Yellowknife: Aurora Lodge Night Tour & Aurora Chasing Combo

Summary

Warm lodge comforts meet wild aurora chasing outside Yellowknife

You’ll settle into a warm lodge near Madeline Lake with snacks, games, and space to relax before heading out to chase the aurora with a local guide. If clouds roll in, you’ll drive further afield for better chances—and always have a cozy spot waiting if you need to warm up again. Expect laughter, real conversation, pro photos, and maybe even a new favorite snack.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the hush—like the whole world was holding its breath out by Madeline Lake. We’d just stepped into the Aurora Lodge, shoes crunching on snow, and inside it was all warmth and chatter. Our guide, Li, waved us in with a grin and handed out mugs of something steaming (honestly, I don’t remember what it was—just that my fingers stopped aching). There were furs draped over benches, board games scattered around, and this faint smell of pine mixed with coffee. Someone had already started up the foosball table; I lost badly but nobody cared.

I kept sneaking glances out the big windows—half hoping for a flicker of green. But Li said not to rush. “Sometimes you wait,” he shrugged. “It’s part of it.” So we waited, swapping stories and trying snacks (the dried berries were weirdly good). When clouds rolled in, we bundled up again and piled onto the bus. The heater rattled while we drove through the dark to chase clearer skies—Li knew all these backroads near Yellowknife, like he could smell where the aurora might show up next. It felt like an odd little adventure gang, passing thermoses around.

When we finally saw the lights—just a shimmer at first—I almost missed it because I was busy trying to pronounce something in Mandarin (Li laughed so hard he nearly dropped his camera). The cold bit at my cheeks but I didn’t care; there was this strange silence except for someone quietly gasping behind me. The photographer snapped photos for everyone—no fuss about extra charges or anything—and later sent them over. I still look at mine sometimes when city life feels too much.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Aurora viewing at Madeline Lake Lodge

• Visit Madeline Lake Lodge
• Enjoy lodge amenities and warm seating
• View aurora from lodge decks
• Use washrooms comfortably in lodge
• Play board games and arcade games
• Have light snacks and hot beverages
• Photographer takes guest photos
• If clouds appear, board bus to chase aurora
• Drive to territorial parks for aurora viewing
• Return to lodge to rest if nearby

Top questions

Is pickup included for the Aurora Lodge Night Tour?

No, pickup is not specifically mentioned as included in this tour.

Are there hot drinks and snacks during the aurora tour?

Yes, light snacks and hot beverages are provided at the lodge.

Can children join this aurora chasing experience?

Yes, infants and small children can participate; strollers are allowed.

What happens if it's cloudy during the tour?

If there are clouds, you'll drive to clearer locations to increase your chances of seeing the aurora.

Is there a professional photographer on this tour?

Yes, a professional photographer takes photos for guests at no extra charge.

Are restrooms available at the lodge?

Yes, proper washrooms are available at the lodge so you don't have to go outside in the cold.

Does the Aurora Lodge have WiFi?

Yes, WiFi is available at Madeline Lake Lodge during your visit.

What’s included

Your night includes time relaxing at Madeline Lake Lodge with access to games and WiFi plus light snacks and hot drinks. If clouds appear, you'll ride in a heated bus to chase clearer skies nearby. A professional photographer captures your experience and shares digital photos free of charge before you return late at night.