How is the Weather in Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is a city located in interior Alaska, known for its northern lights, midnight sun, and extreme climate. The climate in Fairbanks is a subarctic climate, which means it has long and cold winters and short and warm summers. In this blog post, we will talk about the weather in Fairbanks in general, throughout the year, and provide tips on how to prepare for any season.

Winter in Fairbanks

Winter in Fairbanks is long, typically lasting from October to late April or early May. The temperature in the winter season ranges from -20°F to 20°F (-30°C to -7°C). The lowest temperature recorded in Fairbanks was -66°F (-54°C) in 1934.

The winter season in Fairbanks is famous for its northern lights, which are visible almost every clear night. Besides, winter in Fairbanks is perfect for dog sledding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. Visitors who are planning a trip to Fairbanks during this season need to be prepared for the extreme cold weather. It is always advisable to dress in layers and wear a warm and waterproof jacket. Moreover, a good pair of winter boots, gloves, a hat, and face coverings are highly recommended.

Spring in Fairbanks

Although spring officially starts in Fairbanks in March, the snow in the city does not start melting until late April. The temperature in this season can range from -10°F to 40°F (-23°C to 4°C). The snowmelt in this season usually leads to the partial flooding of the rivers, which is a popular attraction in Fairbanks.

Spring is the time for ice carving competitions, and visitors can also witness a mini Iditarod dog sledding race. It is always advisable to dress in layers in spring in fairbanks as the temperature might be unpredictable. A warm and waterproof coat, a good pair of boots, gloves, and a hat are essential for this season.

Summer in Fairbanks

Summer in Fairbanks is short, but it’s the best time to visit the city. The season runs from late May to early September. The temperature in Fairbanks summer season ranges from 45°F to 75°F (7°C-24°C).

One of the most significant attractions during this season is the midnight sun. Fairbanks is one of the few places in the world where the sun doesn’t set during some of the summer days. Visitors can enjoy activities such as riverboat tours, hiking, wildlife watching, and fishing in this season. However, the weather is still unpredictable, and it can rain or be chilly. It’s always advisable to carry a light coat and waterproof shoes.

Fall in Fairbanks

Fall in Fairbanks is short, and it starts in September until late October. The temperature during this season ranges from 10°F to 50°F (-12°C to 10°C). Fall in Fairbanks is known for its golden hues as the leaves on the trees change color.

Visitors in the fall season can enjoy activities such as berry picking, hiking, and fishing. However, it’s always advisable to dress in layers and carry a jacket as the weather can get chilly. A good pair of boots and waterproof shoes are also recommended.

Conclusion

In summary, the weather in Fairbanks is unpredictable and extreme with long and cold winters and short and warm summers. Visitors to the city should always check the weather forecast before visiting and be prepared for the weather conditions. It’s generally advisable to dress in layers, wear waterproof clothing and shoes, and carry a warm and waterproof coat, gloves, hat, and face coverings in the winter season. And in the summer season, it’s advisable to carry a light coat and waterproof shoes.

Fairbanks is an incredible city with different activities for visitors depending on the season. Visitors can make the most out of their experience by being prepared for the conditions and enjoying the attractions offered in each season. If you are curious about activities that Fairbanks has to offer, you will find a list of current tours and attractions here.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Fairbanks

Fairbanks is a city located in central Alaska, with a unique blend of traditional and modern cultures, and breathtaking views. The city offers plenty of activities to visitors all year round, from winter northern lights viewing to summer riverboat trips. In this Insider’s Guide, I will take you beyond the common tourist traps and reveal some hidden gems that only locals would know.

Local Attractions

While visiting Fairbanks, most people flock to the popular tourist spots, such as the Museum of the North or the Riverboat Discovery. However, there are several lesser-known attractions worth checking out. One such gem is Birch Hill Ski and Snowboard Area, a small skiing spot offering incredible views of the city. The gold rush cemetery is another unusual attraction for visitors interested in history, where they can see the graves of early pioneers buried here.

Dining Spots

Fairbanks offers a unique culinary experience, with a blend of both traditional and modern cuisine. The city is well known for its seafood, and the best place to experience it is at the Pumphouse Restaurant located within an old historic building. For those looking for something more exotic, they should try the reindeer sausage at Gackle’s Red Fox, a legendary local spot. An insider’s tip – ordering the fish tacos at Taco Azteca might not be the first item that comes to mind, but it’s a must-try item, and locals swear by it.

Cultural Experiences

Fairbanks is a city steeped in culture and traditions, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in it. Besides the famous World Eskimo-Indian Olympics held annually, the Fairbanks Concert Association puts up impressive productions, including classic ballets and operas. Another cultural experience worth exploring is the Old Time Fiddlers Festival, where visitors can see fiddlers from all around the country competing and performing.

Local History

Some captivating stories from Fairbanks’s past are well known to the locals but not to tourists. The city was named after Charles W. Fairbanks, a U.S. senator, and vice president under President Theodore Roosevelt. During the gold rush, a famous criminal named Soapy Smith opened a brothel, but it was closed down one night by the infamous Vigilantes, who threw the occupants, including Soapy himself, into the creek. These tales and many more add rich depth to the city’s fascinating history.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for a unique experience, drive up to the Chena Hot Springs Resort and dip into the natural hot springs in the middle of winter. Or take the Tanana Valley Railroad, which travels through the city’s historic gold fields and ends with a stunning view of the Tanana Valley from the top platform. For an unforgettable souvenir, head to Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center to pick up some traditional Alaskan art, from woven baskets to intricately carved totems.

In conclusion, Fairbanks is a one-of-a-kind city with a blend of old-world charm and modern culture. It offers unique experiences, from the fascinating history to the culture, from the off-the-beaten-path suggestions to the local attractions. It is not just the weather that will make your trip to Fairbanks worthwhile, but the memories and the moments that you will cherish forever.