Top Fairbanks Water Tours

We’ll launch from the Nordale boat launch and head upstream on the Chena River by jet boat. Once we reach the Chena River Dam, we cut the motor and switch to a quiet electric trolling motor, letting the river carry us back down. This is when things slow down and the experience really comes alive with no engine noise, just the sounds of the river and the surrounding wilderness. It’s common to see moose feeding in the shallows, beavers working the banks, and birds like bald eagles, and ducks. On occasion, black bears make a sighting while we drift down the river. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, this quiet stretch of river is prime habitat, and we see animals often. Drifting down presents a perfect opportunity to cast a line, so we also carry fishing gear on board for guests who’d like to try their luck while we drift the scenic Chena River. A valid Alaska one-day fishing license ($15) is required for anyone who chooses to fish.

Look no further for a cozy, curated northern lights experience. Head to the cozy rustic Alaskan cabin, high on a ridge overlooking the Alaska Mountains. As you wait for the sky to light up in neon technicolor, keep comfortable with hot cocoa, coffee, and snacks. From there, all you have to do is enjoy the show (aurora sightings are a natural phenomenon and cannot be guaranteed).

Venture away from the light pollution of Fairbanks, without worrying about navigating the snowy roads, with this aurora-chasing tour. Travel from your hotel in a heated van in search of the colorful natural phenomenon. Learn about the aurora and Alaskan culture from your guide, enjoy a twilight campfire meal, and even get tips on how to capture the northern lights on your camera.

Set out in search of the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis during your time in Alaska on this nighttime excursion. Depart from Fairbanks after dark and venture deep into the forest in search of locations with little to no light pollution. If you find the colorful, dancing lights, your guide captures photos of your group so you can cherish the moments forever. Hotel pickup from downtown Fairbanks is included for convenience.

Explore beyond Fairbanks city limits—and enjoy an exciting but relaxing array of activities at the Chena Hot Springs Resort—on this small-group tour. Admire ice sculptures at the Aurora Ice Museum, unwind in the resort’s hot mineral springs, and upgrade to enjoy drinks or a meal on site. If the conditions are right, you can then cap off the experience with a northern lights viewing before returning to your hotel.

Discover Alaska’s natural hot springs and amazing ice sculptures without having to sort out your own transportation on a full-day tour to Chena Hot Springs from Fairbanks. Soak in thermally heated open-air hot springs and check out the intricate ice sculptures displayed at the Aurora Ice Museum.

Dog sledding is one of Alaska's many time-honored traditions and used to be the prime mode of transportation. On this private excursion from Fairbanks, you can experience a thrilling dog sled ride through the snow-covered forests. After your ride, enjoy one-on-one time with the dogs and their puppies and learn more about the Alaskan tradition.

Go far off the beaten track on this small-group tour that takes you along one of the world's most isolated roads. Travel into the Alaskan wilderness along the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to the edge of the Arctic Circle. On the way back, keep your eyes peeled for the northern lights, though the natural phenomenon cannot be guaranteed.

During your visit to Alaska, view the fleeting northern lights from the comfort and warmth of an Aurora Lodge. Ride in a climate-controlled vehicle with hotel pickup in Fairbanks and enjoy commentary from your guide and a warm spot to wait for "Lady Aurora" to light up the sky. Since this is a small-group tour, you’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, too.

Immerse yourself in the Arctic Circle and Dalton Highway on this tour from Fairbanks. Beat vacation planning overwhelm, and leave the organization and logistics to your guide. Cover plenty of ground in a vehicle, resting your feet between stops at Finger Mountain, the Arctic Circle Monument Sign, and more. Perfect for travelers wanting to visit the Arctic Tundra on their trip to Alaska.

If you only have one full day in Fairbanks, this is the most efficient and complete way to experience it. Instead of booking separate tickets, renting a car, and coordinating timing between rural attractions, this tour brings Fairbanks’ most iconic summer experiences into one perfectly sequenced day. Cruise the Chena River aboard a historic sternwheeler. Watch a bush pilot take off and land beside the boat. Visit championship sled dogs and learn about Alaska’s racing legacy. Pan for real gold at a historic Gold Dredge site and keep what you find. Explore Pioneer Park’s restored frontier buildings, museums, and local shops along the river. All major admissions are included. Transportation is handled. A local guide connects each stop with stories and context so you experience more than just attractions. This is a fully curated Fairbanks experience designed to maximize your time in Alaska without the stress of planning.

Start the day off with a scenic drive with a great chance to view wild life, stop at angel rocks for a moderate 2 mile hike with extremely rewarding views. Along the route observe lots of fona and flora, your guide will provide bug spray, water, and snack bar. The top of Angel Rocks is an excellent photo opportunity. After completing the hike and returning to the van we will continue on to Chena Hot springs to visit the stunning Ice museum followed by a relaxing soak in the Natural Hot Springs.