Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour

Exploring the Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour: A Practical Review

Thinking about adding a memorable Alaskan adventure to your trip? The Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour offers a unique blend of relaxation and natural wonder—perfect for travelers eager to experience Alaska’s famed cold and its elusive Northern Lights. This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it combines the soothing warmth of hot springs with the excitement of chasing the Aurora in one seamless day.

What we genuinely appreciate about this experience is how it balances comfort with adventure. First, the hot springs provide a peaceful, scenic setting to unwind after your journey north. Second, the Aurora Chase is designed with educational insights and photography help, making the magic of the Northern Lights accessible for everyone. However, a key consideration is that there’s no guarantee of spotting the Aurora, since it’s a natural phenomenon, and weather plays a big role.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, value-conscious taste of Alaska’s winter offerings without sacrificing comfort. If you’re a curious traveler who loves learning about natural phenomena and enjoys a good soak, this might be your perfect day out. But if mobility is an issue, or you’re seeking a strictly guaranteed Aurora sighting, you might want to weigh those factors.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: The tour combines transportation, admission, Aurora education, photography tips, and even some snacks, making it a well-rounded experience.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help demystify the Aurora science and assist with photography, boosting your chances of capturing great photos.
• Flexibility at Hot Springs: With 3-6 hours on-site, you have ample time to enjoy the pools, ice museum, or even indulge in a massage (if booked early).
• Limited Accessibility: The vehicle is low to the ground and can be icy, meaning it’s not suitable for wheelchairs unless special arrangements are made.
• Weather Dependent: Aurora sightings are not guaranteed; thick clouds or poor weather can obscure the lights, but the tour will operate regardless of temperature.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 7 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more intimate, personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary and Experience

The Journey Begins: Mid-Afternoon Departure from Fairbanks

The day kicks off with a pickup from your Fairbanks accommodation, a considerate touch that ensures a stress-free start. The vehicle is a low-riding, easy-access minibus suitable for up to six guests, which fosters a cozy group atmosphere. Given the size, you’ll likely get to know your fellow travelers quickly.

You’ll leave mid-afternoon, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and perhaps catch some wildlife along the way. Alaska’s winter landscape is striking—snow-covered trees, frozen rivers, and distant mountains—making the drive itself a visual treat.

Relaxation and Exploration at Chena Hot Springs

Your first major stop is Chena Hot Springs Resort, renowned for its natural geothermal pools. Once there, you’re free to explore for approximately 3 to 6 hours. This flexibility is a big plus—if you’re keen on relaxing, soak in the warm springs while surrounded by snow, or wander through the Ice Museum and Ice Hotel, which showcases stunning sculptures and architecture carved from ice.

The resort offers additional activities like a geothermal tour, giving insight into how they harness natural heat. Though massages are available, they need to be booked well in advance, so plan ahead if that’s on your list. There’s also an on-site restaurant and deli for a hot meal or quick snack.

The pools are a highlight; soaking in hot water outdoors with icy vistas enhances the experience. Plus, the warmth provides a comfortable buffer against the cold outside, especially for those not accustomed to winter’s bite.

The Aurora Chase: An Adventure in the Dark

After your time at the springs, the tour heads back toward Fairbanks for the Aurora Chase. The vehicle is specially designed to handle cold conditions and is easy to get in and out of—important since you’ll be stopping frequently to look for the lights. Remember, the weather can change fast, and thick cloud cover can prevent Aurora sightings. The guides track real-time data from NOAA and NASA, doing their best to find clear skies.

What makes this part of the tour stand out is the educational component. Guides explain the science behind the Aurora, turning what could be just a pretty light show into an engaging lesson. They also help with photography tips, whether you’re using a phone or a camera, and some tours include edited photos as souvenirs.

While there’s no guarantee you’ll see the Aurora, many guests report remarkable displays, especially when conditions cooperate. As one reviewer noted, “Lindsay is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Despite a generally cloudy day, she found a lovely viewing spot.” That enthusiasm and expertise can make all the difference in making the most of a potentially fleeting display.

Practical Details and Comfort Considerations

Since Alaska’s winter temperatures can be extreme, dressing appropriately is essential. The tour operates regardless of temperature, so layers, thermal wear, and insulated boots are recommended. The ground can be icy, so sturdy footwear is advised, and mobility issues should be flagged early since the vehicle isn’t wheelchair accessible without special arrangements.

Bathroom access during the Aurora chase is limited; the tour mentions most bathroom facilities are outside or in remote locations, though the resort has amenities. Be prepared for outdoor bathroom breaks if needed, and bring tissues or hand sanitizer.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from past participants highlights the knowledgeable guides and good value for the cost. The guide’s enthusiasm and ability to find good Aurora viewing spots are often praised, making the experience feel more personalized and less like a generic tour.

Some travelers note the importance of weather—if clouds obscure the sky, the Aurora can be elusive. But with the tour’s flexibility and guidance, many still find the experience rewarding, whether they see the lights or not.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience appeals most to adventurers who seek a full-day, well-rounded Alaskan outing—combining relaxation, education, and a dash of excitement. It’s ideal for those who value guided expertise and small-group intimacy.

It’s also great for travelers willing to dress warmly and accept that nature’s phenomena can be unpredictable. If you’re eager to learn about the Aurora, enjoy photography, or simply want a comfortable way to experience Alaska’s winter landscape, this tour offers good value.

However, for those with mobility issues or looking for guaranteed Aurora sightings, other options might be more appropriate. The tour’s outdoor focus and weather dependency mean flexibility and patience are key virtues here.

Final Thoughts

The Chena Hot Springs plus Aurora Chase Tour offers an experience that balances comfort with the raw beauty of Alaska’s winter nights. The combination of relaxing in geothermal pools and chasing the elusive Northern Lights, all with expert guidance, makes it a compelling choice for many travelers.

You’ll appreciate the small-group setting, educational insights, and the chance to photograph one of nature’s most captivating displays. While the Aurora can never be guaranteed, the experience of trying, combined with the warmth of the hot springs, creates a memorable day that captures the spirit of Alaska.

For travelers looking for a practical, enjoyable, and authentic adventure—with the flexibility of multiple activities packed into one day—this tour ticks many boxes. Just dress for the cold, stay patient, and enjoy the wonders of the North.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, transportation from all lodgings within Fairbanks or North Pole area within 25 miles of the airport is included. The tour starts at 3:00 pm.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 to 14 hours, giving ample time for sightseeing, relaxing, and Aurora chasing.

Can I bring my own camera?
Yes, guides assist with photography tips, and you can bring your own camera or phone. There are also optional camera rentals available for purchase.

What if I have mobility issues?
The vehicle is low to the ground and icy conditions are possible. Special arrangements are encouraged—please notify the operator ahead of time.

Is there a guarantee I will see the Aurora?
No, since it’s a natural phenomenon dependent on weather and solar activity. The tour operates regardless of temperature and weather, but Aurora sightings depend on clear skies, which cannot be guaranteed.

Can I visit the Ice Museum or get a massage?
Yes, you can enjoy the Ice Museum and Hotel, and massages are available but must be booked far in advance.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with layers, thermal wear, and waterproof boots. The outdoor conditions can be very cold, especially at night.

This tour offers a practical, well-rounded way to experience Alaska’s winter magic—balancing relaxation, education, and adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a solid choice for making the most of your time in Fairbanks under the northern sky.