a day.

They are technically active all the time. The question is not necessarily about when they occur, but rather, when they occur at the highest intensity so you have a best chance to get a great view.

Most people live in populated areas with too much light pollution, or they do not live far enough North. So even if they are happening, you can’t see them.

So when can you see the Northern lights in Alberta?

When Can You See the Northern Lights in Alberta?

The best time of year to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) is from September to April when the sky is the darkest.

More specifically, the best times are between 9PM and 3AM (Alberta Time).

Where Can You See the Northern Lights in Alberta?

You can see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) anywhere in the Aurora Zone.

The North half of Alberta is in the Aurora zone. This zone is basically a ring that extends 2000km to 3000km from the North magnetic pole. Approximately latitudes 66 to 69 degrees North.

Most of Alberta sits in KP1 and KP2.

North America map of the Aurora Zone. KP1 and KP2 goes through Alberta. Source

The KP scale is basically a measure of how much intensity would be required to see the Northern Lights in that region.

Fortunately for Albertans, we only need a lower intensity to see the light show.

Checklist to see the Northern Lights

Check list to maximize your chances of seeing the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) in Alberta:

Go out between September and April when it is darkest and cold.
Pick a clear cloudless night.
Be as North as possible. Most of Alberta is a good place to be, but the more North the better.
Get as far away from city lights as you can.

You can sign up for Aurora alerts from this app here. They track the intensity and let you know the best nights to go look.