Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the Arctic magic without sacrificing comfort or spending days on the road, the Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour is a compelling choice. For about $285 per person, you get a full day of relaxation and exploration at Chena Hot Springs—famous for its geothermal pools—and an exciting, late-night quest to witness the Northern Lights. This tour offers a blend of natural wonder, cozy comforts, and expert guidance, all packed into roughly 10 to 14 hours of memorable Alaskan adventure.

We particularly love the way this tour balances relaxation and adventure; you’re free to enjoy the soothing hot springs and visit the Ice Museum at your own pace, while the Aurora Chase promises an immersive, well-guided search for the Northern Lights. The small-group size (up to 7 travelers) makes it feel intimate and personal, perfect for travelers who want authentic experiences without the crowds.

One thing worth noting: the tour operates regardless of the weather, meaning that even if clouds block the Aurora, you’ll still have a full day at Chena Hot Springs enjoying its amenities. However, this also means there’s no guarantee of Aurora sightings, so it’s best to keep expectations flexible and remember that outdoor conditions—like icy terrain—may require some mobility considerations.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of comfort and adventure, those eager to learn about Aurora science, and anyone looking for a thoughtfully organized day that combines natural relaxation with an exciting night-time pursuit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with transportation, hot springs, Aurora chase, and professional guidance
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more genuine experience
• Flexibility in activities at Chena Hot Springs, with options including Ice Museum, geothermal tour, and massages (if booked in advance)
• Expert Aurora discussion and help with photography to capture your memories
• Weather-dependent Aurora sightings with no guarantee, but a well-organized chase increases your chances
• Accessible details for most travelers, with some mobility considerations to keep in mind

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Getting There and Transportation

Starting from Fairbanks around 3:00 pm, the tour uses a small, low-to-the-ground vehicle with a maximum of six travelers. This setup makes it easy to enter and exit, especially on icy days, and keeps the experience intimate. The van picks you up from your Fairbanks or North Pole lodging within a 25-mile radius, which means most travelers don’t have to worry about long transfers. Having a dedicated vehicle for a small group enhances the comfort and flexibility, allowing for scenic stops and wildlife sightings along the way—Alaska’s landscapes are stunning even in winter.

Visit to Chena Hot Springs

Once at the resort, you’re free to explore for 3 to 6 hours. The highlight, of course, is the hot springs themselves—soaking in warm geothermal waters while the cold air bites outside is a quintessential Alaskan experience. The springs offer a soothing escape, especially after spending time outdoors.

You might also enjoy the Ice Museum and Ice Hotel, which showcase incredible ice sculptures and a uniquely chilly but beautiful environment. The geothermal tour provides insight into how the springs work, adding an educational touch to your visit.

For those craving relaxation, massages are available but must be booked well in advance, so plan accordingly.

A restaurant and deli on-site serve warm meals and snacks—perfect for refueling after soaking or exploring. The included simple hot cocoa, tea, or coffee helps keep you warm if you’re just standing outside waiting for the Aurora.

The Aurora Chase: Evening Adventure

As night falls, the focus shifts to the Aurora Borealis. The tour’s guide, Lindsay, has a reputation for being knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She offers a solid Aurora discussion, explaining the science behind this breathtaking phenomenon, which adds a layer of understanding to the experience.

The chase itself involves help with photography, including advice for cell phones and cameras. You’ll get five edited photos taken during the night—an excellent souvenir if the Northern Lights make an appearance.

The chase is conducted in a small, comfortable vehicle that’s easy to enter and exit, helping to maximize comfort on cold nights. The tour operates regardless of temperature, so dress warmly—layers, insulated boots, and thermal wear are essential.

Weather and Aurora Sightings

While the guides do their best thanks to real-time NOAA and NASA data, the Aurora is a natural phenomenon, and sightings are never guaranteed. Clouds, moonlight, and weather patterns can all obscure the sky. As one reviewer noted, Lindsay “found a lovely viewing spot for the Aurora, despite a generally cloudy day,” which highlights the importance of a knowledgeable guide and a bit of luck.

What’s Not Included

While the tour provides snacks and hot drinks, there’s no included gratuity—though tipping for excellent guides is appreciated. Also, camera rentals are available for an extra fee if you want professional-quality photos, but most travelers seem satisfied with their own devices and guidance.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs unless special arrangements are made, mainly because of icy terrain and vehicle accessibility. It’s designed for most travelers in good health, but mobility issues should be discussed ahead of time. Bathroom facilities are generally outside and not always available during the Aurora chase, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced day of relaxation and adventure, particularly those interested in learning about the Aurora scientifically and capturing great photos. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group outings with a knowledgeable guide, and if you want flexibility in your schedule to enjoy the hot springs and other amenities.

It’s also well-suited for those who understand that aurora sightings are never guaranteed but appreciate a professional-led, well-organized chase that maximizes your chances.

Final Thoughts

The Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour offers a unique slice of Alaskan life—balancing thermal relaxation, scenic beauty, and aurora hunting in one well-planned day. Its small-group setup and expert guidance make it stand out as a personalized adventure, especially for those who love learning about natural phenomena while experiencing local comforts.

While the unpredictability of the Aurora remains, the experience and knowledge you gain from guides like Lindsay, combined with the soothing waters of Chena Hot Springs, make this tour a compelling choice. If you’re after a genuine, comfortable, and thoughtfully organized Alaskan experience, this tour checks most boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get transportation from Fairbanks or North Pole lodgings, a full day at Chena Hot Springs, an Aurora chase with expert guidance, photography help, and five edited Aurora photos. Snacks and hot drinks are also provided.

How long do we stay at Chena Hot Springs?
You have approximately 3 to 6 hours to enjoy the springs, museum, geothermal tour, and other amenities at your own pace before heading out for the Aurora chase.

Is the Aurora guaranteed?
No, Aurora sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. The guides track live data to improve chances but cannot guarantee a sighting.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including thermal underwear, insulated boots, hats, and gloves. The tour operates in cold conditions regardless of temperature.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can join, but very young children might find the cold challenging for a full night out. Please advise if your party includes children under 12.

Is mobility an issue?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs unless special arrangements are made, due to icy terrain and vehicle access limitations.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be altered. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

To sum it up, the Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Arctic Alaska—perfect for those who want to unwind in geothermal waters and chase the Northern Lights in a small-group setting. With knowledgeable guides, personalized photography tips, and a flexible itinerary, it creates a memorable experience tailored to your interests. While it hinges on weather conditions, the effort and local expertise involved make it one of the better-value options for Aurora seekers and relaxation lovers alike.