Alright guys, planning a trip to Fairbanks in December to catch the spectacular Northern Lights? You've come to the right place! December in Fairbanks is prime time for aurora viewing, but it takes a little planning to make sure you have the best experience possible. Let's dive into everything you need to know.

Why Fairbanks in December for Northern Lights?

Fairbanks sits smack-dab in the aurora oval, a region known for high auroral activity. What makes December particularly special? A few key factors:

• Long Hours of Darkness: December is the darkest month in Fairbanks, with up to 21 hours of darkness each day. More darkness equals more opportunities to see the lights dance across the sky.
• Clear Skies: While interior Alaska can get its fair share of snow, December often brings periods of clear, crisp skies, perfect for stargazing and aurora viewing. Keep an eye on the forecast, though!
• Winter Wonderland: Let's be honest, the scenery in Fairbanks in December is simply magical. Snow-covered landscapes, frozen rivers, and the chance to experience a true Arctic winter add to the adventure.

Planning Your Trip: Key Considerations

Okay, so you're sold on Fairbanks in December. Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of planning your trip:

Timing is Everything

While December offers ample opportunities, some nights will be better than others. Keep an eye on the aurora forecast, which predicts auroral activity based on solar activity. Websites like the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (https://www.gi.alaska.edu/) provide detailed forecasts. Generally, look for a KP index of 3 or higher for a good chance of seeing the aurora. The KP index is a scale that measures the disturbance of the Earth's magnetic field caused by solar activity. The higher the KP index, the greater the likelihood of seeing the aurora at lower latitudes.

Also, consider the moon phase. A full moon can wash out the fainter auroral displays, so try to plan your trip around a new moon for the darkest skies. The new moon provides the darkest sky conditions, allowing the faint and subtle colors of the aurora to be more visible. However, a little moonlight can illuminate the foreground, adding depth and interest to your photos.

Choosing Your Accommodation

Fairbanks offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious lodges. When choosing your accommodation, consider:

• Location: If you're primarily focused on aurora viewing, consider staying outside of the city center, where there's less light pollution. Several lodges and cabins north of Fairbanks offer excellent viewing opportunities.
• Amenities: Look for accommodations with amenities like aurora viewing platforms, hot tubs, and warm indoor spaces to retreat to when you need a break from the cold.
• Transportation: If you're not renting a car, make sure your accommodation offers transportation to and from the airport and aurora viewing locations. Some hotels and lodges offer shuttle services or guided tours.

Packing for the Cold

December in Fairbanks is COLD. We're talking potentially sub-zero temperatures. Packing the right clothing is crucial for enjoying your trip. Here's a checklist:

• Base Layers: Thermal underwear made from merino wool or synthetic materials. These layers will wick away moisture and keep you warm even when you sweat.
• Insulating Layers: Fleece jackets, down sweaters, or other insulating layers to trap heat. Layering is key, as it allows you to adjust your clothing based on the temperature and your activity level.
• Outer Layers: A waterproof and windproof parka and pants. Look for a parka with a hood and a high collar to protect your face from the wind and cold.
• Warm Accessories: A warm hat that covers your ears, thick gloves or mittens, and a scarf or neck gaiter. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves, as they allow your fingers to share heat.
• Warm Boots: Insulated winter boots with good traction. Look for boots that are rated for temperatures well below freezing.
• Hand and Foot Warmers: Disposable hand and foot warmers can provide extra warmth when you're spending long periods of time outdoors.

Getting Around

Fairbanks has a decent public transportation system, but renting a car will give you the most flexibility, especially if you want to explore areas outside of the city. If you're renting a car, make sure it's equipped with winter tires and that you're comfortable driving in snowy and icy conditions. Be aware of black ice, which can be difficult to see and can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Drive slowly and carefully, and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles.

Where to See the Northern Lights in Fairbanks

Okay, you're geared up and ready to go. But where are the best spots to witness the aurora's magic?

Chena Hot Springs Resort

About an hour's drive from Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs Resort is a popular destination for aurora viewing. The resort offers a variety of activities, including soaking in the natural hot springs, dog sledding, and ice museum tours. The resort also has a dedicated aurora viewing area with minimal light pollution.

Cleary Summit

Located about 20 miles north of Fairbanks, Cleary Summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to watch the Northern Lights. Be aware that the road to Cleary Summit can be steep and winding, so drive carefully, especially in icy conditions.

Murphy Dome

This former military site offers stunning views of the aurora, but it's a bit more remote and requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access. The road to Murphy Dome is unpaved and can be rough, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. The views from the top are well worth the effort, though.

Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge

Closer to town, Creamer's Field offers a convenient option for aurora viewing. While there's some light pollution from the city, the open fields provide a good view of the sky. The refuge is also a great place to see wildlife, such as moose and migratory birds.

Simply Step Outside

Honestly, sometimes the best view is right outside your door! If you're staying outside of the city, just step outside your cabin or hotel and look up. You might be surprised at what you see. Just make sure to dress warmly and be patient.

Tips for Photographing the Northern Lights

Want to capture the aurora's beauty with your camera? Here are a few tips:

• Use a DSLR or Mirrorless Camera: A smartphone camera simply won't cut it. You need a camera with manual settings and the ability to shoot in low light.
• Use a Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens (e.g., 14mm, 24mm) will allow you to capture more of the sky.
• Use a Fast Aperture: A fast aperture (e.g., f/2.8, f/1.8) will allow more light to enter the camera, which is essential for shooting in low light.
• Use a High ISO: A high ISO (e.g., 800, 1600, 3200) will make your camera more sensitive to light. Be aware that high ISOs can introduce noise into your images.
• Use a Tripod: A tripod is essential for keeping your camera steady during long exposures.
• Use a Remote Shutter Release: A remote shutter release will prevent camera shake when you press the shutter button.
• Shoot in Manual Mode: Manual mode gives you complete control over your camera's settings.
• Experiment with Different Settings: There's no one-size-fits-all setting for photographing the aurora. Experiment with different aperture, ISO, and shutter speed combinations to see what works best.

Other Activities in Fairbanks in December

While aurora viewing is the main draw, Fairbanks offers plenty of other activities to keep you entertained during your December trip:

• Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing your own team of huskies through the snow-covered wilderness.
• Ice Fishing: Try your luck at catching fish through a hole in the ice.
• Snowmobiling: Explore the backcountry on a snowmobile.
• Ice Museum: Visit the Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs Resort and marvel at the intricate ice sculptures.
• Visit the University of Alaska Museum of the North: Learn about Alaska's history, art, and culture.
• Attend a Holiday Event: Fairbanks hosts a variety of holiday events in December, such as Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, holiday concerts, and craft fairs.

Final Thoughts

Seeing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks in December is an unforgettable experience. With a little planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of witnessing this natural wonder. So, pack your warmest clothes, charge your camera, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Enjoy your trip, and may the aurora be with you!