Can You See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks Right Now?

Are you wondering if Fairbanks, Alaska is a good place to see the northern lights? The answer is yes! Fairbanks is one of the best places to view the aurora borealis due to its location under the “auroral oval,” a ring-shaped area around the north magnetic pole where solar particles collide with the Earth’s magnetic field.

What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun enter the Earth’s atmosphere and collide with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen. These collisions create a bright and colorful display of lights in the sky, with colors ranging from green, pink, and purple.

When is the Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?

The best time to see the northern lights in Fairbanks is between September and April, with the peak season being from December to March. During these months, the nights are long and dark, providing optimal viewing conditions. However, it is important to note that weather conditions can also affect the visibility of the aurora borealis.

Where Can You See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks?

Fairbanks has many locations for viewing the aurora borealis, including parks, lodges, and remote areas away from light pollution. Some popular locations include:

• Chena Hot Springs Resort
• Aurora Pointe Activity Center
• Cleary Summit
• Murphy Dome
• Chandalar Ranch

It is important to remember that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and visibility can vary depending on weather conditions and solar activity. It is also recommended to check the current aurora forecast before planning your northern lights viewing trip.

What is the Aurora Forecast for Fairbanks?

The aurora forecast is a prediction of the probability of seeing the northern lights based on several factors, including solar activity, weather conditions, and the Earth’s magnetic field. One useful resource for checking the aurora forecast in Fairbanks is the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. They provide a 3-day aurora forecast as well as real-time aurora activity updates.

Conclusion

So to answer the initial question, yes, you can see the northern lights in Fairbanks right now. As one of the best locations to view the aurora borealis, Fairbanks offers many opportunities for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Remember to check the aurora forecast and prepare for cold weather conditions before embarking on your northern lights viewing adventure.

An Insider’s Guide to Fairbanks, Alaska

If you’re planning a trip to Alaska and wondering where you can see the Northern Lights, Fairbanks is the city you should add to your itinerary. Fairbanks, located in the interior of Alaska, is known for its clear, dark winter skies and is one of the best places in the world to view the aurora borealis. But there’s more to Fairbanks than just the Northern Lights. Here’s your insider’s guide to the city.

Local Attractions

One of the most popular attractions in Fairbanks is the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. This center serves as a gateway to the city, providing information about local culture, history, and outdoor activities. The center is named after Morris Thompson, an influential Athabascan leader who played a key role in Alaska Native land claims.

Another must-visit attraction in the city is the University of Alaska Museum of the North. This museum has an impressive collection of Alaskan art, artifacts, and natural history specimens. It’s also home to a planetarium and an exhibit that highlights the Northern Lights.

Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Steese Highway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Along the way, you can stop at the Chatanika Lodge, which has been a fixture of the highway since 1905, for some hot food or drinks.

Dining Spots

Fairbanks has a range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. For a taste of local Alaskan fare, check out The Pump House Restaurant and Saloon. This restaurant offers a varied menu featuring Alaskan seafood, game meat, and traditional dishes.

If you’re looking for something more casual but still delicious, try the food trucks at Pioneer Park. You can find everything from burgers to crepes to sushi here.

For a unique dining experience, head to the Silver Gulch Brewing and Bottling Company. This brewery has a restaurant that serves up classic pub fare along with their award-winning beers.

Cultural Experiences

Fairbanks has a rich indigenous culture, and visitors can get a glimpse of this through various cultural experiences. One such experience is the Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point, which offers visitors a chance to see the pipeline that runs through Alaska. The viewing point also has exhibits and information about indigenous cultures, oil exploration, and the pipeline’s construction.

Another cultural experience that’s not to be missed is the Chena Indian Village. This village allows visitors to learn about the local Athabascan culture from the village’s residents. Visitors can take part in traditional activities like fur sewing, beading, and fire making.

Local History

Fairbanks has a unique history that’s tied to the gold rush of the late 1800s. The best way to learn about this history is by visiting the Pioneer Park. This park has over 35 historic exhibits and museums that showcase the history of Fairbanks and Alaska. You can also take a ride on the Tanana Valley Railroad, which runs through the park and offers views of the surrounding area.

Another historic site in the city is the Fairbanks Community Museum. This museum has exhibits that highlight the history of Fairbanks and its people.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little different, check out Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. This refuge is home to over 20,000 birds during the spring and fall migration seasons. Visitors can take a stroll along the trails and enjoy the sights and sounds of the birds.

For a winter adventure, consider taking a dog sled tour with one of the local mushers. You’ll get to experience the thrill of sliding across the snow while being pulled by a team of huskies.

Finally, for a unique local experience, head to the Blue Loon. This theater plays movies, hosts stand-up comedy shows and concerts, and serves up local beers. It’s a great place to mix with the locals and see what the Fairbanks community is all about.

Now that you have your insider’s guide to Fairbanks, your trip to Alaska is sure to be unforgettable. Whether you’re viewing the Northern Lights, learning about local cultures and history, or trying new foods, Fairbanks has something to offer everyone.