Riverboat Discovery : Fairbanks : Seek The Aurora

Fairbanks

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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.

Credit: Emeric Laperriere
Credit: K Enagonio
Credit: Bob Clark
Credit: Reagan Ross
Credit: Anastasia Nagibina
Credit: Chenghui Li
Credit: Dennis Zhang
Credit: Dennis Zhang

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

There is a 5% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Fairbanks area (forecast for 21 February 2026 at 6:30am UTC)

Kp 4.33

The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.

0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.

HPI 15 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.

Bz 9 nT

Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).

When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced aurora activity.

Bt 12 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 2.27 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 521.4 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

Waxing crescent 24%

Sunrise 8:31am

Sunset 5:37pm

Moonrise 8:24am

Moonset 11:42pm

Weather Forecast for Fairbanks

Snow

-30°C Feels like -30°C

High: -19°C
Low: -30°C

Chance of precipitation 44%
Cloud cover 42%
Westerly winds 4 km/h gusts of 9 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 (710)

5 hours From £253.08

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

Northern Lights & Chena Hot Springs Tour

4.6 (1281)

10 hours From £188.87

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

Northern Lights Aurora Tour with FREE Photography

4.9 (486)

8 - 12 hours From £158.65

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 Private tour

Dog Sledding and Mushing Experience in North Pole

5.0 (1402)

30 minutes From £79.32

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

Mountaintop 360° Best Alaskan Cabin with Photography @Aurora Camp

4.7 (322)

4 hours 30 minutes From £74.79

Experience the Northern Lights from a large, professional-grade mountaintop aurora viewing cabin offering 360° unobstructed sky views and an expansive 10-acre open yard, creating one of the most open and comfortable aurora-viewing environments near Fairbanks. Located at elevation with wide-open sightlines in every direction, the cabin allows guests to watch the aurora comfortably indoors or freely outdoors, without visual barriers or crowding. A professional guide continuously monitors aurora activity using a live aurora camera, helping identify peak viewing moments and assisting guests with aurora photography throughout the night. Designed with space, warmth, and visibility in mind, this experience is ideal for travelers seeking a calm, uncrowded, and truly immersive Northern Lights experience.
Free cancellation

Alaska Snowmobile Adventure Tour

5.0 (1704)

1 hour 30 minutes From £84.99

Our tour offers a thrilling and immersive winter experience right outside of Fairbanks. Unlike typical sightseeing, you'll actively explore Alaska’s pristine backcountry by snowmobile, guided by a local expert who will first teach you how to safely operate your machine. Then, you're off to ride through a breathtaking winter wonderland—crossing frozen rivers and lakes, weaving through snow-covered trails, and taking in the stunning mountain scenery around the Chena Lakes Recreation Area near North Pole, Alaska. It's an unforgettable adventure you won't find anywhere else. PLEASE NOTE: You are eligible for a full refund up to 7 days before your tour.

Places to check out around Fairbanks

Alaska Salmon Bake

Seafood Restaurant
Alyeska Pipeline Viewpoint

Scenic Lookout
Aurora Ice Museum

Museum
Bahn Thai

Thai Restaurant
Brown Jug Fairbanks

Liquor Store
Chena Hot Springs Resort

Hot Spring
Chena River

River
Chowder House

Soup Spot
Creamer's Field

Park
DW Grill

Diner
Fairbanks Community Museum

History Museum
Fountainhead Antique Automobile and Vintage Clothing Museum

Museum
Fudge Pot

Dessert Shop
Geraldo's Italian Restaurant

Italian Restaurant
Gold Dredge #8

History Museum
Ivory Jacks

American Restaurant
Lavelle's Taphouse

Beer Garden
Mecca Bar

Dive Bar
Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center

Tourist Information and Service
Pioneer Park

Amusement Park
Riverboat Discovery

Tour Provider
Sunrise Bagel & Espresso

Bagel Shop
Tanana Valley Farmers Market

Farmers Market
Tanana Valley Model Railroad

Museum
Thai House Restaurant

Thai Restaurant
The Cookie Jar Restaurant

Breakfast Spot
The Crepery

Creperie
The Pump House

American Restaurant
University of Alaska Museum of the North

Science Museum
World Ice Art Championship & Ice Park

Amusement Park

Explore more nearby Fairbanks

Credit: U.S. Forest Service

Chena Hot Springs

65°3'10"N, 146°3'32"W

Aurora probability in Chena Hot Springs: 5%

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.
Credit: Dylan Sauerwein

North Pole

64°45'18"N, 147°21'12"W

Aurora probability in North Pole: 5%

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.
Credit: Blair Roberts Castagnetta

Nenana

64°33'48"N, 149°5'38"W

Aurora probability in Nenana: 4%

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.