Adventure Collective
Outdoor Adventure in Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Resort Trip Guide - Fairbanks

Outdoor Adventure in Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Resort Trip Guide

Fairbankseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4–6 hours (including travel and soaking)

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking involved around the pools

Overview

Journey from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort for a blend of scenic wilderness, wildlife sightings, and soothing mineral pools. Discover what makes this Alaskan retreat a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Chena Hot Springs Resort -> Fairbanks Shuttle

Approximately 2 Hours • All Ages • Hotel guests and day package buyers only

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Experience the breathtaking journey to Chena Hot Springs Resort, nestled at the end of a scenic 60-mile drive from Fairbanks. Enjoy the chance to spot wildlife, including moose, along the way. This year-round destination promises relaxation and adventure, making it a memorable escape into nature's beauty.

Chena Hot Spring -> Fairbanks

Duration

2 Hours

About

Chena Hot Springs Resort is located at milepost 56.5 which is at the very end of Chena Hot Springs Road. The paved road is called “Chena Hot Springs Road” because it ends at the resort! Open year-round, the scenic 60 mile drive from downtown Fairbanks takes a little over an hour. It is common to see wildlife, especially moose, along the way.

  • CAR SEAT : The age, height and weight of your child needs to be notified at the time of shuttle booking. Free of charge

Required information to book your shuttle:

The confirmation number of your room or package reservation (six-digit number, starting with 3 or nine-digit number, starting with 5)

The full name of a person on your room or package reservation

The phone number that our shuttle driver can contact you on the day of your pick-up (if you don’t have the US number, email you can get with your phone could work). Our driver may contact you if he/she cannot find you at the scheduled pick-up location.

The number of passengers (including from 0-year-old)

The pick-up location (Please select from the list below)

The time of pick-up (Please select from the list below)

The drop-off location in Fairbanks (Please select from the list below)

The time of departure from our resort (Please select from the list below)

  • Flight number (Both arrival flight & departure flight) & Flight arrival time and departure time are necessary if you have the arrival flight on your pick-up day and the departure flight on your check-out date.

  • The driver will look for you with “Chena Hot Springs” sign and the list of last names of the room/package reservations to pick up. Most places are small, so usually they can find you without problem, but if you see a person wearing Chena logo shirt, jacket or cap, it would be nice if you could talk to him or her as well.

** The shuttle starts from the Fairbanks International Airport at the below stated time. If your pick-up location is not at the airport, please allow 10 to 30 minutes from the stated time until the shuttle picks you up. Please understand that if the driver cannot find you at the location or get hold of you, the shuttle cannot wait for you.

Adventure Tips

Watch for wildlife during the drive

Keep an eye out for moose and wildlife along the 60-mile route, especially during dawn and dusk.

Dress warmly for outdoor soaking

Even in summer, temperatures can drop at night; bring layers to stay comfortable in the mineral pools.

Book in advance for winter tours

Secure your spot for Aurora viewing or ice museum visits, as these can fill quickly during peak season.

Check road conditions

Alaska weather can impact travel; verify road status before embarking on your journey.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Moose
  • Eagles

History

Chena Hot Springs has served as a natural retreat since the early 20th century, with geothermal springs used for healing and relaxation.

Conservation

The resort actively uses sustainable practices, harnessing geothermal energy and minimizing environmental impact to preserve the area's wilderness.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Fairbanks

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm layers

Essential

Dressing in layers keeps you comfortable in varying outdoor temperatures before and after soaking.

winter|null specific

Swimwear

Essential

Bring your swimsuit for soaking in the mineral pools, which are the main attraction.

all specific

Waterproof boots

Essential

Protect your feet from snow, mud, and wet trails during your journey and around the resort.

winter|spring specific

Camera

Capture the scenic drive, wildlife, and the stunning Northern Lights if visiting in winter.

all specific