HageAlaska/MattofState© World’s Best Aurora Viewing Behold the magic of the northern lights Four-Legged Athletes Dog mushing – Alaska’s state sport Arctic Diamond Ice Sculptures Two-ton blocks of ice turned into art PLUS Snowy excursions, walking with reindeer, hot springs, Santa Claus, local activities and attractions and all you need to know to plan your winter adventure!
Fairbanks’ latitude on the globe makes it one of the best places on earth to see the captivating light of the aurora borealis, view incredible outdoor ice sculptures and experience the exhilarating sport of dog mushing. This surprising trio of events makes the Winter Season a traveler’s snowy paradise. Winter brings a multitude of cool activities and adventures. Skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice fishing, curling and ice hockey abound. In Fairbanks, travelers can see how nature rules and people thrive in our little river city deep in the wilds of pristine Alaska. Challenge the snow-capped hills or birchladen trails, mush a team of huskies across the wilderness, and see two-ton blocks of ice being turned into works of art. Journey above the Arctic Circle, visit Santa in North Pole, take a stroll with reindeer or discover the warmth of an Alaska hot spring at the end of an adventure-filled day. Use this Winter Guide to plan an unforgettable winter expedition in this sparkling land of ice and snow. to Fairbanks, Alaska!
Say Hello
Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center 2 Dog Mushing – Alaska’s State Sport .. 3 World’s Best Aurora Viewing ............. 4 Ice and Snow Activities 6 Snowmobiling .................................. 6 Ice Fishing ........................................ 6 Arctic Diamond Ice Sculptures 7 Walking With Reindeer ..................... 7 Arctic Circle ...................................... 8 Denali National Park 8 North Pole ........................................ 9 Chena Hot Springs ........................... 9 Alaska Native Arts and Culture 10 Breweries, Distilleries and Eateries ... 10 Indoor Activities and Attractions ..... 10 Small Town, Big Events 11 Who Offers Winter Fun? ............. 12-16 Meet a Real Alaskan ........................ 16 Winter Fun At-A-Glance 17-19 What’s the Weather Like? ............... 20 What’s Under There? ...................... 20 Land of the Midnight Sun 21 Inside the Guide QuestSchroder/YukonJulien©1
FairbanksGeiger/ExploreReedAmy respectfully acknowledge the Dena people on whose traditional lands we reside on. We honor the Dena who have been the stewards of Interior lands and waters for centuries, the Elders who lived here before, the Dena people of today and future generations to come. We also recognize that Alaskan Native people would traditionally gather here and harvest Native foods.
to change 101 Dunkel Street in Downtown Fairbanks Open 7 days a week year-round Morris
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FairbanksHogue/ExploreSherman
Make This Your First Stop!
Winter Hours: 8am – 5pm daily, October
Land Acknowledgement We
Closed: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day Hours and Location Open hours and days are
Not only beautiful but informative, the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center is loaded with brochures, maps of all kinds and so much more. Serving as the regional visitor facility, friendly and knowledgeable staff have answers to your questions. The exhibition galleries are a 9,000 square foot portal into life in the Far North featuring outstanding displays and dioramas about Interior Alaska’s people, wildlife, landscapes and seasons. The center also has Alaska Native cultural programs, an outdoor excursion trip planning area and an Alaska Geographic store. Explore the grounds and find colorful Athabascan flower mosaics, an antler arch and a classic 100-year-old log cabin. The center is home to Explore Fairbanks, Alaska Public Lands Information Center, Alaska Geographic Store, Denakkanaaga and Tanana Chiefs Conference Cultural Programs. For More Information Toll-free 1-800-327-5774 to request information or a free Visitors Guide (907) 456-5774 for travel info@explorefairbanks.comwww.explorefairbanks.cominformation through April subject Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center
From 30-minute jaunts to legendary journeys, accessing Alaska’s state sport of dog mushing has never been easier.
Alaska’s sled dogs will champion the trail and win your heart. By combining “man’s best friend” with a skinless kayak frame on runners, Alaska Natives established the practical use of dog sleds centuries before explorers, prospectors and missionaries made mushing their mode of winter transportation. If it’s spectating you prefer, catch the Yukon Quest in February or check out smaller sprint races such as the Open North American Championship Sled Dog Race in March.
HageAlaska/MattofState©
• Go for a 30-minute ride in a dog sled basket.
• Mush to a nearby cabin or yurt and wait for the northern lights to appear.
• Fly to a remote lodge or nearby kennel and mush your team on an extended guided tour.
“The Fairbanks area is home to some of Alaska’s most celebrated and beloved animals—husky sled dogs. The ultimate season for sled dogs is obviously wintertime and luckily, Fairbanks has no shortage of that! We are able to mush sled dogs on snow laden trails from October until April. There is truly nothing more spiritually uplifting than mushing a team of your favorite dogs five, ten or even a thousand miles across the frozen wilderness of Interior Alaska.”
Mushing – Alaska’s State Sport
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Four-Legged Athletes
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• Learn to drive your own team at a half-day mushing school.
• Tour a working kennel, meet the dogs and hear captivating tales from veteran mushers.
Aliy Zirkle, Yukon Quest and Iditarod musher
Dog
For tips on photographing these dancing lights visit www.explorefairbanks.com or sign up for an aurora photography tour and learn from the experts.
If you are in town on a northern lights adventure, pick up our brand-new Explore Fairbanks Aurora Viewing Map & Guide at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. The publication includes both top-notch aurora information as well as an easy-to-read map with primary aurora locations. This useful tool was designed to make aurora viewing easy.
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WittemanAndy©KiczenskiMaryBeth© World’s Best Aurora Viewing
Aurora Tracker Scan here to chase the northern lights with real-time and threeday forecasts utilizing current aurora activity, weather and amount of daylight data from the Geophysical Institute.
Magical Northern Lights
After witnessing these awe-inspiring lights, pick up a personalized Aurora Certificate to take home, available from tour operators and Explore Fairbanks staff at the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center.
Fairbanks sets the stage for outstanding aurora viewing during Aurora Season, August 21 through April 21, spanning all four seasons and nine months of the year. Fairbanks’ location directly under the “Auroral Oval” makes seeing the lights commonplace. In fact, if you stay a minimum of three nights and are actively out during evening hours, your chance of seeing the aurora swells to more than 90%. Additionally, Fairbanks’ low precipitation and distance from coastal areas contribute to clear skies. Lastly the area’s low population, low light pollution and long nights for most of the year contribute to darker skies. Drive to a nearby vantage point and wait for the northern lights to appear. You can also arrange to view them from a heated “aurorium” cabin or lodge, on an overnight dog sled adventure, by snow cat tour or on a flight above the Arctic Circle. Winter activities that have recently been paired with aurora viewing include ice fishing and snowmobiling. Ask your hotel front desk if they offer a wake-up call when the northern lights are out. No guarantees, but the longer you’re here, the better your chances of seeing a great show.
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AdventuresRaft&FishingAlaska
Like a trip inside a snow globe. When there’s a chill in the air, join in the fun with the coolest ice and snow sports around. Ice fishing, ice skating, ice sculpting, ice climbing, curling and hockey are all ice activities you’ll find in Fairbanks during the winter. Or you can rent cross-country skis and discover miles and miles of world class trails, try your hand at ice sculpting or give the cool sport of curling a whirl. When the snow flies, winter’s white mantle provides countless opportunities to go snowboarding and downhill skiing, snowshoeing, sledding and more. Snowmobiling
Ice and Snow Activities
BodnarchukKari©HarringtonBlaine©6 Winter Activities and Adventures
Get off the beaten path. Snowmobiling, or “snowmachining” as it is most often referred to in Alaska, is one of the easiest ways to get into the incredible snowy areas surrounding Fairbanks. Experience the rush for yourself and get a local guide to outfit you, show you the ropes and take you on an exciting yet accessible ride into the back country. Ice Fishing Find that perfect fishing hole. Ice fishing, a popular pastime in Alaska’s Interior, gives “fishing hole” a whole new meaning. Drill down into clear lake ice, that can be up to four feet thick, craft the hole, drop your line and presto—it’s dinnertime! Your fishing guide will help you catch that chinook or coho salmon, arctic char, or rainbow trout. Some outfitters will prepare your freshly caught fish in a warm and comfortable ice hut on a frozen lake. Combine ice fishing with snowmobiling or aurora watching for a perfect winter expedition!
Watch incredible artworks emerge from huge blocks of ice harvested by forklift from local ponds. The ice known as “Arctic Diamond” is renowned for being crystal clear and is coveted by master carvers. In Fairbanks, ice art is not only remarkable, but commonplace during winter months with sculptures found all around town. There are ice museums and local ice events where you can frolic in playgrounds made of ice, skate on all-natural ice rinks and crawl through ice mazes.
Alaska,Ice World,theAroundArms BriceHeatherSculptor:
Walking with Reindeer
Arctic Diamond Ice Sculptures
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Hang out with reindeer— our furry friends in the Far North! Reindeer are the charming, domesticated version of caribou and make engaging walking companions. Both male and female reindeer grow antlers and have a long history in Alaska and circumpolar regions. The first connection between reindeer and Santa Claus dates back to 1821 and visiting with the relatives of Rudolph, Vixen, Comet and the rest is easy and fun!
The World Ice Art Championships, held mid-February through March, is one of the largest ice art exhibitions in the world. Another ice event in Fairbanks is the International Ice Art Classic that also features numerous ice sculptures. Ice art sculptures vary every year and never cease to capture both the mind and the imagination.
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Crown jewel of the Alaska range, Denali rises 20,310 feet into the sky, making it the tallest mountain in North America. Steeped in history and glorious to view, the mountain beckons like no other. So why not visit in winter? The classic view from the north will take your breath away.
The Arctic Circle sparks the imagination like few other places on earth. This place that many dream about visiting is 195 road miles (315 Km) or 140 air miles (225 Km) north of Fairbanks. Tour with a guide to fly or drive you up the Dalton Highway and cross over that invisible line that puts you in the company of ice road truckers, Alaska pipeline workers and intrepid travelers. Hike across the tundra, see the mighty Yukon River and spot a caribou, muskox or arctic fox. Discover the enchanted treeless Arctic plain or walk the frozen shores of the Arctic Ocean at the northernmost point in the United States. Take a northern lights tour and scan the sky for the aurora borealis.
Winter Destinations Nearby RuggieroM.GettyImages/Elizabeth©PhotographyJohnsonJ.Amy© 8
Arctic Circle
Driving the Dalton on your own, particularly in the winter, is not recommended without a proper vehicle and expertise.
Denali National Park
Fairbanks outfitters offer both road and air tours to the park and in midFebruary the National Park Service plows the first 12.5 miles of the park road, leading to a beautiful spot to view the grand mountain during clear weather. An easy two-hour drive from Fairbanks or four hours aboard the Alaska Railroad, Denali National Park and Preserve covers six million acres of pure wilderness and is a perfect winter journey’s end.
Chena Hot Springs is the largest and most accessible hot spring in Alaska and is just 60 miles from Fairbanks. Rejuvenate in the marvelous 106°F natural rock lake as well as enjoy the many other adventures and amenities available at the resort.
Imagine yourself floating in a world-class hot spring…the crisp winter air, the swirling northern lights above, your hair freezing in wild and wonderful ways. Let healing, mineralrich springs relax your body and warm your soul. One hundred years ago, gold miners and early pioneers rested their weary souls and bodies in natural outdoor hot springs. Today, you can carry on the tradition and soak away your own worldly worries.
Double check who’s on your list and browse holiday-inspired gifts for the naughty and nice at the Santa Claus House. Embrace the season with a charming letter from Santa to friends and family back home with an authentic North Pole postmark.
Chena Hot Springs
Just a short 20-minute drive from Fairbanks, North Pole—“where the spirit of Christmas lives year-round”— will leave you whistling your favorite holiday tune… “Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus, right down Santa Claus Lane.” – originally written and performed by Gene Autry, with music composed by Oakley Haldeman.
HouseClausHolan/SantaAshleyHageAlaska/MattofState©
North Pole North Pole, Alaska, captures the spirit of Christmas. Take a delightful drive along snowy Santa Claus Lane and admire the streetlights decorated in candy cane motifs.
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Indoor Activities and Attractions
Breweries, Distilleries and Eateries
Stay inside and checkout all the cool local things to do! After spending the evening scanning the skies for the northern lights, make your way to a visitors center, art gallery or world class museum; attend one of the many events taking place throughout the winter months like First Fridays, cultural programs and sporting events; or shop for authentic Alaska Native and made-in-Alaska gifts. Multiple museums tell fascinating stories about our pioneer past, antique automobiles and aviation history, the raucous pipeline days and thousands of years of cultural heritage and natural history.
Fairbanks’ northern clime has a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures with Athabascan Indians in the Interior and Inupiaq Inuit in the Arctic. This rich tapestry comes to life through handmade beadwork, ivory and bone carvings, dolls and skin sewing, birch, caribou skin and driftwood masks and spruce root and grass baskets. Dancing, drumming and storytelling also enjoy a renowned legacy. Dance along at the Athabascan Fiddlers Festival and the Festival of Native Arts. You’ll find beautiful beaded moose hide slippers, caribou antler dolls, baleen baskets, walrus ivory carvings and more on display and for sale. Outstanding Alaska Native artists offer a link to the past, as well as a bridge to the future.
www.explorefairbanks.com
Raise a glass in Fairbanks! We now have six breweries, four distilleries and loads of eateries including 20+ Thai restaurants and numerous winterized food trucks and coffee huts. Indeed, our little river city has debuted onto the food and drink stage with flair and flavor. Whatever you might yearn for you won’t be disappointed—Vietnamese, vegan, award winning BBQ, Japanese cuisine, Alaskan comfort food like salmon, king crab and reindeer sausage, fresh roasted coffee beans and handcrafted honeys, jams, mustards and more all await you.
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10 FairbanksWilken/ExploreKaren Arts, Culture and Events
Alaska Native Arts and Culture
PhotographyJohnsonJ.Amy© 11 Small Town, Big Events Indoors or out, Fairbanks’ vibrant calendar of events is loaded with authentic Alaskan activities. Symphony performances, giant ice sculptures, championship sled dog racing, curling bonspiels, rock and bluegrass concerts, theatrical performances, comedy shows, hockey, firework displays, winter solstice celebrations and Alaska Native arts festivals are all a part of the celebratory Winter Season. Throughout the Season Sled Dog Events & Races www.juniordogmushers.comwww.alaskadogmushers.com Cross Country Ski Races www.nscfairbanks.org First Fridays and Art Exhibits www.fairbanksarts.org Guided Nature Walks & Children’s Programs www.friendsofcreamersfield.org UA Museum of the North Education & Public Programs www.uaf.edu/museum Concerts, Plays and Other Entertainment www.fairbanksdrama.org, www.fairbankssymphony.orgwww.fairbanksconcert.org, Special Events North Pole Winter Festival December www.northpolechamber.us Fireworks December Winter Solstice www.downtownfairbanks.com and New Year’s Eve Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race February www.yukonquestalaska.com Ice Art Exhibits February and March www.iceartpark.com, www.icealaska.com Festival of Native Arts February or March www.fna.community.uaf.edu Open North American Sled Dog Championship March www.alaskadogmushers.com FairbanksHogue/ExploreSherman©CaseyThompson Visit www.explorefairbanks.com or event websites for dates and more prior to making your travel plans. FairbanksHogue/ExploreSherman
(907) www.dogsledexcursions.comsleddogexcursions@gmail.com328-8982 Looking for Alaska? We do customized excursions & tours for groups 1-6 people. Come ride with us! Airlink Shuttle & Tours 1213 Dolphin Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 452-3337 Toll Free: (855) www.airlinkalaska.comjeff@airlinkalaska.com454-8094 Statewide charter/tours. Local area shuttle. Quality and dependable; affordable price. Est. 1992. Alaska Aurora Adventures (907) www.alaskaauroraadventures.comalaskaauroraadventures@gmail.com590-3229 Aurora viewing lodge, Arctic Circle, wildlife tours, cabins, dog mushing and private tours. Hotel transfers. Alaska Aurora Sultan Tours 45 Trinidad Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.alaskaauroraviewing.comtekesman@gmail.com378-9680 Specializing in 1-day northern lights Arctic Circle adventures. Fluent in Chinese and Japanese. Alaska Dog Association,MushersInc. Jeff Studdert Race Grounds 935 Farmers Loop Rd (Mile 4) Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.alaskadogmushers.comadmacontact2018@gmail.com457-6874 Open North American Sled Dog Race. The oldest and longest consecutively run sprint sled dog race in the world. Alaska Element (907) www.alaskaelement.commartha@alaskaelement.com987-6335 Gear up and get out with premium outer wear rentals for your Alaska adventure. Offering parka, boots and bibs. Alaska Fishing and Raft Adventures 525 Halvorson Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709 Toll Free: (800) www.akrivertours.cominfo@akrivertours.com819-0737 Aurora viewing. Ice fishing with heated cabins; snowmobile and wilderness dog mushing. Hotel pick up! Who Offers Winter Fun? 12 HageAlaska/MattofState©WilkinsonBob©NorthernAlaskaTourCompany www.explorefairbanks.com HageAlaska/MattofState©
Discover what the Fairbanks region has to offer in winter. View business listings on the next pages and then use the Winter Fun At-A-Glance grid to easily find your favorite winter activity. Schedule a snow adventure such as snowmobiling, dog mushing, snowshoeing and crosscountry or downhill skiing. Try an ice escapade like ice sculpting, ice fishing or curling. Cross the Arctic Circle, go on an aurora viewing or city tour, walk with reindeer, go flightseeing or soak in a natural hot spring. Want to rent clothing or gear? You’ll find that too! Now, go plan some winter fun!
and has aurora viewing for overnight guests. A&P Tours, Inc. 430
A fine art gallery with gifts by local Alaskan artists; always an artist on duty to answer your questions. 7 Gables Inn & Suites 4312 Birch Ln, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 479-0751 Toll Free: (800) gables7@alaska.net,478-7829www.7gablesinn.com Springs AK 99712 Alaska Fairbanks K St, Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 99712
Exciting tours of Fairbanks year-round. Arctic Circle, hot springs, aurora, dog sledding tours and more! 2 Street Gallery, LLC 535 2nd Ave, Ste 102, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.2streetgallery.com2stgallery@gmail.com455-4070
Rd Fairbanks,
Free cross-country skis, winter gear and snowshoes for our guests’ use. Exceptional northern lights viewing. A Taste of Alaska Lodge Mile 5.3 Chena Hot
Fairbanks 1st Alaska Tours 2240 Hanson Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.1stalaskatours.cominfo@1stalaskatours.com590-5900
(907) www.atasteofalaska.comkory@atasteofalaskalodge.com488-7855 A Taste of
Lodge is 15 minutes from downtown
www.aptoursalaska.comaptours@acsalaska.net272-9401 We offer tours including aurora viewing and many other activities from August-May. Rent winter gear. A+ Dog Sled Excursions & Tours 4535 Melan Dr S, Fairbanks, AK
Aurora Quest Call for directions (907) www.akauroraquest.comultimate83@live.com441-2080
View the aurora from a handmade log lodge located atop Cleary Summit. Please check our website for openings. Aurora Expeditions 737 W 5th Ave, Ste 201 Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) akop@aexak.com,331-0588 www.aexak.com
Aurora viewing 15 minutes from downtown! We are a modern facility and the premier location for aurora viewing.
North America’s only clear ceiling igloos for aurora viewing. Full-service restaurant. Immersive experiences. Chandalar River Outfitters 5804 Chena Hot Springs Rd, Mile 18.6 Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.chandalarranchalaska.comchandalar.ranch@gmail.com488-8402 Ice fishing for rainbow, char, grayling, salmon & pike. $175 includes license, transportation & lunch. Chena Hot Springs Resort 17600 Chena Hot Springs Rd Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.chenahotsprings.comfrontdesk@chenahotsprings.com451-8104 80 rooms, restaurant and bar, aurora viewing, hot springs, year-round ice museum, summer & winter activities. Chena Outdoor Collective 7435 Chena Hot Springs Rd Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.chenaoutdoorco.comchenaoutdoorco@gmail.com799-4420 Interactive reindeer tours, dog sled rides, aurora tours, multi-day mushing expeditions. as defined by individual businesses
Chinese-speaking guided tours! Arctic Circle, aurora viewing, snow machines, ice fishing, dog sleds!
Alaskan Tails of the Trail with Mary Shields PO Box 80961, Fairbanks, AK 99708 (907) www.maryshields.commaryshields562@gmail.com455-6469
Experience the real Alaska. Providing heated ice house fishing and snowmobile rides since 1979. Book today!
Alaska Tour Guide 2499 Baby Bell Dr, North Pole, AK 99705 (907) www.alaskatourguide.orgalaskatourguide@yahoo.com488-2699 you on an adventure. Tours include aurora, Arctic Circle...and so much more. Alaska Enterprises,WildernessLLC 7445 Chena Hot Springs Rd Fairbanks, AK 99716 (907) www.wildernessenterprises.comwildernessenterprises@gmail.com488-7517
Top rated adventures! Snowmobiling, ice fishing, aurora, Arctic Circle, hot springs, dog sledding and more. Arctic Dog Adventure Co. 2270 Hattie Creek Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.arcticdogco.comlisbet@arcticdogco.com841-4694
Aurora Husky Lodge 9605 Parks Hwy, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.aurorahuskylodge.commitchi@hotmail.co.jp631-8375
Welcome to Aurora Husky Lodge. Come and join us in our warm lodge to await the northern lights. Aurora in Alaska PO Box 82119, Fairbanks, AK 99708 (907) www.aurorainak.combook@aurorainak.com750-5550
Alaska’s most thrilling winter adventures. An absolute must!
Accessible
Borealis Basecamp, LLC 2640 Himalaya Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.borealisbasecamp.netinfo@borealisbasecamp.net885-2845
Aurora Pointe 570 Funk Rd, Fairbanks (907) www.aurorapointe.netinfo@aurorapointe.net880-3314
The authentic Alaskan store—furs, gifts, fabric—best choices, quality & prices. Alaska
Experience Alaska in winter from the comfort of a warm railcar. Complete travel packages available. Alaska
Scenic, interactive mushing tours with happy, friendly dogs. Hook up the team and try driving the dog sled!
Need Mandarin narrated tours? Contact the best Chinese tour operator for your winter and summer travel needs!
Drive your own dog team! Certified ecotours. 2 hrs to 7 days. Mush Siberian Huskies to our remote aurora camp. Arctic Travelers Gift Shop 201 Cushman St, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.arctictravelersgiftshop.comangelika.t@hotmail.com456-7080
Aurora viewing and custom winter tours with longtime AK guides; Chena Hot Springs, Fairbanks, Denali Park. Bill’s Shuttle & Charter Services (907) www.fireflynortherntransport.cominfo@fireflynortherntransport.com888-7797
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Ideal aurora viewing. Home-cooked break fast, wakeups & photo help. Viewing decks, rental gear, trails nearby. Alaska
Aurora Borealis Lodge Cleary Summit, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.auroracabin.cominfo@auroracabin.com389-2812
Learn about mushing. Meet the dogs & Mary Shields, 1st woman to finish the Iditarod. Rides may be available. Alaska-Wildlife-Guide PO Box 55345, North Pole, AK 99705 (907) www.alaska-wildlife-guide.cominfo@alaska-wildlife-guide.com712-4529
The most complete gift shop in the Interior. Aurora-related gifts, ivory, t-shirts, jewelry. Aurora Bear - Aurora and Wildlife Photography 5465 Nepal Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.aurora-bear.cominfo@aurora-bear.com750-7572
Alaska Grizzly Lodge 1470 Westmoreland Ave Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.alaskagrizzlylodge.comakgrizzlylodge@gmail.com488-7475 Railroad 1031 Alaska Railroad Depot Rd Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 265-2494 Toll Free: (800) www.alaskarailroad.comreservations@akrr.com544-0552 Raw Fur Co. 4106 Boat St, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.alaskarawfur.comemail@akrawfur.com479-2462 Skylar Travel LLC 301 E Fireweed Ln, Ste 100 Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) www.skylartravel.comreservation@skylartravel.com274-8884
Aurora tours and transportation from Chena Hot Springs to Arctic Circle & more! Great rates for small groups. Birch Hill Recreation Area and Cross Country Ski Center 101 Wilderness Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) parkrec@fnsb.gov,457-4488 fairbanksak.myrec.com 40 km of trails, ski chalet with beautiful view of the stadium, dressing and waxing rooms available. Black Spruce Dog Sledding (907) www.blacksprucedogsledding.comblacksprucedogsledding@gmail.com371-3647
We don’t sell tours, we take
Learn in one evening how to take amazing aurora photos from famous professional photographer Frank Stelges!
Fairbanks Curling Club, Inc. 1962 2nd Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.curlfairbanks.orgmanager@curlfairbanks.org452-CURL
Fairbanks Dog Sled Rides with Two Rivers Trailblazers, LLC 4223 & 4240 Chena Hot Springs Rd Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.fairbanksdogsledrides.commushwithus@gmail.com488-5991
Nightly league play, various spiels, International Bonspiel. Heated spectator gallery. See website for dates. Fairbanks Distilling Company 410 Cushman St, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.fairbanksdistilling.comfairbanksdistillingco@gmail.com452-5055
Visit our distillery and tasting room at historic Old City Hall in downtown Fairbanks. Cheers!
www.explorefairbanks.com
Our kennel is a no-chain facility of purebred Malamutes living together in a social pack. Book tours today! The Folk School Pioneer Park, Cabin 66, 2300 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) operations@folk.school,457-1219 www.folk.school The Folk School offers all-age classes: traditional crafts, woodworking, outdoor skills, and arts & sciences. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum at Wedgewood Resort Wedgewood Resort, 212 Wedgewood Dr Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 450-2100 Toll Free: (800) www.fountainheadmuseum.comfaam@fountainheadhotels.com528-4916
Fairbanks Pioneer Museum & Big Stampede Show Pioneer Park, 2300 Airport Way, Bldg 1 Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) pioneer-museumwww.pioneersofalaskafairbanks.org/info@fairbankspioneermuseum.com456-8579
Top-rated gem on TripAdvisor, see worldclass pre-WWII autos, the PNW’s largest fashion collection & Alaskana. Frisky Pups Sled Dog Tours 4508 Melan Dr N, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.friskypupsbb.comfriskypupsbb@gmail.com750-2313
Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge Farmhouse Visitors Center 1300 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.friendsofcreamersfield.orgdirector@friendsofcreamersfield.org452-5162
Aurora chasing tours with free hotel pick up/drop off in the core Fairbanks area. Aurora portraits available.
Fairbanks Children’s Museum 302 Cushman St, Ste 101 Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.fairbankschildrensmuseum.cominfo@fairbankschildrensmuseum.com374-7060
Gondwana Ecotours
Visitor Center: Saturdays, 12-4pm or by appointment. Groomed multi-use trails always open. Programs all year. Douglas Fir Mushing (907) www.douglasfirmushing.comdouglasfirmushing@yahoo.com388-0477
Rusty Heurlin’s Gold Rush murals; museum features early Fairbanks settlement, growth and mining dioramas. Fairbanks Trails and Rivers Tour Company, LLC 4795 John Deere Ln, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.fbkstrailsandrivers.comtrailsnrivers@gmail.com750-5179
Family-friendly, interactive exhibits & programs, perfect for children ages 1-8. Downtown Fairbanks. Fairbanks Community Museum 535 2nd Ave, Ste 215, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) museumwww.facebook.com/fairbankscommunityfcmdogs@gmail.com457-3669
Come warm up with an expertly crafted coffee and see what Fairbanks cultivates year-round at Good Titrations! The Great Alaskan Bowl Company 4630 Old Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) info@woodbowl.com,474-9663 www.woodbowl.com Alaskan birch bowls, steins, home goods & gourmet food. Open 7 days a week, yearround. Shipping available. Hoarfrost Distilling 3501 Lathrop St, Unit F Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.hoarfrost.vodkatoivo@hoarfrost.vodka479-6128 Distillery tours, tastings and cocktails. We make world class award-winning vodka by hand from 100% AK barley. Ice Alaska Tanana Valley Fairgrounds 1800 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 888-3393 Toll Free: (833) info@icealaska.com,442-3278www.icealaska.com Currently planning for the 2023 World Ice Art Championships. More details on our website. Find us on Facebook. Large Animal Research Station – UAF 2220 Yankovich Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.uaf.edu/larsuaf-lars-tours@alaska.edu474-5724 Join us for a winter tour of LARS! Visit online store at www.uaf.edu/lars for dates & to purchase tickets. Last Frontier Mushing Co-Op (907) www.themushingcoop.comthemushingcoop@gmail.com388-7666 Dog sled under the northern lights, join an interactive day tour, or sign up for a dog sledding expedition! 14
Breathtaking “roller coaster” ride! 45-minute ride through forest to lake. Warm gear and warming hut.
Winter fun! Fat tire biking, dog mushing & ice fishing! Aurora tours and shuttle! Family/ small group friendly! Firewalker Alaskan Malamutes 1983 Tunnels Rd, North Pole, AK 99705 (907) www.firewalkerkennel.com378-3260
Fairbanks Arts Association AK Centennial Center for the Arts Pioneer Park, 2300 Airport Way Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.fairbanksarts.orginfo@fairbanksarts.org251-8386
Promoting contemporary & traditional arts: art exhibitions, literary events, performances & more. Fairbanks Aurora Tours (907) www.fairbanksauroratours.cominfo@fairbanksauroratours.com978-1766
Providing premium brands and products for cannabis enthusiasts. Good Titrations (907) www.goodtitrations.cominfo@goodtitrations.com474-4663
Experience the thrill of traveling by dog sled. Offering scenic dog sled rides and interactive kennel tours.
Local culture, aurora viewing, reindeer ranch, dog sledding, curling, hot springs, photography and more. Good LLC 356 Old Steese Hwy, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.goodalaska.comgreg@goodalaska.com452-5463
Exhibits on dog mushing, 1967 flood, winter in Fairbanks, mining and early Fairbanks. Monthly art show.
Toll Free: (877) www.gondwanaecotours.cominfo@gondwanaecotours.com587-8479
Family friendly exciting 2-mile dog sled adventure! Meet the team and take pictures! Cabin rentals available.
Winter in Alaska’s Arctic! Arctic Circle, aurora, Coldfoot and Denali. One-day & overnight adventures. Paws for Adventure Sled Dog Tours Intersection of Herning Rd & George Rd Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.pawsforadventure.comdogs@pawsforadventure.com699-3960
XC skis and snowshoe rentals! Skiing lessons available. We also sell new/used of Alaska Museum of the North 1962 Yukon Campus Fairbanks, AK 99775 (907) www.uaf.edu/museumua-museum@alaska.edu474-7505 Wedgewood Fairbanks, 99701 (907) 456-3642 (800) the Antique Museum, (907) www.whyknotadventures.netwhyknotadventures@gmail.com388-0881
Exhibits about Alaska Native cultures, wildlife, the aurora, Alaska history, Arctic dinosaurs. Museum store. Wedgewood FountainheadResort,Hotels 212
Fountain head
Walk with reindeer, up close and personal, in this unique, intimate, birch forest natural history experience. Salmon Berry Travel & Tours 515 W 4th Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) www.salmonberrytours.commarketing@salmonberrytours.com278-3572
Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service Serving North Pole and Fairbanks (907) www.rodsalaskanguideservice.comrod@rodsalaskanguideservice.com378-1851 snowmobile, dog sledding, ice fishing, aurora viewing adventures. Clothing incl. Fish in heated cabins. Running Reindeer Ranch 1470 Ivans Alley, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.runningreindeer.cominfo@runningreindeer.com455-4998
equipment. University
Dr, UAF
Best in authentic dog sled adventure since 1998! Rides, mushing schools or multi-day expeditions to remote AK. Prospector Outfitters 1512 S Cushman St, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 457-7372 Toll Free: (800) www.prospectoroutfitters.cominfo@prospectoroutfitters.com495-7372
15
Convenient, all-suite hotel with full kitchens & northern lights wake-up service. On-site bar & restaurant. Trail Breaker Kennel (907) www.trailbreakerkennel.comtours@trailbreakerkennel.com347-7274
nature trails, XC skiing and aurora viewing. Why Knot Adventures
Sirius Sled Dogs Rescue is a 501(c)(3) non profit—mushing, aurora, reindeer & lodging on a true Alaskan homestead. Ski Land 2315 Skiland Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.skilandfairbanks.cominfo@skiland.org389-2314
Ski/board, 40 runs, 1300’ vertical. Open Fri-Sun, holidays. See shredthemoose.com
Most unique theme shop with Christmas gifts, toys, apparel & sweets. Home of the Original Letter from Santa! Sirius Sled Dogs Rescue 922 Deraco Ln, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) www.siriussleddogsrescue.comssdrescue@gmail.com687-6656
The clothing, footwear & gear you need to fully enjoy
your trip to Alaska.
Auto
Northern Alaska Tour Company PO Box 82991, Fairbanks, AK 99708 (907) 474-8600 Toll Free: (800) www.northernalaska.comadventure@northernalaska.com474-1986
Santa Claus House 101 St. Nicholas Dr, North Pole, AK 99705 (907) 488-2200 Toll Free: (800) www.santaclaushouse.cominfo@santaclaushouse.com588-4078
Guided
Alpine skiing and snowboarding, Fridays through Mondays, mid-December through mid-April.
Dr,
Conveniently located historic kennel offering once in a lifetime dog sled rides, adventures & custom tours! Trax Outdoor Center 314 Birch Hill Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.traxoutdoorcenter.comhajduke@mac.com374-9600
Sophie Station Suites, Fountainhead Hotels 1717 University Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99709 (907) 456-3642 Toll Free: (800) www.sophiestationsuites.comaskus@fountainheadhotels.com528-4916
Toll Free:
Ice fish with true Alaskans. Or just watch the northern lights. Visit our website for more information. Accessible as defined by individual businesses Swanson,David© Hope SculptorsKarlisIle,MaijaIle,AinarsZingniksand BuskevicsMintauts
Voted ‘Best of Alaska’ for winter and summer tours - aurora borealis, dog sledding, glaciers, wildlife & more!
AK
Elevating the standards of beer and cider in the Interior of Alaska. Open M-Th 2pm-8pm, F-Sun 12pm-8pm. Lavelle’s Bistro 575 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.lavellesbistro.comfrank@lavellesbistro.com450-0555
Come out of the cold! Enjoy the warmth of the Interior. Lavelle’s has weekly wine tastings and great food. Moose Mountain Ski Area 3450 Moose Mountain Rd Fairbanks, AK 99712 (907) www.shredthemoose.comshredthemoose@gmail.com459-8132
www.wedgewoodresortalaska.comaskus@fountainheadhotels.com528-4916 Condo-style suites, home to
Latitude 65 Brewing Company 150 Eagle Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) www.lat65brewing.cominfo@lat65brewing.com328-7748
HAI Shirokuma Tours, LLC 330 E 4th Ave, Ste 204 Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) www.haishirokuma.comhai4690@haishirokuma.com258-4690
Wild Alaskan Snowy Hive 9000 Dalton Hwy Wiseman Village, AK 99790 (907) hello@arctichive.com,251-1326 www.arctichive.com Hive is an off-grid wilderness retreat center nestled 63 miles north of the Arctic Circle in Wiseman. Coldfoot Camp Mile 175 Dalton Hwy, Coldfoot, AK (907) 474-3500 Toll Free: (866) www.coldfootcamp.comadventure@northernalaska.com474-3400 North of the Arctic Circle, under the Auroral Oval and in the Brooks Mountain Range. aurora viewing!
Arctic
Alaskan Neighbors Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies 708 Smokey Bay Way, Homer, AK 99603 (907) www.akcoastalstudies.orginfo@akcoastalstudies.org235-6756
Aurora tours, Arctic adventures, Alaska Railroad & hotel reservations. Japanesespeaking staff available. Oomingmak
Denali Neighbors Squid Acres Kennel Dogsled Tours 210 Old Parks Hwy, Cantwell, AK 99729 (907) www.squidacres.comdogs@squidacres.com699-4939 Dog mushing near Denali. Sled rides, mushing school, aurora viewing, overnight trips & expeditions available. Interior Neighbors The Lodge at Black Rapids 227.4 Richardson Hwy, 38 miles south of Delta Jct, Delta Junction, AK 99737 (877) www.lodgeatblackrapids.comthelodgeatblackrapids@gmail.com825-9413 Authentic timber frame lodge offers quiet luxury. Road-accessible destination w/wild life & views of AK Range. Steven Miley Photography PO Box 1653, Delta Junction, AK 99737 (907) www.stevenmileyphotography.comsteven@stevenmileyphotography.com888-4850 Private aurora photography tours & winter snowshoeing adventures to Fairbanks’ nearest glaciers. Arctic Neighbors Arctic Getaway Cabin & Breakfast 8 Igloo St, Wiseman, AK 99790 (907) www.arcticgetaway.comarcticgetaway@gmail.com799-4455
Musk Ox Producers’ Co-Op 604 H St, Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 272-9225 Toll Free: (888) oomingmak@qiviut.com,360-9665 www.qiviut.com Native Alaskan knitted items. Patterns from traditional aspects of village life & Alaska Native culture. 16 Accessible as defined by individual businesses Are you interested in dog mushing? Arctic engineering? Perhaps cross-country skiing? Learn about these topics and many more by being matched with a friendly Golden Heart Greeter. The program is free to individuals or small groups. To schedule a visit with a Golden Heart Greeter during your stay, go to www.explorefairbanks.com/greeter or call (907) 459-3758. A minimum of one week’s notice is needed. Meet a Real Alaskan FairbanksHogue/ExploreSherman
Prime
wonders.
mountains, frozen rivers, cozy cabins, aurora. Snow shoe, ski, dog mush—you choose. Arctic
Best nature tours in Homer for everyone on both sides of Kachemak Bay!
17www.explorefairbanks.com Arts&EntertainmentArcticCircleTours AttractionsAuroraToursCityToursClothing/GearRentalCross-CountrySkiing DownhillSkiingDogMushing Event FlightseeingHotSpringsIceFishingIceSculptingIceSkatingAlaskaNativeCultureSnowmobilingSnowshoeingCurling Tickets&ToursFairbanks 1st Alaska Tours • • • • • • • • 2 Street Gallery, LLC • • 7 Gables Inn & Suites • • • • A Taste of Alaska Lodge • • • • A&P Tours, Inc. • • • A+ Dog Sled Excursions & Tours • • • • • • Airlink Shuttle & Tours • • • • Alaska Aurora Adventures • • • • • • Alaska Aurora Sultan Tours • • • • • Alaska Dog Mushers Association, Inc. • • Alaska Element • • Alaska Fishing and Raft Adventures • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Alaska Grizzly Lodge • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Alaska Railroad • • • • • • Alaska Raw Fur Co. • • Alaska Skylar Travel LLC • • • • • • • • • • • • Alaska Tour Guide • • • • Alaska Wilderness Enterprises, LLC • • Alaskan Tails of the Trail with Mary Shields • Alaska-Wildlife-Guide • • • • • • • • • • • Arctic Dog Adventure Co. • • • • • • Arctic Travelers Gift Shop • • Aurora Bear - Aurora and Wildlife Photography • • • Aurora Borealis Lodge • Aurora Expeditions • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Aurora Husky Lodge • Aurora in Alaska • • • • • • • Aurora Pointe • Aurora Quest • • • • • • • Bill’s Shuttle & Charter Service • • • • • • Birch Hill Recreation Area and Cross Country Ski Center • • Black Spruce Dog Sledding • • • • • Borealis Basecamp, LLC • • • • • Chandalar River Outfitters • • • • • • • • • • • • Chena Hot Springs Resort • • • • • • • • • • • • Chena Outdoor Collective • • Winter At-A-GlanceFun ShawW.David© Clothing/Gear Provided
18 Winter At-A-GlanceFun Arts&EntertainmentArcticCircleTours AttractionsAuroraToursCityToursClothing/GearRentalCross-CountrySkiing DownhillSkiingDogMushing Event FlightseeingHotSpringsIceFishingIceSculptingIceSkatingAlaskaNativeCultureSnowmobilingSnowshoeingCurling Tickets&Tours Creamer’s Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge • • • • • Douglas Fir Mushing • Fairbanks Arts Association • • • Fairbanks Aurora Tours LLC • Fairbanks Children’s Museum • Fairbanks Community Museum • • Fairbanks Curling Club, Inc. • • Fairbanks Distilling Company • • Fairbanks Dog Sled Rides with Two Rivers Trailblazers, LLC • Fairbanks Pioneer Museum & Big Stampede Show • • • Fairbanks Trails and Rivers Tour Company, LLC • • • • • • • • • Firewalker Alaskan Malamutes • • • The Folk School • • • Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum at Wedgewood Resort • • • Frisky Pups Sled Dog Tours • • Gondwana Ecotours • • • • • • • Good LLC • Good Titrations • • • The Great Alaskan Bowl Company • • • Hoarfrost Distilling • • • • Ice Alaska • • • • • Large Animal Research Station - UAF • • Last Frontier Mushing Co-Op • • Latitude 65 Brewing Company • • • Lavelle’s Bistro • • Moose Mountain Ski Area • • Northern Alaska Tour Company • • • • • • Paws for Adventure Sled Dog Tours • • Prospector Outfitters • Rod’s Alaskan Guide Service • • • • Running Reindeer Ranch • • • • Salmon Berry Travel & Tours • • • • • • • • • • Santa Claus House • Sirius Sled Dogs Rescue • • • • • • Ski Land • • • • www.explorefairbanks.com FairbanksHogue/ExploreSherman
19Clothing/Gear Provided Winter At-A-GlanceFun Arts&EntertainmentArcticCircleTours AttractionsAuroraToursCityToursClothing/GearRentalCross-CountrySkiing DownhillSkiingDogMushing Event FlightseeingHotSpringsIceFishingIceSculptingIceSkatingAlaskaNativeCultureSnowmobilingSnowshoeingCurling Tickets&Tours Sophie Station Suites, Fountainhead Hotels • • Trail Breaker Kennel • Trax Outdoor Center • • • • University of Alaska Museum of the North • • • • Wedgewood Resort, Fountainhead Hotels • • • • Why Knot Adventures • • Denali Neighbors Squid Acres Kennel Dogsled Tours • • • • Interior Neighbors The Lodge at Black Rapids • • • • • Steven Miley Photography • • Arctic Neighbors Arctic Getaway Cabin & Breakfast • Arctic Hive • Coldfoot Camp • • • • • Alaskan Neighbors Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies • • HAI Shirokuma Tours, LLC • • • • • • • • • • • Oomingmak Musk Ox Producers’ Co-Op • Explore Fairbanks has made every effort to provide accurate listings but does not guarantee the accuracy of the listings presented and is not responsible for changes, omissions or errors. Requests for more detailed information should be made to the company in the listing. Business listings are as of 6/22. Explore Fairbanks is not responsible for the quality of goods or services provided by firms or organizations listed in the 2022-2023 Winter Guide nor does it make any endorsement, representation or warranty for any listing. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without written permission from Explore Fairbanks. Explore Fairbanks retains right of refusal on any advertisement Projectsubmitted.Coordinator: Angie Cerny. Copy Writer: Amy Geiger. Assistance from: Charity Gadapee, Kasey Gillam and Alanna McBrayer Designed by: Jill Marshall, Marshall Arts Design, Fairbanks HageAlaska/MattofState©
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Underwear—long underwear to be exact. More commonly called “long johns,” they’re just one component of a simple layering system that will have you strolling through Fairbanks in warmth and comfort. Travelling from a warmer climate? Just drop into a local retailer or clothing rental outfitter and gear up with a few essentials, like a parka, snow pants and a good pair of boots. Layers make for the easiest change-ups. The weather can change quickly and so can you! Include a pair of long johns, long sleeved shirt, fleece jacket, boots, hat, mittens and a scarf in your wardrobe for the trip. Some winter operators provide outdoor gear—be sure to ask. Whatever the weather, you’ll be covered! Interior Alaska is an amazing place to explore in the winter and dressing for it is amazingly simple.
View the delightful How to Dress for Winter in Fairbanks video explorefairbanks.com.at Fairbanks’ low humidity, low precipitation and virtually non-existent wind make this sub-arctic environment surprisingly agreeable. Locals like to say it’s a clear, dry cold. Here are some safety tips for your winter adventure:
• Drive slowly, keep a safe distance from cars in front of you and go easy on your brakes while on snow and ice. For highway conditions dial 511.
What’s Under There?
• If renting a car, consider an all-wheel or fourwheel drive vehicle during winter months.
• Check the weather report or dial 844 for the local temperature while planning your day’s activities.
• Snow and ice are slippery (for real). Make sure your footwear has traction, practice a slow shuffle and walk carefully.
What’s the Weather Like?
PhotographyJohnsonJ.Amy©©MattHage
www.explorefairbanks.com.atForafreecopycall1-800-327-5774orwritetoExploreFairbanks,101DunkelStreet,Suite111,Fairbanks,AK99701.
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Midnight Sun Season—April 22 through August 20—means an extraordinary amount of golden sunlight floods the sky. In fact, from May 17 until July 27, for seventy straight days, the sun never dips far enough below the horizon for the sky to ever get dark. Midnight sunsets seamlessly merge with sunrises, no darkness just light. The everlasting light creates an irresistible, intangible energy. So after you have been inspired by the light of the aurora borealis, come back during the summertime and explore the last frontier under the warm glow of the midnight sun! Pan for gold, float the Chena River, watch the gardens grow, go fishing, view wildlife, play golf in the middle of the night, have dinner on a deck or go on a nature hike and chase a midnight sunset. Land of the Midnight Sun GeigerR.Amy©
View the Fairbanksyear-roundVisitorsGuide and plan your next trip
Taken at 10:05pm on June 13.
Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center 101 Dunkel Street l Suite 111 l Fairbanks, AK 99701 1-800-327-5774 l (907) 456-5774 www.explorefairbanks.com l info@explorefairbanks.com Top Row: L-R @cnlastro, @alaskareedgeiger, @david_erichsen_photo Middle Row: L-R @theauroracle, @alaskaoutdoorsphotography, @krisluckphoto Bottom Row: L-R @vincentledvina, @alaskareedgeiger, @amyjacqjohnson Enjoy enthralling Fairbanks, Interior and Arctic photos on Explore Fairbanks’ social media channels. Tag #explorefairbanks and maybe you will find your photography showcased here next year!
