Abisko National Park: The Best Place to See the Northern Lights
As we approach solar maximum, the peak of solar activity in the sun’s 11-year solar cycle, the question on everyone’s mind is: “Where should I go to see the northern lights?” The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a stunning natural phenomenon caused by energetic particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s magnetic field. While there is no guarantee of seeing the northern lights on any given trip, one place that offers a higher likelihood of witnessing this breathtaking spectacle is Abisko National Park in Sweden.
Located 121 miles (195 kilometers) within the Arctic Circle, Abisko sits inside the aurora oval, the area surrounding the north and south poles where auroras are usually visible. This prime location makes it an ideal spot for aurora chasers. However, one common obstacle that can hinder viewing efforts is cloudy weather. Fortunately, Abisko National Park has a secret weapon known as the “Blue Hole” that helps to clear the skies and provide a window to the stars even on the cloudiest of nights.
The Blue Hole is a meteorological phenomenon created by the prevailing winds that blow in from the Arctic Ocean in a westerly direction. These stable westerly winds create a microclimate over Abisko, where moist air from the Arctic Ocean is blocked by tall mountains on Sweden’s border with Norway. This creates a rain shadow above Abisko, tearing a 10-20 square kilometer hole in the clouds and allowing for clearer skies. The Blue Hole has gained a reputation for its reliability in clearing cloud cover, making it a valuable asset for aurora hunters.
To put Abisko’s Blue Hole to the test, I embarked on an adventure to witness the northern lights firsthand. Bundled up in layers of warm clothing, our tour group made our way to the base of Mount Nuolja, where a five-course meal at the Aurora Sky Station and a night of skywatching awaited us at the summit. The 20-minute chairlift ride offered breathtaking views of the Arctic landscape, with the full moon illuminating Lake Torneträsk and the surrounding mountains.
Despite a weather forecast predicting 100% cloud cover, our group remained hopeful, placing our trust in Abisko’s Blue Hole. After a delightful dinner centered around local produce and traditional flavors, we gathered at the Aurora Sky Station for an informative presentation about the northern lights. Fueled by delicious food and newfound knowledge, we set out on a night of aurora hunting.
To our delight, the clouds began to clear, and the northern lights made their appearance. A hazy green river of light flowed across the night sky, undeterred by the full moon. The auroral activity waxed and waned, disappearing at times only to reappear in a different part of the sky. Our entire group was captivated by the dancing green ribbons, which seemed to come alive and dance across the heavens. It was a truly mesmerizing experience.
Luckily, this wasn’t my first encounter with the northern lights in Abisko. During my previous nights in the park, I had witnessed the auroras on all three occasions, thanks in large part to the Blue Hole. On my first night, I joined Oliver Wright, a senior photographer and guide with Lights over Lapland, for an aurora hunting session near STF Abisko Turiststation. The dynamic display of lights was fleeting but beautiful, setting the stage for what was to come.
On the second night, I joined a group of aurora enthusiasts on Lights over Lapland’s “Ultimate Aurora Photo Adventure” tour. Led by talented photographers and guides Miquel Such and Julien Pröpper, we embarked on a snowmobile-pulled sled journey through Abisko’s National Park. The clear sky allowed for multiple displays of the northern lights throughout the evening, each one more breathtaking than the last. It was a night filled with awe and wonder.
During the day, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors occupied in Abisko National Park. I took part in a snowshoe hike led by STF guide Viktor van Beelen, who also led our Northern Lights Dinner trip up Mount Nuolja. The hike offered stunning views of the Lapporten valley, an important part of Sami culture and a gateway for reindeer migration. There are also daily excursions available, such as cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and ice climbing, ensuring that visitors are never bored.
For those seeking further exploration, the nearby town of Kiruna offers unique attractions. Kiruna is currently undergoing a radical relocation project due to subsidence from the local iron ore mine. The entire town, including its 600-tonne church, is being moved about two miles down the road. Additionally, the Esrange Space Center, located north of Kiruna, offers a glimpse into the world of space exploration with its launch facilities and visitor center.
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