Ride heated UTVs above the lights of Anchorage to Hatcher Pass for panoramic aurora viewing. Guides drive snowy backcountry trails to summit viewpoints with a campfire and hot cocoa—ideal for first-time aurora chasers.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Night presses close on the alpine bowl of Hatcher Pass: cold air bites at exposed cheeks while a row of heated UTVs hums against the dark. Guides thread narrow backcountry roads, tires crunching on packed snow, and the valley lightfalls vanish behind you. Above, the aurora prowls the sky, ribbons of green and purple daring you to stare.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal hiking required but dress for cold and brief standing periods.
Wildlife
History
Hatcher Pass was developed during Alaska’s gold rush era; Independence Mine operated in the early 1900s and shaped local access roads.
Conservation
The alpine tundra is fragile—stay on established routes, minimize campfire impact, and pack out all waste to protect habitat.
Reserve your spot on the Northern Lights UTV Tour with Roundtrip Transportation today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Temperatures can drop sharply at the summit—use a thermal base, insulating mid-layer, and a windproof shell.
Bring a camera + tripod
Long exposures need a steady tripod and a camera with manual settings to capture the aurora.
Protect extremities
Warm, waterproof boots and insulated gloves are crucial—frostbite risk increases with wind and stillness.
Plan for limited daylight
This is a night-focused tour during aurora season; allow flexibility in sleep and transportation plans.
Insulated parka
Keeps core warm during extended cold-night stops.
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Sturdy insulated boots
Waterproof, insulated boots protect against snow and standing cold.
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Camera with tripod
Needed for long-exposure aurora photography and sharper images.
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Headlamp with red filter
Hands-free light for moving around camp without ruining night vision.
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