Fairbanks to Arctic Circle: Northern Lights & Dalton Highway Tour

Summary

Alaska’s wild roads, aurora chasing and stories under northern skies

You’ll ride from Fairbanks along the Dalton Highway with a local guide, cross into the Arctic Circle and watch for Northern Lights above endless snowfields. Expect pie stops, quiet moments by the Yukon River, laughter over lunch, and maybe—if you’re lucky—a sky that glows green while you sip hot coffee in the cold.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about spending 14 hours in a van with strangers, but by the time we’d left Fairbanks behind and our guide, Mike, pointed out the first stretch of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline snaking through snowy spruce, I’d already forgotten my worries. The heater hummed (thankfully), and outside everything looked blue-grey and impossibly wide. Mike told us stories about pipeline workers—apparently there’s a tradition involving pies at a market up north. I didn’t expect to crave pie in Alaska, but there it is.

The Dalton Highway felt like driving through another planet. We stopped at this sign—just “Dalton Highway” in big block letters—and everyone took photos pretending to hitchhike or shiver dramatically. I tried to say “Yukon” like Mike did (he’s from Tok), but he laughed and said mine sounded French. Crossing the Yukon River was quieter than I thought; just a low rumble under the tires and then silence again except for someone unwrapping their sandwich. Lunch was simple but warm, which mattered more than I expected with that cold biting your face every time you stepped out.

When we finally reached the Arctic Circle sign, it was already getting dark—the kind of darkness that feels thick. Mike handed out certificates (mine still smells faintly of marker) and poured coffee from a thermos while we all watched the sky for any hint of green. At first nothing happened, just stars so sharp they hurt your eyes if you stared too long. Then someone gasped—there it was, faint at first, then curling brighter across the black. I can’t really describe what it felt like except that none of us spoke for a minute or two. The cold on my cheeks, hot coffee in my hands, everyone blinking up at something you can’t ever quite photograph right.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Arctic Circle tour from Fairbanks

• See Trans-Alaskan Pipeline up close
• Stop for souvenirs and market pie
• Photo stop at Dalton Highway Sign
• Travel remote Dalton Highway to campground
• Cross Yukon River and spot wildlife
• Reach Arctic Circle and get certificate
• Photograph aurora borealis at Arctic Circle

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Fairbanks to Arctic Circle?

The tour lasts approximately 12 to 14 hours depending on weather and road conditions.

Is hotel pickup included for this Northern Lights tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off within Fairbanks city-limits are included.

What is included for lunch on this Arctic Circle tour?

A simple lunch is provided; vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

Can children join this day trip to Arctic Circle?

The tour is not recommended for children under 10 due to safety concerns.

Will we definitely see the Northern Lights on this tour?

No, sightings of the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed as they are a natural phenomenon.

What kind of vehicle is used for this Dalton Highway tour?

The group travels in a climate-controlled passenger van limited to eight people per van.

Are there restroom stops along the way?

Yes, there are scheduled stops including markets and scenic viewpoints where facilities are available.

Do I need special clothing for this Alaska winter tour?

You should dress in layers suitable for extreme winter temperatures; proper attire is essential.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Fairbanks city limits, all transportation in a climate-controlled van with a knowledgeable local guide leading your small group, lunch (with vegetarian option if you let them know ahead), coffee or tea on board, plus your personalized Arctic Circle certificate before heading back south late at night.