Spend an evening at Borealis Basecamp with a three-course meal at Latitude 65, a short presentation on northern lights science and folklore, and guided sky viewing from a rural yurt location. Self-drive required—plan for winter tires and a 4WD vehicle in colder months.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive after a long dusk drive along a snowy road, headlights cutting through spruce and birch. At Latitude 65 the dining room is warm; a three-course meal opens the evening and gives your hands a chance to regain feeling before you step back into the cold. After dessert the lounge hums with low conversation, and staff point out where the sky will be watched from the yurt and open viewing areas.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—mostly seated dining and short, flat strolls to viewing areas; must tolerate cold and standing in place.
Wildlife
History
Local Athabascan communities have long-held oral traditions about the lights; modern interpretive talks at the basecamp pair that folklore with plasma physics.
Conservation
Operators minimize light pollution and keep group sizes small to reduce disturbance; visitors are asked to pack out waste and avoid driving off established roads.
Reserve your spot on the Aurora Viewing and Dinner today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Drive Prepared for Winter Roads
Allow up to an hour from Fairbanks and use a 4WD vehicle with winter tires—snow and ice make the access road unpredictable.
Dress for Nighttime Cold
Bring insulated, windproof outer layers and warm footwear; temperatures can drop quickly while standing still during viewing.
Protect Camera Batteries
Cold drains battery life—bring spares and keep them inside your jacket until you need them.
Plan Your Return Time
The yurt closes at 2:00 a.m.; factor that into driving time and accommodations so you aren’t rushing in poor conditions.
Insulated parka
A heavy, windproof parka keeps you safe during long stationary viewing periods.
winter
Winter boots with good traction
Warm, waterproof boots with grippy soles help on snow and icy paths between vehicles and viewing areas.
winter
Camera tripod
A sturdy tripod is needed for long-exposure aurora photography; rentals or guided photo sessions may be available.
Spare camera batteries and hand warmers
Cold shortens battery life—carry spares and chemical hand warmers to protect electronics and hands.
winter