chase the AURORA

For more information about the northern lights in Fairbanks, including a map to popular aurora viewing locations, stop by the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center and pick up the Aurora Viewing Map & Guide. Once you’ve seen the aurora, return to the center for your personalized Aurora Certificate to take home.

Fairbanks is among the world’s best places for viewing the northern lights during Aurora Season August 21 to April 21. The city’s location is ideal, directly under the Auroral Oval, a ring-shaped band that hovers in the atmosphere above the Arctic Circle where aurora activity is concentrated. In addition, low precipitation in the region means clear nights are more common and low population density leads to darker skies with less light pollution.

Nearby vantage points are perfect for scanning the sky and waiting for the northern lights to appear or you can book a tour for professional guidance. Spend a night in a heated “aurorium” cabin, yurt or lodge to view the northern lights in warmth and comfort. You can also look for them on an overnight dog sled adventure, snowmobile ride, snow cat tour or a flight above the Arctic Circle. Ask your lodging’s front desk if they offer a wake-up call when the northern lights are out.

Stay for at least three nights and be out actively looking during the late-night hours and your chances of seeing the aurora are more than 90%. Intensity varies from night to night and the best displays usually appear during the late evening to early morning hours. No guarantees, but the longer you’re here, the better your chances of seeing a great show.