Cities Covered
3
Monitoring locations across Idaho
Magnetic Latitude Range
50.0°–53.9° MLAT
Prime aurora viewing latitudes
Required Kp Index
Kp 7.0–8.0
Minimum activity for visibility
Kp Requirements by Location
Coeur d'Alene
53.9° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 7.0+ Horizon
Kp 8.0+ Optimal
Kp 9.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Idaho Falls
50.3° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 8.0+ Horizon
Kp 9.0+ Optimal
Kp 10.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Boise
50.0° MLAT
Required Kp Levels
Kp 8.0+ Horizon
Kp 9.0+ Optimal
Kp 10.0+ Bright
Kp0Kp1Kp2Kp3Kp4Kp5Kp6Kp7Kp8Kp9
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Visible on horizon
Clearly visible
Bright overhead
Aurora Status by City
Coeur d'Alene
Located at 53.9° MLAT with decent aurora opportunities. Geomagnetic storms with KP 5+ can produce visible displays. Monitor forecasts for storm alerts.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Idaho Falls
Moderate aurora potential at 50.3° magnetic latitude. Northern lights appear during stronger storms when KP reaches 6+. Best chances in winter months.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Boise
Aurora possible at 50.0° magnetic latitude during active periods. KP 6+ required for visibility. Strong storms can bring impressive displays.
CURRENT STATUS
Likely Visible
View
Best Viewing Season in Idaho
Geographic Advantages
Magnetic Latitude 50.0°–53.9° MLAT
Cities Covered 3 locations
Winter Darkness 16-18 hours
Dark Sky Sites 0 Bortle 1-3
Peak Aurora Months
Primary Peak September–October
Secondary Peak March–April
Equinox Boost +35% activity
Photography Winter darkness
Track with AuroraMe
Coverage All 3 cities
Advance Notice 30 minutes
Weather Integration Cloud cover
Predictions Best viewing times
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see the northern lights in Idaho?
Yes, Idaho offers aurora viewing opportunities. Cities like Coeur d'Alene (MLAT 53.9°) can see aurora at Kp 7.0+, while southern locations need Kp 8.0+. Best viewing is September–April during dark, clear nights.
Where are the darkest skies in Idaho?
Check our city pages for specific dark sky recommendations near each location.
