Dreaming of seeing the Northern Lights? In Umeå, the green glow dances across the sky from September to April, when nights are clear and darkness settles in. Just a short trip outside central Umeå gives you a good chance to experience the Aurora Borealis. Follow our local tips and discover where, when and how to best spot the Northern Lights in the Umeå region.
Bäcksjön - A popular spot among Northern Lights enthusiasts. Several rest areas make it easy to sit back and wait for the natural spectacle to appear.
Distance from Umeå: about 22 minutes by car.
Nydalasjön - Close to Umeå University, the Nydala outdoor area offers a lit trail around the lake. There are also barbecue areas and shelters—ideal for a Northern Lights outing.
Distance from Umeå city centre: about 10 minutes by car.
Tavelsjön - Head to the popular village of Tavelsjö. You can stay by the water or walk up to the top of Tavelsjöberget to enjoy both sweeping views and the Northern Lights.
Distance from Umeå: about 30 minutes by car.
Tips! Want to learn more about the Northern Lights, what to keep in mind and the best places to watch them in the Umeå region?
Download the Northern Lights Guide by Fredrik Larsson.
When the sky dances in shades of green and violet, it can feel as if time stands still. For photographer and Northern Lights hunter Fredrik Larsson, these moments bring both energy and calm. He is the mind behind the Facebook group Umeå Aurora Hunters – a global forum for everyone fascinated by the magic of the Aurora Borealis.
Umeå Aurora Hunters began with a simple idea. A group of international students at Umeå University wanted to share their Northern Lights photos with fellow enthusiasts. The group grew quickly – but when the students moved back home, the activity gradually faded.
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“I was already active in the group and sharing photos, so when I noticed that no one was managing it anymore, I took over in 2017,” says Fredrik Larsson.
Since then, the group has grown into a lively community for Northern Lights enthusiasts around the world. Members share photos, tips and up-to-date forecasts – all in English, to include both locals and visitors.
“The Northern Lights are an unpredictable natural phenomenon. They appear suddenly, constantly change and are incredibly beautiful. Every time feels like the first,” Fredrik says.
For Fredrik, the fascination goes beyond photography. It’s the experience of nature that matters most.
“I want it to be quiet – to sit by a fire and simply take it all in. That’s how I recharge,” he says.
When he started photographing in 2009, his focus was on landscapes. Over time, the Northern Lights became a passion. The combination of stillness, cold and unexpected drama makes every outing unique.
“There’s something magical about standing there in the dark, watching the light emerge from nowhere.”
Right now, the sun is moving through the later part of an active cycle – a period that benefits Northern Lights watchers.
“I often compare solar cycles to water balloons and taps. We’ve been at the peak of the cycle and are now heading into a calmer phase. But even as the major outbursts decrease, the Northern Lights will continue – just more evenly and predictably,” Fredrik explains.
For anyone hoping to experience the phenomenon, Umeå is an ideal base. The surrounding area offers plenty of open, dark locations with clear views to the north. With a bit of patience, you’re often rewarded with a memorable display.
Best place to see the Northern Lights in the Umeå region:
By car: Bäcksjön – dark, open and ideal for both grilling and photography.
Without a car: Nydalasjön – easy to reach by bus, bike or on foot.
Best time:
Between 9 pm and 1 am. Autumn (August–October) and spring (March–April) often offer clear nights and good chances.
Best photography tip:
Dress warmly, bring something hot to drink and enjoy the company. Keep your camera steady and test your settings in advance – simple often works best.
Follow Umeå Aurora Hunters on Facebook for inspiration, current forecasts and local tips
Looking for a Northern Lights experience with that little something extra? Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Northern Lights tour with Backfors Gård
Head out into the winter darkness by horse and sleigh and keep an eye out for the Northern Lights. The tour lasts about one hour, with a stop halfway for a break with refreshments and something warm to drink.
Northern Lights photography at Granö Beckasin
Together with their guide, you’ll learn how to photograph the Northern Lights and capture this magical natural phenomenon.
Overnight stay in an Aurora Tepee with Aurora Borealis Adventures
In an Aurora Tepee, you’ll stay warm and comfortable with cosy beds. From windows in the walls and roof of the tepee, you can enjoy nature’s light show in a truly unique way.
Read more here
Northern Lights dinner at Hamptjärnsberget
Hamptjärnsberget is an excellent spot for experiencing the Northern Lights, and combined with good food and drinks it makes for an evening to remember. Your guide will explain how to best enjoy this magical light phenomenon, show images, and take you out to look for the shimmering green glow.
Read more here