Everything You Need to Know About Northern Lights Tour in Alaska

Are you an adventure seeker looking for a thrilling experience in the great outdoors? If so, then you might want to consider taking a tour to see the Northern Lights in Alaska. The idea of witnessing the vibrant colors of the Aurora Borealis is one of the most popular reasons tourists visit Alaska. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about taking a Northern Lights tour in Alaska, from the best time to visit to the best places to see the Northern Lights.

What are the Northern Lights?

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are incredibly stunning natural light displays that occur in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The lights occur due to electrically charged particles from the sun entering the Earth’s atmosphere and colliding with gases such as oxygen and nitrogen. When these particles collide, they create beautiful colors that light up the sky.

Best Time to See Northern Lights in Alaska

One of the most important factors when planning a Northern Lights tour in Alaska is timing. Since the lights are only visible during the night, the best time to see them in Alaska is from September to April. During this time, the nights are longer and darker, providing a more extensive window of time to see the Aurora Borealis.

Another factor that determines the best time for Northern Lights viewing is the Kp-index. The Kp-index is a measurement of the intensity of the Earth’s magnetic field. When the Kp-index is high (between 2 and 5), there is a higher probability of seeing the Northern Lights. Be sure to check the Kp-index before planning your trip.

Best Places to See Northern Lights in Alaska

Not all places in Alaska have an equal chance of witnessing the Northern Lights. Here are some of the best locations where you can experience the Aurora Borealis:

Fairbanks

Fairbanks, Alaska is one of the most popular locations for Northern Light viewing. Due to its high latitude, clear skies, and low light pollution, Fairbanks is an excellent spot for observing the Aurora Borealis. It’s also one of the coldest places to visit, so remember to bring warm clothes.

Denali National Park

If you’re looking for a more adventurous way to see the Northern Lights, then visiting Denali National Park may be for you. Denali offers unique outdoor activities such as dogsledding during the day and Northern Lights viewing at night. Moreover, it has low light pollution, making it an ideal location for observing the Aurora Borealis.

Chena Hot Springs

Another great location to see the Northern Lights is Chena Hot Springs, located just outside of Fairbanks. The location offers hot springs, where you can relax, enjoy the warm water and wait for the Aurora Borealis to light up the sky.

Best Northern Lights Tour Companies in Alaska

If you’re not familiar with Alaska and need assistance in seeing the Northern Lights, then you can always book with a tour company. Here are some of the top companies to consider:

Fairbanks-based Northern Alaska Tour Company

Northern Alaska Tour Company is based in Fairbanks and offers various Northern Lights viewing tours. Their tours include hotel pickup and drop-offs, knowledgeable tour guides, snacks and sometimes aurora photography services.

Kantishna Air Taxi

If you’re looking for a private experience, then Kantishna Air Taxi is a great choice. This tour company specializes in customized flights for your Northern Light viewing. They can even take you to different locations in Alaska for a chance to view the Aurora Borealis.

Davidson Arctic Adventures

Davidson Arctic Adventures, based in Fairbanks, offers unique experiences, such as dog sledding during the day, followed by a Northern Lights viewing tour at night. Their tours include hotel pickup and drop-offs, warm clothing, and knowledgeable tour guides.

In Conclusion

A Northern Lights tour in Alaska is an unforgettable adventure that everyone should experience at least once. With the best time to visit, the best places to see them, and top tour companies to choose from, you can easily plan your perfect Aurora Borealis adventure. Just remember to dress warm, bring your camera, and enjoy the incredible beauty of the Northern Lights.

An Insider’s Guide to Fairbanks, Alaska: Everything You Need to Know

Are you planning to witness the shimmering and spellbinding Northern Lights in Alaska? Fairbanks, a city in central Alaska, lies directly under the Aurora Oval and is one of the best places to experience this natural wonder. But Fairbanks has a lot more to offer than just the Northern Lights. As an insider, I’ll guide you through some of the hidden gems, must-try dining spots, cultural experiences, fascinating local history, and off-the-beaten-path activities in Fairbanks to make your trip unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Uncovering the Hidden Gems in Fairbanks

In addition to popular tourist spots like Pioneer Park and the North Pole, Fairbanks has plenty of lesser-known attractions that locals adore. One such hidden gem is Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, which provides opportunities for bird-watching, nature walks, and photography. Another off-beat spot is the Aurora Ice Museum, where you can appreciate ice-carved art pieces and even indulge in an ice martini in a bar made entirely of ice.

Dining Spots: Savor Fairbanks’s Local Delicacies

Fairbanks is home to some unique and delicious cuisine that you can’t find anywhere else. At The Pump House Restaurant and Saloon, relish the famous bison burger, a regional favorite, cooked to perfection, and accompanied by a side of fries or sweet potato wedges. Want to try something even more typical? Then head to The Fudge Pot, where you can have reindeer sausage on sourdough bread, a staple of the Fairbanks diet since the 19th century!

Cultural Experiences: Dive into Fairbanks’s Rich Culture

Fairbanks is a place full of local traditions, customs and celebrations. Discover the ancient Alaska Native cultures in Alaskaland, where you’ll find native Alaskan handicrafts, dances and storytelling. If you happen to be in Fairbanks in July, don’t miss the Midnight Sun Festival, a 24-hour celebration that marks the summer solstice with live music, food, and fun activities for all ages.

Local History: Fascinating Tidbits You Might Not Know About Fairbanks

Fairbanks has a rich history, and there are many captivating tales to be found. Did you know that the city’s founders, E.T Barnette, and Felix Pedro, discovered gold in 1902, leading to one of the biggest gold rushes in history? Or that Fairbanks was a strategic location for the US Army during World War II? The Lacey Street theater is another historical treasure, where you can watch classic movies in a vintage setting and explore the interior 1920’s decor.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Making Your Trip Unforgettable

Are you looking for some unique and unforgettable experiences? Take a trip to Chena Hot Springs Resort to experience hot springs, geothermal energy, and great activities like ice museum tours that will leave you breathless. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mountain biking or skiing on the Birch Hill Ski & Snowboard Area’s trails. For the ultimate Alaskan adventure, take a dog-sled ride with an experienced Iditarod racer, an experience you won’t forget!

In conclusion, Fairbanks, Alaska, has something for everyone, from hidden gems to discovering the unusual local cuisine, from experiencing cultural treasures to learning fascinating historical tidbits. Whether you’re interested in the Northern lights or Alaskan adventure, Fairbanks is the perfect place to create unforgettable memories.