FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q. When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?

In general, the northern lights can be seen in Fairbanks from mid-August through early April.

When planning your trip, you may also want to consider combining your aurora viewing experience with other activities, such as dog sledding, hiking, or visiting Denali.

 

Q. Will the tour be canceled due to bad weather?

Alaska's weather can change very quickly. Even when snow or cloudy skies are forecast, the weather can suddenly improve, allowing clear skies and opportunities to see the northern lights.

We have had many occasions when the aurora was visible despite unfavorable weather forecasts.

For this reason, we generally operate our tours even when the weather forecast is not ideal.

However, this does not guarantee that the aurora will be visible. Please understand that we cannot offer refunds if the northern lights do not appear.

Tours may be canceled if road conditions or other circumstances make it unsafe to operate.

 

Q. Can I get a refund if the Northern Lights are not visible?

The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, and their appearance cannot be guaranteed.

We do not offer refunds or compensation if the aurora is not visible during your tour.

Please make sure to review and agree to our cancellation policy before making your reservation.

 

Q. Do you provide food and drinks?

Yes! We provide complimentary cookies, chocolate, coffee, hot chocolate, and tea.

 

Q. Is there a restroom?

Yes. There is an indoor restroom available inside the lodge.

 

Q. Do I need to be physically fit to visit the lodge?

No special physical fitness is required.

However, please note that there are approximately 10 steps leading to the lodge entrance.

 

Q. Do you offer winter clothing rentals?

Unfortunately, we do not provide winter clothing rentals.

However, there are several places in Fairbanks where you can rent winter clothing.

 

Q. What are the road conditions like? Do I need a 4WD vehicle?

Our lodge is located along a highway, which is generally cleared of snow relatively quickly after snowfall. We also maintain and clear snow from our own property.

However, winter roads can be slippery due to snow and ice, so we recommend using a 4WD or AWD vehicle during the winter season.

 

Q. Do you drive around to chase the Northern Lights?

No. We do not operate aurora-chasing tours.

Instead, we stay at our warm lodge, located approximately 40 minutes from downtown Fairbanks, and wait for the northern lights to appear.

The lodge features large windows and outdoor viewing decks, allowing you to relax indoors while waiting for the aurora.

 

Q. Can you teach me how to photograph the Northern Lights?

Yes! We provide guidance on photographing the aurora using iPhones, other smartphones, and cameras.

Even if you have never photographed the northern lights before, feel free to ask our staff for assistance.

 

Q. Can you predict when the Northern Lights will appear?

We use satellite observation data and other information to explain current aurora activity.

However, the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so it is difficult to predict exactly when or how strongly they will appear. We cannot guarantee that they will be visible.

 

Q. Is Aurora Husky Lodge a hotel or accommodation?

No. Aurora Husky Lodge is currently an aurora viewing facility only. We do not offer overnight accommodations.

 

Q. I booked a tour with transportation. Can I come to the lodge in my own vehicle instead?

In some cases, it may be possible to change your reservation to a self-drive option (meeting directly at the lodge). Please contact us in advance to check availability.

・If you are still within the cancellation period:

Please cancel your existing reservation and make a new reservation for the self-drive option. This is subject to availability, so please check with us in advance.

・If the cancellation deadline has passed:

Your original reservation is non-refundable. However, you may still be able to come directly to the lodge in your own vehicle.

Please contact us in advance, as parking spaces are limited.