Madeline Lake: Aurora Lodge and Aurora Chasing Tour

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the magical dance of the aurora borealis in Canada’s Northwest Territories, the Madeline Lake Aurora Lodge and Aurora Chasing tour might just be your best bet. While we haven’t joined this exact tour ourselves, the combination of a warm, inviting lodge with expert-led chasing adventures sounds like a perfect way to make your Northern Lights hunt both comfortable and memorable.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the luxury of waiting in a spacious, heated lodge while watching for the aurora, complete with hot drinks, snacks, and entertainment. Second, the expertest guides—like Mo—who are highly praised for their decision-making, especially on tricky weather nights. Third, the professional photography service ensures you get stunning photos without the hassle.

A potential consideration? If you’re a traveler looking for a longer, more immersive experience or a multi-night adventure, this 4-hour tour might not be enough. It’s designed for those who want a quick, comfortable, and high-quality outing.

This tour suits visitors who value comfort, guided expertise, and authentic viewing, especially if you’re new to aurora chasing or prefer a cozy base. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their chances without braving the cold for hours on end.

• Comfortable setting: Stay warm and relaxed in a spacious lodge with Wi-Fi and entertainment.
• Expert guides: Guides like Mo have a knack for finding clear skies and making the experience unforgettable.
• Flexible weather plans: When clouds roll in, the tour adapts by chasing clearer skies nearby.
• High-quality photos: Professional photographers provide digital copies, capturing your best moments.
• Value for money: At $99 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience with plenty of extras.
• Pick-up included: Convenient hotel transfers make logistics easy.

What to Expect from the Tour Itinerary

The Madeline Lake Aurora Lodge and Aurora Chasing tour offers a blend of comfort and adventure over about four hours, making it a manageable yet fulfilling outing. The tour begins with pickup from popular hotels in Yellowknife, with pickup times scheduled based on your location, ensuring you start efficiently.

Once at the lodge, you’re greeted with a warm, modern space by Madeline Lake. This is a key part of the experience—an inviting environment where you can relax while waiting for the skies to clear. The lodge isn’t just a cozy spot; it’s equipped with Wi-Fi, a variety of card and board games, arcade machines, and even foosball and basketball shooters. This creates a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for passing time while the guides monitor the weather.

Throughout the evening, light snacks and hot beverages are provided—think coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and cookies—helping you stay warm and comfortable. For those interested in the local fauna, the lodge features displays of furs and animal products, adding a touch of local culture.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Aurora Hunting: Flexibility and Expertise

The main thrill is, of course, spotting the aurora borealis. The guides—like the well-reviewed Mo—use their local knowledge and experience to chase the clearest patches of sky. As one reviewer noted, Mo is “a veteran” who doesn’t just stick to one spot but moves along the route, stopping when promising conditions appear. This adaptive approach is crucial in unpredictable weather, and it’s something that sets this tour apart from more static options.

If the evening starts with clouds, the guides won’t hesitate to drive a bit further west or to different locations, maximizing your chance of seeing the lights. When the aurora does appear, you can enjoy the show in a warm lodge or outside, depending on your preference and the weather.

Photography and Memories

Another standout feature is the inclusion of professional photography. Experienced guides will take your photos during the aurora display and provide digital copies at no extra charge. This means you won’t need to fuss with your camera settings or worry about capturing the moment—your guide’s expert eye will do it for you.

The Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

Transport is a key part of the experience. The tour includes roundtrip transportation from hotel to hotel, making it easy and stress-free to join. Pickup times are arranged based on your hotel location, from as early as 5 minutes before the start to over half an hour ahead, depending on your accommodation.

The 4-hour duration offers a good window—long enough to chase the best skies but not so long that you’ll feel exhausted. It’s ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those looking for a quick but high-quality aurora experience.

Pricing and Overall Value

At $99 per person, this tour offers significant value. For that price, you get transportation, a cozy lodge environment, snacks and drinks, entertainment, Wi-Fi, and professional photos. Considering the cost of independent aurora tours, especially with included amenities, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or comfort.

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What Past Travelers Say

Two reviews highlight what makes this tour memorable. One traveler from South Korea recounted how guide Mo’s scouting led to seeing a “spectacular dancing aurora explosion,” despite initial cloud cover. They emphasize that Mo’s experience and decision-making made all the difference in their unforgettable night.

Another guest appreciated the warmth of the lodge and how guide Mo tirelessly searched for clear skies, even when the weather was less than ideal. They mentioned that Mo also shared helpful tips for exploring Yellowknife afterward, adding extra value to the experience.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience but still want a genuine aurora experience. It’s ideal if you’re new to aurora chasing or prefer to avoid cold and prolonged outdoor waits. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a relaxed environment with entertainment options, this is a great choice.

It also appeals to those who appreciate professional photos and expert guidance, ensuring every moment is captured perfectly. While it’s not tailored for wheelchair users, the focus on indoor comfort and easy logistics makes it very accessible for most.

The Madeline Lake Aurora Lodge and Aurora Chasing Tour offers a thoughtful blend of warmth, expert guidance, and authentic northern lights viewing. The advantage of having a cozy base with Wi-Fi, snacks, and entertainment alongside the chance for an optimal aurora show makes this a compelling option for many travelers.

What truly elevates this tour is the guides’ experience and dedication. If you’re lucky enough to join on a clear night, this tour could give you one of your most stunning Arctic memories—without the discomfort or hassle often associated with aurora chasing.

In terms of value, it balances affordability with quality, making it accessible without sacrificing the experience. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or seeking a stress-free way to see the lights, this tour is a reliable choice.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including transportation, lodge time, and chasing activities.

What is included in the price?
You get roundtrip hotel transportation, access to the lodge, snacks and hot beverages, entertainment, Wi-Fi, modern toilets, and professional photography.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best for travelers who don’t require wheelchair access, as the experience involves moving between lodge and chase locations on a vehicle.

Can I see the aurora even if the weather is cloudy?
The guides will drive to clearer locations when cloud cover is heavy, increasing your chances of seeing the aurora.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes—warm clothing is essential since temperatures can be very cold, especially when outside.

Are the photos really free?
Yes, professional digital photos are provided to all guests at no additional charge.

How do I know when to expect pickup?
Pickup times depend on your hotel location, with earlier pickups for central hotels. Confirm your pickup time when booking.

This experience strikes a nice balance between comfort, expert guidance, and authentic Aurora viewing. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free, memorable Northern Lights adventure in Yellowknife, especially if cozy environments and professional photos appeal to you.

You can check if your dates are available here: