Best Northern Lights Tour in Alaska: A Comprehensive Guide

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to witness the magical Aurora phenomenon, also known as the Northern Lights. It’s a breathtaking experience to see the colorful lights dance across the sky, and the best way to do so is by taking a guided tour. There are many tour companies in Alaska that offer Northern Lights tours, but which one should you choose? In this guide, we’ll be discussing the best Northern Lights tour in Alaska, taking into account various factors that’ll make your experience unforgettable.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Northern Lights Tour in Alaska

When choosing a Northern Lights tour in Alaska, some of the factors to consider include:

Location

The Northern Lights can be viewed from various locations in Alaska, but some places are better than others. The tour you choose should take you to a remote location free of light pollution, with clear skies.

Duration

Northern Lights tours typically range from four to eight hours, but some can last up to 12 hours. Consider how long you want to be out in the cold and how many hours are necessary to witness the Northern Lights.

Comfort

Northern Lights tours can be a freezing experience, with temperatures often dropping below zero degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that your tour company provides warm clothing or an option to rent clothes. Also, check if you’ll be transported in a heated vehicle, and if snacks or warm beverages will be provided during the tour.

Tour Guides

It’s always good to choose a tour company that has knowledgeable and experienced guides who’ll be able to give you a complete understanding of the Aurora phenomenon.

The Best Northern Lights Tour in Alaska

With these factors in mind, we recommend the Alaska Northern Lights Tour by Salmon Berry Tours as the best tour to witness the Northern Lights in Alaska. Here’s why:

Location

The tour takes place in a remote location 60 miles north of Anchorage, where one can witness the Aurora in all its glory. The Northern Lights tour takes place at a custom-built cabin with a clear view of the sky, providing the best chance to witness the Aurora.

Duration

The tour lasts approximately six hours, starting in the evening and lasting until midnight. This allows for ample time to experience the Northern Lights and still get you back to Anchorage at a reasonable time.

Comfort

Salmon Berry Tours offer guests heavy-duty winter gear that includes gloves, hats, jackets, and boots. They also provide meals, snacks, and hot beverages throughout the Northern Lights tour. Also, the vehicle used for transportation to the site is heated.

Tour Guides

Salmon Berry Tours employ knowledgeable and experienced tour guides who make your experience unforgettable. They’ll give good insights into the science of the Aurora, its formation, and its historical significance.

The Bottom Line

If you’re looking for the best Northern Lights tour in Alaska, consider the Alaska Northern Lights Tour by Salmon Berry Tours. The remote location, comfortable transportation, excellent guides, and warm clothing and beverages make for an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to dress warm to fully enjoy the experience.

Best Northern Lights Tour in Fairbanks, Alaska: A Comprehensive Guide

Fairbanks is located in the heart of Alaska and is famous for offering breathtaking views of the Northern Lights. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and history dating back to the gold rush era. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best Northern Lights tours in Fairbanks, top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path activities that you can enjoy while visiting this arctic city.

Best Northern Lights Tour in Fairbanks

On top of our list is the Aurora Winter Train, which offers a unique opportunity to see the Northern Lights from the comfort of a train carriage. The train covers a 360-mile round-trip journey between Anchorage and Fairbanks, with several stops in-between for exploring local villages and scenic views. Another popular Northern Lights tour in Fairbanks is the Aurora Borealis Lodge Tour. The tour departs from Fairbanks and heads to the rustic cabin-style Aurora Borealis Lodge in the White Mountains, which is surrounded by pristine wilderness and no light pollution.

Top Attractions in Fairbanks

When you’re not hunting the Northern Lights, there are many other exciting things to do in Fairbanks. The best way to experience the city is through a walking tour, where you can learn about its history, culture, and famous landmarks. The Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is also a must-visit, where you can learn about Alaska’s cultural heritage, local arts and crafts, and witness a captivating film on the Aurora Borealis. If you’re a history buff, the Pioneer Park is the place for you. The park features memorials and monuments from the gold rush era, and several restored cabins and shops are open for exploration.

Best Dining Spots in Fairbanks

Alaska is famous for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to indulge in a variety of dishes. Pikes Landing is a popular waterfront restaurant that offers panoramic views of the Chena River, and a diverse menu of salmon, halibut, and crab. Another favorite spot for locals and visitors is the Silver Gulch Brewing and Bottling Co, where you can relax and enjoy handcrafted beer with delicious pub fare.

Cultural Experiences in Fairbanks

Fairbanks is rich in culture and has its unique traditions and customs. The University of Alaska Museum of the North is a must-visit, which houses over 1.5 million exhibits from the various regions of Alaska, including Native Alaskan collections. The Fairbanks Ice Museum is another attraction where you can learn about the art of ice sculpting, and the history of Alaska’s ice caravan. The Alaska Native Heritage Center is also a perfect place to learn about the landscape and Native peoples of Alaska.

Local History in Fairbanks

Fairbanks has a fascinating history that began during the gold rush era in the early 1900s. The University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Museum of the North is a great place to learn about the history of Fairbanks, including the gold rush era. You can also visit the Tanana Valley State Fair, which has been a Fairbanks attraction since 1924 to learn about the local farming and ranching history. For those interested in military history, the nearby North Pole Legacy and Valor Museum has exhibits on Alaska’s military history, including the bases and wars fought in the state.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities

Apart from the Northern Lights and other attractions, Fairbanks has a range of other hidden gems that are worth exploring. The Chena River State Recreation Area is an excellent place to explore the Alaska wilderness. You can take a scenic hike to view waterfalls and glaciers, or enjoy a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs. The Aurora Ice Museum is another off-the-beaten-path gem where you can witness impressive ice sculptures and enjoy delicious cocktails served in sculpted ice glasses.

In conclusion, Fairbanks is a treasure trove of experiences. From stunning views of the Northern Lights to endless cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and fantastic dining spots, Fairbanks has something for everyone. Use this guide to explore the best Northern Lights tour in Fairbanks and other attractions, and explore the many hidden gems throughout this arctic city.