Northern Lights & Glacier Escape: Alaska Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage & Wildlife Exploration

  • Arrival in Anchorage:

    • Fly into Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. (~$500–$700 round trip).

    • Pick up a 4WD rental car

  • Lunch in Anchorage

  • Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center: (optional if we have the time and Energy after a long flight)

  • Return to Anchorage:

    • Drive back to Anchorage (~1 hour).

  • Accommodation Check-In:

    • Overnight stay in Anchorage.

Day 2: Matanuska Glacier Adventure

  • 9:00 AM: Breakfast in Anchorage.

  • 10:00 AM: Drive to Matanuska Glacier:

    • Drive ~2 hours (100 miles northeast via Glenn Highway).

  • 12:30 PM–3:30 PM: Matanuska Glacier Guided Hike (3-hour tour):

  • 4:00 PM: Drive Back to Anchorage:

    • Return to Anchorage (~2 hours).

  • 6:30 PM – Dinner:

  • 8:00 PM – Relax at Accommodation:

    • Overnight stay in Anchorage.

Day 3: Fly to Fairbanks & Aurora Viewing

  • 9:00 AM: Flight to Fairbanks:

    • Morning flight from Anchorage (included for participants booked before March 1st)

  • 11:00 AM: Pick Up Rental Car in Fairbanks.

  • 12:00 PM – Lunch in Fairbanks

  • 4:00 PM: Check-In to Accommodation:

  • 9:00 PM – Aurora Viewing:

    • Visit Creamer’s Field or Murphy Dome for self-guided Northern Lights viewing.

Day 4: —Chena Hot Springs & Ice Museum

  • 8:00 AM: Breakfast in Fairbanks.

  • 9:30 AM: Drive to Chena Hot Springs:

    • Drive ~1.5 hours northeast of Fairbanks.

  • 11:00 PM–2:00 PM – Chena Hot Springs & Aurora Ice Museum:

    • Relax in natural geothermal pools and explore intricate ice sculptures.

    • Cost: ~$50/person( included)

    • Website: Chena Hot Springs Resort.

  • 6:00 PM: Dinner

  • 7:30 PM: Return to Fairbanks:

  • Drop-Off Rental Car:

    • Return the vehicle at Fairbanks International Airport.

  • Fly Home:

    • Catch your return flight home.

Things to Pack for Your Alaska Adventure

Clothing:

  • Insulated Jacket: Waterproof and windproof for cold weather.

  • Thermal Base Layers: Tops and leggings for warmth.

  • Fleece or Wool Mid-Layer: Keeps you warm under the jacket.

  • Waterproof Pants: For glacier hikes or snowy conditions.

  • Winter Hat and Scarf: Protects against the cold wind.

  • Gloves or Mittens: Insulated and waterproof.

  • Wool socks keep your feet warm and dry.

  • Sturdy Winter Boots: waterproof with good traction for icy conditions.

Gear:

  • Tire chains: required during winter (check rental car policies).

  • Daypack: For carrying essentials on hikes and excursions.

  • Reusable Water Bottle/Thermos: Stay hydrated or enjoy hot drinks.

  • Snacks: high-energy options like granola bars or trail mix.

  • Microspikes or Crampons: For walking on icy trails.

  • Trekking Poles: Optional for stability on uneven terrain.

  • Headlamp or Flashlight: With extra batteries for dark evenings or aurora viewing.

  • Camera & Tripod: To capture Northern Lights and scenic landscapes.

  • Portable Charger/Power Bank: For keeping your devices charged during long tours.

Personal Items:

  • Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Protect against snowglare.

  • Chapstick: prevents dry, chapped lips in cold weather.

  • Moisturizer: For skin hydration in the dry, cold climate.

Tips for Your Alaska Adventure

Aurora Viewing:

  1. Best Times: Between 10 PM and 2 AM; check aurora forecasts (Aurora App).

  2. Dark Locations: Find areas far from city lights like Chena Hot Springs or Murphy Dome.

  3. Camera Setup: Use a tripod and long exposure settings for the best aurora photos.

Cold Weather Prep:

  • Dress in Layers: Adjust clothing to stay warm and avoid overheating during activities.

  • Stay Hydrated: Cold weather can be dehydrating, so drink water regularly.

  • Bring Hot Drinks: Use a thermos for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate during outdoor excursions.

Driving in Winter:

  1. Rental Car Check: Ensure your rental car is equipped with winter tires or tire chains.

  2. Drive Slowly: Roads can be icy; maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

  3. Keep Emergency Gear: Blanket, snacks, water, flashlight, and a small shovel in case of emergencies.

Safety on Glacier Hikes:

  • Always follow your guide’s instructions.

  • Wear appropriate footwear with microspikes or crampons.

  • Avoid stepping on unstable ice or snow bridges.

Weather Awareness:

  • Unpredictable Weather: Be prepared for sudden snow, wind, or clear sunny skies.

  • Check local weather forecasts daily.

Photography:

  • Use gloves with touchscreen tips for taking photos without freezing your hands.

  • Bring extra batteries; they drain quickly in cold temperatures.