From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour

Traveling to Alaska is a bucket-list experience, especially when it involves catching the elusive Northern Lights. The Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks promises a blend of natural wonders, cultural sights, and relaxing hot springs—all wrapped into one 10-hour adventure. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve gathered comprehensive insights from travelers and reviews to give you a balanced, detailed picture of what to expect.

What really shines about this experience are the expert guides who keep the journey engaging, the chance to soak in the famous Chena Hot Springs with its eco-friendly credentials, and the allure of witnessing the Aurora Borealis in a pristine northern setting. The Ice Museum, with its hand-crafted ice chandeliers and bars, adds a quirky yet memorable touch, perfect for a chilly Arctic night. One thing to keep in mind is that Northern Lights sightings are never guaranteed—it’s a natural phenomenon, after all—so some guests might see a spectacular display, while others might only glimpse hints of green or miss it altogether.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and relaxing downtime. If you’re hoping for a smooth, guided experience with hotel transfers included, and don’t mind the possibility that the Northern Lights might play hide-and-seek, then this tour could be a great fit. Now, let’s unpack what makes this adventure tick, what you can expect at each stage, and how it all comes together to create a memorable Arctic night.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines cultural sights, hot springs, and Aurora viewing.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the journey.
• Comfortable transportation: Stress-free travel with pick-up and drop-off service.
• Unique stops: Ice Museum with handcrafted ice sculptures, geothermal hot springs.
• Flexible scheduling: Check availability for start times, with a full 10-hour window.
• Limited size: Small group tours ensure a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Convenient Hotel Pickup

The tour kicks off with pickup from 14 different hotel options in Fairbanks. This range makes it straightforward to join without extra fuss. The transport is a comfortable van, and from there, you’ll journey roughly 60 miles (100 km) toward the Chena Resort. Travelers appreciate the ease of being collected from their accommodations, especially after a long day of travel.

Journey to the Ice Museum

The first notable stop is the Ice Museum, where you can marvel at hand-crafted ice chandeliers and bars. Constructed entirely out of ice, this site offers a surreal experience. Visitors on previous tours have loved the guided tour (about 45 minutes), with Ann, a guide renowned for her enthusiasm, making the visit particularly engaging. She’s praised for explaining the artistry behind the sculptures, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

Soak in the Hot Springs

Around 8 pm, the focus shifts to Chena Hot Springs, where you’re free to enjoy the mineral-rich waters for at least two hours. The springs are praised for their warmth and natural setting, especially after the cold outside. One reviewer, Nancy, mentioned how the experience was made more special by the knowledgeable guides like Joe, who shared interesting tidbits about the area. The hot springs also feature a restaurant bar, where you can purchase food and drinks, adding to the comfort.

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The Geothermal Power and Sustainability

A standout aspect of Chena Hot Springs is its geothermal energy use—it’s powered by Alaska’s first low-temperature binary geothermal plant. This eco-friendly angle adds a layer of awareness about sustainability, and the resort is actively involved in innovative projects like vegetable greenhouse cultivation and hydrogen production. It’s a small detail but shows a commitment to environmentally conscious tourism.

Evening Aurora Viewing

By around midnight, the main event begins—the search for the Northern Lights. The tour guides, such as Ryan and Ed, are praised for their efforts to facilitate Aurora sightings, even taking guests to alternate locations if the weather isn’t cooperative. Several reviews mention that guides like Joe and Ken enhanced the experience by sharing insights into the aurora’s science and helping guests understand how to photograph the spectacle.

While many guests are lucky and see vibrant displays, some note that Aurora Borealis is unpredictable. One reviewer, Linda, mentioned that even without the lights, the moonlit sky and snowy landscape made for a memorable night. It’s worth remembering that this part of the tour relies on nature’s mood, not guarantees.

Return and Drop-off

By 2-3 am, everyone starts heading back to Fairbanks, arriving around 3-4 am. The comfortable van and well-coordinated schedule help make the return journey relaxed, especially after a long night of adventure.

What This Tour Offers Beyond the Surface

Cultural and Scientific Highlights

The Ice Museum showcases Alaska’s ice artistry, worth the visit even if you’re not into the icy aesthetics. The guided tour provides stories behind the sculptures, making it educational and fun. The geothermal aspect of Chena Hot Springs demonstrates how the region harnesses natural resources, adding an eco-conscious dimension to your experience.

The Value of Expert Guides

Guests consistently praise guides like Joe, Paul, Ryan, and Ed for their friendliness and knowledge. Their enthusiasm and explanations help guests understand the science behind the aurora, local flora and fauna, and the resort’s sustainability initiatives. A knowledgeable guide can truly turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.

The Hot Springs Experience

Soaking in the natural mineral waters in sub-zero temperatures is a highlight that many reviewers cherish. The warm water, surrounded by snow and ice, creates a surreal contrast that’s uniquely Alaskan. Some mention difficulties taking night photos from inside the springs due to fog or steam, but that’s part of the charm.

Food and Drinks

While the tour price doesn’t include meals, the resort’s restaurant bar offers options for purchase. Guests have enjoyed the quality of the food, and one reviewer appreciated the hot tub and springs combined with the opportunity to enjoy a drink in a cozy setting.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $245 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with hotel transfers, entry fees, and guided narration included. Considering the variety of stops—ice sculptures, geothermal springs, and Aurora watching—and the eco-initiatives of the resort, the price reflects good value for those seeking a well-rounded Arctic adventure. The smaller group size (limited to 10) ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention.

Practical Considerations

• The tour lasts about 10 hours, so it’s suited for travelers comfortable with long evenings.
• Pickup is available only from major hotels, not private residences or Airbnbs.
• Bring warm clothing, a swimsuit, towel, passport, and cash—especially for purchases.
• Remember that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed; patience and luck are part of the experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of cultural sights, relaxation, and Aurora chasing without the hassle of planning each step individually. It’s suitable for travelers who appreciate expert guides, eco-conscious initiatives, and the novelty of Arctic hot springs and ice sculptures.

If you’re seeking a comfortable, guided day with multiple highlights in Alaska, this tour delivers on that promise. It suits those who want to maximize their chances of seeing the Northern Lights, enjoy geothermal relaxation, and learn about Alaska’s innovative energy projects.

However, bear in mind the cost and the fact that Aurora Borealis is weather-dependent. For those with a flexible schedule and a love of unique natural phenomena, it’s an adventure worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from major hotels in Fairbanks. It does not cover Airbnbs or private residences.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, starting in the late afternoon and returning around early morning.

What is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
While the tour operates during Aurora season, sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. Guides will do their best to find a clear spot, but guarantee isn’t possible.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, swimwear and towel for the springs, warm layers, and cash for food and souvenirs.

Can children participate?
This tour is not suitable for children under 5 years. It’s better suited for adults and older kids who can handle a late night.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can purchase food and drinks at the resort’s restaurant bar.

Is the Ice Museum worth visiting?
Absolutely. Guests have enjoyed the guided tour with knowledgeable staff like Ann, who shares fun stories behind the sculptures.

What happens if I don’t see the Northern Lights?
Since the aurora is a natural phenomenon, sightings are not guaranteed. If you don’t see them, you’ll still have experienced a wonderful night of relaxation, scenery, and exploration.

This tour combines the thrill of Arctic beauty with a touch of culture and relaxation. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or simply soaking in the geothermal waters, it offers a well-rounded taste of Alaska’s wild side.

You can check availability for your dates here: