Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the elusive Aurora Borealis without sacrificing comfort, this Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour in Yellowknife offers a compelling mix. It promises a cozy retreat with plenty of opportunities to see the lights, all within a warm lodge that keeps you snug while waiting for the sky to dazzle.

What we love about this experience is the combination of outdoor aurora chasing and the indoor comfort of a well-equipped lodge. Plus, the presence of a professional photographer means you aren’t just hoping for a good shot — you’ll get actual pictures to cherish. The only thing to keep in mind is that this tour is quite dependent on weather conditions, which can sometimes limit your viewing chances.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced experience: stunning natural phenomena paired with comfort and convenience. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides, good value, and a chance to relax amidst the winter wilderness, this is worth considering.

Key Points

• Comfortable indoor experience with a cozy lodge, hot drinks, and games while waiting.
• Expert guidance and photography to help you capture the Aurora.
• Flexible itinerary with options to chase the lights in various locations if clouds roll in.
• Good value for money at around $101 per person, including snacks and WiFi.
• Small group size (up to 38 travelers) for a more personalized experience.
• Dependence on weather means the aurora isn’t guaranteed, but the team makes the best of it.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Introduction to the Tour

This tour offers a practical and comfortable way to try your luck at seeing the Northern Lights. Instead of spending hours in freezing conditions with little to do, you’ll enjoy the warmth of a specially designed lodge while the guides look for the aurora overhead. What makes this experience stand out is its focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of amenities to keep you entertained and comfortable.

It’s a good choice for travelers who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Aurora without risking discomfort, especially if you’re not used to harsh winter conditions. The price point of around $101 makes it an accessible option compared to more luxury or private tours, and the inclusion of snacks and WiFi adds a nice touch.

What We Love About This Tour

Two features really shine. First, the lodge experience. The Madeline Lake Lodge boasts over 180 square meters of viewing decks and in-floor heating, making it a prime spot for aurora watching. You can sit back, enjoy some hot beverages, and maybe play a game from the lodge’s collection, like mahjong or foosball, while waiting for the sky to light up.

Second, the professional photography aspect. Whether you’re an amateur or a seasoned shutterbug, having a guide like Mo who shares tips and even captures the sky for you is a major plus. Several reviews highlight how helpful and friendly guides are, with Mo going the extra mile to make sure everyone gets good photos.

Possible Drawback

The main consideration is weather dependency. One reviewer noted that on a cloudy night, the aurora was not visible, and the lodge’s appearance in promotional photos can sometimes be less impressive in real life due to weather or maintenance issues. The lodge is described as 2800 square feet over three floors, but some visitors found it smaller than expected, and occasional issues like a smell from the sewage tank have been reported, though these are being addressed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, comfortable way to see the Northern Lights. It’s suitable for families, couples, or groups who value guidance, good amenities, and reliable transportation. If outdoor cold is a concern, or if you prefer sitting in warmth with a view, this tour hits the mark.

The Itinerary Explored

Stop 1: Madeline Lake Territorial Park

The tour kicks off at Madeline Lake Lodge, perched on 7,000 square meters of private land on Madeline Lake. The lodge itself offers an impressive viewing deck space and indoor heating, making it a comfortable base. With two hours allocated here, you’ll have plenty of time to relax, sip hot beverages, and enjoy the scenery.

Guests have raved about the lodge’s ambiance, with one noting how having a fireplace and large decks creates a cozy environment. The landscape is stunning, especially if the weather cooperates, offering reflections of the aurora on the lake’s surface.

Stop 2: Prelude Lake Territorial Park

In case clouds spoil the sighting at Madeline Lake, a backup plan kicks in: a scenic drive to Prelude Lake. The team takes you on a warm, comfortable bus to chase the aurora across different parks in the area, aiming for a clear view. This flexibility is a significant advantage — you’re not stuck in one spot if the weather turns unfavorable.

The Experience in Action

You’ll be out for roughly four hours, with about half spent at the lodge and the other half on the chase. The guides keep you informed about the aurora forecast and advise when to step outside to look. Several reviews mention how guides like Peter and Mo go above and beyond, sharing their knowledge about the science behind the aurora and helping with photography.

Snacks and WiFi

Included are light snacks and hot beverages, which are appreciated after hours in the cold. The WiFi connection lets you share your photos or check weather updates, helping you stay connected during this adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

Many travelers have expressed satisfaction with the guides’ professionalism and friendliness. One reviewer said, “Mo is so professional for making good images for the aurora,” emphasizing the value of having an experienced photographer onboard. Others appreciated the warm lodge, describing it as “cozy and beautiful,” especially after braving the cold outside.

However, some found the lodge smaller than expected, and a few reported issues like an unpleasant smell due to a missed sewage pump-out — but these seem to be temporary or addressable problems. The staff’s responsiveness, as seen in their replies, suggests they’re actively working to improve.

Importantly, several guests noted that viewing conditions are dependent on the weather. Cloudy nights can mean missed opportunities, but the flexible plan of moving to different parks helps mitigate this.

Pricing and Value

At just over $100 per person, this tour offers solid value. It includes transportation, a cozy lodge experience, snacks, WiFi, and expert guidance, which could cost much more if booked separately. For those less interested in roughing it in the cold but eager to see the aurora, it’s a cost-effective way to increase your chances and enjoy a memorable night.

Final Thoughts

This aurora tour in Yellowknife successfully balances comfort, guidance, and access to nature’s most stunning light display. The combination of a heated lodge, flexible viewing locations, and professional photography makes it especially appealing for travelers who want to enjoy the Northern Lights without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

While weather can influence your success, the team’s efforts and amenities strongly enhance the experience. It’s best suited for couples, families, or small groups who value a relaxed atmosphere, expert advice, and good value.

If you’re after a practical, well-organized way to chase the aurora with reliable guides and the comforts of a lodge, this tour deserves a serious look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available, making it easy to start your evening without worrying about transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 4 hours, balancing time at the lodge and outdoor pursuits.

What’s included in the price?
Light snacks, hot beverages, WiFi, and transportation are included. The lodge has games and comfortable seating to enjoy while waiting.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds if canceled earlier.

What happens if the weather is cloudy?
If the sky is overcast, guides will escort you to alternative viewing sites like Prelude Lake to improve your chances.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including service animals. However, be prepared for cold outdoor conditions if you choose to go outside.

How many people are in a typical group?
The maximum group size is 38 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly, manageable experience.

What if I don’t get to see the aurora?
While the tour aims for aurora viewing, it depends on weather conditions. The staff may offer alternative dates or experiences in case of poor weather.

Is photography included?
Yes, guides like Mo will take photos and videos of the display, ensuring you leave with memorable images.

What is the lodge like?
The lodge is approximately 2800 square feet over three floors, with indoor seating, a walkout basement for kids’ activities, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

In sum, this Aurora Chasing + Aurora Lodge tour offers an accessible, comfortable, and guided way to experience one of nature’s most spectacular sights. Perfect for those who want to enjoy the magic without the cold and want someone else to handle the logistics — it’s a well-rounded option for a memorable Arctic night.