Spend a winter night outside Fairbanks in a wood-heated yurt, swapping hot cocoa for a half-hour dog-sled mush under the Northern Lights. This compact, two-hour outing mixes aurora viewing with guided sled runs through black spruce and frozen ponds.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Snow presses low against the yurt’s wood stove as the night tightens around the boreal forest. Inside, steam rises from hot cocoa and the guides tighten harnesses; outside, teams of eager Siberian huskies paw the snow, ready to pull. The experience alternates quiet stargazing from a Mongolian yurt built for unobstructed sky views with short, thrilling dog-sled runs that push you through black spruce, across frozen ponds and over open tundra.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in reasonably good health who can stand on a sled runner and manage cold-weather conditions
Wildlife
History
Sled dogs were central to Athabascan travel and later to Fairbanks’ gold-era logistics; modern mushing preserves both cultural practice and recreational sport.
Conservation
Guides emphasize low light use and pack-in/pack-out practices to protect dark-sky quality and minimize disturbance to wildlife and sled dogs.
Reserve your spot on the Alaskan Escape: Aurora Viewing & Dog Sledding Adventure Fairbanks today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers with windproof outerwear
Temperatures can plunge and sleds are exposed; base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a windproof shell make the night tolerable.
Bring a headlamp with red mode
Hands-free light and red illumination preserve night vision while walking to and from the yurt and sled teams.
Protect electronics and batteries
Cold drains batteries fast—carry spares warmed inside your jacket and use a tripod or clamp for aurora photos.
Follow the guides’ safety briefing
Mushing requires balance and quick reactions; listen to instructions for boarding, braking and when to sit or stand.
Insulated winter jacket
Keeps you warm while stationary in the yurt and during exposed sled runs.
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Waterproof winter boots with good traction
Necessary for walking on packed snow, ice and into the yurt area.
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Gloves + liner gloves
Layered glove systems let you handle gear and stay warm during the run.
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Camera + tripod or phone clamp
A tripod stabilizes long-exposure shots of the aurora—bring spare batteries kept warm.
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