The scientific phenomenon of the aurora borealis, or northern lights, is a result of the electrons and protons of atoms in the atmosphere being attracted to, and traveling along, the lines of the earth's magnetic field. When the atoms collide with each other it causes them to emit photons, creating light. Auroras take place in both the northern and southern hemispheres, the northern’s being named after the god of the north wind from Greek mythology, Borealis. At 65 degrees north latitude, under the auroral oval, the Fairbanks area is one of the best spots in Alaska to view the northern lights. Tours typically are available from September to April when the lights are the most visible.
Alaska Tour & Travel offers a six-day rail tour aboard coach and the famed Alaskan Railroad with a 100 percent guaranteed aurora borealis viewing. The trip begins in Anchorage and ends in Fairbanks after a circuit along the Alaska Range, Denali National Park and three nights at the Chena Hot Springs Wilderness Resort. The tour is inclusive of lodging, transportation and meals. Additional options of cross-country skiing, snow machine and sled dog tours along the route are available.
Alaska Tour & Travel
9170 Jewel Lake Road
Anchorage, AK 99502
800-208-0200
goalaskatours.com
Northern Alaska Tour Company operates an eight-day round-trip northern lights sightseeing tour from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle. From Fairbanks the tour travels along the Dalton Highway through the Brooks Mountain Range and across the Arctic Divide. Tourists then spend three nights in the town of Coldfoot and visit the historic mining town of Wiseman, the solitary year-round operating town on the length of the Dalton. A plane ride across the Arctic Circle is included, and sled dog tours are available. A free day to explore Fairbanks is scheduled for both ends of the trip. Coach travel, from Fairbanks, and accommodations are included, while meals are additional.
Northern Alaska Tour Company
PO Box 82991-W
Fairbanks, AK 99708
800-474-1986
northernalaska.com
For a more intimate and personalized experience the Aurora Borealis Lodge, 20 miles north of Fairbanks, offers nightly tours. Located at 2,000 feet atop Cleary Summit, the Aurora Borealis Lodge is an ideal place to view Alaska’s northern lights. The lodge provides round-trip transportation from Fairbanks and hot drinks. Tourists can also drive themselves to the lodge and receive a discount for the tour. The Aurora Borealis Lodge also offers overnight accommodations in rooms with fully equipped kitchens and views of the light shows. Transportation from Fairbanks is available for overnight guests, and heavyweight parkas and pants are available for rental.
Aurora Borealis Lodge
PO Box 72422
Fairbanks, AK 99707
907-389-2812
auroracabin.com
