– Fairbanks | Chena Hot Springs –
Alaska, the final frontier. Enjoy a relaxing holiday at the prestigious Chena Hot Springs Resort, seek out the majestic Northern Lights, and embrace an experience with native Alaska.
Start location: Fairbanks, Alaska
End Location: Fairbanks, Alaska
On average, in about 243 days a year, which is about 2/3 of the days, Aurora is visible in the night sky in Alaska, giving this region one of the highest probability of seeing the Northern Lights.
Among all the Aurora destinations, Fairbanks is perhaps the city that is located closest to the Arctic Circle. It is also at a higher altitude then Whitehorse in the Yukon Territories in Canada. Giving it darker sky that is away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
At Chena Hot Springs, you will for sure get an even more spectacular view of the Aurora for it is some 60 miles away from Fairbanks. As you anticipate for the aurora to appear, take a moment and embrace that you are setting foot on one of the last piece of frontier that is Alaska.
During day time, indulge yourself in one of the many facilities at Chena Hot Springs. Reward yourself for a relaxing and unforgettable expedition.
Route Overview
Day 1: Fairbanks – Chena Hot Springs
Day 2: Chena Hot Springs
Day 3: Chena Hot Springs – Fairbanks
Day 4: Fairbanks
Trip Highlights
Explore Fairbanks, Aurora Season
Travel Dates
Please contact us for availability.
Chena Hot Springs Resort. / Credit: Travel Alaska/Chris McLennan ©2022
Arriving in Fairbanks today, and step out of the airport to the smell of fresh Northern air. Remember to have your camera ready for a photo with the giant bear specimen located in the airport lobby. This might be your only chance to see if if you arrive during Winter Season as bears are in the midst of their hibernation cycle. Later, you will head to one of the most sought after resort location, Chena Hot Springs Resort. The Resort’s shuttle will pick you up from the airport and it will take you directly to the resort that’s roughly 60 miles away.
After checking-in, feel free to dip your toes in the outdoor hot springs swimming pool. There are also various facilities in the resort, and all the activities are yours to choose from. At Night, feel free to head outdoors to a place without light pollution and wait for the aurora to come.
Keep in mind that with the Alaska Train schedule, you will need to arrive in Fairbanks on Thursdays.
Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs Resort. / Credit: Travel Alaska/Chris McLennan ©2022
Today you can enjoy a morning without a morning call. When you do wake up, feel free to participate in various activities at the resort, or visit the Ice Sculpture Museum for a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t forget to order a glass of ice-cold vodka mixed with a special “ice cup”!
At night, you will still have another opportunity to enjoy the majestic aurora again.
Fairbanks Aurora Credit: Travel Alaska
Heading back to Fairbanks today by shuttle.
When you arrive in Fairbanks, you can go to the ”Northern Museum” at the University of Alaska in Fairbanks for exhibits that will teach you about the Alaska region; learn everything from the frozen tundra, oil, and the Northern Lights; or learn of the Ecology of the coastline, or the history of the Aboriginal people, and gold rush era that shaped the history of the land.
Overnight in Fairbanks. A special ”Northern Lights Tour” will be arranged late at night, where you will go to the Aurora Cabin on the outskirts of Fairbanks to enjoy the Aurora. This is an excellent viewing platform and offers hot coffee and tea to keep you warm. While waiting, you can also meet and chat with other tourists.
The Trans-Alaska oil pipeline crosses through the Brooks Range on it’s 800-mile journey from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez. / Credit: Explore Fairbanks
There is never a dull day at the final frontier! Today, hop on the bus after lunch, and embark on a unforgettable journey to the Arctic Circle.
Along the way, you will see the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, or TAPS. At 800 miles long, it is one of the world’s largest pipe-line system that has helped shape the history of Alaska over the years. You will also be crossing over the mighty Yukon River before arriving at the Arctic Circle where you will receive your very own Arctic Circle Certificate!
Credit: Explore Fairbanks
Alaska Rail Travelling in Winter / Credit: Alaska Railroad – Kerry Tasker
On the last day of this Aurora Journey in Fairbanks, be sure to use your available time to soak in the experience before boarding your flight out from Fairbanks International Airport.
Request for 4 Days Fairbanks Aurora Experience
