Aurora Lounge: Aurora Viewing Cabin & Bar

Discover the Aurora Lounge: Yukon’s Unique Aurora Viewing Experience

When planning a trip to Whitehorse, one of the most sought-after experiences is catching the Northern Lights. The Aurora Lounge offers a special way to enjoy this spectacular natural show, combining comfort, luxury, and expert guidance into a four-hour evening adventure. For around $150 CAD, you’ll get picked up from your hotel, transported to a luxurious, heated cabin, and enjoy prime views of the Yukon’s starry skies with plenty of amenities.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the cabin’s cozy, elegant interiors—warm woods, large windows framing the wilderness—make for an inviting place to relax. Second, the guides’ expertise in sharing facts and helping you capture the best photos ensures you’re not just watching but also documenting your experience.

One consideration to keep in mind is that, like all aurora experiences, seeing the Northern Lights isn’t guaranteed. The activity depends on solar conditions and clear skies, so patience and a bit of luck are key.

This tour suits travelers who want a comfortable, guided, and intimate experience, especially those who appreciate a touch of luxury while waiting under the stars. Families, couples, or solo travelers who love photography and learning about the natural environment will find this a rewarding night out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Whitehorse’s only aurora viewing cabin with a liquor license, providing a relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert Guidance: Guides share aurora facts and help with photography, making your experience more meaningful.
• Comfort & Convenience: Heated cabin, cozy fireplace, and heated outhouse ensure warmth regardless of the cold.
• Scenic Setting: Large windows and outdoor campfire allow for stunning views and marshmallow roasting under the northern sky.
• Small Group Size: Up to 24 guests, allowing plenty of space for photos and personal attention.
• Flexible & Easy: Pickup from your hotel at 10 PM with a return around 2 AM, including unlimited hot drinks and snacks.

An In-Depth Look at the Aurora Lounge Experience

The Location and Atmosphere

The Aurora Lounge is just a short 20-minute drive from Whitehorse, making it accessible without long travel times. Once you arrive, you’ll find a rustic yet refined cabin interior—think warm woods, soft lighting, and large windows that perfectly frame the Yukon wilderness. The balance between comfort and the rugged charm of the north helps set the mood for a memorable night.

Guests consistently mention how cozy and luxurious the setting is. We loved the way the cabin’s interior feels both inviting and functional—suitable for relaxing after a day of adventure while keeping you warm against the Canadian winter chill.

The Guided Experience

Your guide, often lauded for their knowledge and personable manner, plays a crucial role in delivering a captivating night. They share insights about the aurora borealis, explaining the science behind the lights and making the experience educational. Many reviews praise the guides’ efforts—”Juan was fabulous,” says one traveler—highlighting their enthusiasm and ability to enhance the experience with storytelling and helpful tips.

Guides also assist with photography—a highlight for many visitors. They help set up cameras, suggest settings, and even take photos of you in front of the northern sky. One reviewer noted, “Juan got a couple of pictures and made our own light pictures,” which adds a fun, interactive element to the evening.

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The Comforts of the Cabin

Unlike traditional outdoor or canvas tent setups, this tour’s heated cabin means you can comfortably wait for the aurora without shivering or battling the cold. The fireplace adds a welcoming glow, creating a relaxed atmosphere where guests can unwind, swap stories, and enjoy unlimited hot drinks and snacks.

The heated outhouse may sound trivial, but it’s a thoughtful touch that adds to the overall sense of comfort and luxury—especially when temperatures dip below -30°C.

Viewing the Aurora

The real star here is, of course, the Northern Lights. The large, south-facing windows provide excellent vantage points for observing the sky. When the lights appear, the guides are quick to point them out and help you capture stunning photos. Even if the skies are clouded or the aurora is faint, the guides’ efforts—such as moving the group to different vantage spots—maximize your chances of catching a glimpse.

One reviewer shared, “The lights decided to hide behind the clouds, but Juan made sure we got some good shots,” illustrating their dedication.

Additional Experiences

During the night, guests can enjoy roasting marshmallows over a campfire—a classic Yukon activity—adding an element of fun and tradition. The combination of outdoor and indoor activities creates a well-rounded experience, catering to different preferences and weather conditions.

Group Size and Personal Attention

With a maximum of 24 guests, this tour ensures a small, intimate atmosphere. The reviews highlight how this allows for personalized attention—guides can move around, help with photos, and answer questions. It also means ample space for everyone to take photos without other groups’ interference, a real boon for photography enthusiasts.

Timing and Logistics

The tour departs around 10 PM, aligning with prime aurora viewing hours. The drive is scenic, offering an introduction to Yukon’s wintry landscape. After a few hours of watching the sky, you’re returned to Whitehorse by about 2 AM—a reasonable schedule for night owls but possibly late for early risers.

Cost and Value

At around $150 CAD per person, the tour provides a comprehensive package: transportation, expert guides, cozy accommodations, snacks, hot drinks, and even free photos. Many reviews reflect satisfaction with the value—especially considering the detailed attention from guides and the luxurious setting.

Who Will Love the Aurora Lounge?

This experience appeals most to travelers seeking comfort and authenticity. If you enjoy learning about natural phenomena, capturing stunning photos, or simply relaxing in a warm environment while waiting for the lights, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special night, families wanting a safe and cozy setting, or solo travelers eager for guided expertise.

However, if your main priority is a guaranteed sighting of the aurora, remember that natural lights are unpredictable. The guides will do everything to maximize your chances, but weather and solar activity are beyond their control. Still, most travelers appreciate the effort and end up with memorable stories and photos—even if the aurora is shy.

Final Thoughts

The Aurora Lounge combines the best of Yukon’s wilderness with luxury, guided expertise, and a welcoming atmosphere. The cozy interior, outdoor campfire, and knowledgeable guides make this a standout option for anyone wanting an authentic yet comfortable Northern Lights experience. The small group size enhances the intimacy and photography opportunities, making it well-suited for travelers who value quality over quantity.

This tour offers significant value for its price, especially when considering the included amenities and the personal touch of the guides. While seeing the aurora is never guaranteed, the experience itself—the warmth, comfort, and expert guidance—makes it a night worth remembering.

If you’re looking for a luxury yet authentic way to experience the Yukon’s most famous natural beauty, this tour could well be your best choice. Just pack your warm layers, bring your camera (and tripod), and prepare to enjoy a mesmerizing night under the stars.

FAQ

Is the Aurora Lounge suitable for families? Yes, the cozy environment and outdoor activities like roasting marshmallows make it family-friendly, especially for kids who enjoy stargazing and snacking.

What should I bring to maximize my experience? Pack warm layers, including thermal underwear, a good hat, gloves, and a scarf. If you want to take high-quality photos, bring a tripod (rentals are available).

How does the guide help with photography? Guides share tips and tricks for capturing the Northern Lights, help set up cameras, and even take photos of you in front of the sky.

What if I don’t see the aurora? While the guides do their best to find clear skies and the best vantage points, aurora activity depends on solar conditions. Even without visible lights, guests often enjoy the cozy setting, storytelling, and outdoor campfire.

How long is the drive from Whitehorse? It’s about a 20-minute scenic drive to the cabin, making it a short trip that maximizes your time under the sky.

Are snacks and drinks included? Yes, unlimited hot drinks, snacks, and marshmallows are part of the experience, adding to the comfort.

What is the group size? The tour accommodates up to 24 guests, ensuring a small, intimate atmosphere.

What is the best time of year for this tour? The tour runs during the winter months when the nights are longest and chances of seeing the aurora are highest.

Can I cancel and get a refund? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there anything else I should know? Dress warmly, be patient, and enjoy the peaceful wilderness. Even if the lights are shy, the overall experience is designed to be memorable and comfortable.

To sum it up, the Aurora Lounge offers a well-rounded, high-quality option for experiencing the Yukon’s Northern Lights with comfort, guidance, and a touch of luxury. It’s best suited for those who want a cozy, personalized night in the wilderness, combining natural beauty with expert insights and social warmth. Whether photographing the aurora or simply relaxing by the fireplace, this tour brings a special kind of magic to Yukon nights.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby