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My Alaska Aurora Trip, Best Spots and One to Skip

Chased auroras in Fairbanks last March and learned a lot, here’s where to go (and what to avoid):

Cleary Summit (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

No exact address, but it’s a popular pull-off near Fairbanks.

Saw auroras 3 nights in a row here! Dress like an onion, temps drop fast. Zero light pollution, so bring a tripod for pics. Perfect for pure aurora chasing.

Chena Hot Springs (⭐️)

Meh. Water was murky, showers were gross—bring your own towel/slippers. No WiFi, so disconnect (or don’t, lol). For a nicer soak, hit Alyeska Resort in Anchorage (pricey, but pristine… and no phone pics allowed, sadly).

Dog Sledding at 1983 Tunnels Rd. (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

CUTEST EXPERIENCE EVER. The puppies were adorable, and the owner was so friendly, let us snuggle the dogs for pics. Cash preferred (they accept cards, but tip in cash!). A must for animal lovers.

Castner Glacier Blue Ice Caves (⭐️⭐️⭐️)

Took 1.5-2 hours round-trip hiking in snow, I wear good boots and snow goggles! The ice wasn’t as “wow” as Instagram, but still cool (literally). Skip a guide in March, trails are clear.

Aurora Villa (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

Stayed in cabin 4, views were blocked by trees (ask for cabins 1-3!). Chinese-owned, with a sweet staffer who shared local stories. Cozy, but luck of the draw for room views.

Midnight Sun ATV Snowmobiles (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

MOST FUN ACTIVITY EVER. 1-hour tour was perfect (2 hours might tire you out). Free snow gear provided—safety first! The forest trails at sunset is stunning.

Polar Museum (⭐️⭐️⭐️)

Small but interesting. Good for a quick stop if you’re into local history.

Anyone else chased auroras in AK? Did I miss a hidden gem, or agree Chena Hot Springs is overrated? Share your adventures please!

#letschat #asklemon8 #alaskacruise

2025/5/1 Edited to

2 comments

This Alaska aurora trip sounds epic! Thanks for the recs and warnings, adding to my bucket list!

I live in Minnesota, USA and we see the Aurora lots of times a year. It's definitely not as far North as Alaska, but it's still spectacular to see in person with your own eyes. 👌🏽☮️

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