IT is one of the world’s wild places. High up in Canada’s north-west corner, near the Arctic Circle, it’s reckoned that around 80 per cent of the Yukon Territory remains pristine wilderness.

And that’s big news for aurora chasers and stargazers alike, because there’s very little light pollution to spoil the night skies, meaning that the Northern Lights can put on a dazzling display.

Picture: stardustexperience / Travel Yukon

Tourism chiefs for the region are currently wooing visitors with a front row seat for what’s officially titled the Solar Max. Not heard of it? Me neither, but it’s scientifically a big boost for sightings.

Turns out the solar cycle is a periodic 11-year change in the sun’s activity, during which levels of solar radiation, flares and coronal loops ebb and flow up to a period of maximum activity.

We’re told that Solar Cycle 25 began in December 2019 and is set to reach its Max peak between now and the winter of 2025/2026, offering the best viewing opportunities for some time.

“The Yukon is 80% wilderness and even though visitors can observe the aurora borealis from cities and towns, it is best to go outside, away from any light pollution,” says Travel Yukon.

The territory boasts tranquil hideaway locations including lodges, chalets – some with glass walls and roofs – wilderness resorts, yurts or prospector wall tents out in unspoiled areas.

If you do stay in a city, such as capital Whitehorse or Dawson City, there are also several companies offering aurora-chasing treks into the wilderness, some by snowmobile.

You’re advised to dress warmly, including a heavy winter coat and snow/ski pants, although gear including snow boots, gloves and hats, is widely available to hire on excursions.

The Yukon is Canada’s most accessible northern destination, home to Mount Logan – the country’s highest peak – and the planet’s largest non-polar icefields in Kluane National Park.

Humans are vastly outnumbered by the untamed wildlife. The Yukon is home to more than 220,000 caribou, moose, mountain sheep, grizzly and black bears, but just 45,000 people.

Read more: Riding the White Pass Railway into the Yukon

Travel Yukon has put together a downloadable guide to Solar Max opportunities in the territory, and you can find it on a dedicated webpage here, alongside online advice here.

Images in this post: Travel Yukon.