Original Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks
Active
16h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Alaska’s Arctic! Experience for yourself the legendary hospitality and authentic interpretation that made the Original Arctic Circle Drive Adventure famous. Travel the famed Dalton Highway. View the remarkable Trans Alaska Pipeline. Visit the Arctic Circle Trading Post. Experience the mighty Yukon River. Explore up close the amazing arctic tundra. Cross the Arctic Circle and receive an official Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate.
The ground tour can take place in a 26 passenger coach or 15 passenger van depending on the number of guests we have.
Longest time between stops is 2 hours; however, some stops will be closer. Most stops have an outhouse or bathroom for guests to use if we are not traveling in the coach which has a bathroom on board.
Available options
Original Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks
What's included
Local guide
Professional guide
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Driver/guide
Live commentary on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
DOES NOT GO TO COLDFOOT - But Viator Locator only has Coldfoot. Guests will be on the Dalton Highway from Mile 0 - 115 - The turn around for the day tour is the Arctic Circle Rest Area. This is a full day guided ground tour on the Dalton Highway to the Arctic Circle. Along the way the guide will share the story of Alaska's Arctic both while in motion and at the various stops along the way.
2
The Dalton Highway has the only bridge crossing the mighty Yukon River -- and guests will be on it as they make their way north. A stop is made here both north and south to get out and step along the banks of the Yukon River. This is also the home of the Yukon River Camp Noodle House where guests can purchase lunch/dinner as needed.
3
Located in Joy Alaska this is one part of the story of Alaska's Arctic - Homesteading and making a home in Alaska's remote wild areas. Learn about this process and how earlier pioneers made a home off the road system and off the grid.
4
Stop 4
Located at 66'33" - the Arctic Circle marks the location that on June 21 the sun doesn't set and on December 21 the sun doesn't rise. Your guide will celebrate with you when you make this crossing and present you with your official Arctic Circle Certificate.
What's not included
The listed price does not include a parking fee, payable at the time of tour check-in.
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
81 reviews
5★
69
4★
7
3★
3
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
127 reviews
5★
109
4★
14
3★
0
2★
1
1★
3
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
This tour is conducted in a 25 passenger motor coach or 15 passenger van depending on the number of guests traveling. The coach does have a restroom on board to be used between stops or at stops that don't have a restroom. If we are not traveling on the coach we will be stopping approximately every 2 hours for a restroom break -- which are outhouses along the Dalton Highway.
We encourage guests with any questions on limited mobility and this adventure to contact us and speak directly about the tour and what your needs are to see if they can be met.
CHECK IN TIME - Check in opens at 5:45AM and closes at 6:00AM for this tour. Guests not here by 6:00AM risk missing this tour.
Meeting point
This is located on the East Ramp Airport, the small plane side of the airport.
All guests need to call and reconfirm their tour departure/check in time 24 - 48 hours prior to departure.
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
