From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour

Exploring the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska and want to combine relaxation with the thrill of witnessing the Northern Lights, the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour offers a compelling option. This full-day adventure takes you beyond the city lights into a landscape of natural beauty, history, and warmth. While we haven’t personally experienced it, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it covers all the bases for a memorable Alaskan outing.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it includes the chance to soak in the famous Chena Hot Springs, known for their healing mineral waters. Second, the Ice Museum provides a surreal experience of handcrafted ice chandeliers and bars, a perfect photo op. Third, the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis in the dark Arctic night adds a magical element. A potential caveat? The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so their visibility isn’t guaranteed. Still, if you’re lucky, you’ll be treated to a spectacular show. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of comfort, education, and the hope of witnessing one of nature’s most incredible displays.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off makes the trip hassle-free.
• Multiple experiences in one day: ice museum, hot springs, and potentially the Northern Lights.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and storytelling.
• Unique attractions like Alaska’s first low-temperature binary geothermal power plant and collaborative greenhouse projects.
• Value for money at $245, especially considering all included activities.
• Limited group size (up to 10 participants) for a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

Hotel Pickup & Transfer to Chena Resort

The adventure begins around 4-5 pm with a convenient pickup from your Fairbanks hotel. This early start ensures you get maximum time at each stop and are well-positioned for a prime Northern Lights sighting later in the night. The ride covers approximately 60 miles (or 100 kilometers), meaning you’ll be traveling through some of Alaska’s stunning natural scenery — a peaceful prelude to your evening.

Ice Museum Experience

First stop is the Ice Museum, a fascinating showcase of artistry and engineering. Built entirely from ice, it features hand-crafted chandeliers and bars, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. Reviewers highlight how fun and photogenic this stop is, often noting the craftsmanship involved. Visitors can enjoy a drink at the Ice Bar, although access to the museum itself requires an entrance fee that’s not included in the tour price. Expect to spend about 30 to 45 minutes here, soaking in the icy surroundings and snapping pictures of the intricate sculptures.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Relaxing in Chena Hot Springs

At around 8 pm, you’re invited to unwind in the Chena Hot Springs. These mineral-rich waters are renowned for their healing properties. The resort is committed to sustainability, utilizing Alaska’s first binary geothermal power plant and experimenting with green energy sources like hydrogen and vegetable oil. Visitors consistently praise the hot springs for their warmth and tranquil atmosphere, with many taking advantage of at least two hours to soak, relax, and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.

Optional Dining and Refreshments

While not included in the tour, there’s an on-site restaurant and bar where you can purchase food and drinks. Travelers have mentioned enjoying good food in a cozy setting, perfect after hours in the springs. It’s worth planning ahead if you want a meal before the night sky reveals its magic.

Searching for the Aurora Borealis

By around midnight, the real highlight begins—the chance to see the Northern Lights. Our reviews emphasize that this part of the tour is the most unpredictable but incredibly rewarding when the skies cooperate. Guides like Joe, Randall, and Ryan are noted for their effort to find the best viewing spots, often driving to different locations based on cloud coverage or aurora activity. As one reviewer remarked, “Randall made sure we could see the lights,” showing the guides’ dedication to maximizing your chances.

The Aurora is caused by charged particles colliding with atoms high in the atmosphere, resulting in vibrant displays of green, pink, and sometimes red or purple. These lights can be so bright that you could read a newspaper—an experience unlike anything else.

Early Morning Return

Departing around 2 am, the bus takes you back to Fairbanks, arriving sometime between 3 and 4 am. The late night and early morning hours mean you’ll want to prepare for a potentially tired but enchanted morning.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour offers good value considering what’s included. The round-trip transportation, entrance to the Ice Museum, and access to the hot springs are all covered. However, keep in mind that food and drinks at the resort are extra, and entrance to the Ice Museum isn’t included. It’s worth having some cash or card on hand for snacks or souvenirs.

The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some peace of mind in case your plans change. Booking now, with the option to pay later, offers flexibility—especially helpful for partial or uncertain trip plans.

Group Size & Guides

Travelers consistently praise the guides, like Ash, Joe, Paul, and Ed, for their friendliness, knowledge, and enthusiasm. With a maximum of 10 participants, the small group size allows for a more personalized experience, and many reviews mention how guides went above and beyond to ensure everyone saw the lights or enjoyed the springs.

Can You Rely on the Northern Lights?

Since Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, there’s no guarantee you’ll see it. Still, the guides’ efforts to chase clear skies and the flexible locations greatly improve your odds. Reviewers like Sandra and Mary appreciated the guides’ dedication, even when the lights didn’t appear—highlighting their willingness to go the extra mile.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring your passport or ID, especially if you plan to enjoy the hot springs.
• Pack swimwear and a towel for the springs, plus cash for extras.
• Dress warmly — layers and thermal gear are essential in the cold Alaskan night.
• Be prepared for a long night; you’ll be out from late afternoon to early morning.
• If photography is your goal, bring a tripod and camera with manual settings to capture the lights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a well-rounded taste of Alaska’s natural beauty. It’s ideal for travelers seeking relaxation in a scenic setting, with the hope of capturing the Northern Lights. It’s also suited for curious explorers eager to see innovative energy projects and quirky ice art. Due to the late night hours and the need for a certain level of comfort, it might not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility.

Final Thoughts

The Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour offers a thoroughly enjoyable mix of relaxation, education, and adventure. You’ll appreciate the chance to unwind in natural mineral waters, explore the icy artistry of the Ice Museum, and chase the elusive Aurora Borealis with knowledgeable guides. The small group size and inclusive transportation make it a stress-free option, while the potential for a spectacular light show elevates it to a truly special experience.

While the Northern Lights remain unpredictable, the effort and expertise put into this tour significantly boost your chances of witnessing their awe-inspiring display. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want a combination of comfort, education, and the thrill of one of Earth’s most mesmerizing phenomena.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins between 4 and 5 pm, with the exact time depending on your hotel location in Fairbanks.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there’s a restaurant and bar at the hot springs where you can purchase food.

How long is the drive from Fairbanks?
The transfer to Chena Resort is about 60 miles or 100 kilometers, lasting roughly an hour.

Can I see the Northern Lights every night?
No, Aurora Borealis is a natural event and cannot be guaranteed. Guides will do their best to find clear skies.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, swimwear, towel, cash, and dress warmly for potentially very cold conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 due to the late hours and outdoor conditions.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers an immersive way to enjoy Alaska’s natural wonders, combining comfort, education, and the chance of a once-in-a-lifetime sighting. Whether you’re after the relaxing waters, quirky ice art, or the elusive dance of the Northern Lights, it’s a well-rounded adventure worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: