Northern Lights Ultimate Adventure

Northern Lights Glacier Adventure

Available: Nov - Apr

Rates:
$3200.00 per person

All rates include lodging, activities, and food.

This winter, discover what makes Alaska different. This four-day, three-night adventure gives you the chance to try some of the best winter experiences the state has to offer. Ride with a team of sled dogs through snow-covered trails, snowmobile to mountain views few ever see, and hike across the ice of a massive glacier. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, it’s the kind of trip that sticks with you.

You’ll stay in a private cabin at Snowhook Lodge, enjoy hearty meals, and spend your days outside with expert local guides. Try your hand at ice fishing, explore historic trails on snowshoes, and watch for the northern lights each night. This is a complete winter trip—no planning, no guesswork, just four days of back-to-back adventure.

NOTE: Must be 18 years or older. We do not provide drivers for our tours, you must have a license. If you are a single participant, please call to book!

Tour Details

Your trip begins in Anchorage, where we’ll pick you up from your hotel in the morning and drive north through mountain-lined valleys toward the Matanuska Glacier. After a short safety briefing, you’ll gear up and trek across a frozen lake to reach the glacier’s edge. After the glacier hike, we head back to Snowhook Lodge on Hatcher Pass. Settle into your private cabin, enjoy a hot meal, and, weather permitting, catch your first glimpse of the northern lights.

The second day starts with a visit to our sled dog kennel, home to over 80 friendly Alaskan huskies. You’ll meet our Iditarod mushers, learn the basics of mushing, and then ride a sled through snowy woods, over frozen lakes, and along twisting trails. In the afternoon, swap the sled for snowshoes and hike into the mountains toward a frozen waterfall and historic gold mining cabin. This slower-paced trek gives you time to take in the scenery and learn a bit about the area’s mining history before returning to the lodge for dinner and another chance to watch the sky for auroras.

On day three, you’ll trade snowshoes for horsepower. After breakfast, we’ll suit up and head out on snowmobiles to ride the ridgelines and bowls of Hatcher Pass. Your guide will match the terrain to your skill level, helping you learn if you’re new or leading you to deeper powder if you’ve ridden before. The route offers sweeping views of Denali, the Chugach, and the Alaska Range. On the final day, we’ll take up ice fishing in a heated shelter. You’ll fish for lake trout, Arctic char, or pike alongside one of our local guides, then pack up for your return ride to Anchorage. We’ll drop you back at your hotel or the airport in the afternoon.

What's Included?

This tour includes a guided glacier trek, dog sledding, snowshoeing, a full-day snowmobile ride, and an ice fishing experience. We provide all meals, private cabin lodging, and winter gear including snowsuits, boots, gloves, helmets, and goggles. Transportation to and from Anchorage is also included.

Tour Dates & Times

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

Departs Daily: ?

Available: November – April (dependent on seasonal weather)

Ages: 18 years and older

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

Your first day begins in Anchorage, where we’ll pick you up from your hotel in the morning. The drive to Matanuska Glacier takes you through a scenic valley carved by ice, with snow-covered peaks rising on either side. When we arrive, you’ll gear up and cross a frozen lake to reach the edge of the glacier. From there, your guide will lead you onto the blue ice for a trek across one of Alaska’s most impressive natural landmarks.

The glacier is 27 miles long and 4 miles wide, with deep cracks, ice formations, and sweeping views in every direction. You’ll spend several hours exploring the terrain, stopping for photos, and learning how glaciers shape the land. This part of the tour is active but beginner-friendly, with expert guides showing you where to step and how to move safely across the ice.

After the trek, we’ll head back toward Hatcher Pass and Snowhook Lodge. Once you arrive, settle into your private cabin and enjoy a gourmet meal in the main lodge. As the evening sets in, step outside and watch the sky—you may get your first look at the northern lights, glowing above the quiet mountain landscape.

Your second day kicks off at the Snowhook kennel, home to over 80 Alaskan huskies trained for dog mushing. You’ll meet the dogs, learn how they’re trained, and hear stories from Iditarod mushers who work with them year-round. Once you’re harnessed up, you’ll ride behind a real team through snowy forests, across frozen lakes, and along winding trails.

The sled ride lasts about two hours and gives you a true feel for winter travel in Alaska. The dogs are fast, friendly, and eager to run. Whether you’re riding solo or sharing a sled, the experience is thrilling and hands-on. Guides are nearby to help at every stage and make sure you’re safe and comfortable throughout the ride.

In the afternoon, the pace slows as we switch to snowshoes. You’ll hike into the hills near Hatcher Pass, heading toward frozen waterfalls and an old gold mining cabin. This quiet stretch of the tour mixes history and scenery, offering mountain views, open snowfields, and a deeper look into the land around the lodge. Afterward, return to your cabin for dinner and another chance to catch the aurora.

After breakfast, you’ll gear up and head out for a full day of snowmobiling through the backcountry of Hatcher Pass. The ride begins on established trails that lead to open powder fields and ridge lines with wide views of the Alaska Range, the Chugach Mountains, and even Denali on a clear day. The terrain changes throughout the day, giving you a mix of scenic cruising and playful off-trail riding.

Whether it’s your first time on a snowmobile or you’ve ridden before, this tour is built to match your pace. Your guide will teach you the basics if you’re new, or take you to more advanced spots if you’re ready for a challenge. The focus is on safety, fun, and getting you to the best views the area has to offer.

You’ll stop along the way to take in the scenery, snap photos, and warm up with snacks and hot drinks. The day runs at a steady pace with plenty of time to explore, ride, and enjoy the quiet of the mountains. Afterward, return to the lodge to relax, refuel with dinner, and spend the evening watching for northern lights from the porch or your cabin.

Your final day begins with breakfast at the lodge before heading out for a morning of ice fishing. We’ll take you to a nearby frozen lake where heated shelters are set up over pre-drilled holes. With guidance from our local fishing team, you’ll try your luck catching lake trout, Arctic char, or northern pike. The setup keeps you warm while still giving you the full experience of winter fishing in Alaska.

The focus is on comfort and simplicity—no experience needed. Our guides will help with bait, show you how to set the hook, and share a few fishing stories while you wait for a bite. It’s a slower pace after the previous days of adventure, giving you time to relax and take in the surroundings one last time.

After fishing, we’ll return to Snowhook Lodge for a final meal or warm drink before packing up. Then it’s back on the road for your return trip to Anchorage. We’ll drop you off at your hotel or the airport, depending on your schedule. The trip wraps up with new skills, great memories, and a real taste of Alaska in winter.

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 essential gear is included in the tour. We provide snowsuits, insulated boots, gloves, helmets, and goggles to keep you warm and comfortable during every activity. You don’t need to bring technical gear—just pack your base layers, and we’ll take care of the rest. If you have questions about sizing or what to bring, we’re happy to help before your trip.

The northern lights are visible in Alaska from November through April, which is exactly when this tour runs. These winter months offer long, dark nights and clear skies—ideal conditions for aurora viewing. While sightings are never guaranteed, staying at Snowhook Lodge gives you a great chance to see them right from your cabin or the main lodge deck.

Temperatures during the tour can range from 0°F to -20°F (or colder), depending on the month and weather conditions. You should wear warm, moisture-wicking base layers, a mid-layer like fleece or wool, and bring a hat and thick socks. We provide outer winter gear—including snowsuits, boots, gloves, helmets, and goggles to keep you comfortable in the cold. Dressing in layers is the best way to stay warm throughout the day.

Yes. No prior experience is needed for dog sledding or snowmobiling on this tour. Our guides will teach you everything you need to know before each activity and support you throughout the ride. Whether you’re a beginner or just a little nervous, we’ll match the pace to your comfort level and make sure you feel safe and confident.

Yes, transportation to and from Anchorage is included in the tour price. We’ll pick you up from your hotel at the start of the trip and drop you off at your hotel or the airport on the final day. You don’t need to arrange any separate travel—all ground transport is covered as part of your Northern Lights Glacier Adventure.

The tour includes a private cabin at Snowhook Lodge, located in the mountains near Hatcher Pass. Each cabin is warm, comfortable, and just steps from the main lodge, where you’ll enjoy meals and relax between activities. Lodging is included for all three nights, and offers a quiet setting with great views, as well as a chance to see the northern lights right from your porch.

Yes, a valid Alaska sport fishing license is required for the ice fishing portion of the tour. Nonresidents aged 16 and older must purchase and carry a sport fishing license while fishing in Alaska. You can obtain a 1-day nonresident sport fishing license online through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game or at various local vendors. The current cost for a 1-day license is $15.

Please ensure you have your license with you during the tour. If you have any questions about purchasing your license or need assistance, feel free to contact us before your trip.

Yes, you’ll drive your own snowmobile during the tour, as long as you’re at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. No prior experience is required—your guide will teach you how to ride safely, and the pace is adjusted to your skill level. If you’re new, we’ll stick to beginner-friendly trails; if you’ve ridden before, we’ll take you to more advanced terrain. We do not provide drivers for our tours.

Yes, meals are included throughout the tour. You’ll start each day with a hot breakfast at Snowhook Lodge, enjoy hearty dinners each evening, and have snacks and warm drinks available during activities. If you have dietary restrictions, let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Yes, on clear days, you may catch a glimpse of Denali—the tallest peak in North America—during the snowmobile portion of the Northern Lights Glacier Adventure. The route through Hatcher Pass offers panoramic views of the Alaska Range, and Denali can often be seen from certain vantage points along the trail. While sightings depend on weather conditions, the opportunity to see Denali adds to the scenic highlights of the tour.

No, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon and can’t be guaranteed. However, this tour runs during the best viewing months—November through April—and Snowhook Lodge is located far from city lights, giving you a great chance of seeing them. Clear, dark nights increase your odds, and we watch the forecast closely to help guests catch the best displays when conditions are right.

Yes, the adventure is open to solo travelers, but you’ll need to call to book. This helps us ensure availability and arrange accommodations that work best for single participants. You’ll still enjoy a private cabin, join group activities, and have full access to everything the tour offers.

 

Additional Information

Staying warm is key to enjoying this winter tour. While we provide outer gear like snowsuits, boots, and gloves, you should bring your own base layers, thick socks, and a warm hat. Dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable during outdoor activities. For a straightforward breakdown of what to wear in cold weather, see this winter layering guide from Heat Holders. You don’t need technical experience to join this tour, but you should feel confident being outside for several hours each day.

Alaska’s weather can shift quickly, especially in winter. For up-to-date conditions, we recommend the Alaska Aviation Weather Unit, which provides detailed regional forecasts. If you plan to fish during the tour, you’ll need a valid Alaska sport fishing license. You can purchase one online before arrival. If you have any questions about weather, packing, or physical requirements, we’re happy to help.