Woolwich Dam – Waterloo’s Secret Aurora Spot

🌌 Woolwich Dam – Waterloo’s Secret Aurora Spot 📍 Location: Woolwich Dam & Reservoir (20min drive from UW campus) 📅 Best Time: Late Sept - March (KP index ≥5, clear skies) 🕒 Ideal Hours: 10 PM - 2 AM (midnight peak) 🌟 Why Woolwich? ✅ Minimal Light Pollution – Darker than Waterloo Park/Columbia Lake. ✅ Reflection Shots – Aurora mirrored on the reservoir (tripod needed!). ✅ Free & Accessible – Park at Winterbourne Lions Park. 📸 How to Shoot It ✔ Camera Settings: • ISO 1600-3200 • 15-30 sec exposure • Wide-angle lens (10-24mm) ✔ Phone Hack: Use Night Mode + 10sec timer on a steady surface. ⚠️ Pro Tips ❌ Avoid Full Moon – Washes out faint lights. ✅ Check Aurora Apps – Aurora Alerts or My Aurora Forecast. 🧥 Dress for -10°C – Reservoir winds are brutal! 🏆 Why It’s a Miracle? "Where else can you debug code at 11 PM, then drive 20min to catch green ghosts dancing over a dam?" #WaterlooAurora #ChasingLights #OntarioNorthernLights