Imagine escaping the city lights and venturing deep into the Alaskan wilderness, where the sky comes alive with the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights. This small-group tour from Fairbanks promises an unforgettable experience, blending the natural wonders of the aurora borealis with the soothing comfort of the Chena Hot Springs. As you soak in the mineral-rich waters, you’ll be mesmerized by the multicolored lights shimmering overhead, creating a truly magical moment amidst the serene Alaskan landscape. With expert guidance and prime viewing conditions, this tour offers a chance to learn about the beauty of one of nature’s most captivating displays.
Key Points
- Small group guided tour from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort, offering a chance to witness the northern lights while relaxing in the hot mineral springs.
- Includes activities like visiting the Aurora Ice Museum and access to the hot springs, swimming area, and guided tour of the museum.
- Round-trip transportation from hotels in Fairbanks and North Pole, with a local guide to ensure a seamless experience at the resort.
- Opportunity to explore the Aurora Ice Museum featuring intricate ice sculptures and enjoy an optional appletini served in a hand-carved ice glass.
- Chena Hot Springs recognized for prime aurora viewing conditions, with the tour itinerary allowing for outdoor northern lights viewing after dinner.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This small group guided tour from Fairbanks to the Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a truly memorable experience, showcasing the natural wonders of Alaska’s northern landscape.
Participants can look forward to a range of activities, including visiting the Aurora Ice Museum and enjoying the soothing hot mineral springs, hot tubs, and indoor pool.
The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to witness the captivating display of the northern lights while relaxing in the hot springs – an ideal location for this natural phenomenon.
With an excellent rating of 4.5 stars from over 840 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the stunning Alaskan scenery.
Inclusions and Transportation
The tour provides round-trip transportation from hotels in Fairbanks and North Pole, allowing guests to conveniently access the Chena Hot Springs Resort. A local guide accompanies the group, ensuring a seamless experience that includes access to the hot springs, swimming area, and a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum.
While gratuities, food, and drinks aren’t included, towels are available for a small fee or guests can bring their own. Pickup occurs between 4pm and 5pm, but only from hotels within the city limits of Fairbanks or North Pole.
The transportation and inclusions make this tour a hassle-free way to explore the natural wonders of Chena Hot Springs, from the geothermal pools to the awe-inspiring ice sculptures.
Experience Details
After the evening pickup, guests embark on a 60-mile drive to the renowned Chena Hot Springs Resort, eagerly anticipating the adventure that awaits.
Upon arrival, they’re treated to a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, where they can marvel at the intricate ice sculptures and even sip an optional appletini served in a hand-carved ice glass.
As the evening progresses, guests can indulge in a delightful dinner at the resort’s restaurant, savoring Alaskan seafood and locally grown produce.
The true highlight, however, comes when they can finally relax in the hot springs, with an average temperature of 106°F (41°C) year-round, while keeping an eye out for the mesmerizing northern lights.
Northern Lights Viewing
Once dinner has concluded, guests eagerly venture outdoors to catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing northern lights, their anticipation palpable as they scan the sky for the ethereal display.
Chena Hot Springs is renowned as an ideal location for witnessing the vibrant auroras, with the resort’s remote setting and minimal light pollution offering prime viewing conditions. Should the weather cooperate, guests may be treated to a spellbinding show of shimmering green, purple, and pink hues dancing across the night sky.
Even if the aurora is elusive, the resort’s Aurora Café provides a cozy indoor setting to admire the celestial phenomenon with a warm beverage in hand.
The return journey may include additional stops to maximize northern lights viewing opportunities, weather permitting.
Guest Feedback
Guests consistently report positive experiences with the knowledgeable guides, the serene beauty of the hot springs, and the awe-inspiring northern lights displays at Chena Hot Springs Resort.
Travelers are captivated by the opportunity to soak in the steaming mineral-rich waters while watching the mesmerizing aurora dance across the night sky.
Many guests praise the thoughtful tour itinerary, which allows ample time to explore the Aurora Ice Museum‘s dazzling ice sculptures.
However, a handful of reviews note sporadic problems with restaurant service and minor upkeep concerns.
Maximum Tour Size
The tour accommodates a maximum of 14 travelers, providing an intimate and personalized experience as guests explore the enchanting Chena Hot Springs Resort.
This small group size ensures that everyone receives attentive guidance from the knowledgeable local tour leader, who can tailor the experience to the group’s interests and needs.
Travelers won’t feel lost in a crowd, and they’ll have ample opportunities to ask questions, share stories, and make the most of their time at this stunning destination.
Whether it’s soaking in the steaming mineral-rich waters, marveling at the intricate ice sculptures, or chasing the mesmerizing northern lights, the compact group size enhances the overall sense of adventure and connection with the stunning Alaskan wilderness.
Recommended Packing Items
To make the most of their time at the Chena Hot Springs Resort, travelers should pack a few essential items.
Bathing suits, towels, and quarters for lockers are a must, allowing guests to fully enjoy the rejuvenating mineral-rich waters. Plus, bringing a photo ID ensures access to the on-site bar for any desired adult beverages.
Don’t forget to bundle up, as venturing outside to witness the captivating northern lights requires warm, weatherproof attire.
With these items in tow, visitors can seamlessly transition between the calming hot springs and the awe-inspiring natural light show, creating an unforgettable experience at this renowned Alaskan destination.
Resort Amenities and Facilities
At the heart of the Chena Hot Springs Resort lies an array of captivating amenities that cater to visitors’ every need. The Aurora Ice Museum, a true marvel of frozen artistry, invites guests to explore life-sized ice sculptures and sip on hand-crafted appletinis in a chilled glass.
Beyond the museum, the resort boasts an enticing lineup of facilities:
- Soothing hot springs with an average year-round temperature of 106°F (41°C)
- Rejuvenating indoor pool and hot tubs
- Delectable dining options featuring Alaskan seafood and locally sourced produce
- Cozy Aurora Café for warming beverages and northern lights viewing
- Diverse recreational activities, from hiking to dog sledding
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Hot Springs Therapeutic or Just for Relaxation?
The hot springs at Chena Hot Springs Resort aren’t just for relaxation – they’re therapeutic as well. Soaking in the mineral-rich waters can soothe aches, improve circulation, and provide a rejuvenating experience for visitors.
Is the Resort Open Year-Round or Only During Certain Seasons?
The resort is open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the therapeutic hot springs and stunning natural landscapes regardless of the season. The consistent 106°F temperatures make it a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation throughout the year.
Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Drinks to the Resort?
Guests can bring their own food and drinks to the Chena Hot Springs Resort. However, there’s also an on-site restaurant where visitors can enjoy Alaskan seafood and locally grown produce for an additional cost.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour and Hot Springs?
For the tour and hot springs, guests can wear casual, comfortable attire. Swimsuits are recommended to fully enjoy the warm, soothing mineral waters. Towels can be rented or brought from home. The dress code is relaxed and intended to maximize guests’ comfort.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Guests of all ages are welcome to participate and enjoy the hot springs, though children must be accompanied by an adult. Families can fully experience the vibrant auroras and serene natural setting.
Recap
The Northern Lights and Chena Hot Springs Tour from Fairbanks promises an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
Guests can soak in soothing mineral-rich waters while marveling at the mesmerizing aurora borealis.
With expert guidance, prime viewing conditions, and enchanting activities like the Aurora Ice Museum, this tour offers a truly magical experience amidst the breathtaking Alaskan scenery.
