Alaska Northern Lights Tour 2022: A Complete Guide to Witnessing the Aurora Borealis

Have you ever dreamt of watching the mesmerizing Northern Lights illuminating the night sky? If so, Alaska is one of the best destinations in the world to witness this stunning natural wonder. Alaska’s vast wilderness, unpolluted air, and clear skies make it an ideal place for viewing the Aurora Borealis. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a complete guide to experiencing the Alaska Northern Lights Tour 2022.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, scientifically known as Aurora Borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with the Earth’s atmosphere. These collisions create a spectacular light show of green, pink, purple, and blue hues in the sky near the magnetic poles.

When is the Best Time to go on an Alaska Northern Lights Tour 2022?

The best time to observe the Northern Lights in Alaska is during the winter months of late September to early April. During this period, the nights are longer, and the skies are darker, providing the perfect backdrop for witnessing the Aurora Borealis’s magical lights.

Where to Go for Alaska Northern Lights Tour 2022?

There are several places in Alaska that offer excellent Northern Lights viewing opportunities. Here are the top places to consider:

1. Fairbanks

Fairbanks is one of the prime destinations in Alaska to witness the Northern Lights. It is located directly beneath the Auroral Oval, a region known for its high activity of the Northern Lights. Visitors can enjoy the views from various vantage points, including the Chena Hot Springs Resort.

2. Anchorage

Anchorage is another popular place to witness the Northern Lights. Although not as consistent as Fairbanks, Anchorage still offers an excellent opportunity for seeing the aurora. The Knik River Lodge and Alyeska Resort give visitors prime viewing locations.

3. Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an ideal location for those who want to combine Northern Lights viewing with other winter activities. Visitors can witness the Aurora Borealis’s views from various locations within the park, including the Wonder Lake campground.

How to Prepare for an Alaska Northern Lights Tour 2022?

Preparing for an Alaska Northern Lights Tour is essential to make the most of your experience. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Dress in Warm Layers

Alaska’s winter temperatures can be quite harsh, so it’s important to dress in warm layers of clothing. This includes a waterproof outer layer, a warm mid-layer, and a base layer to keep moisture away from your body.

2. Bring the Right Equipment

You will need the right equipment to capture the beauty of the Northern Lights. Make sure you bring a camera that can take long exposure shots and a tripod to keep the camera stable.

3. Choose the Right Time of Night

The best time to spot the Northern Lights is between 10 pm to 2 am. During this window, the Aurora Borealis is generally the most active, enhancing the chances of seeing a spectacular light show.

The Bottom Line

An Alaska Northern Lights Tour 2022 is a magical and unforgettable experience. With the information provided in this post, you can now prepare yourself for a journey that will leave you in awe. Remember, the Northern Lights are a natural wonder, and sightings are never guaranteed, but with some preparation and a bit of luck, you can witness one of the most beautiful shows on the planet.

Insider’s Guide to Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is a city in the heart of Alaska that is best known for its panoramic natural beauty, vibrant arts and culture scene, and historical significance. It is the most popular base for tourists who want to witness the electrifying Aurora Borealis. But, there’s more to this city than just the Northern Lights. From dog sled rides to visiting world-renowned museums, Fairbanks can be a great vacation spot for all types of travelers. This insider’s guide gives you a complete overview of the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska. Read on!

Top Attractions in Fairbanks

Fairbanks is an exciting destination that is full of hidden treasures just waiting to be discovered. Here are some of the top attractions you should visit while in the city:

– Aurora Borealis: If you’re visiting Fairbanks, witnessing the Northern Lights should be at the top of your list. The best time to see the unforgettable Aurora Borealis is from September to April. You can take a tour from any of the local companies or drive to remote areas to see it on your own.

– Explore cultural sites: The city’s cultural diversity is reflected in its many museums and galleries. Make sure to visit the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, Museum of the North, Pioneer Museum, and Fairbanks Arts Association.

– Winter activities: Depending on the time of year, there are plenty of activities to check out including cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding. Visit the Chena Hot Springs resort for a relaxing outdoor hot tub experience.

Dining in Fairbanks

Fairbanks cuisine is focused on local ingredients, from locally sourced fish to reindeer or caribou. Here are some of the top dining spots in Fairbanks:

– Pikes Waterfront Lodge: This restaurant offers a stunning view of the Chena River and the Alaskan Range, along with mouthwatering Alaskan seafood dishes.

– The Pump House: A casual fine-dining restaurant, The Pump House gives you a chance to enjoy local cuisine in a historic mining themed environment.

– Big Daddy’s Barbecue: This spot offers slow-cooked BBQ meats that will satisfy your craving for smoky goodness.

Cultural Experiences in Fairbanks

Learn about the history and culture of Fairbanks on these cultural experiences:

– The Alaska Native Heritage Center: This is a great place to learn about the diversity of Alaskan Natives, local culture and traditions. You can explore indoor exhibits, take part in native dance performance, or a guided walking tour.

– Fairbanks Summer Arts Festival: This annual festival has been running for over 30 years and attracts artists from around the world. It features workshops, lectures, performances, and demonstrations in music, dance, and other forms of art.

– Denali National Park: Although a day trip from Fairbanks, Denali National Park is a must-do, widely known as the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, the 6 million acres of parkland is the home of North America’s highest mountain peak, Denali.

Locals-Only Tips

If you want to experience Fairbanks like a local, you should try these off-the-beaten-path activities:

– Kayak the Chena River: Rent a kayak and explore the Chena River, if you are lucky, you might see moose and eagles along the way.

– Tanana Valley Farmers Market: Visit the Tanana Valley Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays during summers to enjoy fresh produce and seafood from the local farmers.

– Creamer’s Field Wildlife Refuge: If you are interested in wildlife, visit Creamer’s field,It is a tropical paradise with several trails and scenic drives that visitors can take to explore.

In conclusion, Fairbanks, Alaska is an exciting destination with plenty of fun activities available year-round. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, immerse yourself in culture and history, or simply relax, Fairbanks has something for everyone. Make sure to use the insider’s guide to have an authentic, unique experience in this one-of-a-kind city.