Chasing the Northern Lights of Minnesota

If you’ve traveled through Minnesota before, you’ve most likely seen some, if not most, of the “10,000 lakes” that the state is known for. These majestic waters showcase the beauty of the area, drawing travelers from all over the world into its lands to get a glimpse of the lakes. There’s another side to Minnesota, however, that is equally enticing. Did you know that it’s one of the best places in the U.S. to see the Northern Lights? Yep, that magical, colorful light show that you’ve probably seen on social media is a real thing here. And trust us, it’s worth the experience.


So, let’s talk about the Northern Lights in Minnesota–what they are, where to see them, and how to catch them at just the right moment.

The aurora borealis is dancing in the night sky over a snowy forest.

Nature's Symphony

Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit

Button

Why Minnesota?


The Minnesota Northern Lights are a sight worth seeing, but how are they made? The Aurora Borealis, as they are scientifically called, are created when solar particles hit Earth’s magnetic field. By doing so, it creates the shimmering lights in the sky that we have grown to admire. With Minnesota being located in the northern part of the United States, it makes it a prime aurora-watching territory, especially at night.

When Can You See Them?

Technically speaking, the Northern Lights can be seen year-round, but during the fall and winter seasons, the lights are the brightest. Why? Because the nights are longer and darker, helping to illuminate the various colors of the sky. This will give you the best viewing experience. 


The best hours to see the lights would be between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. Now, you might be thinking, “Really, stay up that late?” and the answer is yes. The cosmic light show is a phenomenal experience, helping to create some unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones. That’s not all, as we are heading into a peak period for watching the Northern Lights in 2025, we enter a period known as the solar maximum. The lights will be vibrant and on full display over the next few years; just waiting for you to view them.

The Best Spots To See The Northern Lights


To truly experience the lights, you need to escape the city life and find some dark areas to help illuminate the sky. Here are some of the best places to do just that:


  • Voyageurs National Park: Near the Canadian border is this remote and beautiful park. Experience front-row seat access to the lights during your trek here.
  • Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCA): Pristine forests, lush forests, and glacial lakes provide some of the best views for the lights, especially as they reflect off the water.
  • Cook County and Grand Marais: North of Lake Superior is an incredible backdrop of water, forest, and sky. Make sure to bring your camera, as you won’t want to miss a photo opportunity.
  • Jay Cooke State Park and Itasca State Park: If you aren’t looking to travel as far north as Voyageurs, these parks are for you. Their open atmosphere makes seeing the lights easy.
  • Duluth and Surrounding Areas: Duluth is actually a great location to see the lights, with its close proximity to Lake Superior. On super active nights, you can even see the lights as far south as the Twin Cities!
The aurora borealis is glowing in the night sky over a snowy forest.

Nature's Symphony

Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit

Button

Why You Should See The Northern Lights


There’s something almost magical about standing and staring at the wide-open sky, watching colors dance across the stars. The Northern Lights are more than a light show–they’re an experience, one that shows you how truly incredible nature can be. We’re lucky enough to have some of the best views in our wonderful state of Minnesota, giving you even more of a reason to come and visit. So grab your camera, pack some warm clothes, and head on north to venture on a journey unlike any you’ve experienced before.


Stay at Stonegate on Superior

Right outside of Duluth, one of the best stopping points for the Northern Lights, is the city of Twin Harbors. Our property, Stonegate on Superior, is located there. We provide luxury cabins on a rock shoreline, giving you close access to the water. Start your day with incredible views of the sunrise, and finish your day staring at the stars. The beautiful landscape is sure to delight all travelers alike.


Make Minnesota your next vacation destination, and experience the magical effects of the Northern Lights for yourselves. Trust us, seeing them in person is something you’ll never forget.