Chase the Northern Lights from Fairbanks on a guided 5‑hour tour that includes hotel pickup, warm drinks and free photography services. Learn basic night‑photography tips while guides move you to the best viewing spots based on real‑time forecasts.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The road out of Fairbanks is a ribbon of dark asphalt under a sky that refuses to stay still. On a clear night the aurora unwraps itself overhead—curtains of green and purple that roll, flare and fade as if the sky were breathing. Guides watch geomagnetic indices while you sip hot chocolate and wait; when the lights ignite they move quietly among you, framing faces and cameras.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires tolerance for standing outdoors in cold and short walks from vehicle to viewing spots.
Wildlife
History
Fairbanks rose as an early 20th‑century gold rush hub and later became a hub for aurora tourism due to its location under the auroral oval.
Conservation
Respect dark‑sky practices—avoid flashlight glare and stay on designated roads to reduce disturbance; pack out all trash to protect fragile tundra and waterways.
Reserve your spot on the Aurora Chasing tour with Free Photography today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can drop quickly; wear insulated base and mid layers plus a windproof shell to stay comfortable during long stationary viewing.
Protect batteries from cold
Keep camera and phone batteries warm inside an inner pocket and bring spares — cold drains power fast during night shoots.
Bring a small tripod or use the guide’s
Long exposures capture aurora detail; a compact tripod stabilizes your camera—guides often assist with setup if you prefer not to bring one.
Plan for late nights
Tours run through prime aurora hours; expect a late return and arrange sleep/transport plans accordingly.
Insulated parka
Keeps you warm during prolonged stationary viewing in subzero temperatures.
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Tripod
Stabilizes cameras for long exposures needed to capture aurora detail.
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Spare camera batteries
Cold drains batteries quickly; spares ensure you don't miss a peak display.
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Waterproof boots with traction
Protects feet from wet, icy surfaces at lakeshores and roadside pullouts.
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