There is nothing quite like spending an evening watching the stars. I love stargazing and here in Utah, we are blessed with a long list of dark sky parks where we can stare and wonder. But, if you are like me, I want to take my stargazing to the next level — I want to view the northern lights. This year, many Utahns won’t have to travel far to capture views of the northern lights. In 2024, they may be visible in the northern part of the state.

Editor’s note: The following images do not show the northern lights in Utah. They are images of the northern lights captured from around the world.

Viewing the northern lights is a bucket list item for many individuals. This remarkable phenomenon creates a truly extraordinary show.

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, occurs when charged particles slam into the earth’s atmosphere. This collision creates flashes of light that fill the sky with color. The flashes seem to move across the sky, almost as if they are dancing.

This year, thanks to an increase in solar activity, the northern lights are expected to be visible in locations above the 40th parallel.

The 40th parallel runs through Provo. This means that locations north of this Utah County town will have a higher chance of enjoying this colorful light show.

It is predicted that at least once in 2024, Utahns can capture a glimpse of the northern lights. Typically, the best time to view the northern lights is around the March and October equinoxes.

However, for the most accurate prediction for Utah and the surrounding states, we recommend following the Space Weather Prediction Center website.

Of course, to best catch a glimpse of the northern lights, you will want to step away from the city. Here in Utah, there are at least eight dark sky parks north of the 40th parallel, making it much easier to view this remarkable show.

Some of these certified dark sky parks include Jordanelle State Park, Dinosaur National Monument, Steinaker State Park, East Canyon State Park, and Antelope Island State Park.

If the northern lights are visible when campgrounds are open, we highly recommend a camping excursion. East Canyon State Park, for example, is home to a hammock campsite. How cool would it be to snuggle in your hammock while staring at the northern lights?

You may also want to consider vacation rentals in the area or local hotels. Either way, you can make 2024 the year you cross off viewing the northern lights on your bucket list. It’s a magical phenomenon that you’ll never forget.

Have you seen the northern lights in person? Where were you when you saw this incredible night show? Do you plan to see the northern lights in 2024 in Utah? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences in the comments. And, if you have any suggestions on where to view the northern lights, please share those as well.