The jaw-dropping aurora borealis, also known as the ‘northern lights’, is one of the most incredible shows in the night sky. And yes—New York Northern Lights sightings are totally possible.
That’s what happened yesterday when much of New York State was treated to a perfect combination of Perseid Meteor Show lights and Northern Lights. Technically, those living as far south as New York City were within the reach of this season’s auroras, but the light pollution was just too intense.
New York Northern Lights: Scenes from the Catskills
The best aurora-gazing spots were in the Catskills, with thousands of gazers reporting the Ashokan Reservoir in Ulster County, New York being the best spot of all.
New York Northern Lights: How often can they be seen?
It’s not uncommon to catch several nights of polar action across the upper portions of New York State each winter, but reaching further south (like to the Catskills) is relatively rare.
Ashokan Reservoir in Ulster County
It’s even more rare to catch the auroras in summer months, which is part of why this week’s events were so special.
Aurora scenery caught from the woods of the Ashokan Rail Trail in Ulster County, New York
The Ashokan Reservoir, which serves the drinking needs of much of New York City, is enveloped by a long rail trail that locals love to use for hiking, dog walking, bike riding and nighttime star gazing. It’s free of most forms of light pollution, making it an excellent spot to check out the universe.
But it’s a bit remote unless you live in nearby Woodstock or Olivebridge (check out this incredible rustic Catskills cabin mansion in Olivebridge, New York while you’re at it). The local “big” city of Kingston, New York also had ripe aurora views in dimly lit areas of town.
Not far from the quiet Hudson Valley Mall, these gorgeous displays of nature’s brilliance could be seen.
Northern Lights New York: pictures of auroras from Kingston, NY
Rich shades of purple, green, pink and even notes of this year’s popular Pantone Peach Fuzz hue could be seen across the sky as meteors offered a glitter-like effect on the colorful backdrop.
“I went out to the Ashokan Rail Trail at around 10:40 p.m,” said Megan Hallow, a local Ulster County, NY resident. “I brought a cup of tea, set up a folding lawn chair and by around 11:15 or 11:20 at night the light show was really going. There were dozens of people out there watching. That was also cool to see.”
Northern Lights New York: aurora sightings just outside Kingston, New York city limits
Have your own aurora pictures you’d like to share with us? Be sure to join our active discussions on The Luxury Spot Facebook page.
Bryce Gruber is a New York mom to five growing kids, wife to one great husband and professional shopping editor. You've seen her work in Reader's Digest, Taste of Home, Family Handyman, MSN, Today's Parent, Fashion Magazine, Chatelaine, NBC and so many other beloved brands.
