Aurora season in Alaska runs from late August to mid-April in Fairbanks and early August to mid-May in Anchorage. These months offer long, dark nights perfect for aurora viewing. The best time for clear skies and enhanced auroral activity is February to April, thanks to the equinox effect and drier weather.

There’s no need to check aurora activity or cloud cover forecasts too far in advance. Cloud cover predictions in Alaska are only reliable up to 24 hours at best, and aurora forecasts are most accurate just a few hours ahead. Occasionally, increased space weather activity may give 1-3 days’ notice of heightened aurora chances, but nothing is ever guaranteed.

To learn more about aurora forecasting, check out my blog article for detailed tips and tools. Remember, the aurora can appear on any clear night during aurora season, so plan to stay for several nights to maximize your chances of seeing this amazing phenomenon.

Packing for an aurora tour in Alaska depends on the season, but staying warm is key, especially during winter. Here's a list of essentials:

Winter Gear (Late Fall to Early Spring):

• Layers for Warmth: Wool or synthetic base layers, a fleece or insulated mid-layer, and a heavy parka or down jacket.
• Bottom Layers: Wool long underwear, lined pants or fleece-lined leggings, and waterproof snow pants.
• Footwear: Insulated winter boots with thick wool socks.
• Accessories: Hat, gloves or mittens with liners, a balaclava or scarf to cover your face, and hand/toe warmers.

Year-Round Essentials:

• Camera Gear: DSLR or mirrorless camera, tripod, and extra batteries if you’re planning to photograph the aurora.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: Preferably with a red light setting to preserve night vision.
• Snacks and Water: To keep your energy up during late-night outings.
• Backpack: To carry extra layers, camera gear, and other essentials.

Summer/Fall Considerations (August to Early October):

• Waterproof Layers: A rain jacket and pants for unpredictable weather.
• Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can still be active in early fall.

Extra Tips:

• If you’re visiting in winter, ensure your rental car has winter tires and is properly winterized.
• Don’t skimp on cold-weather gear. Alaska winters can be extremely cold, and staying warm is crucial for enjoying the aurora.
• If you’re unsure about gear, many outfitters and rental shops in Alaska offer cold-weather clothing rentals.

If you’re visiting Alaska to see the aurora, you’ll most likely fly into Fairbanks (FAI) or Anchorage (ANC). Fairbanks is closer to the auroral oval, making it one of the best places in the world for northern lights viewing. Anchorage offers more flight options and is a popular starting point for many travelers, especially those on cruises.

If you’re taking a cruise from Anchorage, you may have a few days in Fairbanks beforehand as part of a pre-cruise itinerary. Many cruise packages include shuttle services between Fairbanks and Anchorage, giving you a chance to explore both cities.

It’s also possible to drive to Alaska via the Alaska Highway, which connects to the lower 48 through Canada. However, this is a long journey, and it’s not recommended during the winter months due to unpredictable weather and road conditions.

Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to start your aurora adventure, with Anchorage and Fairbanks serving as the main gateways to Alaska’s northern lights!

Fairbanks has a lot to offer, with activities and attractions that show off the best of Alaska. Check out my visitor's guide to Fairbanks page for all the details. Here are some highlights:

• Watch the Aurora Borealis: Fairbanks is one of the top places in the world to see the northern lights, visible from late August to mid-April.
• Relax at Chena Hot Springs: Enjoy the warm hot springs and visit the Ice Museum, featuring ice sculptures and even an ice bar.
• Stop by the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center: Learn about Interior Alaska’s history, culture, and wildlife through free exhibits and films.
• Go Dog Sledding: Try mushing your own team of dogs or take a ride through the snowy landscapes.
• Check Out the World Ice Art Championships: This winter event showcases amazing ice sculptures and fun interactive displays.
• Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North: Explore exhibits on Alaskan art, history, and wildlife, with great views of the area.
• Take a Trip to the North Pole: Just outside Fairbanks, this town has Santa’s House and fun holiday-themed attractions all year.
• Try Ice Fishing or Snowmobiling: Winter sports are a great way to enjoy frozen lakes and snowy trails.
• Ride a Riverboat: In summer, cruise along the Chena or Tanana Rivers and learn about local history and wildlife.
• Explore Pioneer Park: This free park has museums, historic buildings, and a glimpse into Fairbanks’ gold rush history.

Fairbanks offers a mix of outdoor fun, cultural activities, and beautiful sights to enjoy in any season!

Alaska 4x4 Rentals is the best choice for exploring Alaska. Their vehicles are fully winterized with engine block warmers, trickle chargers, and tires suited for the season, making them safe for icy roads and snowy conditions.

Other rental companies may provide cars that aren’t prepared for Alaska’s tough winters, which can be dangerous, especially in remote areas. Getting stranded in harsh weather can quickly become a serious situation. With Alaska 4x4 Rentals, you’ll have a reliable, safe car ready for Alaska’s roads, whether you’re chasing the aurora or heading into the wilderness.

Staying safe in Alaska’s wilderness requires preparation and caution. Here are some tips:

• Carry Bear Spray: Always have bear spray with you, especially if you’ll be hiking or in remote areas.
• Bring a Satellite Phone: Cell service can be unreliable, so a satellite phone or emergency communication device is essential.
• Tell Someone Your Plans: Let friends or family know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
• Stick to Main Roads: Avoid remote, unmaintained roads, especially in winter.
• Pack Extra Water and Food: Be prepared in case of unexpected delays or emergencies.
• Download Offline Maps: Use your phone to download maps so you can navigate without cell service.
• Keep Your Gas Tank Full: Always fill up before heading out, as gas stations can be far apart.
• Watch for Moose: Stay alert while driving, especially at dawn, dusk, or in areas with moose crossing signs.

Planning ahead and staying aware can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip into Alaska’s wilderness.

Fairbanks:
In Fairbanks, you might see moose along trails, near rivers, or even in town. Other common wildlife includes foxes, hares, and birds like ravens and chickadees. Beavers can often be spotted along the Chena River, and in more remote areas, you could encounter grizzly bears or wolves. During the summer, bald eagles are a common sight. For a closer look at Alaskan wildlife, you can book a tour at the Large Animal Research Station, where you can see muskoxen and learn about other native species.

Anchorage:
In Anchorage, moose are frequently seen in parks and on trails. You might also spot beluga whales in Cook Inlet or black and brown bears in the surrounding mountains. Dall sheep are often visible grazing on rocky hillsides. Bird enthusiasts can find bald eagles, ducks, and songbirds, while streams like Ship Creek attract salmon, drawing in other wildlife as well.

Both cities offer excellent opportunities to observe Alaska’s wildlife in their natural habitats or through guided tours and educational experiences.

There’s no way to guarantee you’ll see the aurora, but the longer you stay, the better your chances. In Fairbanks, the aurora is out in some capacity every night because the city sits directly under the auroral oval. However, clear skies are key. Some people say staying three nights in Fairbanks gives you about a 90% chance of catching the lights.

In Anchorage, you’ll need a bit more auroral activity to see anything beyond a faint show on the northern horizon. While aurora tours and knowledge of space weather data can help maximize your chances, there’s always the possibility of not seeing the lights. That’s what makes aurora chasing so special—it’s a combination of luck and skill.

If the aurora were easy to see, everyone would have experienced it already! Embrace the unpredictability, and with patience and persistence, you might just catch one of the most incredible shows nature has to offer.