NORTH POLE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Days on the Edge of Midnight: Ice Caves, Hot Springs and the Northern Lights near North Pole, Alaska
A concentrated, guided two-day itinerary that pairs a 1.5-mile hike to a rare ice cave with Chena Hot Springs and an expert-led Aurora chase—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
Two Days on the Edge of Midnight: Ice Caves, Hot Springs and the Northern Lights near North Pole, Alaska.
The Full Alaskan Experience threads together the high, glacial silence of Castner Glacier with the warm mineral refuge of Chena Hot Springs and the old‑world whimsy of the Santa Claus House, all bookended by an evening hunt for the Aurora Borealis under a local guide’s watchful eye.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A rare ice cave on Castner Glacier
The trip’s hallmark is a scenic 1.5-mile hike to an ice cave on Castner Glacier, set beneath the Delta Range and often accompanied by sightings of moose and caribou along the access road.
Chena Hot Springs and the ice bar
Day two is devoted to Chena Hot Springs Resort: soak in natural pools, visit the Ice Museum and—if you choose—sample a drink at the ice bar (admission included; drinks at the ice bar incur an additional charge).
An Aurora chase from Murphy Dome
After a day of relaxation, guides pick up late for a private Aurora‑chasing outing from Murphy Dome where the party hunts for dancing northern lights; sightings, however, depend on the sky—there are no guarantees.
What the day feels like
What the two days feel like
The itinerary alternates exertion and ease: a crisp mountain approach and a 1.5‑mile walk to a secluded ice cave on day one, followed by a day of thermal recovery at Chena Hot Springs and a late‑night, guide‑led search for the Aurora from a high vantage at Murphy Dome. Between those bookends you’ll have time in North Pole to visit the Santa Claus House and return to town by early evening on the first day.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this short, focused program.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a two‑day guided program with morning pickup from Fairbanks on day one and a hotel/AirBnB drop‑off around 5:00 p.m. on that day; day two includes daytime access to Chena Hot Springs and a late‑night Aurora pickup.
Dress for cold weather—layers, insulated outerwear and appropriate footwear are recommended for the hike and night activities.
Guides provide tea and coffee during the Aurora outing; hot springs and Ice Museum admission are included (drinks at the ice bar are extra).
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The Full Alaskan Experience is a two‑day guided program.
Where and when does the tour begin?
Pickup is at 8:30 a.m. from your hotel or AirBnB in Fairbanks.
Is the Aurora guaranteed?
No—Aurora sightings are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, though guides will take you to Murphy Dome and pursue the best viewing conditions.
Are hot springs and the Ice Museum included?
Admission to Chena Hot Springs and the Ice Museum is included; a drink at the ice bar is an additional $15 if you choose to purchase one.
What should I wear for the hike and night activities?
Dress appropriately for cold weather—layered, insulated clothing and suitable footwear are recommended for the ice cave hike and the late‑night Aurora outing.
Will I be returned to my hotel after day one?
Yes—the tour includes a drop‑off at your hotel or AirBnB around 5:00 p.m. on the first day.