ESTER NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Soak, Learn, and Chase: A Full-Day to Chena Hot Springs and a Flexible Aurora Hunt
A full-day visit to Chena Hot Springs followed by a guided Northern Lights chase from Fairbanks, useful for planning timing, what’s included, and what to expect.
Soak, Learn, and Chase: A Full-Day to Chena Hot Springs and a Flexible Aurora Hunt.
This full-day experience combines an afternoon at Chena Hot Springs Resort with an evening Aurora chase led by local guides: relax in geothermal amenities, explore the Ice Museum and geothermal offerings, then return toward Fairbanks to seek dark skies and aurora displays while your guide helps with photography and interpretation.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Chena Hot Springs resort amenities
Plan on several hours on-site to use the hot springs, visit the Ice Museum and hotel, take the geothermal tour, and access on-site dining; massages are available but must be reserved well in advance.
Scenic drive with flexible photo and wildlife stops
Departing mid‑afternoon from the Fairbanks area, the route allows time for scenic photo stops and wildlife viewing en route to the resort, and includes round-trip transportation from lodgings within the Fairbanks/North Pole area.
A guided, flexible Aurora hunt with photography help
After your stay at the resort you’ll return toward Fairbanks on a guided Aurora chase that moves to darker vantage points as needed; tours include an aurora discussion, help with photography, and a small set of edited portrait photos at the guide’s discretion.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The day moves deliberately from daylight comfort to night-time pursuit: a relaxed drive from Fairbanks, a multi‑hour visit to Chena Hot Springs for soaking, exhibits, and optional activities, then a patient, data‑informed chase back toward Fairbanks where guides seek out dark, unobstructed skies and assist with framing and settings so you can capture the aurora.
THE SPRINGS
Chena Hot Springs resort amenities
Plan on several hours on-site to use the hot springs, visit the Ice Museum and hotel, take the geothermal tour, and access on-site dining; massages are available but must be reserved well in advance.
THE JOURNEY
Scenic drive with flexible photo and wildlife stops
Departing mid‑afternoon from the Fairbanks area, the route allows time for scenic photo stops and wildlife viewing en route to the resort, and includes round-trip transportation from lodgings within the Fairbanks/North Pole area.
THE CHASE
A guided, flexible Aurora hunt with photography help
After your stay at the resort you’ll return toward Fairbanks on a guided Aurora chase that moves to darker vantage points as needed; tours include an aurora discussion, help with photography, and a small set of edited portrait photos at the guide’s discretion.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Full‑day experience running approximately 8–12 hours.
Dress for cold night conditions; rental winter outerwear can be arranged through a partner. Guides provide simple snacks and supplies for hot cocoa or instant coffee; consider bringing or buying food from the resort deli as the restaurant does not take reservations.
Photography help is included; camera and tripod rentals and expanded photo packages are available as add-ons and can be requested when booking.
Round‑trip transportation from lodgings within the Fairbanks/North Pole area (within about 25 miles of the airport) is included; discuss pickup locations outside that radius for a small fuel surcharge or arrange a town meet-up.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are aurora sightings guaranteed?
No. The Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed; guides monitor live NOAA and NASA data and the aurora is visible in Fairbanks frequently during dark months, but thick cloud cover will prevent viewing.
Are resort passes or activities included in the tour price?
No. Passes and reservations for Chena Hot Springs Resort activities (springs passes, Ice Museum, geothermal tours, massages, snowmobiling, etc.) are not included and must be booked with the resort directly.
Can children use the hot springs?
Children under 12 years of age are not allowed in the hot springs pool and no childcare is provided.
What if the restaurant at the resort is crowded?
The resort restaurant does not take reservations and wait times can exceed two hours; the operator recommends bringing food or purchasing deli items to eat in the activity center.
Is transportation provided?
Yes. Transportation from lodgings within the Fairbanks or North Pole area (within roughly 25 miles from the airport) is included; guests staying farther out may be accommodated for a small additional fuel charge.
What photography services are included?
Guides include aurora discussion and assistance with photography for cameras or cell phones; five edited portrait photos with the aurora are included at the photographer’s discretion, with additional photo packages and camera/tripod rentals available as add-ons.