Northern Lights in Fairbanks
Time Needed: multi-day
Experience Type: photo op, scenic views
Fairbanks is one of the world’s best places to see the Northern Lights, sitting directly beneath the Auroral Oval, Earth’s most active aurora zone. With clear, dark skies and a long viewing season from late August to April, the city offers unforgettable ways to witness nature’s light show.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Sleep Beneath the Sky at Borealis Basecamp – Watch the aurora dance overhead from clear-roofed igloos nestled in the boreal forest, far from light pollution.
- Join a Guided Aurora Tour – Head into the wilderness with local experts who track forecasts, share photography tips, and help you capture perfect aurora shots.
- Soak at Chena Hot Springs – Slip into steaming geothermal pools as the Northern Lights ripple overhead. It’s one of Alaska’s most unforgettable and quintessential aurora experiences.
- View from Cleary Summit – Drive 20 miles north of Fairbanks to this free, high-elevation spot favored by locals for its wide, unobstructed night-sky views.
- Relax at Aurora Pointe Lodge – Cozy up indoors between viewing sessions at this comfortable view lodge designed specifically for late-night aurora watching.
Make it Magical: Follow ribbons of color across Alaska’s night sky on a guided Northern Lights tour. Book your four-hour aurora adventure now. These once-in-a-lifetime tours fill quickly, especially near new moons, so plan ahead.