Chena Hot Springs Resort | Alaska’s Best Natural Hot Springs

Introduction to Chena Hot Springs Resort

Nestled in the remote Alaskan wilderness, about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, lies a unique and enchanting destination: Chena Hot Springs Resort. This year-round retreat is far more than just a place to soak in warm water; it’s a hub for adventure, relaxation, and sustainability, drawing visitors from all over the world. The resort’s history is as fascinating as its offerings, rooted in the rugged spirit of Alaska’s gold rush era.

Brief History of Chena Hot Springs Resort

The story of Chena Hot Springs begins in 1905 with two gold-mining brothers, Robert and Thomas Swan. Robert was suffering from rheumatism and, after hearing rumors of a hot spring from a U.S. Geological Survey crew, the brothers embarked on a month-long journey from Fairbanks in search of a natural cure. They eventually found the therapeutic waters, and by 1911, the property had been developed into a small resort with cabins and a bathhouse, becoming a popular getaway for weary miners and Fairbanks residents.

Over the years, the resort evolved. In 1998, it was purchased by Bernie and Connie Parks-Karl, who transformed it into a pioneering model of sustainability. They harnessed the power of the resort’s geothermal resources, not just for the hot springs, but for a power plant that now generates all of the resort’s electricity. This innovative spirit led to the creation of the world’s only year-round ice museum, kept frozen with the help of geothermal technology.

Why It’s a Must-Visit Destination in Alaska

Chena Hot Springs is a truly unique destination for several key reasons:

The Healing Waters: Chena Hot Springs Resort’s main draw is the hot springs themselves. The mineral-rich, therapeutic waters are the perfect remedy for tired muscles after a day of travel or adventure. Soaking in the outdoor rock lake is a surreal experience, especially on a frigid winter night with steam rising into the air.
The Aurora Borealis: Located far from city lights and directly under the Auroral Oval, Chena Hot Springs is considered one of the best places on Earth to view the Northern Lights. Many visitors come specifically to soak in the hot springs while watching the sky for the mesmerizing green and purple lights.
The Aurora Ice Museum: This is a one-of-a-kind attraction. Kept at a constant 25°F year-round by geothermal technology, the museum is home to stunning ice sculptures, including a life-sized knight on horseback, a two-story observation tower, and an ice bar where you can sip an “appletini” from a glass made of ice.
Year-Round Activities: Unlike many other Alaskan destinations that are seasonal, Chena Hot Springs offers a full menu of activities in both summer and winter. From dog sledding and ice fishing in the cold months to hiking, horseback riding, and ATV tours in the summer, there’s always something to do.
Sustainability and Innovation: Chena Hot Springs Resort’s commitment to renewable energy and self-sufficiency is a story in itself. Visitors can take a tour of the geothermal power plant and the resort’s hydroponic greenhouses, which grow fresh vegetables year-round to be used in the on-site restaurant.

How to Get to Chena Hot Springs Resort

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a remote destination, but it is easily accessible from Fairbanks, making it a popular day trip or a multi-night stay. The journey itself is a scenic part of the experience, offering a glimpse into the Alaskan wilderness.

By Car – Driving from Fairbanks

Driving is the most common way to get to the Chena Hot Springs Resort and offers the most flexibility.

The Route: Chena Hot Springs Resort is located at the very end of Chena Hot Springs Road, a paved and well-maintained highway that runs for 56.5 miles. The road meanders through the scenic Chena River State Recreation Area, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and spotting wildlife, especially moose. The drive typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and weather.
Winter Driving: If you are visiting in the winter, be prepared for snowy and icy roads. Ensure your rental car has winter tires and drive with caution. The road is well-maintained but can be slippery.
Fuel: There is a gas station near the resort, but it’s a good idea to fill up in Fairbanks before you leave, just in case.

By Shuttle or Tour – Available Services

If you don’t have a rental car or prefer not to drive, there are several shuttle and tour services available from Fairbanks.

Resort Shuttle: Chena Hot Springs Resort offers its own shuttle service for a fee. This is a convenient option if you are staying at the resort, as it can pick you up from the airport or your hotel in Fairbanks. Be sure to book this service well in advance, especially during peak season.
Private Tour Operators: Many local tour companies in Fairbanks offer day trips to Chena Hot Springs Resort. These tours often include round-trip transportation, admission to the hot springs and the Ice Museum, and sometimes other activities like a geothermal tour. This is an excellent choice for a hassle-free day trip.

Best Time to Visit – Summer vs. Winter Travel Tips

The experience at Chena Hot Springs Resort is dramatically different depending on the season, so the best time to visit depends entirely on your travel goals.

Winter (Late August to Mid-April): This is the most popular time to visit Chena Hot Springs Resort. The freezing temperatures are the perfect contrast for the therapeutic hot springs. The cold air rising from the water creates a magical, misty atmosphere. This is also the prime season for viewing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The dark nights and remote location make it an ideal spot to watch the lights dance across the sky while you soak. Other winter activities include dog sledding, snowmobiling, and the Ice Museum.
Summer (Late May to early September): While you won’t see the aurora, a summer visit offers its own unique charm. The Midnight Sun provides endless daylight, allowing you to hike, horseback ride, or go on an ATV tour well into the night. The surrounding Chena River State Recreation Area is lush and green, and the resort’s hydroponic greenhouses are in full bloom. You can still enjoy the hot springs and the Ice Museum, but the atmosphere is more about active exploration than cozy relaxation.

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a destination packed with unique attractions that cater to different interests. While the resort is renowned for its natural hot springs, it also offers a variety of activities that make it a year-round hub for adventure and relaxation.

Relax in the Natural Hot Springs

The main draw of the Chena Hot Springs Resort is, of course, its legendary hot springs. The therapeutic, mineral-rich waters provide the perfect escape from the cold and a relaxing experience unlike any other.

The Rock Lake: The most iconic part of the Chena Hot Springs Resort is the large outdoor rock lake. Filled with natural, sulfur-rich water, the lake’s temperature hovers around 106°F (41°C) year-round. Soaking in the warm water while surrounded by the Alaskan wilderness is a surreal experience, especially on a frigid winter day as steam rises into the crisp air.
Indoor and Outdoor Hot Tubs and Pool: For those who prefer a more controlled environment or who are traveling with children (the outdoor rock lake is for adults 18+), the resort also features an indoor swimming pool and both indoor and outdoor hot tubs. These areas are perfect for families and offer a comfortable way to enjoy the thermal waters.
Therapeutic Benefits: The hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties, with minerals that are said to help with muscular aches and pains. Many visitors come specifically to soak and rejuvenate in the healing waters.

Aurora Ice Museum Experience

The Aurora Ice Museum is a must-visit attraction at the Chena Hot Springs Resort, offering a fascinating and “cool” experience that is unique to Chena.

A World of Ice: Housed in a building kept at a constant 25°F (-4°C) using geothermal technology, the museum is home to stunning ice sculptures crafted by a world-champion ice carver. You’ll find everything from a life-sized knight on horseback and a two-story observation tower to intricate ice chandeliers that change colors to mimic the Northern Lights.
The Ice Bar: The highlight for many visitors is the ice bar, where you can order a signature “Appletini” served in a hand-carved ice glass. The glass is your souvenir to keep, though it won’t last long outside the frozen museum!
Year-Round Access: The museum is open 365 days a year, making it a perfect attraction regardless of the season. Parkas are provided at no extra charge for your comfort during the tour.

Northern Lights Viewing

Chena Hot Springs Resort is widely considered one of the best places in the world to view the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

Ideal Location: Chena Hot Springs Resort’s remote location, far from the light pollution of Fairbanks, combined with its position directly under the “Auroral Oval,” provides a high probability of seeing the lights during the dark season (from late August to mid-April).
Viewing Tours: To increase your chances, Chena Hot Springs Resort offers guided Aurora Viewing Tours. A “Snow Coach” will take you up to Charlie Dome, a remote, high-elevation spot with a 360-degree unobstructed view of the sky. Here, you can wait for the lights in a warm, Mongolian-style yurt while enjoying hot beverages.
A Unique Viewing Experience: For a truly unforgettable moment, many visitors choose to watch for the lights while soaking in the outdoor hot springs rock lake. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of warm water on your skin and cold air on your face as you watch the colorful aurora dance across the night sky.

Spa & Massage Services

Chena Hot Springs Resort is renowned for its healing waters, and the resort’s spa and massage services take that relaxation to the next level. After a day of exploring or a long flight, a professional massage is the perfect way to soothe tired muscles and rejuvenate your mind and body.

Massage Therapy: Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of massage treatments, including Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, and therapeutic massages. These services are designed to help with stress reduction, pain relief, and improving circulation. You can choose from a range of session lengths, from a quick 30-minute treatment to a more indulgent 90-minute session.
Reflexology: For targeted relief, reflexology focuses on pressure points in the hands and feet to promote overall healing and relaxation. This is an excellent add-on to a massage or a standalone treatment for tired feet after a day of hiking or walking.
The Ultimate Relaxation: Many visitors combine a massage with a soak in the hot springs for the ultimate spa experience. The warm, mineral-rich water prepares your muscles for the massage, while the massage enhances the soothing effects of the springs.

Outdoor Adventures in Chena Hot Springs Resort

Beyond the hot springs and Ice Museum, Chena offers a wide range of outdoor activities that embrace the Alaskan wilderness, no matter the season.

Year-Round Adventures:

Dog Sledding/Dog Cart Rides: A true Alaskan experience, Chena Hot Springs Resort’s dog kennel operates year-round. In the winter, you can take an exhilarating dog sled ride through the snowy trails. During the warmer months, you can still experience the thrill of mushing with a dog cart ride. A kennel tour is also available to meet the dogs and learn about the sport from experienced mushers.
Geothermal Renewable Energy Tour: Learn about the innovative technology that powers the resort. A free daily tour explains how the geothermal energy from the hot springs is used to generate all of the resort’s electricity and heat the buildings, including the Aurora Ice Museum.

Seasonal Activities:

Winter Activities: When the snow falls, the landscape becomes a playground for winter sports. You can rent snowmobiles for a thrilling ride, try cross-country skiing, or go snowshoeing on the resort’s extensive trail network. Ice fishing is also a popular activity on nearby frozen ponds.
Summer Activities: With the Midnight Sun providing nearly 24 hours of daylight, summer is the perfect time for active exploration. Chena Hot Springs Resort offers guided ATV tours, horseback riding, and even flightseeing tours to see the vast Alaskan landscape from above. You can also rent bikes, canoes, and paddle boards to explore the area at your own pace.

Hiking Trails

The area around Chena Hot Springs Resort is a hiker’s paradise, with trails for all skill levels. The resort itself provides direct access to several well-maintained trails, while others are located nearby along Chena Hot Springs Road.

On-Resort Trails: Chena Hot Springs Resort has a network of trails directly accessible from the resort grounds. These include easy, flat loops like the Nature Trail and the Monument Creek Trail, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll. More challenging options like the Charlie Dome Trail offer a moderate to difficult climb with a rewarding 360-degree view of the surrounding hills from the summit.
Chena River State Recreation Area: Located along the road to theChena Hot Springs Resort, this vast recreation area offers some of the region’s best hiking. The famous Angel Rocks Trail (at Mile 48.9) is a popular choice, with a 3.5-mile loop that leads to unique granite rock outcroppings called “tors” and provides breathtaking valley views. For a more strenuous hike, you can even take the 8-mile trail from Angel Rocks all the way to Chena Hot Springs, ending your trek with a well-deserved soak.

Outdoor Adventures

Beyond the geothermal waters and the indoor Ice Museum, Chena Hot Springs Resort is a gateway to classic Alaskan outdoor adventures, offering thrilling activities for every season.

Dog Sledding in Winter

Dog sledding is a quintessential Alaskan experience, and at Chena Hot Springs Resort, you can get a firsthand taste of this historic mode of transportation. The resort’s on-site kennel is home to a team of energetic Alaskan huskies who are bred and trained for the sport.

Authentic Experience: In the winter, you can take an authentic dog sled ride, where a professional musher will guide a team of dogs pulling a sled through the snowy trails. The experience is an exhilarating way to see the surrounding winter wonderland.
Kennel Tours: Even if you don’t take a ride, a kennel tour is a must. You’ll get to meet the dogs, learn about the sport of mushing, and understand the special bond between the dogs and their handlers.

ATV & Snowmobile Rides

For those who want to power their own adventure, Chena Hot Springs Resort offers guided tours on powerful off-road vehicles.

Snowmobile Rides (Winter): When the snow falls, snowmobiles are the best way to explore the vast winter landscape. Chena Hot Springs Resort provides guided snowmobile tours on its groomed trails. These tours are perfect for both beginners and experienced riders, offering a rush of adrenaline as you glide through the serene, snow-covered forest. Helmets and winter gear are often included.
ATV & Side-by-Side Tours (Summer): In the summer, you can take a guided ATV or “side-by-side” tour on the resort’s trails. These rides are a thrilling way to explore the area’s scenery, especially the journey up to Charlie Dome for panoramic views. You can navigate through muddy trails and rugged terrain, providing a different kind of excitement compared to the winter season.

Based on the search results, I have found information regarding all three types of accommodations at Chena Hot Springs Resort.

Hotel Rooms (Moose Lodge and Fox Rooms): There are 88 rooms in total in Chena Hot Springs Resort, including 80 lodge rooms and 8 dry cabins. The Fox Rooms are a bit more intimate and smaller than the Moose Lodge, with some designated as pet-friendly. Room amenities typically include a 3/4 bath with a shower, coffee maker, hair dryer, and TV. Guests staying in hotel rooms receive unlimited swim/soak passes to the hot springs. Prices range from about $209.99 to $309.99 per night, plus tax.
Cabins: Chena Hot Springs Resort has 8 “dry cabins,” meaning they do not have running water or private bathrooms inside. Each cabin comes with a private outhouse. Guests have access to showering facilities in the Pool House. The cabins are described as “rustic and cozy,” with some located along the Chena River. They are pet-friendly for a fee. Amenities vary by cabin, but can include a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker, and heater.
Camping & RV Parking: There are 24 marked sites for RVs or tents. These are “first come, first serve” and no reservations can be made in advance. The camping sites are “dry camping” with no electricity or plumbing hookups. Potable water and a dump station are available seasonally. A fee of $35 per campsite per night is charged. These sites do not include hot springs passes, which must be purchased separately.

Dining at Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a unique culinary experience that blends traditional Alaskan fare with an innovative farm-to-table philosophy. Given its remote location, the resort has developed a self-sustaining approach to dining, making its food as memorable as its hot springs.

Resort Restaurant & Café

The main dining options at the Chena Hot Springs Resort are the Chena Hot Springs Restaurant and the Aurora Café.

Chena Hot Springs Restaurant: This is the Chena Hot Springs Resort’s primary fine-dining establishment. Guests can relax next to a fireplace while enjoying a variety of dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features a range of options, from hearty breakfasts to fine-dining entrees.
Aurora Café: Located in the Chena Hot Springs Resort’s Activity Center, the Aurora Café provides a more casual dining experience. It is a popular spot for guests to hang out, offering soups, sandwiches, snacks, and “Chena Fresh” salads. The cafe also serves specialty coffee beverages and ice cream, making it a great place to grab a quick bite or a warm drink while waiting for activities or the Northern Lights.

Farm-to-Table Experience – Fresh Greenhouse Produce

One of the most impressive aspects of dining at Chena Hot Springs Resort is its commitment to sustainability and a farm-to-table concept.

Geothermal Greenhouses: Chena Hot Springs Resort operates several geothermal greenhouses that are heated year-round by its natural hot springs. This allows them to grow fresh produce even in the frigid Alaskan winter, a feat that is a testament to their innovative use of renewable energy.
“Chena Fresh” Produce: The produce from these greenhouses, including lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and a variety of herbs, is used in the resort’s restaurant and café. The “Chena Fresh” salad is a signature item, celebrated by many visitors for being the “freshest” salad in all of Alaska, regardless of the season.

Local Alaskan Specialties

The menus at Chena Hot Springs Resort also incorporate a number of Alaskan specialties, ensuring a true taste of the Last Frontier.

Wild Alaskan Seafood: As with many places in Alaska, fresh, wild-caught salmon is a staple on the menu. You can also find dishes featuring other local seafood, such as Alaskan king crab and wild Alaskan scallops.
Wild Game and Meat: The restaurant serves a range of hearty dishes featuring local meats like reindeer sausage. You may also find wild game and other traditional Alaskan fare on the menu, providing an authentic culinary experience.

Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a range of events and activities throughout the year, making it a destination that goes beyond its famous springs. The resort’s remote setting and commitment to a unique experience mean there’s always something special happening.

Seasonal Festivals

While the Chena Hot Springs Resort does not have a formal calendar of “festivals” in the traditional sense, its activities and atmosphere are heavily tied to the seasons, creating a festive feel for each.

Ice Extravaganza (Winter): The resort is known for its stunning ice sculptures. While the Aurora Ice Museum is a permanent fixture, the resort often hosts ice sculpting showcases and can be a popular stop during the World Ice Art Championships season, which takes place in nearby Fairbanks.
Midnight Sun Season (Summer): The endless daylight of the summer solstice is a festival in itself. The resort’s schedule of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, ATV tours, and hiking, takes full advantage of the “endless day,” with tours and activities often running late into the evening.

Wellness and Retreats

The hot springs are the heart of the resort’s wellness offerings, providing a serene environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Massage Therapy: The resort’s spa offers a variety of massage treatments, including deep tissue and Swedish massage, which can be booked to enhance the therapeutic effects of the hot springs.
Yoga and Meditation: While not always scheduled as official retreats, the peaceful and remote environment of Chena Hot Springs makes it an ideal place for personal wellness and meditative practices. The surrounding nature and the calming presence of the hot springs create a perfect backdrop for a restorative getaway.

Guided Tours

Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a variety of guided tours that provide a deeper look into the resort’s unique attractions and the surrounding environment.

Aurora Viewing Tour: During the winter, the resort provides guided tours to a prime viewing location on Charlie Dome, a remote spot with an unobstructed 360-degree view of the sky. The tour includes a ride on a “Snow Coach” and a heated yurt for waiting for the Northern Lights.
Geothermal Renewable Energy Tour: A complimentary daily tour explains how the resort harnesses geothermal energy from the hot springs to power all of its operations. This educational experience showcases their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Aurora Ice Museum Tour: This guided tour is a must-do for every visitor. An expert guide walks you through the museum’s intricate ice sculptures, shares fascinating facts about its construction, and leads you to the famous ice bar for an “Appletini” in an ice glass.
Dog Kennel Tour: You can visit the resort’s on-site dog kennel and learn about the sport of mushing. These tours are available year-round and provide an opportunity to meet the Alaskan huskies and learn about their training and care from experienced mushers.

Tips for Visiting Chena Hot Springs Resort

A trip to Chena Hot Springs Resort is an unforgettable experience, but a little preparation can make your visit even better. Here are some essential tips to help you get ready for your trip.

What to Pack for Winter vs. Summer

The key to a comfortable trip to Fairbanks and Chena is packing in layers, but the type of layers will change with the season.

For a Winter Visit (Late August – Mid-April):
- Warm Layers: The most crucial rule is to dress in layers. Pack a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool or synthetic), an insulating mid-layer (like fleece), and a windproof, waterproof parka.
- Insulated Outerwear: A high-quality down parka, insulated waterproof pants, warm gloves or mittens, and a hat that covers your ears are essential.
- Footwear: Wear warm, insulated, waterproof boots with wool socks to keep your feet warm and dry.
- For the Hot Springs: Don’t forget your swimsuit and flip-flops or water shoes for walking to and from the pools. You can rent towels, but many visitors recommend bringing your own.
For a Summer Visit (Late May – Early September):
- Layers: Even in summer, temperatures can fluctuate. Bring a light fleece or wool sweater, long pants, and a waterproof jacket for rainy days or cooler evenings.
- Bug Protection: Mosquitoes can be a major issue in the summer. Pack insect repellent or a head net to stay comfortable outdoors.
- Footwear: Pack comfortable hiking boots or sturdy shoes for exploring the trails.
- For the Hot Springs: Bring a swimsuit, a towel, and water shoes or flip-flops for the pebbly surfaces around the pools.

How to Prepare for Hot Spring Bathing

The hot springs are a key part of the Chena experience, and a few simple tips can ensure a safe and enjoyable soak.

Stay Hydrated: The hot water can be dehydrating. Drink plenty of water before and after your soak.
Remove Jewelry: The high mineral content of the water can tarnish jewelry, especially silver. It’s best to remove all of your jewelry before entering the springs.
Follow the Rules: The outdoor rock lake is for adults aged 18 and older. Be sure to use the lockers to store your belongings and bring a few quarters for them.
Swimwear is Required: Unlike some hot springs around the world, bathing suits are mandatory.

Safety Tips for Outdoor Activities

Fairbanks and Chena Hot Springs are in the heart of the wilderness, and it’s important to be prepared for outdoor adventures.

Wildlife Awareness: The area is home to moose and bears. While a moose sighting along the road is common, it’s essential to keep a safe distance. For hiking, carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while on the trail to avoid surprising wildlife.
Inform Someone: Always let someone know your planned route and expected return time, especially if you are hiking on remote trails.
Be Prepared for Weather: Weather in Alaska can change rapidly. Always carry extra layers, water, and snacks, even for what seems like a short trip.
Check Road Conditions: If driving, especially in winter, check road conditions before you go. The road to the resort is well-maintained, but ice and snow can make driving treacherous.

While Chena Hot Springs Resort is a destination in itself, the journey to and from the resort is part of the Alaskan adventure. The scenic drive from Fairbanks offers numerous opportunities to stop and explore, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders and abundant wildlife.

Fairbanks City – Culture & Museums

Before or after your trip to Chena Hot Springs, taking time to explore Fairbanks is highly recommended. The city serves as the cultural and economic hub for the interior of Alaska and offers a variety of attractions that provide context and history for the region.

University of Alaska Museum of the North: Located on the UAF campus, this museum is a must-see. Its exhibits cover the natural history, art, and culture of Alaska and the circumpolar north, providing an excellent overview of the region’s people and wildlife.
Pioneer Park: Alaska’s only historical theme park, Pioneer Park offers a glimpse into Fairbanks’s Gold Rush past. You can stroll through historical log cabins and explore various museums that detail the area’s rich history.
Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center: This is an excellent first stop in Fairbanks. The center provides a wealth of information on local attractions and features exhibits on Alaska Native culture and history.

Chatanika River – Scenic Views

The journey from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort is a scenic drive along the Chena Hot Springs Road, which winds its way through the vast Chena River State Recreation Area. While the resort is on a different waterway, the Chatanika River is a well-known nearby landmark.

Recreation and Views: The Chatanika River is popular for fishing, particularly for Arctic grayling, and for floating trips in canoes or rafts. The river’s headwaters are in the hills north of Fairbanks, and it weaves through beautiful spruce and birch forests. While it’s not directly on the road to Chena, the river is a short detour and a favorite for locals seeking fishing and paddling adventures.

Other Natural Wonders – Wildlife Watching Opportunities

The drive to and from Chena Hot Springs is as much a wildlife tour as it is a road trip. The road cuts through the Chena River State Recreation Area, a prime habitat for a variety of Alaskan animals.

Moose: Sightings of moose, especially in winter, are very common along the road. Keep an eye out for them feeding in the ponds and sloughs that parallel the road.
Beavers and Waterfowl: The many ponds and wetlands along the route are excellent places to spot beavers and muskrats, as well as a variety of ducks and other waterfowl, especially in the summer.
Predators and Other Wildlife: While they are more elusive, black bears, foxes, and wolves also inhabit the area. You can also spot smaller mammals like squirrels and snowshoe hares, as well as an array of bird species, including bald eagles and owls.
Natural Landscapes: The drive itself is a natural wonder, showcasing the rugged beauty of Alaska’s interior. You’ll pass by towering granite formations like Angel Rocks and the Granite Tors, offering spectacular views and excellent hiking opportunities.

Conclusion: Why Chena Hot Springs Resort Is Worth the Trip

Chena Hot Springs Resort is far more than just a place to take a dip in warm water; it is a quintessential Alaskan destination that offers a truly unique and memorable experience. Its blend of natural wonder, innovative sustainability, and year-round adventure makes it a must-visit for any traveler to Alaska’s Interior.

A Destination of Unique Contrasts

The resort is a place of beautiful and compelling contrasts. In the heart of a sub-arctic wilderness, you can soak in therapeutic, 106°F waters while the air temperature hovers below zero. You can witness the breathtaking Northern Lights during the long, dark nights of winter or experience the surreal energy of the Midnight Sun during the endless daylight of summer. The resort’s commitment to geothermal power allows for the impossible: a year-round Aurora Ice Museum, a frozen world of stunning ice sculptures and an ice bar, all powered by the very same heat source that warms the hot springs.

How to Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your trip, consider what you want to experience most.

For the Aurora Hunter: Plan your visit between late August and mid-April. Stay for at least a few nights to increase your chances of a clear, dark sky and a mesmerizing light show. Consider taking the resort’s guided Aurora Viewing Tour for the best vantage point.
For the Summer Explorer: Visit from late May to early September to enjoy the endless daylight. You can fill your days with hiking, horseback riding, and ATV tours, and then relax with a massage before a late-night soak.
Choosing Your Transportation: Driving is the most flexible option and allows you to explore the scenic Chena Hot Springs Road at your own pace. If you prefer not to drive, a shuttle service or a tour from Fairbanks provides a hassle-free alternative.

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a testament to the resilient and innovative spirit of Alaska. It offers a perfect escape from the ordinary and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural and cultural wonders of the Last Frontier.

Chena Hot Springs Resort: Ultimate Guide to Alaska’s Hidden Gem