GPS Coordinates:
61.2181°N, 149.9003°W
Decimal: 61.2181, -149.9003
The aurora forecast for Anchorage uses the OVATION Prime model from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center to calculate location-specific Kp values based on these exact GPS coordinates.
Data Source:
https://services.swpc.noaa.gov/json/ovation_aurora_latest.json
Updated every 30 minutes
How It Works:
Why Location-Specific?
Global Kp represents average geomagnetic activity, but aurora visibility varies by location. OVATION Prime models the auroral oval's shape and intensity at each coordinate, providing predictions specific to Anchorage's exact position rather than a global average.
Same Data as 3D Map:
This uses the same OVATION Prime data that powers the interactive 3D global aurora map with the ovation ring visualization. The map shows the full global auroral oval, while this calculation provides a specific Kp value for Anchorage's coordinates.
Anchorage, Alaska, located at 61.2181°N latitude, offers aurora viewing opportunities, though more intense geomagnetic activity (Kp 5+) is typically required compared to more northern locations like Fairbanks.1 The city's position in South Central Alaska means aurora displays are less frequent than in Interior Alaska, but excellent viewing opportunities exist at nearby elevated locations and areas with reduced light pollution.
Anchorage's coastal location results in more cloud cover than Interior Alaska locations, with approximately 30-40% clear nights during aurora season.2 However, nearby locations like Hatcher Pass, Eklutna Lake, and Turnagain Arm provide excellent viewing opportunities with darker skies and better visibility. During intense geomagnetic storms (Kp 6+), aurora can sometimes be visible even from within Anchorage city limits on clear evenings.
61.2181°N - South of typical auroral oval, requiring higher Kp levels (5+) for consistent viewing
Kp 5+ - Higher geomagnetic activity required compared to Interior Alaska locations
Late August - Early April with best opportunities during intense geomagnetic storms
30-40% clear nights during aurora season, lower than Interior Alaska due to coastal climate
Elevated Viewing Location - Hatcher Pass Road
Hatcher Pass, located approximately 60 miles north of Anchorage, is one of the premier aurora viewing locations in South Central Alaska.3 The pass sits at an elevation of approximately 3,886 feet, providing excellent dark sky conditions and clear views of the northern horizon. The location is accessible via Hatcher Pass Road (Alaska Route 1), which is maintained by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.
Multiple pull-outs and parking areas along Hatcher Pass Road provide safe viewing locations, with the Independence Mine State Historical Park area offering additional facilities and parking.4 The elevated position and distance from Anchorage's light pollution make this location ideal for aurora viewing, especially during active geomagnetic periods. Winter access may be limited or require 4WD, so check road conditions before traveling.
Accessible by standard vehicles in summer. May require 4WD in winter. Road conditions vary seasonally. Multiple pull-outs available. Approximately 1.5 hours drive from Anchorage.
High elevation (3,886 ft) provides excellent views. Minimal light pollution. Multiple viewing locations. Scenic mountain setting. Popular with photographers.
State-maintained highway with public pull-outs. Independence Mine State Historical Park area managed by Alaska DNR.4 No permits required for viewing.
Public Recreation Area - Chugach State Park
Eklutna Lake, located approximately 40 miles northeast of Anchorage within Chugach State Park, offers excellent aurora viewing opportunities with water reflections that create stunning photographic compositions.5 The recreation area features multiple parking areas, picnic facilities, and access to the lake, providing both convenience and scenic viewing opportunities.
The location is managed by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation and provides year-round access, though winter conditions may affect lake access.6 Day-use fees apply during summer months, but viewing during aurora season (fall through spring) is typically free or requires minimal fees. The combination of open sky views and water reflections makes this location particularly popular with photographers.
Easily accessible year-round. Standard vehicles sufficient. Multiple parking areas. Facilities available. Day-use fees may apply in summer. Approximately 40 minutes drive from Anchorage.
Water reflections for photography. Multiple viewing areas. Facilities available. Scenic mountain backdrop. Less crowded than city locations. Good dark sky conditions.
Chugach State Park managed by Alaska DNR.6 Public access. Day-use fees may apply. Park regulations apply.
Highway Pull-outs - Seward Highway (AK-1)
GPS Range: 60.9°N-61.1°N, 149.3°W-149.7°W
Turnagain Arm, located along the Seward Highway (Alaska Route 1) approximately 20-30 miles south of Anchorage, offers numerous pull-outs and parking areas that provide excellent aurora viewing opportunities with stunning coastal and mountain scenery.7 The arm's position provides good views of the northern sky, and the scenic setting creates dramatic photographic opportunities.
Key pull-out locations include areas near Bird Point (60.95°N, 149.45°W), Beluga Point (61.05°N, 149.65°W), and Windy Corner (61.08°N, 149.7°W), each offering different perspectives and viewing conditions.8 These locations are easily accessible year-round and provide flexibility for finding the perfect viewing spot. Be aware of tides and wildlife (especially moose and bears) in the area.
All pull-outs accessible year-round by standard vehicles. Well-maintained highway. Multiple options allow flexibility. Safe parking off main road. Approximately 20-30 minutes drive from Anchorage.
Stunning coastal scenery. Mountain backdrop. Multiple locations to choose from. Easy access. Safe parking areas. Good for photography with scenic elements.
State highway pull-outs. Public access. No permits required. Managed by Alaska DOT&PF.9 Some areas adjacent to Chugach National Forest.
Elevated Viewing Location - Chugach State Park
Glen Alps, located within Anchorage city limits but at an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet, offers convenient aurora viewing with reduced light pollution compared to lower city areas.10 The location provides parking areas and access to Flattop Mountain trails, though viewing from the parking area is typically sufficient for aurora observation.
While some light pollution from Anchorage is present, the elevated position and proximity to the city make this location convenient for visitors staying in Anchorage. The location is particularly useful during active aurora displays (Kp 5+) when aurora is bright enough to overcome light pollution. Parking fees may apply, and the location is managed by Chugach State Park.6
Within Anchorage city limits. Easy access. Standard vehicles sufficient. Parking available. Parking fees may apply. Approximately 15 minutes from downtown Anchorage.
Convenient location. Elevated position reduces light pollution. Easy access from city. Good for quick viewing. Scenic mountain setting.
Chugach State Park managed by Alaska DNR.6 Public access. Parking fees may apply. Park regulations apply.
Scenic Viewing Area - Portage Glacier Road
Portage Valley, located approximately 50 miles south of Anchorage along the Seward Highway, offers excellent aurora viewing opportunities with minimal light pollution and stunning glacier and mountain scenery.11 The valley provides multiple pull-outs and parking areas along Portage Glacier Road, with the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center area offering additional facilities.
The location is within Chugach National Forest and provides excellent dark sky conditions, making it ideal for aurora viewing during active geomagnetic periods.12 The scenic setting with glaciers and mountains creates dramatic photographic opportunities, though the location is further from Anchorage than other viewing spots.
Accessible year-round by standard vehicles. Well-maintained road. Multiple pull-outs available. Facilities at visitor center. Approximately 1 hour drive from Anchorage.
Excellent dark skies. Scenic glacier and mountain views. Minimal light pollution. Good for photography. Multiple viewing locations.
Chugach National Forest managed by U.S. Forest Service.12 Public access. No permits required for viewing.
Anchorage's coastal location in South Central Alaska results in more cloud cover than Interior Alaska locations, with approximately 30-40% clear nights during aurora season (September through March).2 The maritime climate brings more moisture and variable weather conditions compared to the dry, continental climate of Interior Alaska.
Winter temperatures in Anchorage are milder than Interior Alaska, typically ranging from 10°F to 30°F, making outdoor viewing more comfortable. However, the increased cloud cover means patience and flexibility are required when planning aurora viewing trips. Checking cloud cover forecasts is essential for successful viewing.
Peak viewing hours in Anchorage are typically 10 PM to 2 AM Alaska time, similar to other Alaska locations. However, due to Anchorage's lower latitude, more intense geomagnetic activity (Kp 5+) is typically required for visible aurora displays compared to Interior Alaska locations.
During intense geomagnetic storms (Kp 6+), aurora can be visible from Anchorage and surrounding areas on clear nights. The best strategy is to monitor space weather forecasts and be ready to travel to nearby elevated locations like Hatcher Pass when conditions are favorable.
Anchorage's urban area produces significant light pollution that can interfere with aurora viewing. For the best experience, travel 20-60 miles outside of the city to locations like Hatcher Pass, Eklutna Lake, or Turnagain Arm, which provide darker skies and better viewing conditions.
Even within Anchorage, elevated locations like Glen Alps provide better viewing than lower city areas. However, for the most reliable aurora viewing, escaping city lights is essential. The combination of darker skies and higher elevation at locations like Hatcher Pass significantly improves viewing success rates.
Road conditions in the Anchorage area vary significantly by season. During winter (October through April), roads may be icy and require 4WD or AWD vehicles, especially for accessing elevated viewing locations. Check 511.alaska.gov for current road conditions before traveling. Many viewing locations are accessible via maintained highways, but some require travel on gravel or mountain roads that may be impassable during severe weather.
Check Road Conditions (511.alaska.gov)Tip: Bookmark 511.alaska.gov on your phone for quick access while traveling. The site provides real-time updates on road conditions, construction, and weather-related closures throughout Alaska.