Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs

Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs offers a classic Alaskan winter experience that combines the thrill of Aurora viewing with the soothing warmth of natural hot springs. For $220 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring the scenic route from Fairbanks, with a pick-up service included. The highlight? An evening at the iconic Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you can soak in mineral-rich waters while waiting for the night sky to reveal the Northern Lights.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances relaxation and adventure — you get time to unwind in the hot springs, plus the chance to see wildlife like Moose or Caribou along the way, thanks to your insightful guide. The hot meal at the resort’s dining room adds a cozy touch to the evening. Another plus is the flexibility during the return trip; if Aurora activity is high, your guide will make strategic stops for photos, increasing your chances of capturing that elusive green glow.

A potential drawback is the lack of guaranteed Aurora sightings — since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, it depends on clear skies and solar activity. Also, note that the resort has no cell service, which might surprise some travelers expecting constant connectivity.

This tour suits travelers who want a full evening of winter adventure, combining hot springs, wildlife spotting, and Aurora viewing. If you’re patient, flexible, and eager to blend relaxation with a bit of natural wonder, this experience fits the bill.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines hot springs soak, wildlife sightings, and Aurora hunting.
• Guided Tour: Knowledgable guides increase your chances of spotting wildlife and Aurora.
• Cost and Value: At $220, it offers a good mix of transportation, hot springs access, and insight.
• No Guarantee: Aurora sightings are natural and unpredictable.
• Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for remote conditions at the resort.
• Flexible Return: Guides will adjust stops based on Aurora activity for better photo opportunities.

An In-Depth Look at the Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs Tour

If you’re heading to Fairbanks and dreaming of catching the Aurora Borealis, this tour from Vip Northern Lights Tours offers a compelling way to do so. We’ll break down what you can expect, what makes it special, and what to consider before booking.

The Itinerary and Its Charm

The tour starts at 7:00 pm, with pick-up from your designated location—a real convenience that spares you the hassle of parking or driving in winter conditions. The ride to Chena Hot Springs takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, during which your guide will likely keep you entertained with local stories, wildlife sightings, or maybe some good old Alaska humor.

Once at the resort, you’ll have around 4 hours to enjoy the hot springs and the restaurant. This is a generous amount of time, especially since the hot springs are the main draw. The mineral-rich waters are heated naturally, offering a relaxing bath while surrounded by snow-covered trees—truly a memorable experience.

An important detail is that the resort has no cell service, so be prepared to disconnect during your soak. The tour provides hot springs admission and hot beverages like coffee or tea, which add to the cozy atmosphere. There’s an additional fee for the Ice Museum if you wish to visit that attraction, but it’s not included in the standard package.

The return journey is where the Aurora magic can happen. If the Northern Lights decide to make an appearance, your guide will stop at the best vantage points, giving you a shot at that photo-worthy green display. It’s worth noting that Aurora sightings are not guaranteed, as they depend on natural conditions.

Wildlife and Scenic Highlights

One of the charming aspects of this tour is the chance to see wildlife along the route. Travelers have reported spotting Moose, Caribou, Fox, Lynx, and Beavers, with some guides stopping to snap photos. The experience is enhanced by the guide’s local knowledge, which can be invaluable in spotting elusive animals or pointing out interesting sights.

The Guide and Personal Touch

Several reviews praise the guides’ responsiveness and local insights. Hugh G. notes that Tony from the tour was “amazing, responsive, personal, and professional,” making the experience feel individualized and warm. This personal touch can turn a good tour into a memorable one, especially in the quiet, snowy wilderness.

Price and Value

At $220 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price point considering transportation, hot springs access, and the included beverages. Compared to other Aurora tours that might only focus on Aurora hunting, this one provides a more rounded experience with relaxation and sightseeing.

However, the lack of a guarantee is important; you’re paying for the chance to see the Northern Lights, which is always a gamble. For many travelers, the value lies in the overall experience—soaking in warm waters under winter’s starry sky, combined with wildlife sightings and the possibility of Aurora.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comfortable transportation and well-organized timing
• Ample time at Chena Hot Springs for relaxation and dining
• Wildlife sightings add a fun exploration element
• Guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience
• Good value for money given inclusions

Cons:

• No Aurora guarantee—it’s a natural phenomenon
• No cell service at the resort, which may be inconvenient for some
• Additional fee if you want to visit the Ice Museum

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxing, authentic Alaska outing that combines hot springs soaking with the hope of Aurora viewing, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate guided expertise, wildlife watching, and a flexible schedule that adapts to Aurora activity.

However, if your primary goal is guaranteed Aurora viewing or a more intensive Aurora experience, you might want to consider other options. This tour is ideal for those happy to embrace the natural uncertainties and focus on the full winter adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up from your chosen location and transportation to and from Chena Hot Springs.

How long do I spend at the hot springs?
You will have approximately 4 hours to enjoy the hot springs and the resort amenities once you arrive, which provides plenty of time to relax or dine.

Are Aurora sightings guaranteed?
No, Aurora Borealis is a natural event, and sightings depend on weather and solar activity. Your guide will do their best to stop at optimal locations if Aurora activity occurs.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring warm clothing suitable for outdoor winter conditions, your camera for potential Aurora photos, and any personal essentials you may need since cell service is unavailable at the resort.

Is there a possibility of wildlife sightings?
Yes, guides often stop to point out wildlife like Moose, Caribou, Fox, Lynx, or Beavers, enhancing the scenic drive with some wildlife viewing.

What if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions prevent Aurora viewing or other aspects of the tour, the experience might be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs tour offers a thoughtful mix of relaxation, wildlife, and natural beauty. While it doesn’t promise an Aurora sighting, the combination of warm mineral waters, scenic winter landscapes, and knowledgeable guides makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking an authentic Alaskan evening. It’s best suited for those who value a relaxed, flexible experience and are comfortable with the unpredictability of nature’s light show.