Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge

Traveling to see the Aurora Borealis is on many bucket lists, but actually enjoying the spectacle in comfort can be a challenge. This Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour in Yellowknife offers a balanced mix of spectacular natural beauty and cozy amenities that make waiting for the lights as enjoyable as the display itself. It’s a popular choice, with bookings often exceeding ten a week, and it’s easy to see why.

What we appreciate most about this experience is how it combines guided Aurora photography, a luxurious lodge setting, and the chance to see the lights in a less hurried, more relaxed environment. We also love that snacks, hot drinks, and WiFi are included, making the evening feel more like a night out with friends rather than just a tour. The only possible caveat? Weather unpredictability, which can mean cloudy nights or less-than-ideal viewing conditions at times.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience the Northern Lights without sacrificing comfort, especially families, photography enthusiasts, or anyone new to chasing auroras. It’s designed to be accessible and enjoyable, even if you’re not a seasoned winter adventurer.

Good To Know

• Comfortable Lodge Setting: Rest and warm up in a large, well-equipped lodge with expansive viewing decks.
• Expert Photography: Guides and professional photographers help you capture the lights with tips and shared images.
• Flexible Location Options: If clouds roll in, the tour moves to other territorial parks for better chances.
• Inclusive Amenities: Snacks, hot beverages, WiFi, and indoor games keep guests entertained during wait times.
• Small Group Experience: Tours are limited to 38 travelers, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere.
• Worth the Price: At around $101, it offers good value considering the included amenities and expert guidance.

Introduction: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

We’ve seen many aurora tours, but this one hits a sweet spot between adventure and comfort. It’s all about relaxing in a luxury lodge while keeping an eye on the sky, which makes a big difference in chilly, long nights.

Three aspects really catch our eye: the combination of aurora chasing with a cozy lodge, the professional photography help, and the flexibility to move locations if the weather isn’t cooperating. But, it’s not perfect — some reviews mention the lodge’s temperature and odor, which suggests it’s worth checking the details if you’re sensitive to indoor conditions. Still, the overall value and thoughtful design make it a solid pick.

If you’re interested in a more relaxed, comfort-focused way to see the Aurora and enjoy wintery landscapes, this tour is well worth considering. It’s ideal for first-timers, photography lovers, or those who prefer not to camp out in the cold.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Madeline Lake Territorial Park

The tour kicks off at the Madeline Lake Lodge, a swanky spot perched on 7,000 square meters of private land. With over 180 square meters of viewing decks and in-floor heating, this lodge is designed for comfort. Guests can settle in and enjoy the stunning vistas of Madeline Lake, a prime spot for watching the sky.

One of the standout features here is how spacious and inviting the lodge feels—some reviews highlight its size, with the main and second floors offering ample seating, while the basement provides arcade games for kids or those who need a short break from waiting. Guests are often impressed by the large decks that allow unobstructed views of the night sky, and the warm indoor space means you don’t have to freeze while you wait.

Stop 2: Prelude Lake Territorial Park

In case the night clouds over Madeline Lake, the tour doesn’t just stop there. Instead, your guides will board a comfortable bus and head to other territorial parks to chase the aurora. This flexibility is a key feature, allowing your group to move around and find the clearest skies, which can significantly improve your chances of spotting the lights.

The switch to other parks also keeps the experience dynamic—rather than waiting in one spot in case of poor weather, you get to explore multiple locations, each offering different perspectives of the sky and landscape. The bus ride itself is cozy, ensuring your group stays warm and relaxed while waiting for the aurora to appear.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour lasts around 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to settle in, sip hot drinks, and enjoy the anticipation. Part of the experience involves guided photography, with a professional photographer helping you capture the auroras, even if you don’t have fancy equipment. Many reviews praise guides like Mo and Peter for their friendliness, knowledge, and patience.

Inside the lodge, guests can enjoy light snacks and hot beverages—a thoughtful touch given how cold it can get—and there’s WiFi to share your photos or just check in with loved ones. When the guides spot signs that the auroras are ripe for viewing, they’ll give you the signal to head outside with your camera or just look up in awe.

Why the Lodge Experience Matters

The lodge itself isn’t just a warm place to wait; it’s a thoughtfully designed space that elevates the entire experience. With large viewing decks, a fireplace, and ample seating, it’s perfect for relaxing and socializing. Some reviews note the lodge’s size and amenities—including arcade games and a basketball shooter—making it a hit with families or groups of friends.

However, some guests have mentioned issues like a smelly smell due to sewage and limited seating. The tour providers are aware of these concerns and are working on improvements, such as scheduled pump-outs to address odors. Still, for most, the lodge’s overall comfort outweighs these minor inconveniences.

Photographers and Sightings

A highlight for many guests is the guides’ expertise in aurora photography. Guides like Mo go above and beyond by sharing photos taken during the night, making even those with basic cameras look like pros. As one guest put it, “Even if you don’t have good equipment, Mo will make sure you catch the moment.” This means you leave not just with memories but with quality images.

Cloudy Nights and Location Flexibility

Cloud cover is a natural part of aurora chasing, and some reviews mention nights when the sky remained cloudy all evening. In these cases, the tour’s moving to different parks becomes invaluable. It’s reassuring to know that your guides are actively seeking clear skies, and that your chances are maximized with this flexibility.

Pricing and Value

At $101.09 per person, this tour offers a lot relative to what you get. It includes transportation, admission to the lodge, light snacks, hot beverages, and guided photography—all built into a 4-hour experience. The inclusion of WiFi is an added bonus, helping you document your trip on social media or just share moments with friends.

Compared to similar Aurora tours, this one stands out because it prioritizes comfort and accessibility. Instead of a frantic chase or camping out in freezing temps, you’re in a warm lodge with indoor amenities, making it a more relaxed, enjoyable experience.

What Reviewers Love Most

• The knowledgeable guides like Mo and Peter, who are friendly and patient while helping guests take photos.
• The beautiful views from the lodge’s decks, which provide a perfect spot for aurora viewing.
• The indoor amenities, including games and cozy seating, which help pass the waiting time comfortably.
• The flexibility to move locations if clouds threaten to obscure the sky, boosting the likelihood of a good sighting.

Some Common Criticisms

A few guests mention issues with the lodge, like odor problems and limited seating, but these seem to be ongoing issues rather than systemic flaws. Weather unpredictability is also out of the tour’s control, but guides do their best to maximize viewing chances by moving around.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who wants to experience the Northern Lights in comfort, this tour hits the mark. It’s suitable for families, photographers, or first-timers who might be overwhelmed by cold or outdoor camping. The inclusion of indoor entertainment, WiFi, and snacks makes it appealing for those who prefer a more laid-back, social evening.

Travelers seeking a guided, photo-friendly, cozy experience will find this tour offers a good balance of adventure and comfort. But, if you’re highly sensitive to indoor odors or want a more rustic experience, it’s worth considering the reviews and possibly looking into options with fewer indoor amenities.

Final Thoughts

This Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour in Yellowknife offers a practical, enjoyable way to witness the Northern Lights without the discomfort of camping or cold nights. Its key strengths are the expert guides, the luxurious lodge with expansive viewing decks, and the flexibility to chase clear skies across different parks.

While some minor issues with lodge conditions exist, they don’t overshadow the overall value and experience. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, well-guided, photographic aurora adventure—perfect for families, couples, or first-time visitors eager to see the sky’s most magical light show.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, admission to the lodge, light snacks, hot beverages, WiFi, and guided photography assistance.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, giving plenty of time to wait for the aurora and relax in the lodge.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or designated location is available, making it convenient to start the evening.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, camera gear (if you have it), and a good attitude for cold nights. The lodge provides some comfort, but layers are always recommended.

What happens if the sky is cloudy?
If clouds obscure the sky at Madeline Lake, guides will take the group to other parks like Prelude Lake, increasing your chances to see the aurora.

Are children allowed?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the lodge’s indoor games make it family-friendly.

What if I want professional photos of the aurora?
A guide like Mo will help capture the lights with your camera or share their own photos taken that night.

How many travelers are in each group?
Tours typically accommodate up to 38 guests, ensuring a balanced experience with enough space but still intimate.

Is WiFi available during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is provided at the lodge, so you can share your photos or stay connected.

What is the refund policy?
Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtful mix of comfort, guidance, and scenic beauty—making it a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to chase the Northern Lights with style and ease in Yellowknife.