Fairbanks

At 65 degrees north latitude, the sky takes on a capricious life of its own—a canvas for the aurora borealis, the midnight sun, and sunsets and sunrises that last forever. Home to serious mountain ranges, pristine rivers and lakes, abundant wildlife and a certain poignant solitude that is found nowhere else on earth. Locals embrace the natural world and have created a vibrant river city in the far north. Where else can you travel to such a remote locale and still enjoy all the amenities of a charming downtown, a thriving arts community, rich Alaska Native culture, authentic Alaskan activities and attractions and endless opportunities for exploration?

Top Spots

Photograph the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska

1 mi / 1 ft gain

As close to magic as you'll ever see on this Earth, the northern lights, or aurora borealis, are an absolute must-see for any nature enthusiast. The aurora borealis are visible in Fairbanks from August through April, meaning there's an astounding nine months of aurora viewing! Of course, the aurora are only visible when it's dark out, so the between September and March will offer the most oppor...

Wander Lake Trail

Fairbanks, Alaska

1.57 mi / 131 ft gain

Wander Lake Trail is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Chena Riverwalk

Fairbanks, Alaska

3.0

7.51 mi / 509 ft gain

Chena Riverwalk is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a river located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Farm Road Trail and Chickadee Loop

Fairbanks, Alaska

2.38 mi / 161 ft gain

Farm Road Trail and Chickadee Loop is a loo trail that takes you by a lake located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Boreal Forest and Seasonal Wetland Trail

Fairbanks, Alaska

2.41 mi / 171 ft gain

Boreal Forest and Seasonal Wetland Trail is a loop trail that takes you through a nice forest located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Birch Hill's Blue Loop Trail

Fairbanks, Alaska

1.26 mi / 161 ft gain

Birch Hill's Blue Loop Trail is a loop trail that takes you through a nice forest located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Ballaine Lake, Estle Connector, Baseline Classic Loop

Fairbanks, Alaska

4.09 mi / 302 ft gain

Ballaine Lake, Estle Connector, Baseline Classic Loop is a loop trail that takes you through a nice forest located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Pearl Creek Cross County Skiing Trail

Fairbanks, Alaska

1.08 mi / 49 ft gain

Pearl Creek Cross County Skiing Trail is a loop trail that is good for all skill levels and used for trail running and cross country skiing located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

Powerline Loop

Fairbanks, Alaska

2.78 mi / 338 ft gain

Powerline Loop is a loop trail that takes you through a nice forest located near Fairbanks, Alaska.

More adventures

Guides and stories

These photographers set out to film the aurora borealis from the edge of space

Kyle Frost

In a new film, three friends use an a7S III and a weather balloon to capture incredible footage of the Northern Lights.

Quick links

• The best hiking trails in Fairbanks
• The best backpacking in Fairbanks
• The best camping in Fairbanks
• Top adventures in Fairbanks