NORTH POLE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Quiet Escape: A Day at Chena Hot Springs Beyond Fairbanks
A guided, private transfer from Fairbanks gives you four hours at Chena Hot Springs — this guide explains the logistics, highlights, and how to make the most of the seven-hour outing.
A Quiet Escape: A Day at Chena Hot Springs Beyond Fairbanks.
Nestled in Alaska’s remote forests, Chena Hot Springs Resort is a century-old rustic lodge and resort complex some 61 miles northwest of downtown Fairbanks; this guided day tour provides a private transfer from Fairbanks so you can relax in natural hot springs without renting a car and — if you choose the evening option — watch for the Aurora Borealis.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A remote, century-old resort in true Alaskan wilderness
Chena Hot Springs is a rustic lodge and resort complex set in remote forest, offering an authentic wilderness setting roughly 61 miles northwest of downtown Fairbanks.
Hassle-free private transfer and time to unwind
The tour removes the need to rent a car: a private pick-up from your Fairbanks hotel or AirBnB gives you a straightforward ride into the backcountry and a set window to soak and relax at the springs.
Aurora and wildlife in season
In season, the resort’s remote location offers opportunities to view the Aurora Borealis; visitors should also keep an eye out for local wildlife such as moose while on site.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You start with a morning pick-up in Fairbanks and a one-hour-twenty-minute drive into quiet forest, then receive a drop-off at the resort with a four-hour window to use the hot springs; the private car and included hot springs pass make the visit straightforward and personalized, with the option to select an evening schedule to increase chances of seeing the aurora.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day tour suits—and when to check details with the operator.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Total outing length is seven hours, with pick-up at 9:30 am in Fairbanks and approximately 4 hours on site at Chena Hot Springs.
Private transfer from your Fairbanks hotel or AirBnB is included; the drive to the resort is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. The guide will set a return pick-up location and time—be punctual as there is no cell service and a 25-minute courtesy waiting window.
The hot springs pass is included with the tour; other onsite amenities and policies should be confirmed with the operator before travel.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What time is pick-up?
Pick-up is at 9:30 am from your hotel or AirBnB in Fairbanks.
How long is the trip to Chena Hot Springs?
The drive to Chena Hot Springs Resort takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
How much time will I have at the hot springs?
Upon drop-off you will have 4 hours to enjoy the natural hot springs.
Is the hot springs pass included?
Yes — the hot springs pass is included with the tour.
Is there cell service at the resort?
No — there is no cell service at the resort, so you must be at the pickup spot at the time set by the driver; the operator provides a 25-minute courtesy waiting time.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
Choose the evening option to increase your chances of viewing the Aurora Borealis from the resort’s remote location.