Fantastic Northern Lights That You Have To See To Believe

Solar storms emanating from the sun create spectacular light shows in Northwestern Ontario.

Intense Northern light shows are relatively common in Sunset Country.

Gerry Cariou

By Staff Writer at Sunset Country Sunset Country staff are here to help you with whatever questions you may have about visiting our beautiful region.

December 19, 2025

Northwestern Ontario is one of Canada’s premier regions for viewing the northern lights, thanks to its northern latitude, dark skies, and open wilderness. Located beneath the auroral oval, the region regularly experiences aurora activity, especially during periods of heightened solar activity. Clear, dark skies over lakes, forests, and remote communities create ideal conditions for seeing the shimmering curtains of green, purple, and pink light dance across the night sky.

It is rare to see deep reds like this in the northern lights. — It's rare to see such deep reds in the northern lights.

The best time to view the northern lights in northwestern Ontario is from late fall through early spring, when nights are longest, and skies are often crisp and clear. Peak viewing typically occurs between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., though intense auroras can appear earlier or later. Winter offers particularly striking displays, with snow-covered landscapes reflecting the light and enhancing visibility. At the same time, autumn provides milder temperatures and open water that can mirror the aurora in calm lakes.

Northern lights shine over Lake of the Woods at Sioux Narrows, Ontario. — Northern lights over Lake of the Woods in Ontario.

One of the most significant advantages of viewing the northern lights in northwestern Ontario is the sense of solitude and connection to nature that comes with the experience. Many lodges, remote outposts, and small communities are far removed from urban glow, allowing visitors to enjoy uninterrupted night skies. Whether watched from a frozen lake, a lakeside cabin, or a quiet forest clearing, seeing the aurora here is both a visual spectacle and a memorable reminder of the region’s raw, natural beauty.

*Photo Credit: Jonathan Coons Photography*

*Photo Credit: Doug Clement Photography*

*Photo Credit: Rebekka Redd Fly Fishing*

Do you have photos of the northern lights you'd like to share? Like Sunset Country on Facebook for a chance to have your amazing images posted on our page.

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About Staff Writer at Sunset Country

Sunset Country staff are here to help you with whatever questions you may have about visiting our beautiful region. Whether you want to come here for the fishing trip of a lifetime, relax by the fire, go paddling through the Boreal or all of the above, we're here to help you plan YOUR adventure.

Sunset Country has over 70,000 accessible lakes, rivers, and waterways within its boundaries. Stretching from the Manitoba border east towards Thunder Bay, Ontario, and everywhere above the U.S/Canada border, Sunset Country's vast area is one you can explore for a lifetime.

Do you prefer more DIY? Order our FREE Guide to start planning your trip!