Fairbanks, Alaska Winter Experience | Snowmobiling | Dog Sledding/ATV | Ice Fishing on the Lake
- Experience the infinite joy of racing across the icy Alaskan landscape
- Check out one of the most popular local snow activities: Alaskan snowmobiling
- Leisurely enjoy the fun of fishing
Package Options
Product Info
A. Snowmobile (includes round-trip hotel transfers, approx. 2 hours total duration)
Reference pickup times:
10:00 departure from Clarion Hotel & Suites; 95 10th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:00 departure from Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge; 1255 Tvsa Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709;
10:05 departure from Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Convention Center; 813 Noble St, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:05 departure from Sophie Station Suites; 1717 University Ave S, Fairbanks, AK 99709;
10:15 departure from Bridgewater Hotel; 723 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:15 departure from Best Western Plus Pioneer Park Inn; 1908 Chena Landings Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:20 departure from SpringHill Suites by Marriot Fairbanks; 575 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK99701;
10:20 departure from Wedgewood Resort Fairbanks; 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:30 departure from Hyatt Place Fairbanks; 400 Merhar Avenue, Fairbanks, AK99701;
Participant requirements:
Children under 10 are not eligible for this activity. Children aged 10-15 must ride with a parent/guardian. Those aged 16 and older must operate their own snowmobile.
B. Dog Sledding/ATV (includes round-trip hotel transfers, approx. 2 hours total duration)
Reference pickup times:
09:45 departure from Clarion Hotel & Suites; 95 10th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
09:45 departure from Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge; 1255 Tvsa Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709;
09:50 departure from Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Convention Center; 813 Noble St, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
09:50 departure from Sophie Station Suites; 1717 University Ave S, Fairbanks, AK 99709;
10:00 departure from Bridgewater Hotel; 723 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:00 departure from Best Western Plus Pioneer Park Inn; 1908 Chena Landings Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:05 departure from SpringHill Suites by Marriot Fairbanks; 575 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK99701;
10:05 departure from Wedgewood Resort Fairbanks; 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
10:15 departure from Hyatt Place Fairbanks; 400 Merhar Avenue, Fairbanks, AK99701;
Important notes:
If there is insufficient snowfall between September and early November, the dog sledding experience will be replaced by dog-pulled ATV. The musher will connect the sled dogs' harnesses to a four-wheeled ATV using a soft rope to allow the team to pull the vehicle. The experience lasts approximately 10 minutes.
C. Ice Fishing (includes round-trip hotel transfers, approx. 4 hours total duration)
Reference pickup times:
12:30 departure from Clarion Hotel & Suites; 95 10th Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
12:30 departure from Best Western Plus Chena River Lodge; 1255 Tvsa Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709;
12:35 departure from Westmark Fairbanks Hotel and Convention Center; 813 Noble St, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
12:35 departure from Sophie Station Suites; 1717 University Ave S, Fairbanks, AK 99709;
12:45 departure from Bridgewater Hotel; 723 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
12:45 departure from Best Western Plus Pioneer Park Inn; 1908 Chena Landings Loop, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
12:50 departure from SpringHill Suites by Marriot Fairbanks; 575 1st Ave, Fairbanks, AK99701;
12:50 departure from Wedgewood Resort Fairbanks; 212 Wedgewood Dr, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
13:00 Depart from Hyatt Place Fairbanks; 400 Merhar Avenue, Fairbanks, AK 99701;
Participant Requirements:
Adults aged 16 and over are required to purchase a fishing license separately. The license fee is US$15 per person. Please ask your tour guide for assistance with the purchase on-site.
Unlike regular motorcycles or cars, snowmobiles are not driven by wheels but move via rotating tracks. Because of these tracks, they are safe, stable, and easier to learn. You can ride them up snowy slopes and over obstacles; while others drive cautiously on the snow, you can enjoy the speed in the bright, snowy weather! No license is required to operate a snowmobile. Tips: 1. It is recommended to bring and wear outdoor cold-weather clothing, waterproof jackets and pants, hats, gloves, and comfortable, warm shoes to prevent frostbite. 2. Helmets, cold-weather gear, and other riding equipment are provided by the tour.
Join local Alaskan Leslie to start your dog sledding experience! Leslie, who moved to Alaska from the lower 48 states 20 years ago, is a huge dog lover. Starting with just two Alaskan huskies, she has grown her operation into a dog sledding experience and cultural exhibition center with up to 50 dogs. As the annual Alaskan sporting event—the international dog sled race—gained global popularity, Leslie opened her sled dog training grounds to train young mushers and offer dog sledding experiences to tourists, with all proceeds going toward preparing for major international dog sled races! She has become a highly respected figure locally for supporting young mushers and helping them raise funds. While waiting for your sled, you will have the chance to get up close and personal with the adorable dogs. Here, you will personally experience the infinite joy of racing across the icy Alaskan landscape (experience lasts about 20-25 minutes)! The sled dogs are arranged in pairs, with the lead dogs at the front responsible for direction, and the dogs closest to the seat being the strongest and most powerful. Two passengers will ride together in one sled accompanied by a musher, racing through forest trails and splashing up white snow—a thrilling and fun experience.
In Alaska, rivers and lakes freeze from November to March each year. Ice fishing is generally possible once the ice thickness reaches 8-10 cm. During the ice fishing season, our professional guides will set up specialized outdoor tents or cabins equipped with heating, allowing you to enjoy the fun of fishing in comfort. Because the water temperature is very low, the fish's physiological activities are significantly affected, putting them in a semi-dormant state with slow reactions to external stimuli, making them less alert. Combined with the thick ice cover that reduces external disturbances, it is very easy to get started even if you have no fishing experience. Ice fishing is a popular winter activity among locals in Alaska. After catching fish, the ice fishing guide will process and grill one fish for each guest so you can taste the freshest catch, and any additional fish caught will be released back into the snowy lake.
Purchase Notice
1. This tour requires you to hold a valid photo ID, such as a national passport with a US visa, US resident ID, or US driver's license.
2. Minors under 18 or children must be accompanied by an adult; unaccompanied minors or children cannot participate.
3. For the safety of pregnant women, those participating must be no more than 24 weeks pregnant at the end of the tour.
4. As winter activities are heavily influenced by weather, snow conditions, ice thickness, and fish stocks, we will contact you to cancel the order if actual conditions do not meet the requirements for the tour to proceed.
5. During aurora viewing, please do not use the flash function on your photography equipment to avoid disturbing others' viewing and photography.
6. Smoking is prohibited on the vehicle during the tour.
7. If you are unable to participate in the tour or withdraw from any part of the journey due to personal reasons (lack of travel documents, flight delays, lateness, illness, accidents, etc.), the paid tour fees will not be refunded, and no other compensation will be provided.
8. If there is a discrepancy between the time indicated in the itinerary and the time notified by the tour guide on-site, please refer to the time notified by the guide.
Reminders
A minimum of 4 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 2 day(s) before the departure date
Travelers with the following conditions or other health issues that could be worsened by excessive stimulation should not participate in this activity: High blood pressure, Heart disease, Asthma, Epilepsy, Pregnant women
Please arrive at the designated location 15 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
FAQ
1. What are the typical winter temperatures in Fairbanks, Alaska, especially for outdoor activities like snowmobiling?
Fairbanks winters are known for extreme cold, with average temperatures often ranging from -20°F to -10°F (-29°C to -23°C) from December to February. Temperatures can drop significantly lower, sometimes reaching -40°F (-40°C) or colder. Visitors should prepare with multiple layers of insulated clothing, including thermal base layers, a waterproof outer shell, hats, gloves, and warm boots, to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities like snowmobiling.
2. What wildlife can visitors expect to see during winter activities like dog sledding in Fairbanks, Alaska?
While polar bears are not typically found near Fairbanks, visitors engaging in winter activities like dog sledding might encounter various other Alaskan wildlife. Common sightings include moose, caribou, lynx, and different species of arctic birds. Occasionally, wolves or foxes may be spotted. Observing wildlife requires patience and luck, and maintaining a respectful distance is always important.
3. Beyond snowmobiling and ice fishing, what other unique winter attractions are available in Fairbanks, Alaska?
Fairbanks offers several unique winter attractions in addition to thrilling activities like snowmobiling and ice fishing. Visitors can explore the Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs, relax in the natural hot springs, or visit the University of Alaska Fairbanks Museum of the North to learn about Alaskan natural and cultural history. The Santa Claus House in North Pole, a short drive away, also provides a festive experience.
4. When is the best time to visit Fairbanks, Alaska, for the most optimal snow conditions for activities like snowmobiling and dog sledding?
The period from late November to early April generally offers the most optimal snow conditions for winter activities such as snowmobiling and dog sledding in Fairbanks. During these months, the snow accumulation is usually substantial, and the ground remains frozen, providing excellent terrain for these experiences. January and February often have the deepest and most consistent snow cover.
5. What are the most convenient ways to travel around Fairbanks, Alaska, to reach various winter activity locations?
The most convenient ways to travel around Fairbanks, especially to remote winter activity locations, typically involve rental cars equipped for winter driving or pre-arranged transportation services. Many tour operators, including those offering snowmobiling and ice fishing, provide pick-up and drop-off services from local hotels. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also available for shorter distances within the city.
6. Does Fairbanks, Alaska, offer public transportation options suitable for tourists accessing winter attractions?
Fairbanks does have a public bus system, the Fairbanks Metropolitan Area Commuter System (MACS Transit). While it serves the city, its routes and schedules may not always be convenient for tourists trying to reach specific winter attractions or more remote activity sites outside the main urban core. For direct access to winter activities, organized tours or private transport are often more practical.
7. Are ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft readily available for transportation in Fairbanks, Alaska?
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally available in Fairbanks, Alaska. They can be a convenient option for getting around the city, especially during regular hours. However, availability might be more limited during peak demand times, in very remote areas, or during extreme weather conditions. It's advisable to check the app for driver availability when planning your trips.
8. How reliable are taxi services for getting around Fairbanks, Alaska, especially for early morning or late-night winter excursions?
Taxi services in Fairbanks, Alaska, are generally reliable, particularly within the city limits and for trips to and from the airport. For early morning or late-night winter excursions to specific activity locations, it's highly recommended to book taxis in advance to ensure availability and timely pick-up. Several local taxi companies operate 24/7.
