From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour

Imagine gazing up at the mesmerizing Northern Lights while soaking in natural hot springs. That’s the allure of the "From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour." This exclusive 10-hour adventure whisks travelers from Fairbanks to the stunning Chena Resort, where they’ll explore an ice museum and unwind in the thermal waters – all before the chance to witness the ethereal aurora borealis dance across the night sky. With limited spots, this tour promises an unforgettable Alaskan experience for those who can’t resist the lure of the North.

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Key Points

10-hour tour from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort, including hotel pickup, a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum, and 2 hours of free time in natural hot springs.
Opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis around midnight, with return to Fairbanks between 3-4 AM.
45-minute guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum featuring intricate ice sculptures and installations maintained at -7°C (20°F).
Optional dinner available at the resort’s restaurant, and essential items to bring include passport/ID, swimwear, towel, and cash.
Tour not suitable for children under 5, and Northern Lights sightings are not guaranteed, with no refunds issued.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks offers visitors an opportunity to experience the natural wonders of Alaska.

This 10-hour tour costs $240 per person and is limited to 10 participants. It includes hotel pickup, a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum, and 2 hours of free time to relax in the hot springs.

Guests can also enjoy an optional dinner at the resort’s restaurant. The tour culminates in viewing the Northern Lights, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a convenient and immersive way to explore Chena Hot Springs.

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Itinerary Highlights

Pickup from hotel occurs between 4-5 PM, after which the tour travels 60 miles (100 km) to the Chena Resort.

Guests explore the Aurora Ice Museum, which features a 45-minute guided tour of the hand-crafted ice chandeliers and bars.

A 45-minute guided tour showcases the Aurora Ice Museum’s hand-crafted ice chandeliers and bars.

Next, they’ll have 2 hours of free time to relax in the natural hot springs and opt for dinner at the on-site restaurant bar.

Around midnight, the group will witness the natural wonder of the Northern Lights, then return to Fairbanks by 3-4 AM.

Chena Hot Springs Experience

Visitors can soak in the natural hot springs at Chena Hot Springs, which utilize Alaska’s first low-temperature binary geothermal power plant. The hot springs offer a relaxing break from exploring the resort.

Guests can enjoy:

2 hours of free time to soak in the hot springs
The option to dine at the on-site restaurant bar
Explore the nearby Aurora Ice Museum
Witness the Aurora Borealis, weather permitting, after midnight

The hot springs experience allows travelers to unwind and appreciate the natural wonders of Alaska before returning to Fairbanks around 3-4 AM.

Aurora Ice Museum

Nestled within the Chena Hot Springs Resort, the Aurora Ice Museum showcases intricate ice sculptures and installations crafted by talented local artists.

Guests can enjoy a 45-minute guided tour, marveling at the museum’s hand-carved ice chandeliers, bars, and even an ice chapel.

The frozen exhibits are kept at a chilly -7°C (20°F), allowing visitors to appreciate the delicate craftsmanship up close.

After the tour, guests can relax and warm up in the natural hot springs before heading out to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights display later in the evening.

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Northern Lights Viewing

Around midnight, the tour group sets out to find the perfect viewing spot for the elusive Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis.

They hope to witness the mesmerizing display of vibrant green, purple, and pink hues dancing across the night sky. The tour guide leads them to a secluded area with minimal light pollution, optimizing their chances of a spectacular show.

The group eagerly waits, bundled up against the cold:

Sightings aren’t guaranteed, as the Aurora is a natural phenomenon dependent on solar activity.
Dress warmly in layers, as it can get very cold at night.
Bring a camera with a tripod for the best photos.
Remain patient and flexible, as the Lights can be unpredictable.

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Important Considerations

Although the Northern Lights viewing is a highlight of the tour, it’s important to note that sightings are not guaranteed. Visitors shouldn’t expect a refund if the Aurora Borealis can’t be seen. The tour also has some other restrictions – it’s not suitable for children under 5, and those under 18 can’t access the rock lake pool. Guests should bring essential items like a passport/ID, swimwear, towel, and cash. Here are some key tour details:

| Detail | Requirement |

| — | — |

| Minimum Age | 18 for rock lake pool |

| What to Bring | Passport/ID, swimwear, towel, cash |

| Aurora Viewing | Not guaranteed, no refund |

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided generally positive feedback on the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour. The tour receives a 4/5 rating based on 42 reviews.

Reviewers praise the tour guides, rating them 4.7/5, and highlight the enjoyable hot springs experience. However, the value for money rating is a bit lower at 3.8/5.

Tour guides highly rated at 4.7/5, but value for money a bit lower at 3.8/5 according to reviewers.

Key recommendations include:

Bringing water shoes and a plastic bag for wet items
Noting the aurora borealis viewing isn’t guaranteed, with no refund if the lights aren’t seen
Being aware the tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 and has a minimum age of 18 for the rock lake pool.

How to Book

How can travelers book the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour? The tour is available to book online through tour providers.

Travelers can check availability and reserve their spot, paying later. The tour has limited capacity, so it’s wise to book early, especially during peak seasons.

There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Pickup is offered from major Fairbanks hotels, but not private residences or Airbnbs.

Travelers should bring their passport/ID, swimwear, towel, and cash for optional dinner. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, and the minimum age for the hot springs is 18.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?

The tour allows passengers to bring their own food and snacks. However, there’s an option to purchase dinner at the hot springs restaurant bar during the 2-hour free time at the resort.

Is There a Restroom Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restrooms available at the Chena Hot Springs Resort during the tour. Participants will have access to restrooms both on the bus and at the hot springs facility.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour recommends bringing swimwear and a towel, as visitors can soak in the Chena Hot Springs. It’s important to wear appropriate clothing for the hot springs and outdoor Northern Lights viewing, such as warm layers.

Can I Extend My Stay at Chena Hot Springs?

Yes, participants can extend their stay at Chena Hot Springs after the tour. The tour includes 2 hours of free time at the hot springs, but visitors can choose to stay longer at their own expense.

Are There Any Discounts Available for the Tour?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts, but they do allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Booking early is recommended, as the small group size tours are likely to sell out.

Final Words

This exclusive Northern Lights tour from Fairbanks offers an unforgettable experience. Explore the stunning Aurora Ice Museum, relax in the natural hot springs, and witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, weather permitting. With hotel pickup, transportation, and a small group of just 10 participants, this 10-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking a unique Alaskan adventure. Priced at $240 per person, it’s an opportunity not to be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: