The One Mesmerizing Place In Minnesota To See The Northern Lights
By Betsy Rathburn|Published November 12, 2017
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Betsy Rathburn
Author
Betsy is a Minneapolis-based writer who's lived in Minnesota for 20 years. If you know of any amazing Minnesota restaurants, nature areas, or other attractions, feel free to let her know about them at brathburn@onlyinyourstate.com or on Twitter @betsyrathburn.
Minnesota is filled to the brim with beautiful sights – including those that happen in the sky. Our sunrises and sunsets are often incredible, especially when viewed at a remote lake. The state has many places where you can get away from the city lights and see the Milky Way as it moves across the night sky. And, if you’re in the right place at the right time, Minnesota also sometimes plays host to one of the most beautiful sights you can see in the night sky: the Northern Lights.
But you can’t go just anywhere and see this spectacular display. You need to get out of the city and go north. Looking for the best destination for viewing the Northern Lights in Minnesota? Head up to Cook County, the northernmost county in Minnesota’s Arrowhead region.
The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, occur when particles collide in Earth's atmosphere. The lights can be seen near the magnetic poles in the northern and southern hemispheres.
The Northern Lights most often appear as pale streaks or clouds of pink or green in the sky. But, depending on the types of gas particles colliding, many other colors can be observed. Yellow, blue, red, and violet are possible.
In Minnesota, Cook County is the best place to see the Northern Lights.
Cook County is one of Minnesota's least populated counties. The county has a population of about 5,000, making it the 82nd most populated county in Minnesota out of 87 counties. Having so few people means that the skies are not polluted with the lights of big cities.
The Northern Lights occur all year, but they are most easily seen throughout winter and late fall. The phenomenon is best viewed on dark, clear nights with no moonlight.
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Cook County is home to many great places to spot the Northern Lights.
For one thing, the Superior National Forest cuts right through Cook County. There are plenty of places to go where you won't be bothered by even the slightest city light. There are many trails in the area that lead to gorgeous clearings, lookouts, and other great spots to watch the sky.
There are also several state parks where you can catch a glimpse.
Those willing to camp out may have the best luck spotting the Northern Lights in Minnesota. Luckily, there are a few great spots in Cook County. Grand Portage State park is one of the best. Its northern location and remote surroundings make it easier to see the awe-inspiring show. Nearby Judge C.R. Magney State Park and Temperance River State Park are great places to camp out. Lesser known - but still beautiful - Cascade River State Park - is also an excellent choice.
All in all, anywhere you go in Cook County - as long as it's away from lights - is a great place to spot the Northern Lights. Check the forecast, then head on up north. All you need is a blanket, maybe a thermos full of hot chocolate, and an appreciation for one of the greatest shows on Earth.
Have you ever seen the Northern Lights? Where did you spot them? Share your experience in the comment section below.
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