Seeing the Northern Lights is an item on pretty much everybody's bucket list. However, many people are under the assumption that this incredible phenomenon is something that can only be observed in places like Alaska or Norway. Well, that's simply not true and Idahoans actually don't have to travel that far to witness this amazing event. Priest Lake in northern Idaho is a popular vacation spot all year round for its many recreational opportunities, but not many people realize that this place also provides the perfect conditions for spotting the Northern Lights.
Idaho is full of remote areas, free of light pollution, where the unspoiled night sky can truly come to life. There's nothing quite like the feeling of being able to look up at the sky at night filled with twinkling stars and the humble feeling of realization at just how expansive our universe is. It's by far one of the best things about living in Idaho.
Many people don't realize that there are many places in Idaho where the Northern Lights can be observed. It's all about the conditions of the sky and weather, but it's certainly possible and is definitely something that every Idahoan should experience at some point.
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, occur when electrically-charged electrons and protons collide with neutral atoms in the upper atmosphere.
Priest Lake, Idaho is located within the northern portion of the Idaho panhandle, just 30 miles south of the border with Canada.
Priest Lake is a vacation destination all year long. People flock from all over to see the lake that has been given the nickname "The Crown Jewel of Idaho." Camping, boating, fishing, hiking, skiing...this place is an outdoor lover's paradise.
The lake is by far the town's biggest draw. At 19 miles long and over 300 feet deep, the vastness of the lake itself is something to be marveled at.
When the conditions are just right, the Northern Lights make their appearance. It's a staggering sight to see. The colorful ribbons of light reflect themselves in the crystal clear waters of the lake, putting on a show that you are bound to remember forever.
This show of light is something that occurs pretty rarely throughout the year in Idaho but is definitely something that must be experienced with a little planning.
Priest Lake is a popular spot to view the Northern Lights but they are visible from other areas around Idaho, as well. Check out this timelapse of the Aurora Borealis over the Craters of the Moon National Park.
Did you know you could view this incredible phenomenon right here in Idaho? Be sure to check out these 14 Photographs Of Idaho At Night That Are Absolutely Surreal!
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