Watching the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is one of the most popular winter activities in Alaska. The Fairbanks area in particular is one of the best places in Alaska to see the Northern Lights. Marvel at the magnificent Aurora Borealis from an Aurora Viewing Lodge north of Fairbanks – far from the city lights – and from the hills above Chena Hot Springs Resort, which offers spectacular 360-degree views. Relax during the daz in the hot springs' natural outdoor pool, visit the ice museum, take a sled dog ride and enjoy the many winter festivities Fairbanks has to offer. Because Fairbanks is closer to the highly active area above the Arctic, and because winter nights are longer in Fairbanks than in the south, the light show over the city is often much brighter and more reliable than elsewhere. The Northern Lights dance and wave across the sky in shades of green, purple and red. It's a vacation and spectacle you’ll never forget. Take part in activities such as sled dog tours, the World Ice Carving Championship or a guided snowmobile tour. |
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Fairbanks Arrive in Fairbanks. Complimentary transfer to your **** Resort Hotel near the banks of the beautiful Chena River in downtown Fairbanks. Fairbanks is the largest city in the interior region of Alaska - just 180 miles south of the Arctic Circle - with a population of about 36.000 people. Captain Barnette founded the city in 1901 setting up a trading post and during 1902 the first gold was discovered. Relax during your first evening in Fairbanks and get ready for a few days of winter fun and adventure within the Last Frontier. Check out the many winter carnival activities around the World Ice Sculpture Carving Championship this afternoon. You may watch the Aurora Borealis at night dancing on the northern sky and/or enjoy a dinner at the scenic Pikes Landing Restaurant or the Pumphouse. Overnight: Fairbanks |
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Fairbanks Join this afternoon our Fairbanks & area sightseeing tour (included) - combining fun with Fairbanks history, Alaskan craftsmanship and Alaska winter activities. Your first stop is the Santa Claus House in North Pole where you can shop for Christmas decoration and visit the reindeer. Continue to the Trans Alaska Pipeline viewpoint and the Morris Thompson Cultural Center offering knowledgeable cultural programs and an interpretive exhibit gallery featuring the land, seasons and people of Interior Alaska and the Arctic. If you are looking for an authentic gift, then the Great Alaskan Bowl Company is the perfect place for you. Evening transfer to a prime aurora viewing lodge, located in the hills about 20 miles north of Fairbanks – far away from any city lights (included). Enjoy spectacular 270-degree aurora displays through large picture windows from the comfort of the lodge or outside. Return transfer to your hotel around 2:00 am. |
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Fairbanks - Chena Hot Springs Resort - Fairbanks Today you'll visit Chena Hot Springs Resort, 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The large heated mineral indoor pool, the outdoor rock lake and numerous hot tubs are providing a great opportunity to soak, swim or rejuvenate until the Northern Lights appear in the evening. Included is the visit of the famous Aurora Ice Museum and Stoli Ice Bar. The remaining day is at leisure or for optional activities such as: private sled dog kennel tour, snowmobiling, x-country skiing or snowshoeing. Winter gear may be rented. Enjoy Northern Lights viewing opportunities after darkness at Chena or in Fairbanks. We have two tour departures available. Please choose your preferred departure: Chena Day Tour: 11:30 am - 6:30 pm or our Chena Night Tour: 5:00 pm - 4:00 am. Overnight: Fairbanks |
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Fairbanks Morning at leisure. Fairbanks offers a variety of excellent gift shops and art galleries such as the "Roseberry Art Gallery" with some tasteful items for your friends at home. Stroll through downtown before returning to the airport for your individual return flight. Optional: Bush Mail Plane flight to rural Alaska villages. Fly over hundreds of miles of beautiful Alaskan wilderness and land at villages accessible only by airplane. Meet the residents and travel as they do, over the roadless Alaska interior. Optional tour extension on request. |
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Anchorage | Extended Tour Program Upon arrival transfer to your downtown hotel. The remaining day is at leisure. Explore Alaska's largest city and visit the many points of interests. Take a walk on the Coastal Trail along Cook Inlet to Earthquake Park with a magnificent view of the snow capped Alaska Mountain Range in the distance, visit Alyeska – Alaska's largest Ski Resort or have a delicious dinner at one of Anchorage's top seafood restaurants. During February and March Anchorage hosts the annual Fur Rondy, Ice Carving Festivals, the Iditarod Sled Dog Race and other fun winter events. Overnight: Anchorage |
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Anchorage - Fairbanks by Rail | Extended Tour Program
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Day
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Fairbanks | Extended Tour Program Check out the winter carnival activities around the North American Sled Dog Race - or the World Ice Sculpture Carving Championship. Afternoon Fairbanks area sightseeing tour (included) - a combination of fun and history, Alaskan craftsmanship and Alaska winter activities. Your first stop is the Santa Claus House in North Pole where you can have a picture taken Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Continue to the Trans Alaska Pipeline viewpoint and the Morris Thompson Cultural Center with cultural programs and an interpretive exhibit gallery featuring the land, seasons and people of Interior Alaska and the Arctic. If you are looking for an authentic gift, then the Great Alaskan Bowl Company is the perfect place for you. Evening transfer to a prime aurora viewing lodge, located in the hills about 20 miles north of Fairbanks – far away from any city lights (included). Enjoy spectacular 270-degree aurora displays through large picture windows from the comfort of the lodge or outside. Return transfer around 2:00 am. |
Day
04 |
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Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort | Extended Tour Program Today you'll visit Chena Hot Springs Resort, 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The large heated mineral indoor pool, the outdoor rock lake and numerous hot tubs are providing a great opportunity to soak, swim or rejuvenate until the Northern Lights are appearing in the evening. Included is the visit of the famous Aurora Ice Museum and Stoli Ice Bar. The remaining day is at leisure or for optional activities such as: private sled dog kennel tour, snowmobiling, x-country skiing or snowshoeing. Winter gear may be rented. Enjoy Northern Lights viewing opportunities after darkness at Chena or in Fairbanks. We have two tour departures available. Please choose your preferred departure: Chena Day Tour: 11:30 am - 6:30 pm or our Chena Night Tour: 5:00 pm - 4:00 am. Overnight: Fairbanks |
Day
05 |
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Fairbanks | Extended Tour Program Morning at leisure. Fairbanks offers a variety of excellent gift shops and art galleries such as the "Roseberry Art Gallery" with some tasteful items for your friends at home. Stroll through downtown before returning to the airport for your individual return flight. Optional: Bush Mail Plane flight to rural Alaska villages. Fly over hundreds of miles of beautiful Alaskan wilderness and land at villages accessible only by airplane. Meet the residents and travel as they do, over the roadless Alaska interior. Optional tour extension on request. |
Rates in US $ / per Person | Single | Double | Triple | Quad | Child |
August 21 – September 15 | Tour Start: Daily |
$ 1465.00 | $ 960.00 | $ 810.00 | $ 730.00 | $ 375.00 |
September 16 – April 15 | Tour Start: Daily | $ 1050.00 | $ 750.00 | $ 660.00 | $ 620.00 | $ 335.00 |
Rates in US $ / per Person | Single | Double | Triple | Quad | Child |
August 21 - September 15 | Tour Start: Daily |
$ 1980.00 | $ 1345.00 | $ 1160.00 | $ 1066.00 | $ 450.00 |
September 16 – April 15 | Tour Start: Fridays ** | $ 1410.00 | $ 1050.00 | $ 955.00 | $ 895.00 | $ 410.00 |
** Additional departures during winter:
Most Mondays and Wednesdays in February
Most Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in March
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Rates in US $ / per Person (+ tax) | Single | Double | Triple | Quad |
September 16 - April 15 | $ 150.00 | $ 75.00 | $ 54.00 | $ 43.00 |
Type | Rate |
Evening Northern Lights Viewing Tour (10:00 pm-2:30 am) | $ 90.00 |
Sled Dog Ride - Ride in the sled bag (1 hr) including transfer | $ 175.00 |
Sled Dog Ride - 2 hr Dog Mushing School (no transfer included) | $ 225.00 |
Sled Dog Ride - Midnight Aurora Dog Mushing (9:00 pm - 3:00 am) | $ 300.00 |
Snow Machine Ride (1 hr) + $35 transfer | $ 140.00 |
Ice Fishing Day Trip & Dinner ( add the Aurora Tour for $20) | $ 230.00 |
Full Day Mid Size Car Rental (incl unl. miles, tax, fees) | $ 68.00 |
Alaska Sightseeing Destinations | |||||||
![]() Anchorage |
![]() Fairbanks |
![]() Juneau |
![]() McCarthy |
![]() Homer |
![]() Seward |
![]() Cooper Landing |
![]() Talkeetna |
Ideal viewing time is approximately from 7 days prior to New Moon and until 7 days after New Moon. While some people may be concerned that a full moon is a problem, only weak aurora may be obstructed by the light of the moon, but in Alaska the aurora is frequently strong enough that aurora viewing is still possible on a moonlit night. As far as aurora photography goes, the aurora above a moonlit landscape actually tends to have a pleasing effect. On the whole, when participating in an aurora tour, one doesn’t need to be worried about the moon.The moon does not influence the aurora activity, the sky is just darker. You can therefore travel any time of the month.
Aurora Photography:
When you do your research for shooting the aurora, you’ll find pluses and minuses for going when a full moon is present. On the minus side is if the lights that night are somewhat faint, the brightness of the moon’s reflection of the sun can fade them out. On the other hand, a full moon can be used to illuminate objects in the foreground. Many aurora shots include buildings with lights on inside to provide an interesting foreground subject. Depending on your shooting location, this feature might not be available. However, a full moon will help light up anything you have in front of you, no matter where you are. Because shots are done for at least six to eight seconds and up to fifteen seconds or more (depending on your shutter and ISO settings), the full moon will do a great job of making what would otherwise be a silhouette into a well-lit subject. Conversely, if you choose to go when there isn’t a full moon, a strong flash can be helpful in popping light onto a foreground subject.
Q: When is the best time of the year to see the Aurora
A: In northern regions such as Alaska, the Yukon Territory, Northern British Columbia and the Northwest Territories - the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are seen from late August to mid April. Furthermore, during the autumn and spring, the weather is rather unstable and has a lower percentage of clear skies. Therefore, we have determined the best viewing seasons to be from mid-August to the end of September and from mid-November to mid-April. In This time of the year offers the best trade off between mild weather and dark skies. During the summer months, night skies are not dark enough to view the Aurora Borealis and in midwinter temperatures in the – 40 degree range make outdoor aurora viewing somewhat unpleasant. In other locations farther from the average aurora oval, the main consideration is the level of geomagnetic activity, which varies rather unpredictably through the year.
Q: When is the best time of the day
A: Within the most active regions of Alaska and prime viewing areas the Aurora oval typically becomes visible around local midnight. Note: this is an astronomical midnight - which may be an hour or two different from the civil or the “ wall clock “ midnight due to daylight savings time and/or peculiarities in your time zone. Spectacular Aurora displays due to geomagnetic disturbance may be seen at any time when the sky is dark, but they are relatively unpredictable. Under average conditions, observations around local midnight are most likely to yield results.
Q: What are the Temperatures in the Northern Regions
A: The average daily temperatures in February/March are approximately +20/-30 - equivalent to –8/-33 degrees Celsius.
Q: How to observe the Aurora
A: If you follow our recommendations you should be able to enjoy some pleasant Aurora viewing.
Q: What causes the Aurora
A: Energetic charged particles from the magnetosphere. These particles are electrons and protons that are energized in the near geo-space environment. This energization process draws its energy from the interaction of the Earth's magnetosphere with the solar wind. The magnetosphere is a volume of space that surrounds the Earth. We have this magnetosphere because of Earth's internal magnetic field. This field extends to space until it is balanced by the solar wind.
Q: What is the altitude of the Aurora Borealis
A: The bottom edge is typically at 100 km (about 60 miles) altitude. The aurora extends over a very large altitude range. The altitude where the emission comes from depends on the energy of the energetic electrons that make the aurora. The more energy the bigger the punch, and the deeper the electron get into the atmosphere. Very intense aurora from high-energy electrons can be as low as 80 km (50 miles). The top of the visible aurora peters out at about 2-300 km (120-200 miles), sometimes high altitude aurora can be seen as high as 600 km (350 miles). This is about the altitude at which the space shuttle usually flies.
The solar wind is the outermost atmosphere of our sun. The sun is so hot that it boils off its outer layers, and the result is a constant outward expanding very thin gas. This solar wind consists not of atoms and molecules but of protons and electrons (this is called a plasma). Embedded in this solar wind is the magnetic field of the sun. The density is so low that we may well call it a vacuum. However tenuous it is, when this solar wind encounters a planet, it has to flow around it. When this planet has a magnetic field, the solar wind sees this magnetic field as an obstacle, as protons and electrons cannot move freely across a magnetic field. These charged particles are constrained to move almost always only along the magnetic field. Likewise, when they are forced to move in a specific direction, a magnetic field will move with them or will be bent into the direction of the flow. Whether the magnetic field forces the plasma motion or whether the plasma motion bends the magnetic field depends on the strength of the field and the force of the motion. When the solar wind encounters Earth's magnetic field, it will thus bend the field unless the field gets too strong. The strength of the magnetic field falls off with distance from Earth. The distance at which the solar wind and the magnetic field of the Earth balance each other is about 60,000 km away, or 1/10 of the distance to the moon. The inside of this volume that is bounded by the solar wind is called the magnetosphere. At the interface of the solar wind and the magnetosphere, energy can be transferred into the magnetosphere by a number of processes. Most effective is a process called reconnection. When the magnetic field in the solar wind and the magnetic field of the magnetosphere are anti-parallel, the fields can melt together, and the solar wind can drag the magnetospheres field and plasma along. This is very efficient in energizing magnetospheres plasma. Eventually, the magnetosphere responds by dumping electrons and protons into the high latitude upper atmosphere where the energy of the plasma can be dissipated. This then results in aurora. Here is an animation (1.6Mb) that illustrates this process.
Q: How do I take the best pictures
A: For the first -time or for seasoned aurora photographer, a 35 mm camera on a tripod equipped with a cable release is a must. Use a wide-angle 24 mm to 50 mm lens and set it to an f-stop which is the fastest – or one slower to avoid distortion of bright star images – usually f/1.4 – f/2.8.
Q: Can I videotape the Aurora
A: Videotaping the aurora generally takes highly specialized video equipment. Generally – camcorders are not sensitive enough to see the aurora, though a few will record a faint, smoky image given a sufficiently bright aurora. Your best bet for video showing the color and motion of the aurora is to purchase a professionally – recorded tape such as one distributed form the Geophysical Institute in Fairbanks. Thus, some home video cameras are capable of picking up bright auroras. In particular, a camera rated at for example: less than one-lux sensitivity has captured – faintly and colorlessly a bright auroral arc. Many cameras which have special features such as digital zoom and / or vibration compensation are much less sensitive and will not show the aurora. The most annoying problem with home video cameras in low-light situations is their inability to focus. If your camera has a focus-lock button, you may be able to focus on a distant, brightly-lit object, and lock the focus then see if you can pick up the moon or perhaps catch a hint of an extremely bright aurora. Just don’t expect much, because home video cameras aren’t designed to do low-light recording.
Q: Do you have any Aurora Photography Tips
A: When you do your research for shooting the aurora, you’ll find pluses and minuses for going when a full moon is present. On the minus side is if the lights that night are somewhat faint, the brightness of the moon’s reflection of the sun can fade them out. On the other hand, a full moon can be used to illuminate objects in the foreground. Many aurora shots include buildings with lights on inside to provide an interesting foreground subject. Depending on your shooting location, this feature might not be available. However, a full moon will help light up anything you have in front of you, no matter where you are. Because shots are done for at least six to eight seconds and up to fifteen seconds or more (depending on your shutter and ISO settings), the full moon will do a great job of making what would otherwise be a silhouette into a well-lit subject. Conversely, if you choose to go when there isn’t a full moon, a strong flash can be helpful in popping light onto a foreground subject.
Q: Flights to Alaska
A: Alaska -, Continental -, United -, Delta Airlines and US Airways are providing multiple flight connections daily to Anchorage and Fairbanks from the lower 48's. For current rates please refer to: >> Alaska Airlines or other airlines and any ticket reservation systems of your choice. Sorry, but we do not provide a reservation service for airlines tickets. Accordingly our advertised tour rates do not include any flights to/from Alaska.
Q: Recommended Clothing
A: We recommend fleece or heavy wool sweaters, down jackets or similar cold weather gear with attached hood, gloves, sun glasses, swimsuit, wool shirts, cotton or thermal underwear, mittens, sturdy winter boots, lip balsam, moisturizing cream. Winter gear and clothing may be rented at your local outdoor stores or at REI - Recreational Equipment INC - in Anchorage (please contact the stores directly) >> More Information
Q: Meals
A: Meals are not included in our tours (except as otherwise stated within each "Tour Included" section) The cities of Fairbanks and Anchorage are providing a large number of restaurants in all categories. Our lodges and resorts are providing a dining room or a full service restaurant with a extended food and drink selection.
Q: Sightseeing Tours
A: Sightseeing tours are not included in our tour packages (except as otherwise stated within each "Tour Included" section) Thus, we do offer a variety of optional tours. Please contact us or simply check our websites.
Q: How far in advance should I make a Reservation
A: This is hard to predict but if you travel during: (1) New Moon Dates (2) Public Holidays (3) Long Weekends (4) Alaska Events etc. tours are most likely sold out and it will be virtually impossible to materialize a last minute request. Accordingly it is highly advisable to book as early as possible.
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Alaska Rail Tour Services |
Children Rate We provide a reduced tour rate for children up to 11 years. Please refer to each individual tour for more information. Children will be accommodated in parents room. |
Dining The Alaska Railroad is offering full service breakfast, lunch and dinner options (all custom made to order) at the on-board restaurants. You will have the opportunity to visit the dining room and order freshly prepared food from the menu. Since all of our dishes are prepared to order we will do our best to accommodate all dietary concerns. |
Gratuities Recommended gratuities to the on-board train staff and host guides are $3.00 to $5.00 per person and day. Gratuities for meal and bar service are entirely discretionary, but 15% is customary in most Alaskan restaurants. All tipping is a matter of your individual preference and is of course - always voluntary. |
Hotel Accommodation For additional information and addresses on hotels, lodges and resorts included in your railroad tour package, please check our „Info Center“ area. |
Luggage Transfer & Access Passengers are limited to two pieces of checked baggage, not to exceed 50 pounds, that must be checked with the Alaska Railroad without charge. Each passenger may also take one carry on, not to exceed 2 ” by 14” by 17 ”, which will stored under your seat on the viewing level. Please pack any medications, cameras, binoculars or valuables in your carry-on. |
Pets Are not allowed onboard (except assistance dogs) |
Smoking Is not permitted on-board the trains. Smoking is allowed outside on the platforms. Ashtrays are available on the outside viewing platform. |
Sightseeing Tours Most of our tours are including scheduled sightseeing trips. For more information please refer to each individual tour package. In addition to these scheduled tours we also provide a variety of exciting optional sightseeing trips with a great value. Please Note: Optional sightseeing tours are only available in connection with a confirmed rail tour package reservation. |
Tickets & Travel Documents You’ll receive your boarding passes, travel documents and additional tour information on the departure day at the rail station. Ticketless travel options are available upon request. |
Transfers Most scheduled transfers indicated within the itinerary are included in our rail tour packages. Optional pre/post hotel tour accommodation are including transfers from/to the airport. Private limousine and/or group coach transfers are available for an additional charge. |
Wheelchair Access Each train has at least one rail car that this fully accessible to wheelchairs. A specially designed lift makes getting on and off the train easy and safe. There are also accessible restrooms on each of the accessible rail cars. |
Alaska Rail Tour Travel Destinations |
Go Alaska Tours | Secured Reservation Request Form