Alaska Northern Lights Winter Itinerary
Is it your dream to see the northern lights? Then you’ve come to the right spot! The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, can be observed in many places throughout Alaska and are most commonly observed between September and April. For your best chances at observing the northern lights, you will begin your trip by traveling north to Fairbanks aboard the Aurora Winter Train, where your days will then be filled with fun activities and your nights with northern lights. You don’t want to miss this!
Included in this sample itinerary is:
Travel on the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Train
Evening Northern Lights Tours
Walk with Reindeer on a Local Homestead
Dog Sledding through Boreal Forests
Museum of the North and the Ice Museum
Relaxing Soak in Chena Hot Springs
Additional activities that can be added to this itinerary:
Iditarod and Fur Rendezvous Activities (dependent on the time of visit)
Guided Ice Fishing
Nordic Skiing on Local Fairbanks Trails
Guided Winter Day Trip North of the Arctic Circle
Day 1 - Anchorage
Welcome to Alaska! You’ve had a long journey, and we are excited to welcome you to our home. At the airport, you will collect your belongings and catch a shuttle to your hotel.
You will have time to walk around, shop, and see some sights in downtown Anchorage. Enjoy dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants in Anchorage (you will receive our Alaska Restaurant Guide) before turning in for the evening.
Day 2 - Fairbanks
The morning begins early as you make your way to the Alaska Railroad Depot to catch the Aurora Winter Train. This 12-hour train travels north to the city of Fairbanks, making stops along the way. You will enjoy the view of the Alaska backcountry winter wonderland from the warmth and comfort of your railcar. This train boasts large windows offering possible views of Denali, winter wildlife, and northern lights.
Day 3 - Fairbanks
The days are short in Fairbanks during the winter, but there will be time to participate in daily activities while hunting for the northern lights in the evenings.
Today you will visit a family-owned reindeer ranch and homestead. You will meet with the owners and walk with the reindeer through the boreal forest while learning about these majestic animals. In the evening, you will meet your local guide for an overnight aurora viewing experience. These guides are full-time aurora hunters, so they know all the region's best viewing spots!
Day 4 - Fairbanks
Today is filled with fun and diverse activities! You begin with a drive to Chena Hot Springs, where you will first visit the Aurora Ice Museum. The museum was designed using over 1000 tons of ice and snow. There are entire rooms made from ice filled with interesting ice sculptures and carvings, such as horses, giant chess pieces, chandeliers, and much more. There is even a bar where the glasses are made from ice!
After this chilling visit, you will warm yourself with a long soak in Chena Hot Springs, an outdoor geothermal pool. There is even the option to book relaxing massage services during your visit. After your refreshing soak, you will enjoy a fresh and hearty dinner at their restaurant before departing on your northern lights excursion.
Day 5 - Fairbanks
Today you will interact with some furry and lovable friends as you try out dog sledding! You will meet with a local Fairbanks family on their homestead, where they will share information about life with sled dogs and then take you on a ride through the boreal forests in the area.
After this thrilling outdoor activity, you can warm up indoors with a visit to the Museum of the North. The museum has many interesting exhibits and items, including Bus 142 from Into the Wild.
Day 6 - Departure
On your last morning in Fairbanks, you will have plenty of time to pack your bags and enjoy breakfast before departing for the airport to fly south. Thank you for visiting us in Alaska!
Ready to make this trip your reality?
Visit our Design Your Trip page to fill out a short questionnaire so we can start planning your trip!