Chase the aurora in a private, small-group photography workshop from Fairbanks. This 6–8 hour guided tour focuses on remote viewing spots and hands-on instruction for all skill levels.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A cold hush settles over the boreal forest as headlights slip off the Parks Highway and the dome of night opens above Fairbanks. On a clear night here — at roughly 65°N, directly beneath the northern auroral oval — curtains of green and purple can appear without warning, folding and unfurling across a wide, dark sky. This private, small-group tour moves by vehicle to remote vantage points along the Parks, Elliott and Richardson highways, giving you room to set a tripod and let slow exposures do the work.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves standing and moving short distances outdoors in cold for extended periods
Wildlife
History
Fairbanks grew as a gold-rush supply town in the early 1900s and sits in the traditional territory of Athabascan peoples; its latitude places it beneath the auroral oval.
Conservation
Minimize local impact by avoiding idling vehicles, packing out trash, and keeping a respectful distance from wildlife; low light-use helps preserve dark-sky quality.
Reserve your spot on the Northern Lights Photography Tour in Fairbanks, Alaska today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in cold-rated layers
Temperatures can plunge well below freezing; base layers, insulated parka, and warm boots make long exposures manageable.
Protect camera batteries
Keep spares in an inner pocket—cold drains batteries fast—swap them frequently during extended shoots.
Bring or rent a sturdy tripod
Long exposures require a stable platform; lightweight tripods can shift in wind or on packed snow.
Plan for late hours
Auroras often peak around late evening to early morning; schedule rest and hydrate before the outing.
Insulated down parka
Keeps core body temperature stable during prolonged night exposure in interior Alaska.
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Insulated waterproof boots
Protects feet from cold, snow and standing on frozen ground while composing shots.
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Sturdy tripod
Necessary for sharp long-exposure aurora photography and portrait framing.
Spare batteries & power bank
Cold shortens battery life—carry spares and a power bank for heaters or camera charging.
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