The Top Ten Reasons to See The Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska
Brought to you by Gondwana Ecotours
There are few natural phenomena in the world as mesmerizing and captivating as the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. If you're seeking a magical experience that will leave you in awe of one of nature's most mesmerizing wonders, Fairbanks, Alaska is an ideal destination. Nestled in the heart of Interior Alaska’s wilderness, Fairbanks offers an incredible opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in all its beauty. Here are the top ten reasons why Fairbanks should be at the top of your list for chasing the Aurora Borealis.
- Optimal Viewing Conditions
Fairbanks lies directly under the "Aurora Oval," a region renowned for its high frequency of Northern Lights displays. With minimal light pollution and relatively clear night skies, the Fairbanks area offers optimal conditions for witnessing this celestial spectacle. To avoid light pollution and better aurora viewing, we recommend staying outside of Fairbanks.
- Extended Viewing Season
Unlike many other Northern Lights destinations, Fairbanks offers a long viewing season that lasts from early September to mid-April. This extended window gives you more choices to find the perfect time of the season to see the Aurora Borealis in Alaska.
- The Short Days of Winter
This far north, the dark winter months and offers an extraordinary backdrop for Northern Lights viewing and photography. The skies are often pitch black, which allows the glow of the Aurora Borealis to really pop!
- Accommodations for the Perfect View
Fairbanks offers a range of accommodations in town, but light pollution from the city makes many leave their hotels to better see the lights. On Gondwana Ecotours’ Northern Lights tours in Alaska, guests stay in lodges with panoramic views of the night sky just outside. Simply roll out of bed when the lights are out and put on a coat, hats, gloves, and boots to comfortably enjoy the show!
- Exquisite Natural Landscapes
Beyond the Northern Lights, Fairbanks boasts beautiful natural landscapes. From the towering peaks of the Alaska Range in a distance, to the frozen beauty of the Chena River, exploring the surrounding wilderness during the day enhances the overall experience of your visit. Depending on the snow, nature walks on foot or using snowshoes is a wonderful way to explore this region.
- Cultural Immersion
Fairbanks provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in interior Alaska’s history and culture. Visit a curling rink and take a lesson. Walk with domesticated reindeer while learning about them from their owners. Check out the Museum of the North and discover Alaska Native cultures, natural wonders, diverse wildlife, and Arctic dinosaurs.
- Exciting Winter Activities
While waiting for the Northern Lights to appear, Fairbanks offers an array of thrilling winter activities. Experience the rush of dog sledding, go ice fishing, take a snowmobile tour, or soak in natural hot springs to make the most of your Alaskan adventure.
- Chena Hot Springs
Located just outside of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs is renowned for its relaxing geothermal pools. After a morning of activities, unwind in the soothing warmth of the waters—it’s an amazing experience!
- Learning About the Aurora
If you join a Northern Lights tour, you can learn about this natural phenomena from an aurora guide, including how solar cycles impact the Northern Lights. The aurora guide will also provide wake-up calls when the lights are out and help you capture the perfect photo on your smartphone or DSLR camera!
- Unforgettable Memories
Witnessing the Northern Lights outside of Fairbanks is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. The ethereal dance of vibrant colors across the night sky is a spectacle that words cannot adequately capture. It's a moment of pure magic that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. If you plan an in-season trip to Fairbanks and spend a week, you’re almost guaranteed to see the Northern Lights before you head home.
So, pack your warmest clothes, bring your camera, and get ready to be awestruck by the enchanting beauty of the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska. And after you’ve seen the Aurora, be sure come back for a tour of Denali or Alaska’s famous glaciers & grizzlies!
Visit Gondwana Ecotours to learn more and plan your adventure today, and be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.