Q: When can I see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)?
A: Aurora season is from August 15 until April 15. Visibility is dependent upon Solar activity and weather but guests are able to see the aurora 3 out of 4 clear nights. We suggest planning on staying at least three (3) nights to allow for cloudy nights blocking your views. Information about auroral activity may be found on the Explore Fairbanks page or on the UAF aurora forecast page.
Q: Is transportation provided?
A: We do not provide transportation to or from the lodge. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are options; Interior Tours & Taxi offers an $80 flat rate for transportation between Fairbanks and Northern Sky Lodge (contact them early as the owner is the only employee and his schedule fills quickly). Most of our guests choose to rent a vehicle. If you are visiting our lodge in the winter, we highly recommend an SUV and/or AWD vehicle.
Taxi services are experiencing driver shortages. Plan on being on hold for ~30-60 minutes before the dispatcher will answer your call. We highly recommend calling them well in advance of your desired pick up time.
Subject to our availability, we may be able to provide alternative transportation to the airport. If you are unable to hire a taxi service, please contact us as soon as possible to discuss this option.
Q: How do I get to the lodge?
A: From Fairbanks you will take the Parks Hwy (AK-3) about 30 miles south. You will find exact directions from Fairbanks International Airport here: directions. There is a blue road sign for the lodge 1/2 mile before you need to turn. If heading from Fairbanks, you will make a left hand turn off of the Parks Hwy, turn left at the fork and follow the road all the way to our lodge.
Q: What will the weather be?
A: The weather is difficult to predict more than a few days in advance for Fairbanks. The lack of weather stations in the area and the mountain ranges to the North and South render weekly predictions grossly inaccurate. However, meteorologists try their best and the forecast may be found here: weather.
Q: Are there any nearby activities?
A: There are many fun and unique things to do year round while you are visiting our lodge. Check out this page for information: activities.
Q: Do we provide wake up calls for the aurora?
A: We do not provide wake up calls to inform guests about auroral activity. The Explore Fairbanks page offers good insights into best times for viewing the aurora each day.
Q: Are meals provided?
A: We currently offer a continental style breakfast with individually wrapped foods due to COVID-19. There is a commercial kitchen available for your use. Most of our guests purchase food and supplies in town and cook their own meals. If you are arriving late at night, Safeway is open until 01:00.