From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour

Embarking on a captivating journey from Fairbanks, the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour offers a remarkable opportunity for adults to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. Priced at a reasonable $230 per person, this comprehensive 11-hour experience not only includes hotel pickup and a guided tour of the stunning Aurora Ice Museum, but also a rejuvenating 2-hour soak in the geothermal hot springs. With a small group size of 12 participants, this tour ensures personalized attention and maximizes the chances of viewing the enchanting Northern Lights under optimal conditions. The allure of this unforgettable adventure continues to captivate those seeking to enjoy the natural wonders of Alaska.

Key Points

• This 11-hour small group tour from Fairbanks provides the opportunity to visit the Aurora Ice Museum and relax at Chena Hot Springs, with a chance to witness the Northern Lights.
• The tour includes complimentary hotel pickup and a 45-minute guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, followed by a minimum of 2 hours at the Chena Hot Springs.
• Visibility of the Northern Lights is subject to weather conditions and solar activity, and no refunds are provided if the lights are not visible.
• Participants must be 18 years or older and bring a valid ID, swimwear, and towel for the hot springs experience, as well as cash for additional purchases.
• The tour has an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 34 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks offers an immersive experience, priced at $230.00 per person, with a duration of 11 hours and a small-group size limited to 12 participants.

The tour provides complimentary pickup from major hotels in Fairbanks, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure.

The itinerary includes a visit to the renowned Aurora Ice Museum, where guests can admire the intricate ice sculptures, followed by free time to relax and soak in the famous Chena Hot Springs.

With the opportunity to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, this tour promises an unforgettable night in the Alaskan wilderness.

Cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to the booking process.

Itinerary Highlights

Pickup from participating hotels in Fairbanks occurs between 4-5 PM, initiating the journey to the Chena Resort, approximately 60 miles (100 kilometers) from the city. Upon arrival, guests will be treated to a 45-minute guided tour of the renowned Aurora Ice Museum, marveling at the intricate ice sculptures and chandeliers. Afterwards, visitors are granted free time to relax and unwind at the iconic Chena Hot Springs, where they can soak in the rejuvenating geothermal waters. A restaurant and bar on-site provide dining options, though meals are not included in the tour price. As the evening progresses, the tour group will gather to witness the captivating display of the Northern Lights, with a heated viewing room available.

Activity	Duration
Pickup from Fairbanks hotels	4-5 PM
Travel to Chena Resort	~60 miles
Aurora Ice Museum tour	45 minutes
Chena Hot Springs relaxation	Minimum 2 hours
Northern Lights viewing	Begins around midnight

Experience and Attractions

What makes the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour an exceptional experience are the unique attractions it offers.

Visitors will have the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, a natural light display caused by the collision of energetic charged particles with atmospheric atoms.

Plus, the tour provides access to the famous Chena Hot Springs, where guests can relax and rejuvenate in the resort’s geothermal waters, which power the first low-temperature binary geothermal power plant in Alaska.

Adventurers can also explore the impressive Ice Museum, featuring hand-crafted ice chandeliers and bars, before taking in the Northern Lights from the comfort of a heated viewing room.

Age and Requirement

Participation in the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour is limited to individuals aged 18 and above, as the resort’s renowned rock lake pool is only accessible to adult visitors. This age requirement ensures the safety and enjoyment of all participants, as the hot springs experience may involve certain risks or regulations that are better suited for mature individuals.

To prepare for the tour, guests are advised to bring the following:

• A valid passport or ID for identification purposes
• Swimwear and a towel for the hot springs experience
• Cash for any additional purchases or expenses during the tour

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What to Bring

Proper packing and preparation are essential for a seamless and enjoyable Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour experience.

Guests are advised to bring a valid form of identification, such as a passport or driver’s license, to facilitate smooth check-in and access to the resort’s facilities.

Plus, visitors should pack their swimwear and a towel to fully enjoy the rejuvenating hot springs.

It is recommended to dress in warm, layered clothing to stay comfortable during the evening Northern Lights viewing.

Finally, bringing some cash on hand is advisable, as the on-site restaurant and bar offer a variety of dining and beverage options not included in the tour price.

With the right items packed, guests can focus on creating unforgettable memories during their Chena Hot Springs adventure.

Northern Lights Visibility

One of the primary concerns for guests embarking on the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour is the visibility of the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis.

While the tour give you the best possible viewing experience, it’s important to understand that the appearance of the Northern Lights is subject to various environmental factors beyond the tour operator’s control. Consider the following:

• The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon, and its visibility is heavily influenced by weather conditions, cloud cover, and solar activity.

• The tour does not guarantee the sighting of the Northern Lights, and no refund is provided if the lights are not visible during the tour.

• However, the tour’s location at Chena Hot Springs, away from the light pollution of Fairbanks, offers an optimal setting for Northern Lights viewing, weather permitting.

On-site Amenities

Visiting the Aurora Ice Museum and indulging in the soothing Chena Hot Springs are integral components of the Northern Lights Tour experience.

The Ice Museum offers a captivating 45-minute guided tour, showcasing hand-crafted ice chandeliers, bars, and other intricate ice sculptures that marvel visitors.

Plus, guests are provided ample time to unwind and relax in the famous geothermal hot springs, utilizing the first low-temperature binary geothermal power plant in Alaska.

The on-site restaurant and bar provide sustenance and refreshments, though these are not included in the tour price.

With a range of amenities available, the Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a well-rounded experience for those seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and geothermal wonders of Alaska.

Customer Feedback

Glowing customer reviews and insightful feedback underscore the exceptional tour experience provided by the Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour, with many participants highlighting the expertise and enthusiasm of the guides.

The tour consistently earns high marks, with an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 34 reviews.

Standout features of the experience include:

• Exceptional guides, such as Ryan and Ed, who received praise for their extensive knowledge and passion about the Northern Lights.

• A comfortable and well-organized transportation service that enhances the overall tour experience.

• A generally positive response to the hot springs visit, though some suggestions were made to improve locker room management during peak times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Hot Springs?

According to the provided information, the tour does not include food and drinks. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to consume at the Chena Hot Springs during the free time allotted for relaxation.

Is There Cell Phone Coverage at the Chena Hot Springs Resort?

The Chena Hot Springs Resort offers limited cell phone coverage due to its remote location. Guests should expect spotty or no reception depending on their service provider and the specific area within the resort. It is recommended to plan accordingly for communication needs during the visit.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or children. The pricing is a flat rate of $230 per person, regardless of age. Group discounts may be available for larger parties, but individual age-based discounts are not listed.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for private groups. The tour operator offers customized experiences for small groups, allowing you to tailor the itinerary and enjoy a more personalized Northern Lights viewing adventure at Chena Hot Springs.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour to Run?

This tour has a small group size limit of 12 participants, but there is no minimum number required for the tour to run. The tour will operate as long as there is at least one participant booked.

Recap

The From Fairbanks: Chena Hot Springs Northern Lights Tour offers a captivating experience for adults seeking to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis.

Priced at $230 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive itinerary, including hotel pickup, a visit to the Aurora Ice Museum, and a relaxing soak in geothermal hot springs.

With a small group size, the tour ensures personalized attention and optimal conditions for viewing the breathtaking Northern Lights.

You can check if your dates are available here: