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Stargazing
Experience the beauty of the night sky like never before in Kananaskis, just south of Banff and Canmore. With its remote location, free from light pollution, enjoy some of the clearest views of the stars, planets, Milky Way, and even the elusive Northern Lights.
Stargazing in Kananaskis
Kananaskis Country is one of Alberta’s best destinations for stargazing, thanks to its remote location and pristine, dark skies, far from the busy tourist towns of Banff and Canmore. Free from light pollution, this area offers incredible views of constellations, the Milky Way, and even the occasional Northern Lights. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, the night skies in Kananaskis will leave you in awe.
Northern Lights Viewing
One of the most exciting natural phenomena you might witness during your visit is the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere, causing vibrant displays of colour to dance across the sky. The result is a mesmerizing spectacle of green, purple, and occasionally red lights that ripple and swirl in the dark.
While sightings are never guaranteed, the best chances to see the Northern Lights are during the fall and winter months. According to the Canadian Space Agency, the best time to see the Northern Lights in Alberta is between October to March, as there are long, dark nights (with the sun setting as early as 4:30pm!) and higher levels of geomagnetic activity. We recommend monitoring the weather (you’ll need clear skies to see the lights!) as well as the Alberta Aurora Forecast for your best chance at a sighting.
Milky Way Viewing
The Milky Way is a dense cluster of stars, nebulae, and cosmic dust which appears as a hazy band of light stretching across the skies like a river. On clear nights, simply look up, and let the magic of the cosmos sweep over you.
According to the Canadian Space Agency, summer months are the best time to observe the Milky Way.
Kananaskis offers excellent opportunities to capture long-exposure photos of the Milky Way, turning your stargazing experience into lasting memories. Learn more about how to photograph the Milky Way in this article by Photograpy Life.
The Best Place for Stargazing & Northern Lights Viewing
As one of the only road-accessible back-country lodges in the Rockies, Mount Engadine Lodge‘s secluded location is uniquely well-suited to stargazing and Northern Lights viewing opportunities with clear, dark skies free from light pollution. It’s no surprise that Mount Engadine is rated as a top location for stargazing and Northern Lights viewing in Kananaskis.
Perched atop an open meadow, our guests enjoy unobstructed views of awe-inspiring constellations of stars and planets, while also being surrounded by stunning mountains and wilderness. Whether you are an experienced astronomer or a first-time stargazer, Mount Engadine provides everything you need for a memorable night under the stars.
Stargazing & Snowshoeing at Mount Engadine Lodge
For adventurous guests who want to hike further out, pick up a pair of Mount Engadine’s rental snowshoes, and fill your thermos with hot tea or coffee from the restaurant. Alternatively, stay warm and cozy at the lodge and use our binoculars and telescope to get an up-close look at celestial wonders. Whether you venture out into the snow-covered trails or gaze up from the comfort of our outdoor fire pit, stargazing here is a magical experience you won’t forget. Book your stay at Mount Engadine to experience Kananaskis’ best stargazing.
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Stargazing Tips
To make the most of your Kananaskis stargazing adventure, follow these tips:
- Stay warm: Even in the summer, nighttime temperatures in Kananaskis can drop significantly, so wear layers to stay cozy, and bring a thermos with a warm beverage. Take advantage of the complimentary tea and coffee available for guests!
- Let your eyes adjust: It takes about 20-30 minutes for your eyes to fully adjust to the darkness. During this time, avoid looking at any bright lights (such as your phone screen) to improve your night vision and help you see more stars.
- Check the moon phase: A full moon can brighten the sky and obscure many stars, while a new moon provides the darkest conditions for stargazing. Plan your stargazing adventure around the lunar calendar for optimal viewing.
- Pick a clear night: Cloud cover can spoil a stargazing session, so be sure to check the weather forecast. Crisp, clear nights, especially in the winter, often offer the most stunning views of the stars.
- Be patient and take your time: Stargazing is about taking in the beauty of the universe, so relax, sit back, and enjoy the show. You never know when you might catch a meteor, a passing satellite, or even the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.
- Be prepared for a late night: Northern Lights may appear at a wide variety of hours, and you may need to stay up until the wee hours of the morning if you’re committed to catching a glimpse.
- Stay safe if venturing further afield: If you’re planning on going deeper into the wilderness for your stargazing adventure, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you are expected to return, always carry bear spray, and be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t forget your camera!
Looking for a basecamp for your Kananaskis mountain adventure? Consider an all-inclusive stay at our rustic mountain lodge, cabins, and glamping tents – with stunning views and pristine trails right at your doorstep.