If you’re heading to Alaska and want a taste of its winter magic, this tour offers a compelling mix of dog sledding, Aurora Borealis viewing, and Alaskan hospitality. For about six hours, you’ll experience the thrill of riding behind a team of eager huskies, enjoy the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights dance overhead, and end the night with a warm, home-cooked salmon dinner inside a rustic yurt. Led by knowledgeable guides with a passion for sharing Alaska’s wild side, this trip is priced at $320 per person, making it a solid investment for an authentic Arctic adventure.
What we love about this experience are the personal touches—like the guides’ storytelling and their efforts to maximize Aurora sightings—and the combination of outdoor adventure with cozy comfort. The open, moonlit sled ride offers a rare chance to feel the power of the dogs and the crisp winter air all at once. The dinner in the yurt isn’t just a meal; it’s a chance to relax and swap stories while waiting for the Northern Lights, which, despite their unpredictability, often put on a memorable show.
A key consideration? The weather can be unpredictable, and the Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings aren’t guaranteed. You’ll need to dress warmly, especially if you want to step outside for photos or full sky views. This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, don’t mind chilly nights, and are eager for a genuine, off-the-beaten-path Alaska experience.
Key Points
- Authentic dog sledding experience in a moonlit setting
- Great chance to see the Aurora Borealis with guides actively monitoring sky activity
- Hearty Alaskan salmon dinner served in a cozy yurt
- Knowledgeable guides who share stories and help optimize Aurora viewing
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized attention
Starting Point and Logistics
This six-hour tour begins with hotel pickup in Fairbanks, where you’ll be collected and transported to the tour site. The process is smooth, with guides like Paul and others praised for their friendliness and knowledge. You’ll be asked to arrive five minutes early, so a little punctuality is appreciated. The group tends to be small, fostering a friendly, less hurried atmosphere, perfect for questions and conversation.
The Dog Sled Ride: A Classic Alaska Moment
The sled ride itself is the highlight for many. You’ll be seated in a sled pulled by a team of enthusiastic Alaskan huskies, yanking on their lines as they prepare to run. Expect most of the ride to take place in large open areas, which is ideal for catching glimpses of the Northern Lights if they decide to appear early. The experience is described as “thrilling and chilling,” so bundle up—this is Alaska at its best.
Many reviews highlight how welcoming and informative the musher (the guide who handles the dogs) is. As one reviewer put it, “Peggy was so nice and answered all our questions,” making the experience educational as well as fun. We loved the way guides not only focus on the ride but also share stories about the dogs and the history of mushing, giving you a deeper appreciation of this iconic Alaskan tradition.
Aurora Borealis Viewing: Nature’s Yet Unpredictable Show
The Northern Lights are the main draw, but as with any natural spectacle, sightings depend on weather conditions and solar activity. The yurt, located a short drive from Fairbanks and shielded from city lights, offers excellent visibility. The large north-facing windows are perfect for Aurora watching, and many reviewers have been wowed by the display.
One guest described the experience as “spectacular,” noting that guides like Paul and Wendy kept a close eye on the sky and even stopped the vehicle in remote areas for better viewing. The guides often provide QR codes for photos and videos, so you can relive the experience later. However, some mention that the lights can be elusive, with cloudy skies or weak auroral activity dampening the chances of seeing a full display. Still, even if the lights are shy, the snowy landscapes and the excitement of being out in the Arctic night make it worthwhile.
The Yurt and the Alaskan Dinner
After the sled ride, you’ll head to a cozy off-the-grid yurt—warm, inviting, and perfect for waiting out potential Aurora activity. The dinner is a hearty Alaskan salmon, served with rice, salad, and dessert. Many reviewers praise the quality of the meal, with Chef Jo earning high marks for her home-cooked approach, making you feel like you’re dining with friends rather than travelers.
The large windows of the yurt provide a comfortable viewing platform for Aurora photography, but you’ll want to dress in warm layers—especially if the sky decides to put on its full show or if you wish to step outside for panoramic shots.
More Great Tours NearbyGuides and Overall Experience
One of the consistent themes from the reviews is the exceptional knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Whether it’s sharing local history, helping with Aurora photos, or just keeping spirits high in chilly conditions, guides like Paul, Wendy, and Ash shine. Many find that their enthusiasm and storytelling make the experience more memorable.
What’s noteworthy is that the tour’s value isn’t just in the activities but also in the personalized attention and authenticity. The group sizes are kept small, fostering an environment where everyone feels involved and cared for.
Practical Considerations
The tour costs $320, which several reviewers consider a good value given the unique activities and the expert guiding. However, it’s important to remember that Aurora sightings are never guaranteed—you’re paying for the experience and the chance to see one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. The tour is not suitable for children under five, pregnant women, or anyone over 250 lbs, mainly due to safety and comfort reasons.
Dressing warmly is essential, especially since most of the experience takes place outdoors and at night. The maximum weight per person is 250 pounds, so keep that in mind when booking.
If you’re after an authentic dog sledding experience with a chance to see the Northern Lights in an intimate setting, this tour is a winner. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, appreciate local storytelling, and value cozy, shared meals. It’s also ideal for those who are flexible and understand the unpredictability of Aurora viewing—sometimes, it’s about the experience and the stories, not just the lights.
This tour will appeal to adventure-seekers, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts looking for a genuine taste of Alaskan winter life. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love outdoor activities, it’s likely to be a memorable highlight.
This tour offers a blend of outdoor thrill, cultural insight, and cozy comfort that captures what many travelers seek from their Arctic adventure. The dog sled ride is exhilarating and authentic, the guide’s knowledge makes it educational, and the dinner provides a warm, satisfying end to a chilly night. Even if the Northern Lights don’t perform every night, the chance to see them, combined with the overall experience, makes it a worthwhile investment.
For those who want a deep dive into Alaskan winter life, with personal guides and a small-group feel, this tour provides excellent value. It’s perfect if you’re okay with the inherent variability of Aurora viewing and want to embrace the true spirit of the North.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a dog sled ride, and a home-cooked salmon dinner with beverages.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 6 hours, offering a good balance between activity and relaxation.
Is the Northern Lights guaranteed?
No, Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon and can’t be guaranteed. Guides actively monitor sky conditions and do their best to optimize your chances.
What should I wear?
Dress in warm layers, including thermal clothing, hats, gloves, and insulated boots, especially to stay comfortable during outdoor viewing or photos.
Can children participate?
Children under 5 years old, pregnant women, and those over 250 lbs are not suitable for this tour.
What if I don’t see the Aurora?
You won’t be entitled to a refund, as the lights depend on weather and solar activity. However, many guests report spectacular displays despite the risks.
How is the group size?
Small groups ensure personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Is the food buffet or plated?
The dinner is served in a yurt, featuring Alaskan salmon, rice, salad, and dessert. It’s praised for its home-cooked quality.
Will I get photos of the Aurora?
Guides often provide QR codes for photos and videos, but chances of capturing the lights depend on sky conditions.
What makes this tour stand out?
Key highlights include the authentic dog sledding experience in moonlight, guided Aurora monitoring, and the cozy, off-the-grid yurt dinner.
This tour is a solid choice for those eager to experience Alaska’s winter wonderland in a personal, memorable way. With friendly guides, breathtaking scenery, and a genuine chance to witness the Northern Lights, it’s an adventure that’s well worth considering—just keep your fingers crossed for clear, dark skies!
You can check availability for your dates here: