Find the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights

Plan your northern lights trip with expert travel advice, real-time aurora forecasts and destination guides. Whether you’re chasing the aurora borealis across Scandinavia, Iceland or the Canadian wilderness, we’ll help you find the best time and place to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays.

Canada

Banff •Churchill •Edmonton •Jasper •Whitehorse •Yellowknife

Faroe Islands

Tórshavn

Finland

Inari •Levi •Luosto •Rovaniemi

Greenland

Ilulissat •Kangerlussuaq •Nuuk •Qaqortoq

Iceland

Akureyri •Reykjavík •Vík

Norway

Alta •Bodø •Lofoten •Tromsø

Shetland

Lerwick

Svalbard

Longyearbyen

Sweden

Abisko •Björkliden •Kiruna

USA

Anchorage •Fairbanks •Healy

See also

Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​About Seek The Aurora

Fairbanks

Home / USA / Fairbanks

Aurora Season in Fairbanks, Alaska, is from August 21 through April 21 and spans all four seasons and nine months of the year. Plan your trip during late August and the first half of September to revel in summer activities and attractions by day and chase the northern lights at night. Autumn viewing unveils breathtaking colours and moderate weather. Winter expeditions offer long nights, dazzling snowy backdrops and unparalleled pursuits like dog mushing and giant ice-block carving. Lastly, spring is a joyful time offering winter landscapes paired with warmer temperatures.

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Fairbanks. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

1%

There is a 1% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Fairbanks area (forecast for 11 April 2026 at 7:53pm UTC)

HPI 21 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Density 2.22 p/cm3

Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimetre (p/cm3).

A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.

The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.

Speed 576.8 km/s

Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.

A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.

Light Levels

Moon

Waning crescent 40%

Sunrise 6:29am

Sunset 9:13pm

Moonrise 6:54am

Moonset 12:00pm

Weather Forecast for Fairbanks

Clouds

2°C Feels like 0°C

High
2°C
Low
-3°C

  • Chance of precipitation 13%

  • Cloud cover 85%

  • South-Westerly winds 2 km/h gusts of 5 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Fairbanks

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Fairbanks.

  • Free cancellation

    SkyChase™ | Northern Lights Experience - Free Photography & More

    4.8 (772)

    5 hours From £253.56

    We don’t just take you to the Northern Lights — we chase them. At Aurora In Alaska™, our exclusive SkyChase™ Northern Lights Experience uses our Lights-for-Life™ Formula to track weather, clouds, and solar activity in real time to take you to the clearest skies, at the best time. Travel in a heated, winterized Mercedes Sprinter van, relax at our mobile Aurora lodge, enjoy a twilight campfire meal, and sip drinks from our Borealis Brew Bar. Receive unlimited Aurora portraits from our pro photographers, plus night-lapse video and tripod rentals. We’re the only tour with an Aurora Guarantee: If no Aurora is visible to the eye or camera on a “guaranteed night,” you get a 50% refund or free rebooking. Disclaimer: A guaranteed night is based on real-time conditions. If any Aurora is visible by eye or camera, the night is considered fulfilled.

  • Free cancellation Private tour

    Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience in North Pole

    5.0 (1601)

    30 minutes From £79.47

    Enjoy a truly Alaskan experience in the famous North Pole Alaska on a 30 minute dog sledding adventure. This ride includes informative commentary from your local guide as you glide through the snow covered forest.  You will be seated in the dog sled as the team of Alaskan Huskies whisk you down the trails. Your guide will be standing on the back of the sled driving the team by voice commands. You will have a short stop during your adventure to meet your team of Alaskan Huskies and take pictures. All outer layers of winter clothing are included.

  • Free cancellation

    Northern Lights Aurora Tour with FREE Photography

    4.9 (543)

    8 - 12 hours From £162.73

    Discover the Magic of the Northern Lights: Aurora Tours from Fairbanks Join us on an unforgettable journey to witness the awe-inspiring Northern Lights! Whether near or far, we'll drive to the best locations to maximize your chances of seeing this natural wonder. Flexible Distance & Timing: We adapt our tours based on the aurora forecast, ensuring you have the best experience possible. Free Photography: Capture breathtaking memories with our complimentary photography services. Snacks & Drinks: Trips include delicious snacks and water to keep you refreshed. More Than a Tour: Immerse yourself in an amazing Alaskan adventure filled with vivid impressions, wonderful emotions, and the thrill of the wild. Fall in Love with Alaska: Let us make your Alaskan dreams come true. Book your Aurora tour today and embark on a journey you'll cherish forever!

  • Free cancellation

    Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour

    4.6 (1328)

    10 hours From £189.22

    Embark on one of our most popular evening adventures to Chena Hot Springs Resort, a renowned Alaskan getaway just 60 miles from Fairbanks. Keep an eye out for moose, fox, or beavers as you travel through the scenic interior. Your night begins with a guided tour of the Aurora Ice Museum, home to stunning ice sculptures and the famous ice bar, where you can optionally enjoy an Appletini in a hand-carved ice glass. Then relax with dinner or a drink in the cozy resort restaurant, featuring fresh, locally sourced produce (meal not included). Afterward, soak in the outdoor mineral hot springs, a rejuvenating experience under the stars, or explore the snowy grounds while waiting for a chance to witness the magical Aurora Borealis. Your guide will point out the best spots for viewing and provide tips to make the most of the night. PLEASE NOTE: You are eligible for a full refund up to 7 days before your tour.

  • Free cancellation Special offer

    Snowshoe Hike to Castner Glacier Ice Cave

    4.8 (66)

    9 hours From £172.57

    Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime, family friendly experience as we guide you inside Castner Ice Cave in the heart of one of Alaska's famed glaciers! We will drive from Fairbanks, passing open tundra with herds of caribou, the Trans-Alaskan pipeline, and on clear days see the stunning Alaska Range. Once we arrive at the glacier area we will gear up with snowshoes or ice cleats for your boots before heading out on a guided 1.5 mile hike to the Ice Cave! Please note that the hike itself is rather flat and easy-going, however extreme cold temperatures can make things difficult. Please come prepared! We will learn about the history of glaciers in Alaska, geology, local history, and much more as we embark to the glacier. This will no doubt be an adventure to bring home and tell your friends and family about! Licensed by Bureau of Land Management, Department of the Interior permit #2025-00551. Current photos from 24/25 winter season

  • Free cancellation

    Aurora Glass House – Northern Lights and Photos at Cleary Summit

    4.7 (221)

    5 hours From £74.93

    Discover our brand-new glass house, offering stunning panoramic views! Experience the magic of the Northern Lights from our Aurora Glass House at the top of Cleary Summit. Relax in a cozy cabin with floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for viewing and photographing the aurora. Step outside anytime for an even closer look at the aurora in the dark sky, far from city lights. Enjoy hot cocoa, coffee, and snacks while waiting, and take advantage of our Aurora photography services to capture stunning memories of this unforgettable night. Whether you stay inside or venture outdoors, this stylish and remote glass house offers the best Northern Lights viewing in Alaska.

Places to check out around Fairbanks

Explore more nearby Fairbanks

  • Aurora Borealis, Chena Hot Springs near Fairbanks, Alaska

    Credit: U.S. Forest Service

    Chena Hot Springs

    65°3'10"N, 146°3'32"W

    Aurora probability in Chena Hot Springs: 1%

    Chena Hot Springs, located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, is a renowned destination known for its natural hot springs, stunning aurora viewing opportunities and a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.

  • Christmas illuminations in North Pole, Alaska

    Credit: Dylan Sauerwein

    North Pole

    64°45'18"N, 147°21'12"W

    Aurora probability in North Pole: 1%

    North Pole, Alaska, is a small city located just southeast of Fairbanks, known for its festive Christmas-themed attractions, including Santa Claus House and its unique position as a gateway to experiencing the Northern Lights.

  • Nenana Ice Classic

    Credit: Blair Roberts Castagnetta

    Nenana

    64°33'48"N, 149°5'38"W

    Aurora probability in Nenana: 1%

    Nenana, Alaska, is a small town located about 55 miles southwest of Fairbanks, known for its rich history, the Nenana Ice Classic lottery and its proximity to the scenic Nenana River and Denali National Park.

Other places in The USA

Anchorage•​Healy

See also

Home•​Aurora Forecast•​Planning Your Northern Lights Adventure•​Northern Lights Photography•​Science Of The Aurora•​Northern Lights Playlist•​Northern Lights Myths And Legends•​About Seek The Aurora