Head into the Alaskan night with a small group guided by local experts to hunt the aurora borealis. Expect a 5–6 hour drive-and-wait style tour from east Fairbanks that prioritizes clear, dark vantage points and hands-on photography support.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The van slips out of east Fairbanks into a black Arctic night, tires whispering over frost as the driver scans the horizon for clear sky. Above the spruce and river flats a pale green curl begins to unfurl—an auroral ribbon that rises and folds like a living, breathing map of the magnetosphere.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; primarily seated/short walks on flat ground during stops
Wildlife
History
The Fairbanks area has long been home to Athabascan peoples and later surged during the early 20th-century gold rush; the aurora has cultural significance in indigenous oral histories.
Conservation
Minimize light pollution by using red lights and staying on designated pullouts; practice leave-no-trace—human activity can disturb winter wildlife and fragile tundra.
Reserve your spot on the Aurora Chaser Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress for sub-zero nights
Layer synthetic base, insulated mid-layers, and a windproof shell—bring warm boots and hand warmers; temperatures can plummet fast.
Bring spare camera batteries
Cold drains batteries quickly—carry extras in an inside pocket and bring a tripod (drivers have a spare if needed).
Expect flexible timing
Guides chase clear skies, so pick-up and return windows can shift; plan transportation and accommodations accordingly.
Protect night vision
Use a red-filter headlamp and avoid bright screens when the aurora appears to maintain night vision and not disturb others.
Insulated winter boots
Keeps feet warm during prolonged standing in Arctic cold.
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Layered clothing (base, mid, shell)
Layering lets you manage core temperature during long waits and wind exposure.
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Tripod
Needed for long-exposure aurora photography; guides carry a spare tripod for guests.
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Headlamp with red mode
Hands-free light that preserves night vision and is useful for navigating in the dark.
winter