Those looking to experience the Montana Aurora Borealis will be pleased to know the Northern Lights shine bright in Big Sky Country.
To help you experience this natural wonder, we have outlined the best places to see Montana’s Northern Lights in all their beauty and splendor.
Where can you see the Northern Lights in Montana?
The first step in catching the Montana Aurora Borealis is choosing a prime location. Ideally, you have a better chance of witnessing the phenomenon in an area that offers clear skies where light pollution can’t disrupt the view, such as Glacier National Park.
Many of the remote stretches of wilderness in the northwest of the state have been known to host the hypnotic green lights, delighting those lucky enough to witness them.
Montana Northern Lights – The 12 Best Places to See Them
1. Glacier National Park
Without a doubt, Glacier National Park is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Montana. Widely referred to as “the Crown of the Continent”, the park is a national gem for a multitude of reasons, not least because of the unparalleled views it boasts of the unfiltered night sky. After the sun sets in the park, the horizon becomes inky black—the ideal setting in which to catch a glimpse of the lightshow of a lifetime.
Glacier National Park is situated in the state’s northwest, straddling the Canadian border. There are several key locations within the park that provide optimum views of the Northern Lights, perhaps the most famous being Lake McDonald.
The lake—which is the biggest in the park—is famous in its own right for its crystal-clear waters and the rainbow of colored pebbles visitors can see beneath the surface.
The other lakes that you might want to consider viewing from are Bowman Lake and Kintla Lake, both found in the remote northwest of the park. Along with Lake McDonald, these make such fantastic spots to watch the Northern Lights from thanks to the spectacular reflection of the lights bouncing off the water.
The lookouts scattered along Looking Glass Road also provide premium views. Named one of the most scenic drives within the park, the road begins at Kiowa off of US-98 and winds to East Glacier National Park. Along with the dancing skylights, this is also a prime location to spot some wildlife thanks to its quiet and remote atmosphere.
Of course, the Northern Lights Saloon & Café is a must for those in the mood for less-isolated viewing. You can find the establishment in Polebridge, located 22 miles from the Canadian border in Flathead County.
Opening again for the 2022 season, the cafè offers outdoor seating that allows guests to absorb the magical natural views while also enjoying delicious homemade food and live local music.