Spend an evening at a working sled dog homestead west of Fairbanks watching the northern lights from a wood-stove-heated tent. Meet the dogs, learn aurora science, and get hands-on photography help in a small, authentic setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive at dusk to the quiet snap of cold air and the excited chatter of dogs — paws skittering across packed snow, breath steaming in the lantern light. The homestead sits on a gentle rise west of Fairbanks with a clear northward view; inside the Arctic oven tent a wood stove hums, the warm hub around which locals and visitors gather while the sky pulls its slow curtains of green and purple.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing in cold and short walks on uneven snow or packed dirt.
Wildlife
History
Ester is a former gold-mining community whose legacy shows in small mine cuts and gravel ridges; mushing and homestead life evolved from those early settlement patterns.
Conservation
Operators emphasize low-impact practices at the kennel and ask visitors to avoid feeding wildlife, pack out trash, and keep dogs’ routines undisturbed to protect the local ecosystem.
Reserve your spot on the Aurora Activity at Sluice Box Sled Dogs today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for Arctic Nights
Bring multiple insulating layers and a windproof outer shell; the operator provides extra outerwear but inner layers and warm socks keep you comfortable while waiting.
Use a Tripod or Get Help
Long exposures are needed for aurora photos — bring a tripod or use the on-site photography assistance to steady smartphones and cameras.
Protect Batteries and Devices
Keep spare batteries in an inner pocket close to your body; cold drains power quickly on phones and cameras.
Respect the Kennel Routine
Follow staff instructions around dogs — approach calmly, avoid sudden smells or loud noises, and let handlers position animals for photos.
Insulated down jacket
Critical for staying warm during long periods outdoors at night.
winter
Insulated winter boots
Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction handle snow and icy approaches to the tent.
winter
Tripod or smartphone stabilizer
Needed for clear long-exposure aurora photos; staff can assist with setup.
winter
Headlamp with red light
Hands-free light helps with gear adjustments without spoiling night vision.
winter