Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs

Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs: An Honest Review

If you’re considering a trip to see the Aurora Borealis near Fairbanks, the Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs tour offers a blend of natural beauty and relaxation. While it’s not a guaranteed sighting—since the Aurora is a natural phenomenon—the experience of heading out into the winter landscape for a night of hot springs and potential aurora viewing can be quite special.

What we really like about this tour is its convenience and value. The tour includes transportation, a hot springs pass, and a chance to relax in warm waters after a chilly evening outdoors. Plus, the guides are known for their local insights and responsiveness, which makes the whole process feel more personal and less like just another bus ride.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that if your primary goal is seeing the Northern Lights, this tour might feel a bit limited. It drops you off at the resort and gives you some hours to enjoy the springs, but the actual aurora viewing depends entirely on nature’s mood—meaning there’s no guarantee you’ll see the lights. That said, the trip is straightforward and good for those who want a relaxed outing without too much fuss.

This experience suits travelers who want to combine a warm soak with the hope of catching the lights, especially if they appreciate a bit of comfort and simplicity. It’s less about intensive chasing and more about soaking in the landscape and hoping for a good show.

Key Points

• Includes hot springs pass and transportation, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• A natural Aurora sighting cannot be guaranteed, as it depends on weather and solar activity.
• Good value for the price compared to other options, especially with the included hot springs time.
• Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding a personal touch to the journey.
• No cell service at the resort, so plan ahead for communication.
• Tour size is limited to six people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What to Expect on the Tour

Pickup and Journey

The tour starts at 7:00 pm, with pickup from your selected location in Fairbanks. Expect a drive of about 1 hour and 20 minutes to Chena Hot Springs Resort. The transportation is straightforward, and the group sizes are small—max six travelers—so you won’t be crammed in with strangers.

The Hot Springs Experience

Once you arrive, you’ll have about four hours to enjoy the hot springs and the resort amenities. That’s plenty of time to soak, relax, or grab a meal. The tour includes access to the springs and a hot beverage (coffee or tea), so you can unwind after the drive.

The Winter Landscape and Wildlife

On the way, guides often point out local wildlife like moose, caribou, foxes, or even lynx and beavers, if they’re around. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make these sightings more memorable. You’ll also get to see the winter scenery, which is part of the charm—a true cold-weather adventure.

Aurora Viewing

While at the resort, if the Northern Lights appear, your guide will take you to the best spots for photos and viewing. The tour emphasizes flexibility for aurora spotting, but it’s important to remember that the Northern Lights are unpredictable.

The Return Trip

After the evening, you’ll be driven back to your starting point, with potential stops if active auroras are visible along the way. Keep your camera handy; even if the lights aren’t sky-high, the landscape and snow-covered trees make for great photos.

The Good, The Bad, and The Neutral

What We Love

Guides really make this tour shine. From the reviews, it’s clear they’re responsive, personable, and well-versed in local sights. Hugh G’s testimonial praises Tony from VIP Northern Lights Tours for his professionalism and local insights, which adds a lot of value.

The scenery is another highlight. Even if the aurora doesn’t cooperate, the drive through wintery landscapes is beautiful, and the hot springs offer a cozy retreat from the cold.

What Could Be Better

The main consideration is the uncertainty of seeing the Aurora. As Ronnie T’s review points out, some might feel disappointed if they don’t get a sighting, especially since the primary goal is often to see the Northern Lights. The tour’s value relies on luck and weather conditions, not a guaranteed show.

No cell service at the resort might catch some off guard. If you plan to stay connected or need to coordinate with others, this is worth noting. Also, the 4-hour window at the springs may seem short for some, although it’s generally enough to relax and enjoy.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxing, low-stress outing that combines warm waters with the hope of Aurora viewing. It’s suited for those who appreciate a guided trip with small group intimacy and don’t mind the elements or the possibility of no lights.

If you’re after an all-night chase or guaranteed Northern Lights, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re content with a scenic drive, a warm soak, and a chance to see the lights if they dance, this tour could be a good match.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Pickup and Travel

Starting at 7:00 pm, the pickup process is straightforward. The driver will pick you from your chosen location, and the ride to Chena Hot Springs is about an hour and twenty minutes. The small group size (up to six) makes for a more personal experience, where the guide can answer questions and offer local tips.

Arrival at Chena Hot Springs

Once at the resort, you get to choose how to spend your four hours. The resort has a hot springs pool, which is the main attraction, offering a warm, soothing experience after the cold winter drive. You can also opt to grab a meal at the resort’s restaurant—something hearty might be just what you need after hours in the snow.

Wildlife and Landscape Sightings

On the way, guides often point out animals like moose, caribou, fox, lynx, or beaver. These lookouts can be fleeting, but guides know where to look, making it more likely you’ll spot something unique. The scenery itself, with snow-covered trees and icy fields, offers a quiet, majestic backdrop.

Aurora Pursuit

The core hope of the tour is catching the Northern Lights, and your guide will make stops at prime viewing spots if conditions are promising. However, since the Aurora is unpredictable, some nights might be quiet. One reviewer mentioned, “We paid a lot of money basically for a ride to Chena Hot Springs,” highlighting some travelers’ disappointment when the lights don’t show.

Return Journey

The trip back is another chance to catch the sky if the Aurora flares up unexpectedly. The driver may stop at scenic spots, giving you opportunities for photographs under the stars, assuming the weather permits.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical way to combine relaxation and the hope of Northern Lights viewing in a small-group setting. It’s especially appealing for those who want a comfortable, straightforward experience rather than a high-energy chase. The inclusion of hot springs and local guiding expertise makes it stand out as a balanced, easygoing option.

While it doesn’t promise the Aurora, the scenic drive, the cozy soak, and the potential for wildlife sightings keep it compelling. If you’re a traveler who values value for money and a personal touch, this could be just right.

However, if your main priority is a guaranteed Aurora sighting, prepare for some disappointment, or consider combining this with other options. Be sure to dress warmly, remember there’s no cell service at the resort, and keep your expectations realistic about the natural phenomenon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from your selected location and transportation to and from Chena Hot Springs are included.

Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
The tour offers the chance to see the Aurora if conditions are favorable, but since it’s a natural display, sightings are not guaranteed.

How long do I get at the hot springs?
You will have about four hours at the resort to enjoy the hot springs, relax, or grab a meal.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the hot springs pass, transportation, and coffee or tea. The ice museum fee is not included.

What if the weather is poor?
If the weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The Aurora visibility also depends on weather and solar activity.

Is this a good tour for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind the focus on outdoor activities and cold weather, which might not be ideal for very young children.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned, but the ice museum fee is extra if you choose to visit it separately.

What should I bring?
Dress warmly in layers, including thermal wear, gloves, and a hat. Bring a camera for Aurora and landscape photos, but remember there’s no cell service at the resort.

If you’re dreaming of a cozy winter escape with the hope of catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights, this tour offers a relaxed, enjoyable way to experience Fairbanks’ winter charm. Just keep your expectations realistic, prepare for the cold, and enjoy the journey—and maybe, just maybe, the lights will surprise you.