Face The Outdoors Northern Lights Tour Small Group

Planning a trip to Alaska and dreaming of catching the elusive Northern Lights? We’ve taken a close look at this small group tour from Fairbanks, and it clearly offers something special. From its intimate setting to expert guidance and thoughtful accommodations, this experience aims to make aurora chasing both memorable and manageable.

What really catches our eye are three key features: a personalized small-group atmosphere, flexible chasing to optimize sky clearance, and professional photography guidance. Plus, the tour’s focus on comfort, with warm lodges for breaks, certainly adds to its appeal. On the flip side, the weather remains unpredictable, so some nights might not deliver a show. This tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity, want insider tips, and are willing to wait for Mother Nature’s light display — with a cozy, guided companion by their side.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience and less crowding.
• Expert guides provide valuable insights on aurora science and photography.
• Flexible chasing means guides will move locations to find clearer skies, boosting your chances.
• Comfort is prioritized with warm lodges, indoor viewing options, and snacks.
• Weather-dependent nature means there’s always a chance you might not see the lights, but creative guiding helps.
• Value for money given the personalized service, expert instruction, and included photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This 9-hour adventure from Fairbanks offers more than just a chance to see the Aurora Borealis; it promises an authentic, cozy, and well-organized experience. At $365 per person, it’s a considered investment, especially when you factor in the guide expertise, the small group setting, and the included amenities.

The small group size (max 10 travelers) means you’re not just another face in a crowd. Instead, you get a more intimate experience, with personalized attention and plenty of opportunity for questions about the aurora, Alaskan wildlife, or local culture. As Shelby_B notes, “Michael is very knowledgeable about the aurora and Alaska in general. He drove us around to ensure we could find areas without cloud coverage,” which translates into a better shot at seeing the lights.

The tour’s flexibility is another highlight. Guides at Face The Outdoors don’t stick to a single location; instead, they will “chase clear skies,” sometimes driving to different spots or even to the lodge if conditions look promising. Nicole_A appreciated this approach, saying, “He took us to a spot off the road before we arrived because the lights were out. After getting to his gorgeous cabin and seeing the lights were not coming out, he allowed us to choose what to do next.”

The Itinerary in Detail

The core of this tour is a private setting away from the city’s light pollution — a crucial factor when viewing the Aurora Borealis. The first stop is at Michael’s home in Delta Junction, which offers a true Alaskan feel with big windows, a warm fireplace, and a cozy lodge atmosphere. Here, guests can relax and wait for the lights to dance across the sky, with the option to step outside for unobstructed views or stay indoors, watching the spectacle from the comfort of the lodge.

What sets this experience apart is the attention to comfort. Several reviewers, like Bernard_H, mention how their ability to warm up inside made the long, cold winter night more manageable. They also praise the hot cocoa, tea, cider, and snacks that keep everyone cozy while waiting for the aurora to appear.

The guides’ knowledge shines during the trip. Michael’s expertise in Aurora science and photography is evident, offering tips on camera settings, and even taking a professional portrait of your group. As Carol_P describes, “Michael was a fabulous host, guide, and photographer. I recommend this tour to everyone. Just make sure your phone has night vision.”

Throughout the night, the guides stay flexible, moving to get the best sky conditions or waiting patiently for the aurora to intensify. If the forecast and weather cooperate, you might experience quite the show, as many reviews describe.

The Experience Outside and Inside

Many travelers love how the outdoor viewing area provides 360-degree views, with wide-open spaces perfect for photography. The guides often take guests outside when conditions are favorable, but also understand the importance of warmth and comfort. The lodge becomes a crucial part of the experience, serving as a warm retreat, an indoor viewing point, and a chance to relax after braving the cold outside.

“Standing in the open surrounded by the night sky and cold was awesome,” says Carol_P. “Michael’s house in Delta Junction was the best — far away from city lights, with a great warm retreat and snacks.” The large windows and indoor waiting areas allow guests who want to stay warm to still enjoy the show.

Photographic guidance is a major plus. Guides genuinely want to help you get that perfect shot, with some offering to take professional photos for your group. Several reviews mention how helpful Michael was with camera settings, ensuring visitors maximize their chances to capture the lights.

The Logistics and What You Need to Know

Pickup is available within Fairbanks city limits, making transportation hassle-free. The start time at 8:00 pm aligns well with prime Aurora viewing hours, and the tour lasts approximately 9 hours, giving ample time to chase the lights and enjoy the surroundings.

Weather plays a big role. If conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled, but the operator offers rescheduling or a full refund, which adds peace of mind. Since the experience is non-refundable, it’s worth keeping flexible plans during Aurora season.

Camera rentals are available if you don’t have your own, but they need to be reserved ahead of time. Remember to bring your own SD card and a tripod—essential tools for night photography. The emphasis on photography instruction helps guests walk away with better photos, a common highlight in reviews.

Group size is capped at 10 travelers, ensuring everyone gets attention and a more personal experience. The guides are often praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and dedication to making the night special, even if the Aurora is shy.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

Multiple reviewers mention how the guide’s local knowledge and photography skills elevate the experience. Shelby_B calls Michael “very knowledgeable about the aurora and Alaska in general,” adding that his driving helped avoid clouded areas, which is critical since weather is unpredictable.

Nicole_A appreciated the flexibility: “He allowed us to choose what to do next” when the lights weren’t immediately visible, showing a genuine commitment to guests’ experience. Others like Leona_G loved how Michael, “knows a lot about the science of the lights,” making it educational as well as awe-inspiring.

The comfort of the lodge and indoor viewing options also receive high praise. Bernard_H highlights how being able to warm up in the lodge made the experience enjoyable even in -15°C weather, while Carol_L emphasizes the large windows and cozy fire that let you watch the display from indoors if preferred.

Value for Money

At $365, this tour is not cheap, but considering the personalized service, expert guidance, and exclusive location, it offers good value. The inclusion of a professional Aurora portrait and tips on photography adds a memorable touch, especially for those wanting to capture their trip.

The fact that the guides will drive around to find clearer skies or even go to their lodge when conditions are good maximizes your chances of seeing the lights, which many less flexible tours don’t offer. Plus, the small group setting means less crowding and more personal attention.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who value quality and comfort and are eager to learn more about the Aurora Borealis. If you’re interested in professional photography and want guidance on capturing the lights, this tour’s educational aspect is a major plus.

It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, intimate atmosphere over large bus excursions, and for anyone who appreciates a warm lodge as part of the adventure. Given the weather dependency, it’s suited for flexible travelers willing to reschedule if the skies aren’t clear.

If your main goal is seeing the Northern Lights with a knowledgeable guide in a cozy setting, then this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off within Fairbanks, snacks and beverages, expert photography guidance, and a professional aurora portrait of your group.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:00 pm, providing ample time for chasing and viewing the Aurora.

Can I rent a camera?
Yes, camera rentals are available but need to be reserved beforehand. Bring your own SD card and tripod for best results.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires clear skies to see the Aurora. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including insulated outerwear, gloves, hats, and boots — nights can be very cold.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included within Fairbanks city limits.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the cold and the late hours. Check with the provider if you have young children.

Will I see the Aurora every night?
While guides do everything possible to find clear skies, the Aurora’s appearance depends on weather and solar activity, so sightings aren’t guaranteed.

What makes this tour different from others?
The personalized small-group setting, the guide’s expertise, flexible chasing, and the cozy lodge environment make it stand out.

To sum it up, the Face The Outdoors Northern Lights Small Group Tour offers a highly personalized, comfortable, and educational way to experience Alaska’s most stunning natural wonder. It’s perfect for those who want insider knowledge, high-quality photos, and the chance to avoid large crowds — all while enjoying the authentic, rugged beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize quality over quantity, appreciate warm accommodations, and are patient enough to wait for the perfect aurora display. If catching the Northern Lights in a friendly, intimate setting sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour could just make your Alaska trip unforgettable.