Northern Lights in the mountains – magical winter evenings
The Northern Lights in the mountains can create some of winter's most beautiful moments. At SkiStar resorts, you have a good chance of seeing the Aurora Borealis on clear evenings during the dark season. Here are tips on the best times and places, aurora forecasts, and how to plan your evenings to increase your chances of a great experience.
Many associate the Northern Lights with northern Norway, but even further south you can witness this natural phenomenon when conditions are right: clear skies, low light pollution, and dark evenings.
At SkiStar, you can combine your ski holiday with the chance to see the Northern Lights in Trysil, Hemsedal, Åre, Sälen and Vemdalen.
Where to see the Northern Lights in winter
For the best experience, find open areas with a clear view to the north, away from light pollution. Here is one tip per destination:
Northern Lights in Trysil – best spot in winter
Høyfjellssenteret – High, open areas with a wide view to the north. Easy to combine with activities such as cross-country skiing.
Hemsedal: Clear views of the Northern Lights
Totteskogen – Open terrain with little light pollution. Accessible with snowshoes or cross-country skis.
Åre: Family-friendly viewpoint for the Northern Lights
Ullådalens parking – Offers an unobstructed view to the north with minimal light pollution. Easily accessible by car.
Sälen: Northern Lights in winter
Högfjället – High pistes with wide views. Perfect for cross-country skiing.
Vemdalen: Best place to see the Northern Lights
Vemdalsskalet – Mountain plateau with low light, accessible with cross-country skis.
Plan your evening: aurora forecasts, weather, and safety
Use the SkiStar app for weather forecasts and webcams, combined with an external aurora forecast (e.g., Aurora Labs) to find evenings with increased activity. Check wind, cloud cover, and temperature the same day and stay flexible.
- Dress warmly (layers), bring a sitting pad and a hot drink.
- Choose a safe and accessible location – bring a headlamp and reflectors.
- For safety: do not stay on ski slopes after closing time.
Activities to complement your Northern Lights hunt
Make the evening a full family experience. Combine your aurora chase with an evening ski, a gentle cross-country tour, or a cocoa break at the cabin.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Northern Lights
From December to March, on clear evenings between approximately 6 pm and 11 pm. Avoid areas with excessive artificial light.
Yes, they can appear on cold winter evenings with clear skies, especially if you move away from the town centre and to higher ground.
In Sweden, the season can start as early as late August, but the darkest winter months give the best chances.
No, the Northern Lights are visible to the naked eye. A camera with long exposure can, however, capture more colour and detail.
Accommodation with a northern view and minimal light pollution provides the best opportunity – for example, mountain cabins or hotels high in the terrain.