Best Places to See the Northern Lights in Utah: Fast-Track Guide to Catching the Aurora Borealis in Utah

Utah, renowned for its stunning red rock landscapes and vast open skies, is quietly emerging as a surprising destination for viewing the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis. While Utah lies significantly south of the Arctic Circle—where auroras are most frequent—strong geomagnetic storms occasionally push the lights far enough south to be visible from some of the state's remote and elevated vistas. Discovering the best places to see the Northern Lights in Utah combines the thrill of aurora hunting with the state’s celebrated dark-sky reputation.

Antelope Island State Park is famous for its unobstructed views and exceptionally dark skies. Positioned in the Great Salt Lake, this island offers wide, northern-facing horizons—an ideal vantage point during heightened solar activity.

Bear Lake, located on Utah’s northern border, occasionally becomes a hotspot for photographers hoping to catch a glimpse of rare auroral displays. The lake’s high elevation and distance from bright city lights create optimal viewing conditions.

Bonneville Salt Flats provide a surreal and ethereal foreground for aurora enthusiasts. The flat, reflective surface intensifies celestial phenomena, making rare aurora events truly breathtaking. With virtually no light pollution, any geomagnetic event here can offer an unforgettable spectacle.

Snowbasin and Powder Mountain areas are higher-elevation locations northwest of Salt Lake City. These ski resorts and the surrounding mountain terrain become prime spots for stargazers and potential aurora watchers during powerful solar storms.

Brigham City-area dark-sky parks, such as Willard Bay State Park, are also great options. Less crowded and easily accessible, these parks offer elevated viewpoints north towards Idaho and beyond—right in the path of any dancing northern lights.

As a designer, I’m always looking for locations with both open vistas and unique landscape elements. When viewing natural wonders like the aurora, the surrounding environment can dramatically enhance your experience—and your photos. For those considering an overnight trip, integrating the scenic surroundings into your observation plan can elevate the entire outing. Thoughtful spatial arrangements, such as selecting camping spots with a clear northern view or arranging cozy seating for a group, transform a simple night out into an immersive design experience. For enthusiasts hoping to visualize and plan these setups, using a 3D render home tool can help you pre-arrange outdoor layouts to maximize your enjoyment and photographic opportunities.

Tips 1:

Check space weather forecasts through sources like NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center before heading out. Auroras in Utah are rare and tied to solar storm activity, making real-time updates crucial for successful viewing. For best effects, plan your outings during new moon phases and avoid sources of artificial light.

FAQ

Q: Can you see the Northern Lights in Utah every year?

A: No, auroral displays in Utah are rare and depend on unusually strong geomagnetic storms, which don’t occur every year.

Q: What time of year is best to watch for auroras in Utah?

A: The chance of viewing increases during periods of high solar activity, often peaking around the equinoxes in March and September.

Q: What is the best direction to face when searching for the aurora in Utah?

A: Look towards the northern horizon, as auroras in Utah tend to appear low and faint in the northern sky.

Q: How far do I need to travel from city lights to see the Northern Lights?

A: The farther you are from urban centers, the better. Dark-sky parks, remote lakes, and desert areas offer the best opportunities.

Q: Can I capture the Northern Lights with a smartphone in Utah?

A: Modern smartphones may be able to capture faint auroras under ideal conditions, but a camera with manual exposure settings typically delivers better results.