A Trip to Fairbanks: Chasing the Northern Lights in the Heart of Alaska – March 2026

A Trip to Fairbanks: Chasing the Northern Lights in the Heart of Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska, is widely recognized as one of the best places in the world to experience the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Located just under the Arctic Circle, Fairbanks offers prime viewing conditions with clear skies, minimal light pollution, and a high likelihood of witnessing the aurora’s mesmerizing dance of colors. A trip to Fairbanks isn’t just about chasing the lights; it’s about immersing yourself in the wild beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, experiencing unique winter activities, and feeling the magic of the far north.

Here’s what a memorable Northern Lights adventure in Fairbanks looks like:

You’ll likely fly into Fairbanks International Airport, which is about a 10-minute drive from downtown. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the crisp, clean air of Alaska’s interior—especially during the winter months (September to April), when temperatures can range from -10°F to -30°F (-23°C to -34°C). Bundle up! Fairbanks offers a true winter experience, with snow-covered landscapes and the sensation of entering a magical, snowy world.

Evening: Northern Lights Chasing (If the Timing Is Right)

If you arrive in Fairbanks in the evening and the skies are clear, you might get lucky and see the Northern Lights on your first night! Many visitors join a Northern Lights tour with a local guide who knows the best viewing spots around Fairbanks. The guide will take you to a remote location outside the city to avoid light pollution and increase your chances of seeing the aurora. Patience is key, as you might need to wait in the cold for a few hours for the lights to appear, but when they do, it’s absolutely worth it.

While you’re waiting for the lights to show, spend the day exploring Fairbanks, a city with a unique mix of frontier charm and Alaskan culture.

• Fairbanks Ice Museum: Learn about the art of ice carving and see incredible ice sculptures. The museum is housed in a beautiful building made from ice and showcases some of the world’s finest ice art.
• University of Alaska Museum of the North: This museum offers fascinating exhibits on the history, culture, and wildlife of Alaska. You’ll find exhibits on the indigenous cultures, the Alaskan gold rush, and the region’s natural history, including the tundra, wildlife, and Northern Lights.
• Morris Thompson Cultural Center: Learn more about the indigenous cultures of Alaska and the history of the region’s native tribes, like the Dene and Yupik people. This center offers interactive exhibits that will deepen your understanding of Alaska’s rich cultural landscape.

Fairbanks is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness, and you’ll find a wide variety of winter activities to enjoy:

Dog Sledding: A quintessential Alaskan experience, dog sledding is an unforgettable way to explore the snowy landscape. Several outfitters offer dog sledding tours, where you can ride in a sled pulled by energetic huskies across frozen rivers, forests, and open tundra. Winter only. 

Evening: Northern Lights Photography

One of the highlights of any Fairbanks trip is the chance to capture the Northern Lights on camera. An experienced photographer who will guide you to the best spots to capture the lights. We’ll help you set up your camera, give tips on capturing the best shots, and ensure you get the perfect image of this breathtaking phenomenon.

A Trip to the Arctic Circle and Coldfoot: A Journey to Alaska’s Remote Wilderness

For those who crave adventure, the Arctic Circle and the Coldfoot region in Alaska offer an experience unlike any other. This journey takes you deep into the wild, untamed wilderness of the Alaskan Interior, where the skies stretch endlessly, wildlife roams free, and the landscape is as rugged as it is beautiful. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in winter, seeking the midnight sun in summer, or simply yearning for an unforgettable adventure, this trip will immerse you in one of the last truly wild places on Earth.