Lake Nicolet
Northern Lights in the UP
Experts consistently list Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as one of the best regions in the United States for viewing the aurora borealis in the entire country. Boasting 1,700 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, the wilderness of the U.P. is surrounded by vast bodies of water. It is also sparsely populated as even the region’s biggest cities emit little light population compared to their downstate counterparts. The result is a dark, clear sky, perfectly viewable along expansive shorelines. These conditions make Sault Ste. Marie an ideal location to set up camp before chasing the northern lights.
Sault Ste. Marie
At the northeastern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, right on the border with Canada, Sault Ste. Marie provides a perfect starting point for your aurora adventure. As the second-largest city north of the Mackinac Bridge, it offers all the modern conveniences you need for a seamless journey. Yet, as night falls, step just beyond the city limits to immerse yourself in the pristine darkness that sets the stage for nature’s greatest light show.
Forest along Lake Superior, photo by: Vishnu Chander
Best Viewing Locations
Lake Superior, photo by: Vishnu Chander
Point Iroquois Lighthouse: Just 20 miles west of the Soo, journey to the historic Point Iroquois Lighthouse overlooking Whitefish Bay. With its picturesque setting along the shores of Lake Superior, this iconic landmark provides an ideal backdrop for aurora sightings. Resulting in epic photos, this is our most popular viewing site among locals and tourists alike.
Mission Hill Cemetery Scenic Overlook: Just 3.5 miles south of Point Iroquois, continue your celestial journey as you ascend to new heights at Mission Hill Cemetery Scenic Overlook, where panoramic views of the night sky await. Perched atop rolling hills above the properly named Spectacle Lake, this vantage point offers unobstructed views of the aurora reflecting off the water below.
Naomikong Overlook: Looking for the most secluded viewing experience? Surrounded by untamed wilderness, this remote location offers a haven for aurora enthusiasts seeking an intimate connection with nature’s spectacle. Pull right up to the scenic overlook or venture down the well-kept trails to watch the sunset and view the ensuing spectacle on the beach below.
Whitefish Point Light Station: Traverse the eastern shores to discover the allure of Whitefish Point Light Station, the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior. Overlooking a notorious 80-mile stretch of shoreline known as Lake Superior’s Shipwreck Coast, walk along the beach as you experience the view of its guiding light among the backdrop of the northern lights reflecting off Lake Superior.
Prepare for Your Journey
As you prepare to chase the northern lights from Sault Ste. Marie, arm yourself with patience, anticipation, and a sense of wonder. Keep an eye on solar activity forecasts, dress warmly for the crisp night air, and pack your camera to capture memories that will last a lifetime. For an early heads up when Northern Lights are expected in the area, follow us on Facebook here for updates and suggested viewing locations.
Lake Superior, photo by: Vishnu Chander
Embark on Your Aurora Adventure
From the twinkling lights of Sault Ste. Marie to the untamed beauty of its surrounding wilderness, your journey to witness the northern lights begins here. Join us as we venture into the night, when the sky comes alive with celestial magic. Book your expedition today and experience the wonder of chasing the northern lights from Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.
Special thanks to guest photographer Vishnu Chander for contributing to this page.
