Can I See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska?

If you are a nature lover, chances are that you have always wanted to witness the enchanting Northern Lights. Also known as Aurora Borealis, the Northern Lights is a natural, ethereal phenomenon that occurs in the earth’s polar regions. Many people believe that to see the Northern Lights, the only place to be is Finland, Norway, or Iceland. However, there is another location that provides a great opportunity for viewing this natural wonder, Fairbanks, Alaska.

In this blog post, we will discuss the probability of seeing Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska, the best time to go, and different ways to watch this magnificent natural show.

Probability of Seeing Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

One of the most important things to consider is the percentage probability of being able to witness the Northern Lights. According to researchers, the Fairbanks region is located beneath the Aurora oval. The Aurora oval is the area that is most likely to have an average of 240 aurora viewing nights in a year, and Fairbanks is perfectly located in the heart of that zone. Hence, it provides a high likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights compared to many other cities in Alaska.

If you visit Fairbanks, the best part is that you don’t have to travel far to see the lights as it’s visible from the city. You can catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights from within the city, providing it is not too cloudy or the Northern Lights aren’t too dim.

Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, can be unpredictable. However, there are times of the year when the probability of seeing it is higher. Like any other destination or natural phenomenon, it is, therefore, important to plan and choose the best time to visit, especially if you want to see the Northern Lights.

The best time to visit Fairbanks to see the Northern Lights is from August to April. During these months, the darkness hours are longer, and that is the best time for viewing the Northern Lights.

Different Ways to Watch the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

There are various ways to watch the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska. Here are some of the options.

Northern Lights Tours

Northern Lights tours are one of the most popular options in Fairbanks. Tour providers take guests to viewing locations outside of the city, such as Cleary Summit or Chena Hot Springs, which boast darker skies and less light pollution.

The tour providers offer a chance to witness the Northern Lights spectacular show and learn about the science behind it. They provide warm clothing, snacks, and hot drinks to keep guests comfortable during the tour.

From a lodge or cabin

Another great option for viewing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is to rent a cozy cabin or lodge. It provides visitors with a private and comfortable location where they can view the Northern Lights with a 360-degree view. They can also retreat back into the warmth of their cabins when then they want.

By car

If you’re planning on renting a car in Fairbanks, make sure it is a four-wheel drive vehicle. With the cold and snowy climate that Fairbanks experiences, you need a trusted vehicle that will take you past the city boundaries to the wider open skies where the Northern Lights can be seen most clearly.

Aurora Ice Museum

Another unique option in Fairbanks is the Aurora Ice Museum. It’s a museum and bar made entirely out of ice that allows visitors to witness the Northern Lights even in the warmth of an indoor environment.

The ice museum provides an ethereal experience of the lights, from within its walls of ice. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to witness the magic of the Aurora Borealis without braving the cold.

Conclusion

To sum it up, Fairbanks, Alaska, is arguably the best destination to experience the magic of the Northern Lights. With a high probability of seeing the Aurora Borealis and many different options to view it, you can plan a trip to Fairbanks to see the Northern Lights and have a great adventure while doing so. We highly recommend visiting Fairbanks, Alaska, for a trip filled with awe and wonder.