Experience the Magic of Alaska in Winter
From November to April, Alaska transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, offering unique adventure opportunities that make it one of the most sought-after destinations in the United States. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights, exploring glaciers, or immersing yourself in local culture, there’s something for every traveler. However, planning a trip during this season requires some preparation and flexibility.
Alaska’s winter is known for its extreme cold, unpredictable weather, and limited access to certain areas. While the experience can be unforgettable, it also comes with challenges. The Northern Lights may not always appear when you expect, and travel options are often restricted. Additionally, many attractions and accommodations are more expensive due to lower availability. Despite these hurdles, the rewards of experiencing Alaska in winter are well worth the effort.
1. Witness the Northern Lights on a Special Tour
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is one of the most magical natural phenomena in Alaska. Historically, the best time to see them is between August 21 and April 21. Fairbanks serves as a popular hub for aurora tours, offering various options for viewing the lights. One such place is Chena Hot Springs Resort, where Snowcat tractors take visitors to a mountaintop warming hut and viewing area. Another option is Borealis Basecamp, which features clear domed yurts and staff who will wake you if the lights appear.
To maximize your chances, staying overnight north of the Arctic Circle is recommended. This puts you directly under the auroral belt, increasing the likelihood of witnessing the mesmerizing green bands of light. During a visit to Coldfoot Camp, travelers had the opportunity to watch the lights from the hamlet of Wiseman, guided by a local expert who shared tips, hot chocolate, and stories about the region.
2. Hike on the Matanuska Glacier
The Matanuska Glacier, located about 100 miles northeast of Anchorage, is one of Alaska’s most accessible glacial wonders. It is easily reachable via Highway 1, making it a popular destination for both hikers and snowmobilers. The glacier is receding at a rate of about four feet per year, so visiting now is highly recommended.
Greatland Adventures offers a guided hike across the glacier, where visitors can explore blue ice slopes, crevasses, and caves. The tour includes appropriate gear such as waterproof boots and ice crampons, and a hearty alpine lunch is served at a nearby lodge. This is a perfect way to experience the raw beauty of Alaska’s natural landscape.
3. Take an Alaska Railroad Journey
The Alaska Railroad is a must-experience for any winter traveler. The journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks, or vice versa, offers stunning views of boreal forests and Denali National Park. On a recent trip, the train was only running on weekends, but the scenery was still breathtaking. When skies were clear, the soft ice-blue light blurred the horizon between mountain peaks and clouds, creating a surreal backdrop.
One of the highlights of the trip was catching a glimpse of Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America. Travelers also looked out for Sun Dogs, rare atmospheric phenomena that occur at the edges of the sun. These colorful rainbows are a signature feature of Alaskan winters.
4. Go on an Arctic Safari at Coldfoot Camp
Coldfoot Camp, located halfway between Fairbanks and the Arctic Ocean, has a rich history dating back over a century. Today, it is run by the Northern Alaska Tour Company, offering Arctic Safaris that take visitors through the Brooks Range. The tour includes spotting caribou, porcupines, and even wolves, along with stops for sledding and selfies.
After the safari, guests can enjoy a hot shower, a large meal, and the chance to view the Northern Lights. The camp is also a great base for flightseeing trips, providing a unique perspective of the vast Alaskan wilderness.
5. Relax at Chena Hot Springs
Chena Hot Springs Resort is a vibrant winter destination offering a variety of activities. From dog sledding and snowmobiling to an ice museum and indoor pool, there’s something for everyone. The highlight, however, is the natural hot spring, where visitors can soak in 104-degree water until late at night.
Despite the crowds, the resort provides a memorable experience, especially during the Northern Lights Group Tour, which often results in spectacular displays of light in the sky.
6. Explore the Hotel Captain Cook
Located in Anchorage, the Hotel Captain Cook is a historic luxury hotel with a rich heritage. Guests can take a tour of the property to admire carved door pulls, murals, and ship models. The Crow’s Nest restaurant offers panoramic views of Cook Inlet, while the Native American art in the lobby galleries adds a cultural touch.
Other highlights include the old-school barber, shoeshine service, and the famous clam chowder at Fletcher’s Pub. The hotel is a great base for exploring Anchorage and its surrounding areas.
7. Discover Fairbanks’ Museums and Cultural Centers
For those who prefer to stay indoors, Fairbanks offers several world-class museums. The Museum of the North, located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, showcases Native Athabascan artifacts and exhibits about the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. The Northern Lights movie is a favorite among science-minded kids.
The Morris Thompson Cultural Center is another must-visit, featuring exhibits and dioramas that illustrate the lives of Alaska’s indigenous peoples. Visitors can learn about traditional practices such as salmon preservation and the significance of bears in Athabascan culture.
8. Shop for Unique Souvenirs in Fairbanks
Fairbanks’ Second Street is a bustling shopping district where each shop has its own story to tell. Gold Rush Fine Jewelry offers unique pieces made from gold nuggets and mammoth tusks, while Alaska Rare Coins features collectibles, coins, and postcards.
Fur Factory sells elegant evening wear made from lynx, marmot, and wolverine pelts, and Big Ray’s outdoor store offers warm gloves and moccasin-style boots. After shopping, visitors can relax at Venue coffee bar or enjoy a hearty lunch at Noodle House.
9. Explore Anchorage
Anchorage, Fairbanks’ larger sister city, offers a milder winter climate and more snowfall. Rent fat tire bikes to ride the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail or watch floatplanes take off and land at Lake Hood. The Anchorage Museum and the Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center provide insight into Native arts and history.
The Alaska Native Heritage Center is another treasure trove of traditional and contemporary Native customs. Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers Cooperative sells items made from Quiviut, the soft underhair of the musk ox. Diners can enjoy a fried egg focaccia at Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop or try a customizable flight of beer at 49th State Brewery.
10. Sled Dog Through Denali Country
For an adrenaline-packed experience, join a sled dog tour in Talkeetna. AK Sled Dog Tours, run by five-time Iditarod champion Dallas Seavey, offers the chance to mush a team of Alaskan Huskies through snow-capped birch forests. After the tour, visitors can meet the champion puppies in training.
If time allows, take a flightseeing trip around Denali National Park with K2, a local company that offers flights with and without glacier landings. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the majesty of Alaska’s natural landscapes.
