Spend an Arctic evening soaking in mineral hot springs, exploring glowing ice sculptures, then chasing the Aurora Borealis with an expert guide. This private, roughly nine-hour outing pairs warm pools and frosty art with roadside aurora viewing from the Fairbanks area.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You pull away from Fairbanks as dusk softens the taiga; the road ahead narrows and the car’s heater hums while steam rises from a distant rim of trees. At Chena Hot Springs the pools hiss into the cold air, and inside the Ice Museum sculptures glow with internal light — a night that trades heat for frost and trades routine for spectacle.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to sit for drives, stand in cold for extended periods, and walk short unpaved surfaces.
Wildlife
History
Chena Hot Springs has been used for its thermal waters since early 20th-century settlement; the resort later added the Ice Museum and aurora-focused tourism to its offerings.
Conservation
Visitors are asked to stay on established paths, pack out waste, and minimize light pollution during aurora viewing to protect dark-sky quality and sensitive tundra vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the Fire & Ice: Chena Hot Springs, Ice Museum + Aurora Adventure today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for long nights
Temperatures can plummet after sunset; wear insulated base and mid-layers plus a waterproof outer shell to stay comfortable between soaks.
Bring a tripod and spare batteries
Cold drains camera batteries fast — use a tripod for long exposures and keep spares warm in an inner pocket.
Protect electronics from condensation
Move slowly from hot pools to cold air to reduce lens and battery fog; use sealed bags when possible.
Plan for drive time
Expect roughly 1.5–2 hours each way from Fairbanks depending on road conditions; confirm pickup location in advance.
Insulated parka
Keeps you warm during cold-night aurora viewings and while waiting between activities.
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Sturdy waterproof boots
Traction and insulation matter on icy resort paths and roadside pullouts.
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Camera and tripod
Essential for long-exposure aurora photography and low-light shots inside the Ice Museum.
Warm hat and insulated gloves
Protect extremities during prolonged outdoor viewing sessions.
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