Visiting Fairbanks in Winter: Northern Lights, Dog Sledding & Hot Springs

Winter in Fairbanks, Alaska hits hard: freezing temperatures, a sun that barely lifts above the horizon, and snow that swallows every sound. Yet these extremes also make it unforgettable: soaking in steaming hot springs surrounded by ice, dog sledding through snow-laden forests, watching the Northern Lights dance, or the endless sunrises and sunsets. In this article, I’ll share what I learned on my winter trip to Fairbanks, the outdoor activities you shouldn’t miss, and all the essentials for planning your own adventure.