Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge

If you’re dreaming of catching a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis without sacrificing comfort, the Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour in Yellowknife offers an appealing blend of both. This experience promises not just a chance to see the lights dance across the sky but also a cozy retreat to wait in warmth, with expert guides and photographers ready to help you make the most of this natural spectacle.

What makes this tour stand out? Firstly, it combines aurora chasing with a luxurious lodge experience, meaning you can relax inside in front of a fire while waiting for the skies to turn magical. Secondly, the addition of professional photography promises to give you beautiful memories, even if the lights are shy on the night you visit.

A potential consideration? Some travelers have noted that the lodge can be smaller or may have issues like heating failures, which could affect your cozy experience. It’s worth being prepared for a few surprises, especially during a winter that can be unpredictable. This tour is ideal for those who want a blend of adventure and comfort—especially travelers who appreciate good company, decent food, and the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Comfortable lodge experience with indoor viewing decks and amenities
• Expert guidance on when and how to best see and photograph the aurora
• Flexible chasing options via bus to find clear skies if needed
• Inclusive snacks and hot beverages to keep you warm and energized
• Small group size (max 38 travelers) for a more personal experience
• Good value for the price considering the included amenities and expert help

What to Expect from This Aurora Tour

This tour is designed for those who want to see the Northern Lights but also value staying warm and comfortable. It’s perfect if you’re not keen on braving the cold outside all night or if you simply want the chance to relax while waiting for the sky to put on its show.

The experience is about balancing adventure with comfort. You’ll start at Madeline Lake, where the lodge’s over 180 square meters of viewing decks give you excellent chances to see the Aurora Borealis from a heated space with panoramic views. The lodge is equipped with in-floor heating, plush seating, and a selection of games — from foosball to mahjong — making it easy to pass the time while the guides monitor the sky.

If the weather isn’t cooperating—clouds or snow—you’ll be transported by a comfortable bus to other territorial parks like Prelude Lake, increasing your chances of catching the lights. This flexibility is a real plus, especially given the unpredictable nature of Aurora viewing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Madeline Lake Territorial Park
This is the main event, where the lodge is the star. Sitting on a large 7,000-square-meter private land, the lodge offers excellent direct access to Madeline Lake and large viewing decks. The emphasis here is on comfort and convenience—there are ample seating options, fireplaces, and interior warmth. Some reviews mention the lodge being smaller than expected, but the overall design caters well to groups wanting a cozy spot to watch the Aurora. The viewing decks are especially appreciated for providing a panoramic backdrop for the Northern Lights.

Stop 2: Prelude Lake Territorial Park
If weather patterns are unfavorable at Madeline Lake, the tour guides will transport you to other parks. This is a clever move that shows the tour’s commitment to maximizing Northern Lights sightings. The bus rides are short (about 2 hours each), and the comfort of the vehicle ensures you stay warm and relaxed. This approach makes the experience adaptable rather than risky, which many travelers will find reassuring.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

Snacks and hot beverages are included, which might seem minor but are crucial for keeping warm during long winter nights. Travelers often appreciate the wifi at the lodge, allowing you to share your photos or simply relax online.

The tour is priced at $101.09 per person, which we think is a reasonable cost considering the amenities and the guidance provided. The small group size — a maximum of 38 travelers — ensures that you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides can tailor their advice and photography tips to suit your needs.

A standout feature is the professional photographer who documents your experience. Several reviews highlight how guides like Mo and Peter go above and beyond, not just showing you the sky but also helping you capture the moment—even if you’re not equipped with high-end cameras. This benefit is invaluable, especially since many travelers worry about how to photograph the Aurora.

The Reality of the Experience: Balancing Expectations

While many reviews are glowing, some travelers did encounter hiccups. One mentioned the lodge being cold, with a temperature so low that snow brought in on shoes didn’t melt. The explanation? A generator failure meant the heating system didn’t work well. This points to the importance of expecting occasional technical issues in remote winter tours, especially during peak times.

Others noted that the lodge’s size was smaller than anticipated, but its interior amenities, like the fireplace and entertainment options, helped make up for that.

The view from the lodge is generally considered good, although some guests felt it was less ideal than hoped, especially if the Aurora is faint or clouds obscure the sky. The tour’s flexibility to move to different sites helps mitigate this risk, but it’s important to remember that Aurora viewing is inherently unpredictable.

Photography and Viewing Tips

Guides like Mo are acclaimed for their expertise in Aurora photography. Even if you don’t own a fancy camera, guides will take photos and videos of you under the lights, ensuring you don’t miss out on memories. Several reviews mention guides sharing images of the Aurora, helping guests understand how to frame their shots.

For the best experience, bring warm clothing, a tripod if you have one, and patience. The tour’s timing of around 4 hours strikes a good balance between chasing the lights and allowing you time to warm up and relax.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the Northern Lights without freezing outside all night. It suits those who appreciate a relaxed, comfortable environment and value guided assistance—especially in photography. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a blend of adventure and luxury will find this tour appealing.

However, if you’re a seasoned winter adventurer seeking a full outdoor experience or the most remote wilderness, this might not be quite rugged enough for you. Also, keep in mind that the tour can be affected by weather and equipment issues, so a flexible attitude helps.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Given the reasonable price point, the comfort of the lodge, and the expert guidance, this Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour offers strong value. The inclusion of hot drinks, snacks, WiFi, and professional photography enhances the experience, making it more memorable—whether or not the Aurora puts on a grand show.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora in a cozy setting and are willing to accept the occasional unpredictability of northern winter weather. It’s a smart choice for travelers who prioritize comfort, guidance, and quality photos over rugged outdoor camping.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered, and if the weather requires, you’ll be transported by a comfortable bus to different territorial parks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, balancing time spent at the lodge and traveling to different viewing sites if needed.

What should I bring?
Warm winter clothing, hats, gloves, and perhaps a tripod if you’re into night photography. The lodge provides warmth, but layering is key.

Can I cancel if weather is poor?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, keep in mind the cold environment and outdoor conditions.

What’s the cost?
It’s around $101.09 per person, which includes snacks, hot beverages, WiFi, and guidance. For the comfort and expertise provided, it’s a solid value.

How good are the guides?
Reviews rave about guides like Mo and Peter, highlighting their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to capture the experience on camera.

To sum it up, the Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour offers a thoughtfully balanced experience, especially for those who want to enjoy the Northern Lights without freezing or feeling lost in a crowd. It’s an appealing choice for travelers seeking guidance, comfort, and the chance to take home some spectacular photos. While weather and technical hiccups can occur, the overall value and thoughtful setup make this a memorable Northern Lights adventure worth considering.