FAIRBANKS NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Under the Dome: Chasing Fairbanksʼ Aurora by SUSV to a 360° Arctic Sky
A five-hour outing from Chena Hot Springs that climbs Charlie Dome in a military-style SUSV for unobstructed Northern Lights viewing from heated yurts with complimentary hot drinks and snacks.
Under the Dome: Chasing Fairbanksʼ Aurora by SUSV to a 360° Arctic Sky.
Adventure brief
Under the Dome: Chasing Fairbanksʼ Aurora by SUSV to a 360° Arctic Sky
From the resort at Chena Hot Springs you climb two miles up Charlie Dome in a military-style SUSV to a remote ridge where two Mongolian-style yurts offer shelter from the Arctic night. Away from city lights, the site delivers a full 360° horizon for scanning the sky; guests wait there—warm beverages in hand and snacks on offer—for the Aurora Borealis to appear.
In the heart of Alaska’s icy wilderness, Fairbanks stands out as one of the best places on Earth to witness the shimmering dance of the Northern Lights. Among the top vantage points in the region is the Chena Hot Springs Resort, renowned for its commitment to creating memorable Arctic experiences. Their Aurora Viewing Tour offers a chance to encounter the sky's vibrant celestial display in an environment designed for comfort and awe. The highlight is ascending Charlie Dome aboard a military-style Small Unmanned Surface Vehicle (SUSV), which delivers panoramic 360° views of the night sky above the snow-dusted landscape. This unique ascent provides a stable, heated platform that elevates your chances of catching Aurora Borealis movements sweeping across the horizon.
Once at the summit, guests are immersed in the wonder of the Arctic night, wrapped in the warmth of Mongolian yurts, accompanied by complimentary hot beverages and snacks — perfect for relaxing while waiting for the auroras to emerge. This combination of adventure and comfort makes for an unmatched Northern Lights experience that appeals to both serious sky-gazers and curious travelers alike. The resort’s remote location ensures minimal light pollution, increasing your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon in its full glory.
Chena Hot Springs' Aurora Viewing Tour is perfect for those seeking an accessible yet immersive Arctic adventure. It’s more than a sightseeing trip; it’s a chance to connect with the immense power of the Arctic environment, guided by experts who know the best viewing spots and local lore. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an experienced adventurer, this trip offers an opportunity to witness Alaska’s living sky show from a truly exceptional perspective.
Route Schematic
Route & key stops
A short, purposeful route from the resort to a sheltered high ridge where most of the evening is spent watching the sky.
Activity Center, Chena Hot Springs Resort
Meet at the resort activity center 15 minutes before departure to check in and address any gear needs.
SUSV ascent
Board the military-style SUSV for the roughly 20–30 minute ride up the mountain to Charlie Dome.
Charlie Dome — Yurts & viewing
Settle into one of two Mongolian-style yurts, enjoy complimentary hot beverages and snacks, and spend approximately four hours observing the 360° night sky.
Return descent to Chena Hot Springs
When the guides call it, load the SUSV for the 20–30 minute return trip back to the resort.
The operator remains at the dome for an extended period (about four hours) and does not return early; plan for the full time commitment and prepare for cold-night conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
SUSV ride to Charlie Dome
The ascent uses a military-style Small Unit Support Vehicle (SUSV) for the roughly 20–30 minute ride up to the viewing site, setting the tone for an expedition away from light pollution.
360° unobstructed night sky
Perched on Charlie Dome you have an unobstructed, full-circle view of the night sky—an ideal darkness that helps your eyes pick up faint auroral displays.
Heated yurts, hot drinks and snacks
Two Mongolian-style yurts provide a warm base at the top where complimentary hot beverages and snacks are available while you wait for the lights.
What the day feels like
How the night unfolds
You meet at the resort activity center, board the SUSV for a 20–30 minute climb to Charlie Dome, and establish base in one of two heated yurts. The group remains at the dome for roughly four hours—staying up there rather than returning early—watching the sky with hot drinks and snacks available, before loading back into the SUSV for the 20–30 minute ride down to Chena Hot Springs.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who benefits and who should think twice
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Warm clothes, plus any personal snacks and bottled water you prefer for the outing.
The top includes heated yurts where guests can warm up while waiting for the aurora; hot beverages and snacks are provided.
The full Aurora Viewing Tour lasts five hours; plan to be away from the resort for the entire duration.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is the Northern Lights guaranteed on this tour?
No—the Aurora Borealis is a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed, though the site on Charlie Dome offers ideal darkness for viewing if the lights appear.
How long is the tour and how much time is spent at the viewing site?
The Aurora Viewing Tour lasts five hours in total, with approximately four hours spent at the top of Charlie Dome waiting for the aurora.
Where and when do we meet the group?
Guests meet at the Chena Hot Springs activity center 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
How long is the ride to Charlie Dome?
Expect roughly a 20–30 minute SUSV ride each way between Chena Hot Springs and the dome.
Are beverages and snacks provided at the viewing site?
Yes—complimentary hot beverages and snacks are available in the yurts while you wait for the aurora.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-15T12:03:31.618Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.