Top Spots to See the Northern Lights in Utah: 1 Minute to Finding the Best Northern Lights Viewing Locations

Utah isn’t typically the first state that comes to mind when chasing the mesmerizing aurora borealis, or northern lights, in the U.S.—that honor usually goes to Alaska or the far northern Midwest. Yet, recent years have brought surprisingly vivid displays of the northern lights to the Beehive State, thrilling locals and visitors alike. Thanks to heightened solar activity, the aurora can occasionally be seen dancing across Utah’s skies, especially during solar storms. If you’re planning to witness this natural spectacle, here are some of the top spots in Utah for aurora viewing.

Best Places in Utah to Experience the Northern Lights

1. Antelope Island State Park

Located in the middle of the Great Salt Lake and far from city lights, Antelope Island State Park offers dark skies and expansive horizons, making it one of the best locations for catching the aurora. Its Dark Sky Park designation ensures minimal light pollution and breathtaking star views even if northern lights activity is low.

2. Bear Lake

Situated near Utah’s northern border, Bear Lake State Park is perfectly positioned for celestial viewing. Snap a photo along the lake’s shores with the glowing sky reflected on the water—a designer’s dream for natural symmetry and color harmony.

3. Bonneville Salt Flats

Flat terrain, striking reflective surfaces, and zero light pollution: the Bonneville Salt Flats create a surreal canvas for any nighttime display. The open expanse means uninterrupted views and opportunities for striking compositions if you’re interested in photography or observing color play across the horizon.

4. Mirror Lake Highway & Uinta Mountains

Climbing in elevation and distance from population centers, spots along the Mirror Lake Highway and areas near Mirror Lake itself become top choices for aurora seekers. High elevation often means clearer, thinner air and brighter northern skies.

5. Logan Canyon

Heading up Highway 89, Logan Canyon offers pull-offs and campgrounds well removed from city lights. The canyon’s positioning in northern Utah puts you right in the best path if the aurora dips south.

Tips 1:

Even with optimal locations, the northern lights in Utah are rare and greatly dependent on strong solar storms. For the best chance, follow solar activity forecasts and pick nights with cloudless skies and no moon. As a designer, I always consider not just where to look, but how the viewing environment impacts the entire experience—so I recommend bringing along comfortable seating, layered blankets, and even considering temporary lighting setups for safety (without adding to light pollution!). If you’re seeking to capture or even reimagine your northern-lights-inspired adventures at home, a 3D render home tool allows you to translate those magical hues and spatial feelings into your personalized interior or creative projects.

FAQ

Q: Can you really see the northern lights in Utah?

A: Yes, though rare, the northern lights can be seen in Utah during periods of strong solar activity, especially in the far north and in areas with minimal light pollution.

Q: What time of year is best to see the aurora in Utah?

A: The aurora can appear any time of year, but your best chance is during winter and spring, when nights are longer and skies are clearer.

Q: Are there resources for aurora forecasts in Utah?

A: Yes, websites like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center and aurora tracking apps can alert you when conditions are ideal for aurora viewing in Utah.

Q: How do you photograph the northern lights in Utah?

A: Use a tripod, a camera with manual settings, and long exposure times; locations like Bonneville Salt Flats provide stunning backgrounds for photography.

Q: Can I design my home to reflect my aurora experience?

A: Absolutely! With the help of digital design tools, you can recreate the magical hues and spatial atmosphere of the northern lights in your interior spaces.