Alaska Wildlife Guide: Chena Hot Springs Day Tour with Ice Museum

Alaska Wildlife Guide offers a relaxing and educational full-day excursion to Chena Hot Springs Resort, one of Interior Alaska’s most iconic natural attractions. This daytime experience includes a guided visit to the world-famous Aurora Ice Museum, optional geothermal and renewable energy tours, wildlife viewing opportunities, and ample time to enjoy the resort’s natural outdoor hot springs. With a blend of nature, science, and authentic Alaska culture, this tour is a memorable highlight for visitors of all ages.

Scenic Journey to Chena Hot Springs Resort

Your adventure begins with pickup at your Fairbanks or North Pole accommodations, followed by a scenic 90 minute drive through the Chena River Recreation Area. Known for moose, fox, and occasional wildlife sightings, this quiet stretch of forest and river corridor offers one of the most picturesque drives in Interior Alaska. Throughout the journey, guides share stories about Alaska’s wildlife, geothermal history, and daily life in the Far North, offering insight into what makes this region so unique.

Explore the Aurora Ice Museum

Upon arrival at the resort, the first stop is the Aurora Ice Museum, the world’s largest year-round ice environment, maintained at a constant 25°F. Guests can admire intricate hand-carved sculptures, frozen chandeliers, and detailed ice artwork created by world champion ice carvers. Optional apple martinis served in handcrafted ice glasses are available for purchase for guests ages 21+.

Optional Geothermal Renewable Energy Tour

Chena Hot Springs Resort is a global leader in geothermal innovation. Guests may join an optional renewable energy tour that showcases how the resort uses geothermal resources to produce electricity, heat buildings, and power its greenhouses. This behind-the-scenes experience highlights sustainable technology developed in partnership with the University of Alaska.

Relax in Natural Geothermal Hot Springs

The tour includes access to the resort’s natural outdoor hot springs, where mineral-rich water between 90°F and 110°F flows from underground geothermal activity. Surrounded by mountains and Alaska wilderness, the hot springs offer therapeutic relaxation and have been enjoyed by visitors since the early 1900s. Guests may also explore the indoor poolhouse, hot tubs, and spa facilities (based on availability).

Lunch at Chena Hot Springs Resort (Optional)

Guests have time to purchase lunch at the resort restaurant, known for its hearty Alaska entrées and fresh greenhouse-grown produce powered by geothermal heat. Meals are not included in the tour price and may vary seasonally.

Return to Fairbanks

After a rejuvenating soak and exploration of the resort, the return drive offers additional chances to spot wildlife and take in the natural beauty of the Chena River Valley. The day concludes with drop-off at your Fairbanks or North Pole accommodations.

Why Travelers Choose Alaska Wildlife Guide

Alaska Wildlife Guide is one of Interior Alaska’s highest-rated and most trusted tour operators. With over 5,000 guest reviews and a 4.8 average rating, the company is recognized for outstanding professionalism, knowledgeable guides, safe transportation, and exceptional guest care. Their dedication to crafting meaningful, memorable Alaska experiences has made them a top choice for Chena Hot Springs tours, Arctic Circle adventures, and year-round exploration in the Fairbanks region.