Adventure Collective
Aurora Viewing in Fairbanks with Chena Hot Springs Resort - Fairbanks

Aurora Viewing in Fairbanks with Chena Hot Springs Resort

Fairbankseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical effort required; comfortable for most travelers

Overview

Join an unforgettable Aurora Viewing Tour at Chena Hot Springs Resort in Alaska, where panoramic snowfield views and cozy yurts combine to create a perfect setting for witnessing the Northern Lights. Aerial ascents on rugged SUSV vehicles elevate the experience, offering unmatched vistas of the Arctic sky. Whether you're seeking your first aurora or adding to a seasoned collection, this tour offers comfort, adventure, and the chance to see one of Earth's most dazzling natural displays in a remote, pristine setting.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Aurora Viewing Tour

5 Hours • Ages 6+ • Experience Alaska's Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights!

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable Aurora Viewing Tour in Alaska, where you'll ascend Charlie Dome in a military-style SUSV for breathtaking 360° views of the Northern Lights. Enjoy the warmth of Mongolian yurts, complimentary hot beverages, and snacks as you wait for this natural spectacle. Experience the magic of the Arctic night!

Experience Alaska's Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights!

Duration

5 Hours

Highlights

  • The darkness at the very top of the mountain is better for your eyes to capture a good Aurora Borealis display.
  • Ride in a military-style SUSV to the top of Charlie Dome.
  • You will have a 360° unobstructed view.
  • Heated yurts to warm yourself in.
  • Complimentary hot beverages and snacks.
  • Warm gear is provided, if needed.

About

The Aurora Viewing Tour is an opportunity to experience one of the best spots in Alaska, the beautiful Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights. Two miles up our mountains, at a location called Charlie Dome, are two Mongolian style yurts to keep you warm and serve you hot beverages and snacks. Up there you will have a 360° unobstructed view of the Northern Lights if they come out. The further away you are from city lights the better, and the best way is with dim propane lights and a hot chocolate to wait for the Aurora Borealis show.

You will ride in a military-style SUSV (it stands for Small Unit Support Vehicle and it is pronounced sus-vee) for thirty minutes until we get to the top of Charlie Dome, where we will make base. We will stay up there a total of four hours. We do not make our way back down early since we never know when this phenomenon will make appearance, please have this time commitment in mind. We will let you know what direction the North is, where our outhouses are located and what yurt we will be using for the night. If it is too cold, the water we would use to make hot beverages, oatmeal and soups may take a bit longer to boil but we will let you know when it is ready and will be happy to serve you.

We will let you know when time comes to load our SUSV's up again and make our way down, it is about a 20 to 30 minute ride down to arrive at Chena Hot Springs. The Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights is a natural phenomenon and can not be guaranteed, but we do wish you the best of luck!

Itinerary

  • We meet at our Activity Center 15 minutes before your tour time departure.
  • Please let one of the tour guides know if you would need additional warm gear, we have that available for you.
  • It takes about 20 to 30 minutes each way to our destination, Charlie Dome.
  • The Aurora Viewing Tour last a full five hours.
  • We have some reading materials and board games at the top if you don’t want to wait outside for the Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights.

Inclusions

  • Round-trip transportation from our resort to Charlie Dome
  • Warm yurt to wait for auroras at the top of Charlie Dome
  • Warm gear is included with this tour
  • Hot Chocolate
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Water
  • Top Ramen
  • Oatmeal

What to Bring

  • Warm clothes.
  • Snacks of your liking and bottled water.

Adventure Tips

Dress Warmly

Layer up with thermal clothing, insulated gloves, and a hat to stay comfortable while waiting outdoors.

Check Aurora Forecasts

Consult local aurora predictions before your trip for better chances of clear skies and active displays.

Arrive Early

Getting to the site early ensures you settle in comfortably and don’t miss the first flashes of color.

Bring a Camera

Use a tripod and a DSLR or mirrorless camera to capture the vibrant lights against the dark sky.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Moose
  • Arctic Fox

History

Chena Hot Springs has been a hub for winter travelers since the early 20th century, famed for its natural hot springs and welcoming atmosphere.

Conservation

The resort actively promotes sustainability by managing light pollution, conserving local wildlife habitats, and utilizing eco-friendly heating and powering systems.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Fairbanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Thermal Clothing

Essential

Keeps your body warm during outdoor waiting periods in cold weather.

winter specific

Insulated Boots

Essential

Provides warmth and grip on snowy or icy surfaces.

winter specific

Headlamp or Flashlight

Essential

Helps navigate in darkness and set up photography gear safely.

winter specific

Portable Charger

Ensures your electronic devices remain powered for photos and communication.