See the Southern Lights. Photo by Image Editor/Flickr.
We’ve all heard of the Northern Lights, which send swirling hues of green, blue and red dancing across Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Scandinavia and northern Russia on clear winter nights. But the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis, is an even rarer natural phenomenon, and one of the best places to witness the light show is from the southern Australian island known as Tasmania. The whole state is a viewing paradise, but mountains, trees and light pollution can occasionally get in the way. Here’s a guide for where to see the Southern Lights in Tasmania this winter. If you thought you had to go to Antarctica, think again.
Since Hobart is located on the southern side of Tasmania, the coast closest to Antarctica, it’s no wonder many of the best aurora sightings can be found within a short drive of Tasmania’s capital. The picturesque Huon Valley has many viewing options, from the open valley surrounding the Huon River to wilderness lodges like Huon Bush Retreats to the bays of the D’entrecasteaux Channel.
The South Arm Peninsula, 40 kilometers (25 miles) southeast of Hobart, is another good bet for its plethora of beaches and still, shallow bays great for aurora reflections. The Iron Pot Lighthouse would make a nice foreground feature for photos. Dodges Ferry, also 25 miles from Hobart, and Cockle Creek, on the southern tip of Tassie 75 miles to the southwest, are other favorite spots.
But Southwest National Park, one of the most remote regions in all of Tasmania, would offer the darkest night skies. Up your chances for an Aurora Australis sighting by booking a three-day Southwest National Park camping tour, which includes boat rides through Bathurst Harbour Marine Reserve, the Celery Top Islands, Parker Bay and the Breaksea Islands; walks to mountaintops; and accommodation in a deluxe hut on the shore of the Bathurst Harbour Marine Reserve. If the aurora doesn’t come, you’ll know you tried your best.
Before you go hunting for the Aurora Australis in Tasmania, check the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.
– Contributed by Serena Renner
Where to See the Southern Lights in Tasmania from Tasmania Things To Do
