Chena Hot Springs Resort Review: The Ultimate Winter Escape in Alaska

Located 70 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, Chena Hot Springs Resort is a remote, historic property in the heart of the Chena River Valley. Known for its stunning winter scenery, natural hot springs, and an exceptional view of the Aurora Borealis, this resort offers a quintessential Alaskan winter experience. This Chena Hot Springs Resort review will guide you through everything you need to know about visiting this unique destination.

I stayed at Chena Hot Springs Resort for 4 days in January 2023, and it was one of the most incredible trips I’ve ever been on in my life! This blog post also details some key things to know about Chena Hot Springs Resort before you visit. If you’re thinking about visiting Chena Hot Springs Resort, keep reading to learn more about what to expect and prepare for!

Book your stay at Chena Hot Springs Resort early to secure the best rate and room type!

Why Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort?

In August of 1905, two brothers named Robert and Thomas Swan set out to discover a hot spring located within the Chena River valley that they’d heard about from a prediction made by a 1904 U.S. Geological Survey crew. Over the next several years, the brothers built up the property surrounding the hot spring to include cabins, a bathhouse, and a stable. The property today is known as Chena Hot Springs Resort, and it has been a staple retreat among residents and visitors to interior Alaska ever since. 

Many visitors to Chena Hot Springs usually come for one of two things: enjoying the hot spring (obviously!), or attempting to spot the Northern Lights. Honestly, that’s also what brought me 2,000 miles from my cozy apartment in downtown Seattle into the depths of interior Alaska in the dead of winter. Chena Hot Springs seemed to hold the promise of a winter wonderland escape against the backdrop of scenic, wild Alaska. And, boy, did it deliver on that promise!

The excitement and enchantment of interior Alaska did not end with the Aurora or the hot springs, though. I also went dog sledding through a snow-covered forest, and did a fair amount of scenic hiking on two incredibly scenic trails in the Chena River State Recreation Area. All while enjoying moments in between exploring around the property and learning about the unique history that led to its discovery. 

Best Time to Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort

Alaska in winter might sound intimidating, but it’s absolutely worth it if you’re looking for the quintessential Arctic experience. I visited during early January, and while the cold was intense, it added to the magic. Winter brings extended darkness that boosts your odds of seeing the Northern Lights, and there’s something uniquely thrilling about emerging from the hot springs into crisp, freezing air under a star-filled sky.

Not quite up for winter temps? Late August through October provides a fantastic alternative, with milder weather and the possibility of seeing the early-season auroras.

Summer, of course, is perfect for outdoor exploration with midnight sun lighting up endless trails and the surrounding Chena River State Recreation Area.

If you do decide to visit Chena Hot Springs Resort in the winter, you might even have a chance of viewing the Aurora overhead while soaking in the hot spring! There are lights surrounding the hot spring area, so visibility might be lowered but there is still a possibility of witnessing the phenomenon from the comfort of warm waters! 

How much does it cost to Visit Chena Hot Springs?

Here’s a quick breakdown of entry fees for the hot springs and other essentials:

If you are staying in a room at the resort, your passes are included in your stay. You will still need to bring quarters if you intend to use a locker in the pool house. There are also bathing suits and snacks available–the snacks and beverages cannot be taken into the pool house area near bathers.

Chena Hot Springs Resort has a cozy range of options that feel like a mix of rustic Alaskan and classic winter-lodge vibes.

• Moose Lodge: These are your standard rooms, close to the hot springs and offering a comfortable stay with easy access to the main lodge and pools.
• Cabins: If you’re in the mood for a true Alaskan experience, these dry cabins (no running water) make for an adventurous stay. They range from smaller options for two up to larger group cabins that sleep eight. Note that there’s access to showers in the main pool house.

Nightly rates vary, but I paid about $195 per night during a winter special. Summer rates are typically higher, so plan and book ahead to secure the best deals!

Top Activities at Chena Hot Springs Resort

1. Soaking in the Hot Springs

The steaming hot springs are the heart of the resort, with natural mineral waters kept toasty year-round. There’s nothing quite like the sensation of stepping into the hot springs pool when it’s freezing outside. It’s a surreal experience you won’t forget.

Visitors can also take a dip in an outdoor hot tub that overlooks the surrounding mountains, or the indoor pool and hot tub for those looking to escape the cold, brisk air. 

2. Touring the Aurora Ice Museum

No trip to Chena is complete without a stop at the Aurora Ice Museum. This year-round ice museum has intricate sculptures, ice chandeliers, and an ice bar that serves the famed apple martini in a glass made of ice. Just picture it—sipping a cocktail while surrounded by stunning ice art!

3. Dog Sledding

For a true taste of Alaskan tradition, take a dog sledding tour! It’s short but packed with excitement, as you glide over the snow with a team of enthusiastic huskies leading the way. You’ll get to visit the sled dogs before and afterward, and learn about the history of mushing.

Aside from the hot springs itself, going dog sledding in the snow was probably my favorite activity at Chena Hot Springs Resort! I highly recommend booking this experience early to lock-in the date and time you’re hoping for!

4. Snowmobiling and Ice Fishing

If you’re craving a bit more adventure, snowmobiling across snowy trails and trying your hand at ice fishing will satisfy that winter wilderness craving.

In addition to soaking in the hot springs, there are plenty of other activities for visitors to enjoy at Chena Hot Springs Resort in the winter. Some activities visitors might enjoy at Chena Hot Springs Resort in the winter include snowmobiling, ice fishing, and dog sledding. 

5. Summer Adventures

If you’re here during the warmer months, there’s plenty to do off the snow, like hiking, mountain biking, and even guided ATV tours.

6. Geothermal Energy and Greenhouse Tour

This free, fascinating tour explores how the resort uses geothermal energy to sustain itself, from heating the hot springs to supporting the greenhouse that supplies fresh herbs and veggies for the on-site restaurant.

The coolest part about having an onsite greenhouse in the middle of interior Alaska is that the resort’s restaurant can use fresh ingredients they would otherwise have to outsource. Sustainability is key, and Chena Hot Springs really emphasizes this throughout the property and makes it a wonderful part of the guest experience.

For those seeking ultimate relaxation, Chena Hot Springs Resort also has a spa, offering massages and other treatments using natural products like honey and herbs grown on-site. 

Food and Dining at Chena Hot Springs

Despite its remote location, Chena Hot Springs Restaurant offers a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring locally sourced ingredients. The on-site greenhouse provides fresh herbs and produce year-round.

We thoroughly enjoyed the food here, and we ate all three meals at the restaurant each day of our stay. We tried a new dish each time, but my favorite meal I ate while staying at Chena Hot Springs was the “Belgian Start”. I love anything sweet, so this was a winning dish for me! For alcoholic beverages, I absolutely loved the “Aurora Margarita”!

For a quick bite, the Aurora Cafe serves microwavable snacks, hot cocoa, and essentials. Heads up on the water: I am really sensitive to tastes and smells and I found the tap water to taste slightly sulfuric. It is safe to drink, but I suggest bottled water if you’re sensitive to smells or tastes, too!

Can You See the Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs?

Absolutely—Chena Hot Springs sits right in the Auroral Oval, making it one of the best spots in the world to catch the northern lights. Keep in mind, though, that clear skies and long nights help your chances.

Most of the winter, between 10 PM and 2 AM, offers prime aurora-viewing hours, and the resort posts daily aurora forecasts on a whiteboard at the activity center. I saw a diffuse aurora during my stay, a softly glowing, cloud-like light that covered the entire sky, giving it an ethereal glow.

I was lucky enough to experience the Aurora on my second night at Chena Hot Springs, and the wonder of it is difficult to describe. What I thought, at first, were oddly-shaped fast-moving clouds overhead turned out to be a diffuse Aurora—a widespread, featureless but uniform cloud-like Aurora that disperses light throughout the sky.

For reference, the night that I saw the northern lights at Chena Hot Springs the conditions were showing a KP 3 and cloudy skies–but we still saw the aurora overhead! I highly recommend downloading an aurora tracking app to get the most up to date information on conditions for your visit.

Packing Tips for Winter at Chena Hot Springs

Staying comfortable at Chena Hot Springs in the winter is all about layering and choosing gear that can handle Alaska’s extreme winter conditions. Here are the essentials that I would recommend for anyone visiting Chena Hot Springs in the winter months:

• Layered Clothing: Wear a moisture-wicking base layer (merino wool or synthetic), an insulating mid-layer (like fleece or down), and a windproof, waterproof parka. This combo keeps you warm and protected from Alaska’s winter chill.
• Waterproof Gloves & Boots: Go for insulated, waterproof mittens over thin liner gloves, plus thermal, waterproof boots with wool socks to keep hands and feet warm during outdoor activities.
• Swimwear & Flip-Flops: Don’t forget a swimsuit for the hot springs! Rubber flip-flops or pool shoes are helpful on icy paths, and an extra towel or robe keeps you warm between soaks.
• Camera Gear: For Northern Lights photos, bring a camera with adjustable settings, a tripod, extra batteries (cold drains them quickly), and a remote shutter if possible. Your iPhone will work, but make sure to research the proper settings beforehand.

With these essentials, you’ll be ready for a cozy, adventurous stay at Chena Hot Springs. If you plan to do any winter hiking, make sure to read about layering, winter hiking gear, and more in my blog post on cold weather hiking!

Excursions and Tours Near Chena Hot Springs

Looking to do more during your Alaska vacation with activities and tours nearby Chena Hot Springs Resort? From scenic drives to unforgettable wildlife encounters, there are several different excursions in the Chena River Valley and in Fairbanks that will make your trip even more memorable.

• Aurora Viewing Adventure – Join a guided night tour for an optimal view of the Northern Lights, with expert guides who know the best local spots for catching the aurora. This tour leaves from Fairbanks but there are also northern lights tours offered from Chena Hot Springs Resorts for overnight visitors!
• Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks – Drive along the famous Dalton Highway, crossing the Arctic Circle for a chance to witness Alaska’s remote and rugged beauty. This tour typically includes stops at scenic viewpoints and provides insight into Alaska’s unique culture and geography.
• Dog Mushing Winter Adventure – If you loved the dog sledding at Chena (or if you wanted to go dog sledding at Chena but it was booked out), try this additional mushing adventure. It’s a great way to spend time with Alaskan huskies and experience an authentic winter tradition. Plus, you’ll also get to see reindeer!
• Small-Group Ice Fishing Experience – For a peaceful and classic Alaskan experience, go ice fishing on a frozen lake with experienced guides who provide gear, hot drinks, and a cozy setup. This is another quintessential Alaskan experience!
• Snowmobile Tour – Feel the thrill of exploring Alaska’s wilderness by snowmobile! This guided tour includes a visit to a reindeer farm and also includes snowmobiling! You’ll be able to ride through scenic trails and snowy landscapes with a route along the Trans Alaska Pipeline with expert guides from Borealis Basecamp.

These excursions let you experience Alaska’s unique winter offerings, adding depth to your visit to Chena Hot Springs and ensuring a truly memorable adventure!

This 14-hour tour takes you adventuring along the Dalton Highway up to the Arctic Circle, and it also includes northern lights viewing!

How can I get to Chena Hot Springs from Fairbanks?

Chena Hot Springs Resort is about a 1.5-hour drive from Fairbanks. You have a couple of options to get there:

• You can rent a car, which will give you flexibility to explore the area at your own pace,
• Or you can use the Resort’s Shuttle Service. The resort offers a shuttle from Fairbanks for a fee, which is convenient if you prefer not to drive in winter conditions. You can call and add this to your booking at Chena Hot Springs Resort!

A third option is to book private transportation through a company like Viator or GetYourGuide. There are several independent companies that have private transportation available from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs Resort. This is a great option if you want the flexibility of choosing your departure and arrival times but don’t want the hassle of driving or renting a car!

Can you visit Chena Hot Springs Resort as a day trip?

Yes! One of the great things about Chena Hot Springs is that you don’t have to stay overnight at the resort to enjoy the thermal hot spring. If you’re staying in Fairbanks and you don’t have a car, don’t worry! There are several great tours that provide transportation to Chena Hot Springs from Fairbanks, as well as some companies that have full-day guided packages with a visit to Chena Hot Springs!

If you have a rental car, it’s a fairly easy drive from Fairbanks or North Pole, Alaska. Once you arrive, you’ll head straight to the main lodge to get your pool house access sorted out.

What are the best months for seeing the Northern Lights in Alaska?

December to March is prime time for aurora viewing at Chena Hot Springs. The long, dark winter nights maximize your chances, and the resort’s location in the Auroral Oval makes it one of the best spots to see the lights. Check aurora forecasts and plan multiple nights to increase your chances of witnessing this incredible natural wonder!

I saw the northern lights during my trip the first week of January. I recommend trying for a night when there is minimal moon glow and conditions look clear (no clouds). The higher the KP, the higher likelihood of auroral activity but conditions play a much stronger role in determining if you’ll actually be able to see the Aurora or not!

Is Chena Hot Springs Resort open year-round?

Yes, the resort is open year-round, with each season offering different experiences. Winter is ideal for aurora viewing and winter sports, while summer provides endless daylight for hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding wilderness.

Is there Wi-Fi at Chena Hot Springs Resort?

Yes, but Wi-Fi at Chena Hot Springs can be spotty due to its remote location. Wi-Fi is typically available in public areas like the main lodge, but it may not extend to all rooms. If you rely on connectivity, plan to use Wi-Fi where it’s available, but be prepared for limited access overall.

Final Thoughts on Chena Hot Springs Resort

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable winter escape—complete with magical auroras, hot springs soaking, and thrilling Alaskan experiences—Chena Hot Springs Resort is an incredible choice. It’s the kind of place that lets you unwind, explore, and even feel like you’re stepping back in time to Alaska’s rugged, pioneering days.

Want to hear more about Alaskan adventures? Follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and Threads (@sydneybrowntravels) for more stories, photos, and travel tips!

I also have several posts about adventuring in Alaska, so be sure to check those out to help you plan the ultimate Alaska getaway! You can also find great items to pack for your Alaska trip on my Amazon Storefront.

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