SkyChase™ Northern Lights Experience
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SkyChase™ Northern Lights Experience

Active
(644 reviews)
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

We don’t just take you to the Northern Lights — we chase them.
At Aurora In Alaska™, our exclusive SkyChase™ Northern Lights Experience uses our Lights-for-Life™ Formula to track weather, clouds, and solar activity in real time to take you to the clearest skies, at the best time.

Travel in a heated, winterized Mercedes Sprinter van, relax at our mobile Aurora lodge, enjoy a twilight campfire meal, and sip drinks from our Borealis Brew Bar. Receive unlimited Aurora portraits from our pro photographers, plus night-lapse video and tripod rentals.

We’re the only tour with an Aurora Guarantee: If no Aurora is visible to the eye or camera on a “guaranteed night,” you get a 50% refund or free rebooking.

Disclaimer: A guaranteed night is based on real-time conditions. If any Aurora is visible by eye or camera, the night is considered fulfilled.

Available options

SkyChase™ Northern Lights Experience

Pickup included

What's included

360° time-lapse video of the night
Aurora Guarantee* (refund or retry if no lights are seen)
Twilight Campfire meal (Alaskan reindeer sausage or vegan option)
Mobile Aurora Lodge - Most nights our mobile heated lodge follows the vans. ( very unique )
Your personal Auro-meteorologist - predicts northern lights' visibility blending aurora and weather.
Hands-on camera support & tripod rentals
Keepsake Media - professional photography included, downloadable images
Real-time Aurora tracking with Lights-for-Life™ Formula
Hotel/B&B pickup & drop-off (within 5 miles of downtown Fairbanks)
Exclusive access to mobile Aurora lodge & fire pit
Borealis Brew Drink Bar - Featuring 8+ hot/cold drink options
Local Expert - ensure your in the best spot to view the lights for the night

Detailed itinerary

1

As our home base, Fairbanks is one of the best locations in the world for Northern Lights viewing — located directly under the Aurora Oval. Each night, our SkyChase™ tour departs from Fairbanks and uses the Lights-for-Life™ Formula to determine the optimal location outside the city for clear skies and strong activity.

2

Murphy Dome is one of the highest accessible points in the Fairbanks area and occasionally used on clear-sky nights for its panoramic views and low light pollution. It’s a prime example of the remote high-elevation locations our team accesses while chasing the Aurora.

3

While not our final destination, North Pole, Alaska is located along our route and adds charm to the adventure. Guests love passing Santa Claus House and seeing this quirky, festive town en route to darker skies.

4

Chena Hot Springs region is often considered when skies to the east are favorable. These peaceful, forested areas offer a quiet backdrop for Northern Lights viewing with excellent visibility when cloud trends push us in that direction.

5

c, northeast of Fairbanks, is one of the elevated points we use on select Aurora nights. When conditions are right, it offers excellent visibility and sweeping skies, especially during high activity nights.

6
Stop 6 Pass by

While not a nightly destination, Denali National Park is visible on rare clear-sky nights from certain elevated viewpoints. Guests occasionally glimpse the Alaska Range from afar, especially during strong Aurora activity. This region highlights the vast scope of Alaska’s night sky and our commitment to chasing the most breathtaking views whenever possible.

7

This historical stop marks the first major gold discovery in Alaska and is located along one of the routes we sometimes take while chasing clear skies. Though we typically pass by, it showcases our access to remote, scenic locations far from city lights. It’s a meaningful part of the Alaskan landscape and history.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

The Chena area is one of many regions we travel toward when skies are favorable. It offers forested backdrops, river reflections, and lower light pollution — making it a frequent route on strong Aurora nights. This region represents one of many weather-based destination options included in our flexible SkyChase™ route strategy.

9
Stop 9 Pass by

One of many high-elevation stops that we utilize on clear-sky nights for its vast visibility and iconic Alaska scenery. Our flexible route often includes this point or others nearby when it offers cloud-free conditions and great Aurora potential. We use dozens of pre-approved locations in all directions based on real-time sky data.

10

The Two Rivers and Pleasant Valley region is often considered when skies to the east are favorable. These peaceful, forested areas offer a quiet backdrop for Northern Lights viewing with excellent visibility when cloud trends push us in that direction.

11

Ester Dome is a frequent direction for clear-sky nights. Its elevation, low light pollution, and distance from city glow make it a strong candidate in our flexible SkyChase™ route system.

12

On nights with clearing trends to the west, we may head toward the Nenana Hills region, exploring lesser-known sites that deliver expansive skies and beautiful terrain far from city lights.

What's not included

Edited Pictures - unlimited download of edited photos
Please note our Primary goal is Aurora viewing. Weather and other variables may remove extras
Meals beyond the included fire-cooked meals we provide
Transportation is not private and can have up to a max of 14 guests in one van.
RAW files and watermark-free originals are not included in the base package

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
246 reviews
5★
220
4★
13
3★
2
2★
3
1★
8
Tripadvisor 4.9
398 reviews
5★
374
4★
13
3★
4
2★
3
1★
4

Important information

Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
No more than 1 backpack per guest
All persons joining are required to purchase a ticket, despite their age.
Please visit our website for a full cancellation policy and information

Meeting point

Please let us know if you need meeting point details.

Important notes

Please present your ticket upon pick up

About Fairbanks

Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich gold rush history, and unique subarctic climate. It's a gateway to extraordinary experiences like the Northern Lights, world-class fishing, and a vibrant arts scene. Fairbanks offers a blend of rugged wilderness and charming small-town atmosphere, making it a must-visit for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Top Attractions

Chena Hot Springs

A popular destination for soaking in natural hot springs, Chena Hot Springs is located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The resort offers a variety of activities, including aurora viewing, dog sledding, and ice museum tours.

Nature Full day Moderate to Expensive

Museum of the North

Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, this museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Alaska. Exhibits include wildlife dioramas, Native Alaskan artifacts, and contemporary art.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate

Fairbanks Arctic Warfare Training Center

This historic site offers a glimpse into the military history of Fairbanks, with exhibits on the Arctic warfare training that took place during World War II and the Cold War.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to Low

Pioneer Park

A 44-acre park featuring historic buildings, museums, and recreational facilities. It's a great place to learn about Fairbanks' gold rush history and enjoy outdoor activities.

Historical/Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to Low

Mosquito Lake

A popular spot for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species and is a great place to see moose, bears, and other wildlife.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Freshly caught Alaskan salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try dish in Fairbanks.

Main Course Gluten-free, high in protein

Reindeer Sausage

A local specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.

Main Course Gluten-free, high in protein

Bannock

A traditional Alaskan bread made with flour, water, and sometimes berries or other ingredients.

Bread Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without dairy

Akutaq

Also known as Eskimo ice cream, this traditional dish is made with whipped fat, berries, and sometimes fish or other ingredients.

Dessert Vegetarian, high in fat

Popular Activities

Hiking Dog sledding Snowmobiling Whitewater rafting Soaking in hot springs Scenic drives Wildlife viewing Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Fairbanks for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the midnight sun. The weather is mild, and most attractions are open.

5°C to 25°C 41°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Fairbanks is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in the winter.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
  • • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities
  • • Carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness

Getting there

By air
  • Fairbanks International Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train

Fairbanks Depot

By bus

Fairbanks Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses run on a regular schedule, but service may be limited in the winter.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Fairbanks College Area Chena Ridge

Day trips

Denali National Park
120 miles (193 km) • Full day

Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.

Arctic Circle
115 miles (185 km) north of Fairbanks • Full day

The Arctic Circle is a symbolic line of latitude that marks the northernmost point where the sun is visible at the winter solstice.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
250 miles (402 km) southeast of Fairbanks • Overnight

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

World Ice Art Championships • March Midnight Sun Festival • June Fairbanks Fur Rendezvous • February

Pro tips

  • Visit in the summer to experience the midnight sun and enjoy outdoor activities
  • Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
  • Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter
  • Try local cuisine, including fresh seafood and Alaskan specialties
  • Be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-100
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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