Northern Lights Ultimate Adventure

Northern Lights Ultimate Adventure

Available: Nov - Apr

Rates:
$1050.00 per person

All rates include lodging, activities, and food.

Discover winter in Alaska with this unique three-day, two-night experience that includes all of the best winter adventures. This experience showcases the magic of Alaska’s winter, including breathtaking Northern Lights, dog sledding, ice fishing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing through the Alaskan backcountry, along with food & accommodations. You will find a new adventure at every turn.

Our tour doesn’t merely show you Alaska, it invites you to actively participate in the unique experiences that make our state unforgettable. With a blend of excitement and tranquility, this adventure captures the essence of the Alaskan winter, promising an unforgettable journey.

NOTE: Drivers must be 18 years or older, kids 8 and up may ride as a passenger. We do not provide drivers for our tours. If you are a single participant, please call to book!

Tour Details

Your tour begins with a two hour dog sled adventure through snow covered forests and over frozen lakes.  Followed by lunch and time to warm up, we will then hop on our top of the line snowmobiles for an exciting ride up the mountain to our lodge on Hatcher Pass. Along the way, you’ll see wildlife and mountain views all around us. If we’re lucky, Denali will be out too! 
 
Once we arrive at the lodge, take some time to settle in while we get dinner ready as we wait for the lights to come out. After dinner you can snowshoe the trails or stay warm and simply relax in the comfortable lodge while the night sky puts on a show for us.  
The next morning after a delicious mountain breakfast, we’ll head back down the pass for an ice fishing experience. Afterwards, we will head back to the lodge and cabins for lunch, where the afternoon is yours until dinner and more Northern Lights hunting.
 
On the final day, after breakfast, we’ll ride back down the mountain on our snowmobiles to our base in Willow.  

What's Included?

This tour includes; a 2-hour dog sledding adventure, a 3-hour snowmobile ride through the Talkeetna mountains, and a 2.5 hour ice fishing experience. We provide accommodation and food for you throughout your stay, as well as providing all necessary gear and equipment for the activities.

Tour Dates & Times

If you are a single participant, please call to book.

Departs Daily: 12pm (noon)

Available: November – April (dependent on seasonal weather)

Ages: Drivers: 18 years and older | Passengers: 8 years and older

All minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

NOTES: 

Ice Fishing: Please note fishing license is not included

Dog Sledding: If anyone in your party is uncomfortable around dogs let us know so we can make it a successful experience.

Snowmobiling: We do not provide drivers for our tours. You must be at least 18 and licensed to drive a machine.

Related Adventures

Anchorage Shuttle +

Call to add an optional round-trip shuttle from Anchorage directly to our headquarters in Willow for your adventure. Enjoy a hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off, complete with stunning views along the way.
 
Travel to and from Anchorage: $175 per person, 2-person minimum.

On the first day of the adventure, excitement kicks off with a two-hour dog sledding journey. Guests dive into the heart of Alaska’s winter wonderland, racing through snow-covered forests and over frozen lakes. This thrilling ride connects you with the raw beauty of the Alaskan landscape and the spirited energy of the sled dogs. It’s an immersive experience where the chilly air and stunning scenery invigorate your senses.

After the dog sled adventure, a warm and hearty lunch awaits. This meal provides the perfect chance to refuel and share stories of the morning’s excitement. The camaraderie among guests starts to bloom over this shared experience. Once everyone’s energy is replenished, the adventure continues with an exhilarating snowmobile ride. The destination is the Snowhook Lodge on Hatcher Pass, a journey that promises breathtaking views of the Alaskan wilderness. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife and the majestic sight of Denali, weather permitting.

Arriving at the lodge marks the evening’s beginning. Here, guests can settle into their comfortable accommodations and anticipate a delicious dinner. The lodge, nestled in the serene Alaskan backcountry, offers a peaceful retreat after the day’s adventures. As night falls, the possibility of witnessing the magical Northern Lights looms. Whether you choose to explore the snowy trails on snowshoes or relax inside the lodge, the first day concludes with a sense of awe and anticipation for the natural wonders that might grace the night sky.

The second day of the adventure begins with a delightful mountain breakfast at the lodge. This morning meal, full of local flavors and hearty choices, energizes everyone for the day’s adventures. The breakfast also offers a moment to enjoy the tranquil morning views of the Alaskan wilderness, setting a peaceful tone for the day.

Next on the agenda is a 2.5-hour ice fishing experience. Guests are taken to a prime fishing spot, where they can try their hand at catching fish under the guidance of expert instructors. This activity not only provides a fun challenge but also connects you with the traditional Alaskan way of life. It’s a perfect opportunity to learn, relax, and maybe even catch! The crisp, fresh air and the beauty of the Alaskan landscape add to the charm of this experience.

Post-lunch, guests return to the lodge and cabins for a leisurely afternoon. This free time allows everyone to either rest or explore the surroundings at their own pace. As evening approaches, another delicious dinner is served, followed by more opportunities to witness the stunning Northern Lights. The anticipation of this natural light show adds excitement to the evening, as guests share their experiences and gaze into the night sky, hoping to catch a glimpse of the dancing auroras.

The third and final day starts with a satisfying breakfast at the lodge, providing a warm and energizing start to the morning. This meal gives guests a chance to savor the flavors of Alaska one last time, while soaking in the beauty of the early morning wilderness. It’s a moment to reflect on the adventures of the past days and to gear up for the concluding activities of the tour.

The highlight of the day is the return snowmobile ride. After breakfast, guests hop onto their snowmobiles for a thrilling ride back down Hatcher Pass to the base in Willow. Gliding through the Alaskan landscape, the group experiences the exhilaration of navigating the snowy terrain. The path offers a final glimpse of the stunning wilderness, a farewell salute from the beauty of Alaska.

Upon reaching Willow, the tour reaches its end. It’s a time for goodbyes, but also for exchanging contacts and memories. Guests depart with a sense of accomplishment and a collection of unforgettable experiences. The last day, although signaling the end of the tour, leaves everyone with a lasting impression of Alaska’s splendor and the joy of outdoor adventures. It’s a fitting conclusion to a journey filled with excitement, natural beauty, and the spirit of exploration.

Snowhook Lodge & Cabins

Experience the best in backcountry luxury with Snowhook. Choose from one of five private cabins at our Main Lodge. After an adventure-filled day, see the Northern Lights, compare stories with new friends, and soak in the wilderness of the Last Frontier.

Relax around the campfire. Enjoy true Alaskan hospitality.

FAQ's

  • All the winter gear and machines
  • Dog Sledding
  • Snowmobiling
  • Lodging
  • Food
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Gratuities

The answer is found in the interaction between our planet and the sun. The sun constantly emits a stream of charged particles known as the solar wind. When this wind reaches Earth, it interacts with the magnetic field surrounding our planet. This results in particles colliding with the gases in our atmosphere, causing them to light up, much like a neon sign.

The closer you are to the Earth’s magnetic poles, the higher your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. Given that Alaska is closer to the North Pole, it is ideally situated for viewing this stunning spectacle. Particularly around Anchorage, the conditions are often excellent for aurora viewing, with clear skies and minimal light pollution.

Predicting the Northern Lights is part science, part experience. Scientists monitor solar activity to provide forecasts about when and where to go to see the Northern Lights. Yet, Mother Nature has the final say. There’s nothing like the thrill of a night under the Alaskan sky, waiting for the lights to dance.

The northern lights are a photographer’s dream, yet they can be tricky to capture. A good DSLR camera, a tripod, and some knowledge about your camera’s manual settings are essential. Aim for a slow shutter speed, a high ISO setting, and a wide aperture. And remember, practice makes perfect; consider familiarizing yourself with these settings before the tour.

Typically, the best time to see the northern lights, or aurora borealis, in Anchorage, Alaska is during the winter months, from late September through early April. During these months, the sky is darkest, providing a great contrast for the dancing lights. However, exact timing may vary and the visibility of the northern lights also depends on solar activity and clear skies.

Each color of the Northern Lights holds a clue to the type of gas being excited by these particles. The most common color, a bright, ghostly green, is produced by oxygen molecules located about 60 miles above Earth. Higher-altitude oxygen can create a rare red aurora. Nitrogen, another abundant element in our atmosphere, can create blue or purplish-red auroras.

Different cultures interpret the Northern Lights in unique ways. For some Alaskan native tribes, the lights are the spirits of animals they have hunted. For others, they’re the souls of their ancestors. Regardless of interpretation, everyone agrees – they’re a sight to behold.

When it comes to the northern lights, Alaska often offers the best viewing conditions, but remember it can be chilly out there in the backcountry. Layer your clothing, beginning with thermal undergarments and adding warm outer layers. Don’t forget a cozy hat, gloves, and insulated boots. We’ll provide the snow gear, but personal comfort is key to fully enjoying your northern lights experience.

Weather and solar activity play significant roles in the visibility of the northern lights. Clear skies and strong solar activity often give the best results. As part of our northern lights tour package, our expert guides will keep track of these conditions to optimize your viewing experience.

The occurrence of the northern lights is a natural phenomenon and therefore cannot be guaranteed on every tour. However, Alaska’s long winter nights increase your chances of seeing the northern lights. Our expert guides keep a close eye on the Alaskan aurora forecast and solar activity to plan our tours during the most likely times to see the Northern Lights.

Preparing for the northern lights tour involves dressing appropriately for the weather and bringing any personal items you might need like cameras, medications, or additional snacks. Make sure to have a good rest before the tour as we might stay up late for the best aurora viewing in Alaska.

Your safety is our priority. All our guides are well-trained in safety procedures and first aid. We also ensure that all the gear and equipment used are in top condition. During the tour, it’s essential to follow the guides’ instructions to ensure everyone’s safety.

Additional Information

For the best preparation for this unforgettable Alaskan adventure, we recommend a few online resources. The Alaska Department of Fish and Gameprovides information on winter fishing opportunities, helping you understand what to expect on the ice. Meanwhile, Alaskan.org offers valuable insights into the historical world of dog sledding in Alaska.

Equally important is understanding the exhilaration and safety of snowmobiling. Here is an excellent article from Snowmobile Guide on general safety tips. To round out your preparation, don’t forget to check the weather forecast for your trip on the National Weather Service’s Alaska page. With these resources at your disposal, your three-day adventure in Alaska will be an experience of a lifetime.