Starting just an hour from Anchorage, these adventures let you see Alaska’s landscapes like never before. Whether paired with a thrilling dog sled ride or an ATV journey through Hatcher Pass, each tour offers stunning views. Explore our diverse tours below, and get ready for a memorable Alaskan adventure.
We operate all year round, offering you a front-row seat to nature’s amazing light show. Located just an hour from Anchorage, our Northern Lights tours welcome families, friends, and everyone eager for a genuine Alaskan adventure. Join us under starlit skies, watch the auroras paint the night, and create memories you’ll cherish forever.
Experience the magic of the Alaskan aurora borealis on our Northern Lights Adventure. Journey into the remote backcountry of Hatcher Pass, one of the best places to see northern lights, where green, red, and white lights flow across the winter sky. This tour offers an authentic northern lights experience, giving you a front-row seat to nature’s breathtaking display in Alaska’s wilderness.
This all-inclusive trip combines thrilling outdoor activities with prime northern lights viewing. Enjoy dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing through the snow-covered landscapes before settling into a cabin for the night at Snowhook Lodge. As darkness falls, step outside and witness the magic of the Alaskan sky. this is a perfect adventure for those looking to explore, relax, and enjoy the wonders of winter in Alaska.
NOTE: If you are a single participant, please call to book! We do not provide drivers for our tours. You must be at least 18 and licensed to drive a machine.
Experience the ultimate northern lights tour with this three-day, 2-night adventure deep into Alaska’s winter wilderness. Designed for those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation, this trip offers Alaska aurora viewing in one of the most remote and stunning landscapes – Hatcher Pass.
Your journey begins with an exciting dog sled ride, led by skilled mushers and their energetic huskies, riding through snow-covered trails in the backcountry. After a warm lunch, shift gears with a snowmobile ride towards Snowhook Lodge, climbing rugged terrain with sweeping views of Hatcher Pass. The next day, slow things down with a guided ice fishing trip, where you’ll have the chance to catch Arctic char, rainbow trout and monster pike while surrounded by frozen lakes and mountain landscapes.
Each evening, return to your cabin and prepare for a night of northern lights viewing in the peaceful surroundings of the Alaskan backcountry. Hatcher Pass is amazing for seeing the lights, with clear, unobstructed views. Whether you’re exploring on snowshoes or relaxing by the fire with a hearty Alaskan meal, this experience provides the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Discover the magic of Alaska on this overnight adventure that combines snowmobiling through the Talkeetna Mountains with breathtaking northern lights viewing. Departing from our base in Willow, just a short drive from Anchorage, this adventure starts with a snowmobile ride through scenic backcountry trails up to Snowhook Lodge in Hatcher Pass. As night falls, witness the vibrant display of the aurora from one of the best locations for northern lights exploration.
After a thrilling day of adventure, settle into your cabin for a hearty meal and a chance to relax. Whether you’re soaking in the views from outside or warming up by the fire, this adventure offers the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation. It’s the best northern lights tour if your looking for a short combination of adrenaline-pumping activity and peaceful natural beauty. All while under the watchful eyes of our professional guides who’ll quickly feel like old friends.
The Denali Glacier Snowmobile Adventure is a three-day experience available from the 7th of February to the 11th of April that takes you deep into Alaska’s winter wilderness. Starting at our Willow HQ, you’ll get geared up and transported to the Denali Highway, where the snowmobiling begins. On day one, you’ll cover up to 60 miles of remote trails, crossing frozen rivers and snow-covered forests before arriving at Alpine Lodge for a hearty dinner and a chance to see the Northern Lights.
Day two is all about exploring the Maclaren Glacier on an 80-mile round trip. You’ll ride through wide-open spaces and challenging terrain, with time to explore the glacier’s impressive ice caves and frozen formations. Whether you’re new to snowmobiling or an experienced rider, our guides ensure the journey is fun, safe, and tailored to the group’s skill levels.
On day three, you’ll snowmobile another 60 miles back to the pickup point, testing your skills on the familiar terrain. This tour offers a mix of adventure, comfort, and spectacular views, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to experience Alaska’s wilderness in winter. From lodge stays to unforgettable glacier views, the Denali Glacier Snowmobile Adventure is an ideal escape for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Explore Alaska’s stunning autumn landscapes with this northern lights guided tour that pairs off-road adventure with breathtaking night skies. Departures are at 3 pm from our Willow HQ, with check-in required 30 minutes before. Your journey begins with a guided 3.5 hour ATV/UTV ride through the rugged terrain of Hatcher Pass, one of the best places to see the northern lights and experience Alaska’s wild beauty. Ride along scenic mountain trails with sweeping views of the Talkeetna Mountains, all while keeping an eye out for wildlife along the way. Our experienced guides ensure a fun and safe ride, making this a great adventure for all skill levels.
After an exhilarating day on the trails, settle into a cabin at Snowhook Lodge and prepare for a northern lights tour. Step outside into Hatcher Pass with your snowshoes and witness the vibrant colors of the aurora borealis in Alaska. Whether you’re watching from the warmth of the lodge or venturing outside for a better view, this is one of the best northern lights tours for those looking to experience Alaska’s autumn magic.
The Iditarod Trail Snowmobile Expedition is a five-day adventure through Alaska’s backcountry. Starting at Snowhook HQ in Willow, guests ride snowmobiles into the Talkeetna Mountains, reaching the Snowhook Lodge for the first night. The second day features dog sledding and a snowmobile trip to Skwentna Roadhouse, offering views of Denali and the Northern Lights. Each night includes comfortable lodging and Alaskan meals.
The journey continues into the Alaska Range towards Rainy Pass, with guests staying at Perrins Rainy Pass Lodge. Activities include horse-drawn sleigh rides and ice fishing, with all equipment provided. The tour concludes with an extended snowmobile ride back to Snowhook HQ, showcasing the diverse Alaskan landscapes. This tour offers a blend of outdoor excitement and a chance to experience the unique beauty and culture of Alaska.
Experience the magic of Alaska aurora viewing on guided tours designed to take you to the best place to see northern lights in the region. Departing from Willow, these adventures take you away from city lights to pristine viewing spots where the lights shine brightest. Our experienced guides track aurora activity to ensure the best possible chance of seeing this breathtaking natural display. As the sky darkens, watch the northern lights stretch across the horizon, painting the Alaskan night in vivid shades of green, red, and purple.
Once we reach our prime location in Hatcher Pass, settle in for an unforgettable northern lights experience. Whether you choose to lay back and take in the view or capture the moment with your camera, these experiences offer a front-row seat to nature’s greatest light show. Our guides provide expert photography tips, warm drinks, and stories about the Alaskan aurora borealis, making these adventures both immersive and comfortable. If you’re looking for the best northern lights tours, look no further than Snowhook, our adventures offer the perfect way to see the aurora in its full brilliance.
While the Northern Lights are undeniably the main attraction, Alaska’s night skies offer much more. Glimmering stars, constellations, and the occasional shooting star make the experience surreal. Stay alert, and you might spot some nocturnal wildlife or hear the distant call of an owl.
Our locations, remote from city lights, not only give you the best Aurora views but also increase your chances of encountering wildlife. From foxes making their nightly rounds to the silent flight of owls, nature continues its routine under the starry canopy. Our guides will fill you in on the various creatures that thrive during Alaskan nights, adding another layer to your adventure. As always, we prioritize safety and respect for wildlife during our tours, ensuring that we observe without disturbing.
The length of our guided northern lights tours depends on the experience you select. For example, our multi-day Northern Lights Ultimate Adventure spans 3 days and 2 nights, offering extended opportunities for northern lights exploration and exciting activities. Shorter options, like the Northern Lights Experience/Adventure, last just an evening and are perfect for a quick yet memorable outing. Whether you’re looking for a single night to see the northern lights or an immersive adventure, there’s an adventure to suit your needs. For exact durations, check the details of each aurora borealis tour on our website.
The best time for northern lights viewing is from late September to mid-April, when the nights are longest and darkest. The peak viewing months are between December and March, offering the highest chances of clear skies and active displays. For those wondering where to go to see the northern lights, remote areas away from city lights are ideal, with many of our tours focused on prime locations such as Hatcher Pass. Whether it’s a quick evening outing or a multi-day adventure, winter is truly the best time for northern lights tours.
When preparing for a northern lights adventure, dressing warmly is essential as Alaska’s winter nights can be extremely cold. We recommend wearing layers, starting with thermal undergarments, followed by insulating layers and a waterproof outer jacket. Don’t forget insulated gloves, a warm hat, and sturdy waterproof boots to keep comfortable while you see the northern lights. For added warmth, hand warmers can be useful. During your Alaska northern lights experience, dressing appropriately ensures you can fully enjoy the stunning aurora displays without distractions from the cold.
The northern lights are a natural wonder, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, our adventures are carefully planned to align with peak aurora activity in Alaska, increasing your chances to see the northern lights. We choose locations with minimal light pollution and optimal visibility, such as Hatcher Pass, known for being the best place to see the northern lights near anchorage due to its clear nights. While nature can be unpredictable, our experienced guides and strategic timing ensure that every effort is made for you to enjoy your trip and witness the lights.
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the aurora borealis in Alaska. Whether you’re using a professional setup or a smartphone with a low-light mode, you’ll want to save the memories of this unique experience. Our guides can share tips on how to adjust your settings for the best shots of the northern lights in Alaska. The location we visit provides ideal conditions for photography, free from light pollution and with stunning backdrops. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a beginner, this is a chance to capture the magic of Alaska’s night skies.
Alaska is one of the best locations for viewing the lights due to its prime geographic position under the auroral oval, where aurora activity is strongest. The long, dark nights from autumn through spring provide the perfect conditions for aurora tours in Alaska, especially away from urban light pollution. Our adventures ensure you visit optimal locations at the best time, giving you a front-row seat to one of nature’s most captivating displays.
While there’s no strict age limit, certain activities like snowmobiling have age and licensing requirements. Always check specific tour details or contact us for more information.
Yes, for our multi-day tours, accommodations and meals are included. Check the tour details for specifics.
The lights can appear for just a few minutes or last several hours, depending on the aurora activity in Alaska and the weather conditions. Some displays fade quickly, while others flow across the sky throughout the night. The best time to see them is usually between 10 PM and 2 AM when activity tends to peak. If you’re on an adventure with us, our guides monitor forecasts to take you to the best place at the ideal moment. Clear skies and dark conditions also play a role in maximizing visibility.
Hatcher Pass is one of the best places to see the northern lights near Anchorage because of its high elevation, low light pollution, and wide, open skies. Located away from city lights, it offers clear, unobstructed views, making it a prime spot for an northern lights experience. The area’s remote location minimizes interference from artificial lighting, increasing visibility on nights with strong aurora activity.
Safety is our top priority. If a tour is canceled due to weather conditions, we’ll offer a reschedule or a full refund, depending on your preference.
The activities vary in intensity, but none require a high level of fitness. Our guides ensure your comfort and safety at all times, adjusting the activity level to suit each guest’s abilities.
For a comprehensive grasp of your upcoming Northern Lights adventure, there are several online resources we suggest. The Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks delivers daily aurora forecasts, offering insights into when you might catch the best Northern Lights views. For those intrigued by the intricacies of dog sledding, the Alaskan Mushing School provides deep dives into the history and techniques.
Furthermore, keeping an eye on the local climate is essential. Ensure you’re dressed appropriately by checking the weather forecast on the National Weather Service’s Alaska page. With these tools in hand, your Northern Lights escapade in Alaska promises to be both enlightening and exhilarating.
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