Look to the heavens in September and October as they are excellent months to view the aurora in Fairbanks. The mild temperatures make it particularly alluring and during this time period, you can marvel at the aurora reflecting on water surfaces. Chena Lake Recreation Area in North Pole, one of the Aurora Tracker hot spots, is a popular place for viewing and photographing mirror-image aurora displays which are visible before the lake freezes and snow flies.

Fairbanks is one of the best places on Earth to see the northern lights during the Aurora Season from August 21 to April 21. Fairbanks’ location directly under the “Auroral Oval”—a ring-shaped region hovering over the Far North—combined with a good balance of clear nights, occurrence frequency and activity allows for excellent aurora viewing opportunities in the late summer, autumn, winter and spring.

While in Fairbanks, ask your accommodation’s front desk personnel if they offer a wake-up call when the northern lights are out and check the Aurora Tracker to predict when and where the aurora will likely be visible. No guarantees, but the longer you’re in Fairbanks, the better your chances are of seeing a great show. You can also book an aurora tour with one of our many partners who will show you how to take photographs of the northern lights or will take your portrait while the aurora dances in the background.

After you see the aurora, get your personalized Aurora Certificate available from the Explore Fairbanks staff at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center.