FROM LAKE LOUISE

Peyto Lake, Lake Minnewanka and Vermilion Lakes are renowned for exceptional vantage points to potentially spot the northern lights — all a short drive or transfer from Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, the majestic Victoria Glacier and a glistening emerald lake, the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel is located in the beautiful Banff National Park.

Where to stay: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

FROM QUEBEC CITY

Both Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier and Montmorency Falls provide a stunning backdrop to the Aurora Borealis. For an even darker trek, head to Parc National du Mont-Megantic; it’s a designated Dark-Sky preserve. Succumb to even more “awe” when you return to your Renaissance-style suite at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac — the most photographed hotel in the world.

Where to stay: Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac

FROM TORONTO

The city of Toronto is just outside the aurora oval where the stunning phenomenon can be seen, but you have a good chance to catch a glimpse of the dancing lights with a trek north to stronger geomagnetic activity. I recommend transferring out to Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve, tucked away in pristine wildness. After a late night of exploration, take the morning to relax with one of Four Seasons Hotel Toronto’s state-of-the-art spa treatments.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Toronto

EXPERT VIEWING TIPS

• Head out between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. for pitch-black, sun-free hours
• Opt for nights with cold, clear skies to maximize your chances of visibility
• While cities are preferrable basecamps for travel exploration, transferring to more remote regions with plenty of darkness allows for ideal viewing conditions. Trust me, it’s worth the trip!

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

For visitors of Southern California, the east side of Joshua Tree National Park is the best pool of darkness — now protected by ordinances of San Bernadino County. Plan your trip from March to September to see the Milky Way in all its glory; June and July are considered peakviewing months.

Where to stay: Parker Palm Springs

JORDANELLE STATE PARK

Of all the certified International Dark Sky Parks around the world, the highest concentration of parks is in Utah. With Park City as a homebase, explore the best of the state’s dark skies beginning in Jordanelle State Park, then Timpanogos Cave National Monument and Antelope Island State Park.

Where to stay: Waldorf Astoria Park City

BIG CYRPRESS NATIONAL RESERVE

One of the darkest night skies in the eastern United States, Big Cypress is where travelers to Florida can enjoy the splendor of the Milky Way just a short distance from Naples to the west and Miami to the east. Visitors can join a ranger-led astronomy program for a guided experience.

Where to stay: LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort