Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Fairbanks, Alaska, with Walker Wellness Retreats as we search for the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. This 5-day/4-night all-inclusive retreat offers you the chance to witness one of nature's most spectacular phenomena while immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Alaska.

Retreat Overview

Your adventure begins in the late evening as your flight touches down in Fairbanks, Alaska. Due to the late hour, we'll arrange for a smooth pick-up and a quick stop at a local supermarket where you can grab snacks and drinks for your room. Since most stores will be closed by the time you arrive, we'll have a bag of snacks and drinks waiting for you upon arrival at the lodge.

We'll then make our way on a scenic 30-minute drive up the mountain to the Aurora Borealis Lodge, where you'll stay for the next four nights. This rustic yet cozy lodge, located in one of the world's premier locations for viewing the Northern Lights, provides the perfect setting for this magical retreat.

Accommodation Details:

• Location: Aurora Borealis Lodge
• Duration: 4 nights at the lodge
• Room Features:
  • Two queen-sized beds
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Fully equipped kitchen (stove, microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker)
  • North-facing windows offering optimal views of the Northern Lights
  • Comfortable and cozy ambiance to enhance the experience

While the lodge may not boast the typical 5-star luxury you might expect from a Walker Wellness Retreat, its charm and remote setting make it a unique and memorable part of the experience. The peaceful atmosphere will allow you to unwind, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in the wonder of the Alaskan wilderness.

Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

• Late Night: Arrive in Fairbanks and enjoy a smooth transfer to the lodge. After checking in, you'll receive a bag of snacks and drinks to settle into your room.
• Evening: Settle in and rest. Depending on the weather and solar activity, you may get your first glimpse of the Northern Lights directly from your room's north-facing windows.

Day 2: Northern Lights Viewing & Lodge Exploration

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the lodge. Take time to relax, explore the surrounding area, or enjoy the tranquility of the remote location.
• Afternoon: Free time for personal activities. You can choose to explore nearby trails, go snowshoeing (weather permitting), or relax in the lodge.
• Evening: Northern Lights viewing. Gather with fellow retreat participants to experience the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights. While the lights' intensity can vary depending on the KP index and weather conditions, you'll have an excellent chance to witness this incredible phenomenon.
• Night: Optional late-night gathering with a hot drink or a cozy fire while keeping an eye on the sky for more Aurora sightings.

Day 3: Scenic Exploration & Cultural Immersion

• Morning: After breakfast, venture out for an optional guided tour or cultural experience in the area, such as visiting a nearby wildlife center, learning about local Alaskan culture, or exploring the history of the Aurora Borealis.
• Afternoon: Afternoon at leisure to relax, journal, or connect with fellow guests. If you're feeling adventurous, we can arrange for optional winter activities, such as dog sledding, ice fishing, or snowmobile tours.
• Evening: Viewing of the Northern Lights and a group reflection session. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the retreat so far and share stories with other guests. Whether or not the Aurora makes an appearance, the evening promises meaningful moments and connection.

Day 4: Final Day at the Lodge

• Morning: Begin the day with a relaxing breakfast, followed by more free time. Use this opportunity to unwind before your final night in the Alaskan wilderness. Optional wellness activities such as yoga or meditation may be arranged.
• Afternoon: In the afternoon, you might enjoy a final, peaceful walk in the snow-covered surroundings or relax in the lodge with a book or hot beverage.
• Evening: The final chance to view the Northern Lights. This night is yours to savor, whether you're watching the sky from your room or joining others outside for a final group viewing. Experience the wonder of the Aurora before heading to bed.

Day 5: Departure and Farewell

• Morning: After breakfast, pack your things and take in the last views of the Alaskan landscape.
• Midday: We'll check out of the Aurora Borealis Lodge and drive back to Fairbanks for a relaxing stay at Hyatt Place, where you'll have a chance to rest, shower, and relax before your flight.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at the Hyatt or relax before your late-night flight home, carrying with you unforgettable memories of the Alaskan wilderness and the magical Northern Lights.

Why Join This Retreat?

• Bucket-list experience: Witness the Northern Lights in one of the world's best viewing locations.
• Adventure and relaxation: A perfect balance of exploration, personal time, and connection with like-minded travelers.
• Unforgettable memories: Whether or not you see the lights, the entire retreat will offer you treasured moments of calm, beauty, and discovery.

Important Details

• Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
• Accommodations: Four nights at the Aurora Borealis Lodge, with the final night spent at Hyatt Place in Fairbanks.
• Amenities: Each room has north-facing windows for optimal Northern Lights viewing, private bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, and a cozy lodge atmosphere.
• Northern Lights Viewing: While sightings are not guaranteed, the timing and location significantly increase the chances of seeing this spectacular phenomenon.
• Weather and KP Index: The Aurora Borealis' visibility depends on solar activity and weather conditions, with the KP index predicting geomagnetic activity.
• Flights: Arrive in to Fairbanks on January 23rd at 12:13 AM. Depart from Fairbanks on January 27th at 1:30 AM.

Reserve your spot today and prepare for a transformative and magical experience under the glow of the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska!

Amy Walker, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Owner, Walker Wellness Retreats

Amy Walker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Walker Wellness Retreats, which she launched in 2016 to combine her passions for travel, mental wellness, and creating transformative experiences. With a deep commitment to helping others, Amy leads 6–10 international retreats each year, providing all-inclusive experiences that foster connection, self-discovery, and personal growth. She loves showing people the world and creating meaningful, unforgettable travel experiences.

When she’s not guiding retreats, Amy works as an online mental health therapist, specializing in helping individuals and couples overcome barriers, improve communication, and build fulfilling relationships. Her approach integrates evidence-based techniques with compassionate, solution-focused support.

An avid traveler, Amy has visited over 80 countries and counting, with a personal goal to reach 100 countries and all seven continents. She enjoys international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and spending time outdoors. She runs Walker Wellness Retreats alongside her husband, Brian Walker, ensuring each retreat is a seamless and enriching experience.

To learn more about Amy and the Walker Wellness Retreats team, visit our About Us page.

The Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska: A Detailed Guide

The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. These luminous, dancing waves of light grace the night sky with vibrant hues of green, yellow, pink, blue, and violet, creating an ethereal display that captivates all who witness it. Fairbanks, Alaska, is one of the best places on Earth to experience this incredible phenomenon due to its location within the auroral zone, clear skies, and low light pollution.

What Are the Northern Lights?

The aurora borealis occurs when electrically charged particles from the sun, traveling at speeds of up to 45 million mph, collide with the Earth's atmosphere. The Earth’s magnetic field protects us by redirecting these particles toward the poles, where they interact with atmospheric gases to create the brilliant, fluorescent displays we see in the night sky.

• Height of Activity: The lights occur about 60–70 miles above the Earth’s surface, extending hundreds of miles into space.
• Colors and Causes: The unique colors of the aurora result from interactions between solar particles and various gases at different altitudes. Green is the most common color, produced by oxygen molecules at about 60 miles up, while rarer reds, blues, and purples occur at higher altitudes or with nitrogen interactions.

Why Fairbanks?

Fairbanks is uniquely situated within the auroral zone, the ring-shaped area about 1,550 miles around the magnetic north pole where auroras are most frequent and vivid. This makes it one of the top destinations in the world for aurora viewing.

Key Advantages of Fairbanks:

• Optimal Conditions: Long winter nights, clear skies, and minimal light pollution.
• Aurora Research Center: The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks provides cutting-edge aurora forecasts.
• Convenient Tools: The Explore Fairbanks Aurora Tracker offers real-time updates on weather, solar activity, and aurora visibility.

When to Visit for the Best Viewing

While the Northern Lights occur year-round, they are only visible in the dark sky. The best times to visit Fairbanks for aurora viewing are:

• Season: August 21 to April 21
• Peak Months: Late fall, winter, and early spring due to extended darkness and clearer skies

How to Maximize Your Chances

Though seeing the aurora borealis is never guaranteed, here are tips to improve your odds:

1. Choose Clear Nights: Clouds can obstruct the lights, so clear skies are essential.
2. Monitor Solar Activity: The Kp Index measures geomagnetic activity on a scale from 0 to 9. A Kp level of 4 or higher increases your chances of vivid auroras.
3. Go North: Stay in areas with minimal light pollution and wide-open views of the northern sky.
4. Stay Up Late: The lights are often most active between 10 PM and 2 AM, though they can appear at any time during the night.

What to Expect When Viewing the Aurora

The aurora is unpredictable and can vary in intensity and duration.

• Subtle Displays: On some nights, the aurora may appear as faint, wispy clouds that are greenish when captured on camera.
• Vivid Shows: On more active nights, you may see bright, dynamic lights "dancing" across the sky in waves or curtains.

Fun Fact: Many first-time viewers mistake dim auroras for ordinary clouds. A good camera or phone with long-exposure settings can help capture the lights in greater detail.

FAQs About the Aurora Borealis in Fairbanks

Q: What are my odds of seeing the aurora in Fairbanks?
A: With clear skies, Fairbanks offers about a 90% chance of seeing the aurora over a 3-night stay.

Q: Do I need special equipment to see the aurora?
A: No special equipment is required—just your eyes. However, a camera with manual settings can capture details invisible to the naked eye.

Q: What time of night is best for viewing?
A: The best time to watch is between 10 PM and 2 AM, though auroras can occur any time during the night.

Q: How do I stay warm while viewing?
A: Dress in layers, wear insulated boots, and bring hand warmers. Many viewing locations, like the Aurora Borealis Lodge, allow you to step indoors to warm up between viewings.

Aurora Viewing Etiquette and Tips

• Minimize Light: Avoid using bright flashlights or phone screens, as they disrupt night vision.
• Be Patient: Auroras can be unpredictable, so enjoy the quiet beauty of Alaska’s night sky as you wait.
• Stay Informed: Use apps like My Aurora Forecast & Alerts to receive real-time updates.

A Destination Worth Visiting

While the Northern Lights are a significant draw, Fairbanks offers much more. Explore the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness, enjoy local hot springs, and immerse yourself in the culture and hospitality of this unique region. Remember, even if the aurora eludes you, the journey itself is unforgettable.

Aurora Borealis Lodge: Your Home for Northern Lights Viewing

Nestled just 20 miles north of Fairbanks in the renowned Cleary Summit area, the Aurora Borealis Lodge offers an unparalleled location for experiencing the breathtaking Northern Lights. This area is globally recognized as one of the top destinations for aurora viewing, providing you with the perfect setting for this bucket-list adventure.

The Cedar Lodge: Exclusively for Our Group

During our retreat, the entire Cedar Lodge will be reserved exclusively for our group. The Cedar Lodge features four private rooms—two on the first floor and two on the second—each designed for comfort and practicality. Whether you’re staying upstairs or downstairs, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the night sky from your north-facing windows.

Each room, approximately 400 square feet in size, is thoughtfully equipped to provide the comforts of home, including a private bathroom and a fully functional kitchen. The lodge doesn’t feature restaurants or stores on-site, but it’s conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from downtown Fairbanks. We’ll make a stop at a grocery store and liquor store before arriving at the lodge to ensure you’re fully stocked for your stay.

Room Features & Amenities

• Sleeping Arrangements: Two queen beds in each room
• North-Facing Windows: Signature feature designed to optimize aurora viewing
• Living Space: Comfortable sofa positioned for gazing at the Northern Lights
• Private Bathroom: Shower-only bathroom with heated bidet toilet seats, hand-held showerheads, soap, shampoo, towels, and a hairdryer
• Private Kitchen: Fully equipped with:
  • Full-size oven/cooktop and apartment-sized refrigerator with freezer
  • Microwave, toaster oven, and rice cooker
  • Coffee maker (10-cup) with filters, plus coffee, tea, sugar, and creamer
  • Pots, pans, utensils, and essential cooking tools
  • Pantry basics: salt, pepper, cooking oil, and soy sauce
• Dining Area: Dining table with chairs
• Climate Control: Toyo oil heater for cozy warmth
• Technology: WiFi internet access

What Makes This Lodge Special?

• Stunning Views: Each room’s north-facing window offers uninterrupted views of the aurora and the surrounding Alaskan wilderness.
• Privacy & Exclusivity: With the lodge fully reserved for our group, you’ll enjoy an intimate and relaxing retreat experience.
• Highly Rated: While not a traditional star-rated property, the lodge holds an impressive 4.8 rating on Google, thanks to its exceptional location and charm.

The Aurora Borealis Lodge is more than just accommodations—it’s a destination in itself. From its cozy comforts to its unbeatable location for Northern Lights viewing, the lodge sets the stage for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.

Preparing for a winter trip to Fairbanks, Alaska, requires thoughtful packing to ensure comfort in cold temperatures and readiness for unique experiences like visiting Chena Hot Springs. Here's a comprehensive packing list to help you prepare:

Clothing:

• Base Layers:
  • Lightweight wool or synthetic long underwear tops and bottoms
• Mid Layers:
  • Medium-weight wool or synthetic long-sleeve shirts
  • Fleece or down vest for added insulation
  • Fleece jacket or heavyweight top that fits over inner layers
• Outer Layers:
  • Waterproof and windproof parka suitable for sub-zero temperatures
  • Insulated, waterproof pants
• Accessories:
  • Warm hat that covers the ears
  • Scarf or neck gaiter
  • Liner gloves for dexterity
  • Heavier winter gloves or mittens for added warmth
• Footwear:
  • Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction
  • Wool or synthetic thermal socks

Additional Items for Chena Hot Springs:

• Swimwear:
  • Bathing suit for soaking in the hot springs
• Footwear:
  • Flip-flops or shower shoes for use around the pool area.
• Towel:
  • Personal towel to avoid rental fees
• Lockers:
  • Quarters for locker use to store personal belongings
• Hydration:
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated

Other Essentials:

• Sun Protection:
  • Sunglasses to protect against glare from snow
  • Sunscreen for exposed skin.
• Camera Equipment:
  • Tripod and extra batteries for photographing the Northern Lights
• Personal Care:
  • Moisturizer and lip balm to combat dry skin
• Miscellaneous:
  • Hand and foot warmers for added warmth during outdoor activities
  • Backpack for carrying daily essentials

By packing these items, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy Fairbanks's winter beauty and the relaxing experience at Chena Hot Springs.

Aurora Borealis Lodge - FAQ Sheet

Q: What are my odds of seeing the aurora borealis?
A: Two primary factors determine if you’ll see the aurora: weather and solar activity. Even with significant aurora activity, a completely cloudy sky can obscure the view. Conversely, clear skies without aurora activity mean no lights. Weather is usually the more important determinant. From our location on Cleary Summit, you have about a 90% chance of seeing some form of aurora on a clear or partly clear night.

Q: Do I need to be on top of a mountain or hill to see the Northern Lights?
A: No, but you do need to be away from city lights and in a location with a wide, unobstructed view of the sky. While hilltops like Cleary Summit or Murphy Dome are ideal, other open locations such as lakes (Chena Lakes, Olnes Pond, Tanana Lakes) or fields (Creamer’s Field, Dog Musher’s Hall) work well too. Avoid densely wooded areas that block the sky.

Q: How far are you from Fairbanks?
A: The lodge is located 20 miles northeast of downtown Fairbanks, about a 30-minute drive. The Fairbanks International Airport (FAI), located on the west side of town, is about 26 miles away (approximately a 40-minute drive).

Q: What is provided in the kitchen?
A: Each kitchen includes:

• Full-size oven/cooktop
• Apartment-size refrigerator with freezer compartment
• Microwave, toaster oven, and rice cooker
• 10-cup coffee maker with coffee filters
• Pots, pans, utensils, and cooking tools
• Pantry basics: coffee, tea, sugar/creamer packs, salt, pepper, cooking oil, and soy sauce

Q: What is provided in the bathroom?
A: Bathrooms include:

• Handheld showerheads
• Heated bidet toilet seats
• Soap, shampoo, and towels
• Toilet paper and a hairdryer

Q: What should I pack?

A: See List Below

• Winter Gear: Warm, insulated winter boots, a down jacket, plenty of layers for the cold, and hand warmers.
• Swimwear: Flip-flops and a swimsuit for the hot springs (towels are provided in your room).
• Quarters: Bring two quarters if you plan to use the lockers at the hot springs.
• Lotion: The cold can be brutal on your skin, so lotion is recommended.
• Light Packing: Space in vehicles is limited, so pack efficiently.

Note: You’ll have access to your room to warm up when viewing the lights.

For more details, visit the Aurora Borealis Lodge website at auroracabin.com.

Payment Policy

All Walker Wellness Retreats require a 25% non-refundable deposit of the total retreat price to secure your booking. Should you need to cancel your trip, your deposit will not be refunded regardless of the reason for cancellation.
 

For U.S. destinations, the next 25% is due 60 days before the trip, and the final remaining balance is due 30 days before departure.
 

For International Destinations, the next 25% is due 120 days before the trip, and the final remaining balance is due 90 days before departure.
 

Trips can be paid in full at any time. If booking after the final payment deadline, trip payment in full is due at time of booking. Invoices NOT paid in full within 7 days of the above-mentioned deadlines are subject to trip cancellation. No refunds will be issued for trips canceled due to lack of payment.  
 

Cancellation Policy

BEFORE the final payment deadline: If you cancel your reservation before the final payment deadline, any additional payments made beyond the non-refundable 25% deposit will be refunded. However, the 25% deposit remains non-refundable. 

AFTER the final payment deadline: If you cancel your reservation after the final payment deadline, all payments made (including the deposit and any additional amounts) are non-refundable due to financial commitments with our retreat venues, guides, and service providers. 

In the unlikely event that Walker Wellness Retreats cancels a retreat, you will be given a 100% full refund. 

We strongly encourage all guests to purchase travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.  For additional details on travel insurance coverage and pricing, click the link below.

Travel Insurance 

The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Please email us at [email protected] to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.