The Aurora Sky Station is a small observation building on the slope of Mount Nuolja, reached by a chairlift from the base near Abisko. It was built to take advantage of the dry, clear conditions of the Abisko area, where the surrounding mountains tend to push cloud away and leave a patch of open sky. Scientists have studied the aurora from this region for decades, and today the station welcomes visitors who come to watch the lights from above the valley. A visit combines the chairlift ride, a time in the station, and a chance to walk outside under the stars. In winter, the evening session includes information about the aurora and the sky, and some sessions include dinner. In other seasons the chairlift runs for daytime views over the lake and mountains, and the same ride gives a different kind of beauty, with open slopes, birch forest and the sweep of Torneträsk below. This is a destination in its own right, and it pairs well with an overnight stay in Abisko.
How it works
You arrive at the chairlift base, take the lift up to the station, and spend time inside and outside. Information about the opening seasons, visit types and tickets is provided on the station's own site, and it is wise to book ahead during the busy winter period. Some visits include a talk or a meal.
What to know
The ride up is exposed and cold, so dress as you would for a long night outdoors, with a thick coat, windproof layers, hats and gloves. The lift can be affected by wind or weather, and the operator may close it if conditions are unsafe. The station is staffed and has indoor space, so you can warm up between sessions on the slope.
The science
The Abisko area is known as a place with a relatively high chance of clear sky, partly because of the way the surrounding mountains shape the weather. This is why researchers and photographers return year after year. Even so, the aurora depends on solar activity and clear conditions, so no visit can be guaranteed to produce a show.
Getting there
Abisko is about a ninety minute drive from Kiruna, and there are trains on the Ore Line between Kiruna and Narvik that stop in the village. Many visitors combine the station with an overnight stay in Abisko, which avoids the long drive back at night.
Pairing
A daytime walk in the national park, a hot meal at the mountain station and a second night to try again if the first is cloudy make a complete short break.
Planning your visit
Abisko is a small place, and rooms near the lift fill early in the aurora season, so arrange accommodation at the same time as your station visit. If you arrive by train, the village is compact enough to walk between the station, the mountain station and the chairlift base in a short time, though the path may be icy.
Pack a headlamp with a red light, a flask and a warm hat that covers your ears. Photographers should bring a tripod that tolerates cold and wind, since the upper slope can be blustery. In the shoulder seasons, ask about the daytime chairlift ride, which gives a wide panorama over the lake and mountains and is a gentle activity for anyone who cannot walk far.
What to expect
The experience
A chairlift ride to a mountain-top aurora viewing station above Abisko, with indoor space and outdoor viewing.
Best time
Winter evenings for the aurora, summer and autumn days for views.
How long
Allow three to four hours for an evening visit.
Tips
Book ahead in winter, dress for exposed cold and consider staying in Abisko.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Aurora enthusiasts who want a famous viewing site.
- Families
- The lift and night schedule may suit older children, but check age limits with the station.
- Couples
- A memorable evening above the clouds.
- Pair with
- A stay in Abisko or a day in the national park.
- Time needed
- An evening.
Good questions
Where is the Aurora Sky Station?+
On the slope of Mount Nuolja near Abisko, reached by a chairlift from the base.
Is it open all year?+
The chairlift runs in more than one season, but the schedules differ. Check the station's own site for current details.
Can I see the aurora in summer?+
No, the sky is too bright in summer. Aurora season is roughly late August to early April.
How far is it from Kiruna?+
About a ninety minute drive west, or a train on the Ore Line.
Do I need to book?+
In the winter season it is wise to book ahead, since evening sessions can sell out.