Spend a full night chasing the aurora oval from Fairbanks: an 8-hour guided drive that follows geomagnetic activity across Interior Alaska. Guides provide transit, an aurora discussion, photographic help, and warm snacks while you watch the sky.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You climb into a heated van beneath a black sky that seems to breathe; the road ahead is a ribbon of snow and light, the horizon waiting like a dial. The driver slides north, chasing the aurora oval as it sweeps over Alaska’s interior. Engines hum, companions murmur, and the night stretches—this is a full-rotation chase built around watching the sky move across the oval.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness required—primarily sitting in a vehicle and short walks on icy or snowy ground for viewing stops
Wildlife
History
Fairbanks grew as an aurora hub thanks to scientific observatories and Cold War-era magnetometer stations; Indigenous Athabascan cultures also have long-standing oral traditions about the lights.
Conservation
Minimize light pollution and stay on designated roads; keep vehicle emissions and noise low during stops and pack out all trash to protect fragile winter landscapes.
Reserve your spot on the Aurora Oval Nightly Northern Lights Chase today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for sustained cold
Layer synthetic base, insulating mid-layer, and a windproof/waterproof shell; warm boots and mittens are essential for long stops.
Bring a tripod and spare batteries
Cold drains batteries fast—keep spares warm against your body and use a sturdy tripod for long exposures.
Expect limited facilities
Most viewing sites are remote with no plumbing; plan bathroom breaks and bring hand warmers and tissues.
Stay flexible with timing
Aurora visibility depends on solar activity and cloud cover; an all-night chase increases your chances but never guarantees a show.
Insulated parka
Keeps you warm during long stationary viewing periods in subfreezing temperatures.
winter
Insulated, waterproof boots
Stable, warm footwear is vital for standing on ice, snow, and roadside shoulders.
winter
Camera with manual controls + tripod
Necessary for capturing long-exposure aurora images; guides typically assist with settings.
Hand and foot warmers
Single-use warmers extend comfort during prolonged outdoor stops in cold weather.
winter