11 Best Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks Alaska in 2023

Are you looking for the best Arctic Circle tours from Fairbanks, Alaska? If so, you’ve definitely come to the right place. Fairbanks is the home base to some of the most breathtaking Arctic Circle tour experiences in the world!

Having resided in Fairbanks for a significant period of my life, I was fortunate to experience driving to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks on “the Haul Road” (the Dalton Highway), with my husband, exploring and camping near the Brooks Range.

This is an experience that has driven me to encourage others to embark on a memorable Arctic Circle Tour from Fairbanks whether it is summer or winter.

TOP Pick

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Arctic Circle Expedition
✔️ Private Tours that are small and intimate
✔️ Reliable Local Host

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#2 Pick

Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks
✔️ Small Group Tour
✔️ Visit the Arctic Circle Trading Post

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#3 Pick

3-Day Tour
✔️ Small Plane Flight
✔️ 2 Nights at Coldfoot Camp

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Some of the more extended tours to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks offer travelers the opportunity to fully submerge themselves in the arctic environment, allowing them to discover places they may not have had the chance to explore otherwise.

No matter what type of outdoor adventure or cultural exploration experience you have, these tours will provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. So let’s get started!

The Dalton Highway, aka “The Haul Road” is a gravel highway like no other in the world!

😎 Travel the Dalton Highway as seen on TV show Ice Road Truckers

📍 Stop at the Arctic Circle sign and take a photo
🏔 View vast breathtaking scenery you haven’t experienced before
🦉 See wildlife in their natural element

🏔 Best Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks

To help make your trip planning easier, I’ve compiled a list of 10 amazing Arctic Circle tours from Fairbanks that will give you an unforgettable trip.

By providing both a reliable source of guidance and unforgettable experiences, touring with a local guide is the perfect way to experience this incredible region.

Drives on challenging gravel roads in Alaska can be dangerous for travelers from out of state with little to no experience on remote roads.

Tours help visitors enjoy the landscape of Alaska without sacrificing the safety of their group or the quality of their experience.

A stop at Finger Mountain on the Arctic Circle Expedition tour will be a great chance to stretch your legs and snap some photos.

⭐️ 5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 10-12 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
🍴 Food: Snacks are included
📍 Pick-up is available at most Fairbanks area resorts and hotels.

With a local guide available to provide insight into the region’s unique culture and history, Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks makes it easy for anyone to enjoy a memorable journey through this majestic land.

This smaller more private tour offers 10 to 12 hours of exploration and discovery in the Arctic wilderness.

From spotting native wildlife such as caribou or moose along the way to taking photos of breathtaking views overlooking frozen lakes – this expedition has something special for everyone.

“While we went in the middle of winter, the views were still spectacular and left us wishing we could see it in the Summer as well. To sum it up, this tour was well worth the money and time invested in it. This area can be very dangerous and treacherous, but we felt safe and secure the whole time”

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Plus with flexible scheduling options between April 2022 – March 2024 operating Monday – Sunday, it’s easier than ever to make your dream Arctic excursion become reality.

⛔️ It is essential the weather is good for this tour to operate. However, if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

2. Original Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks

This photo was taken around midnight in July in the Arctic Circle!

⭐️ 5/5 stars, more than 100 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 16 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍 Pick up is at 6:30 am at the meeting point.

This 16-hour tour takes you along the famous Dalton Highway, offering stunning views of the Arctic tundra, pristine rivers, and a chance to experience life in rural Alaska.

Led by knowledgeable local guides who provide commentary throughout your journey, this small-group tour is sure to be an experience you won’t soon forget.

You will also make stops at scenic spots like the mighty Yukon River and the Arctic Circle Trading Post (located in Joy, Alaska) for photo opportunities. Along the way, your guide will share stories about life in rural Alaska and what it’s like living off the grid so far from civilization.

At the end of your trip, you will have officially made it to one of the most northern points on Earth – something not many people can say they’ve done!

⛔️ It is essential the weather is good for this tour to operate. However, if it’s canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 Days, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍 Pick up is at 6:30 am at the meeting point.
🛩 This tour includes a flight on a small plane.

This spectacular 3-day land and air tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through the Arctic, allowing you to explore some of Alaska’s most spectacular landscapes.

Offered by Northern Alaska Tour Company this trip stops on the banks of the massive Yukon River while also celebrating crossing over into Arctic Circle territory. Guests even earn an official Arctic Circle Certificate!

✔️ 2 nights of cozy and friendly accommodations at Coldfoot Camp included!

❄️ Due to the nature of the tour and the hope to see the northern lights, it operates in cold weather conditions, sometimes well below 0 degrees, so please dress appropriately

“I had an absolutely wonderful experience. I despise cold weather but decided I needed to see the Northern lights so I booked this excursion. The drive up the Dalton Highway was breathtaking. The tour guide was well versed and shared lots of cool factoids about Alaska, Dalton Highway, and the pipeline.”

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Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in breathtaking views on your flight back to Fairbanks, experiencing the majestic beauty of flying over the Brooks Mountain Range.

⭐️ 5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 16 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍 Pick up is at 9:45 am at the meeting point.

Embark on an Arctic Circle Winter Drive Adventure and explore the spectacular landscape of Alaska! On this mesmerizing tour, you will travel along the famous rugged Dalton Highway and reach the Arctic Circle.

En route to the Arctic Circle, your knowledgeable guide will share facts and insights about the Arctic landscape’s history, environment, and culture.

You will also be able to view various arctic attractions such as the Yukon River, and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. You will also receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate!

Photographers will be especially delighted with the sights to capture – including snow-capped mountains, wildlife, and if you are lucky – the northern lights!

It is a incredible trip to the Arctic Circle! Our Tourguide stopped at different places along the Dalton highway. What you see on the way up north is indescribable and it is great for all aurora borealis hunters.”

The pipeline can be seen in this view from the Dalton Highway.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 16 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍 Pick up is at 9:45 am at the meeting point.

Experience the Arctic Circle Drive Adventure from Fairbanks, Alaska, and marvel at the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun! This tour is the company that pioneered Arctic Circle touring on Alaska’s Dalton Highway.

This journey takes you north of Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle sign located at Mile Post 115 of the Dalton Highway. Along the way, you will learn about Alaska’s Arctic history, stories, and culture.

Admire the grandeur of the Yukon River, one of Alaska’s most famous waterways. Stop at Yukon River Camp for a meal (not included) and learn about homesteading at the trading post by early pioneers who settled in Arctic regions.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, more than 70 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 15 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍 Pick up time is 6:30 am and is available at most Fairbanks area hotels.

View of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline near the Dalton Highway.

Book this Arctic Circle Full-Day Adventure from Fairbanks with 1st Alaska Tours. On this day trip, you will have an opportunity to experience some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes, while learning more about its history and culture.

You’ll enjoy a stroll along the massive Yukon River. This river, which runs almost 2,000 miles through Canada and Alaska, is home to many species of mammals and birds, so keep your eyes open for sightings!

This tour will also take you up Finger Mountain. This mountain is a breathtaking sight and from the top, you can marvel at stunning views of the Arctic tundra.

You’ll also learn about The Trans-Alaska Pipeline during your day trip. This pipeline stretches 800 miles across Alaska and is one of the world’s largest pipelines. Your guide will provide live commentary as you explore this amazing feat of engineering.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 18 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍 Start time is at 1:00 pm at the meeting point.
🛩 This tour includes a flight on a small plane.

This Arctic Circle Aurora Fly Drive Adventure departs from Fairbanks and will give you an unforgettable Arctic experience, with a flight to Coldfoot followed by a drive down the Dalton Highway.

Following your flight from Fairbanks to Coldfoot, you will receive a certificate designating your Arctic Circle Adventure.

Then you will continue south along the Dalton Highway, taking in some of the most unique landscapes on Earth and passing by landmarks such as the Trans-Alaska Pipeline and the Yukon River.

“One of the best tours I’ve had. The staff is super friendly, and informative, they go the extra mile and they don’t hesitate to answer any questions or meet any needs you may have. I definitely would come back to them again on my next Alaska visit.”

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As night falls, you’ll make a stop in Joy, Alaska – one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights. If luck is with you, you can take in this natural spectacle as you look up at a sky full of stars and colorful ribbons of light.

With Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks, you can experience two of Alaska’s greatest highlights – the Arctic Circle and Aurora Borealis – in one amazing Arctic adventure.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 14 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
🍴 Food: Hot drinks, Sandwiches, and Sweets
📍 Pick-up time is at 1:00 PM at most Fairbanks area accommodations.

This amazing full-day tour is sure to provide a unique Arctic experience. You’ll have your own local guide who will take you along the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks all the way up to the edge of the Arctic Circle.

On your return trip back keep your eyes peeled for sightings of majestic wildlife such as moose and bears – or even better – you will hopefully catch a glimpse of one of nature’s most beautiful phenomena; The Northern Lights!

“I have never experienced a better tour guide. He was very knowledgeable about all of our stops, kept up a constant narrative about what we were seeing, the history of Alaska, and was very attentive to each guest. He was also determined that we see the aurora, and we did! I will recommend this tour company to all my friends and family.”

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Not only will you get to explore the Yukon River and Finger Mountain but you also get a chance to see the Trans-Alaska Pipeline.

As you cross the Arctic Circle, you can even get a ‘Cross the Arctic Circle Certificate!‘ as a keepsake to remember this amazing experience for years to come.

Top it off with easy hotel pickup and drop-off from all major hotels in town, with snacks, sandwiches, and hot drinks included. This small-group tour is limited to 12 people for a more intimate Arctic experience.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, more than 400 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 14 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
🍴 Food: Snacks, Water, Hot Drinks, Sandwiches
📍 Pick-up times commence at 2:00 PM at most Fairbanks area accommodations.

This popular tour takes you on a trustworthy journey into the Alaskan wilderness, allowing you to experience some of nature’s most stunning sights.

With this small-group tour limited to 8 people, your Arctic Circle Tour is sure to provide a more personalized experience. So don’t miss out!

This tour stops at Hilltop Restaurant & Marketplace (the BEST pies are found here!) where you can purchase extra drinks, snacks, and food to go.

Your driver will pull over at the Tolovana River and Wickersham Dome which are great photo opportunities.

Throughout your tour, you will make your way along the Dalton Highway from Fairbanks to the edge of the Arctic Circle. On the return trip, be sure to keep a watchful eye out for the beautiful Northern Lights.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 18 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍Pick up is at 9:45 am at the meeting point. Return to Fairbanks is between 3:30 – 4:30 AM.

This amazing tour allows you to explore the frozen tundra and experience life in the Arctic Circle, ending with a solid effort to view the Northern Lights!

The tour begins with a drive up the Dalton Highway, where you can witness firsthand the Trans Alaska Pipeline along the way. Stops will be made at the Yukon River bridge and at the Arctic Circle sign.

On the way home you will then arrive at Joy, Alaska, and make a stop at the Arctic Circle Trading Post. Here you can enjoy complimentary hot drinks as you shop for souvenirs and learn more about Alaskan culture and history.

Next, it’s time to experience the beauty of the Arctic sky if nature cooperates! Meet your aurora guide and be awed by the colorful northern lights. As an added bonus, you’ll receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate to commemorate your journey.

⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, more than 300 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 12.5 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
🍴 Food: Free snacks and bottled Water
📍Pick up is 7:00-8:00 am at most Fairbanks area accommodations.

From the moment you step into Alaska Wildlife Guide’s climate-controlled vans, you will be transported to a unique Arctic experience. On board, they provide snacks and water to keep you hydrated and energized for the day ahead.

This Arctic Circle tour takes you to some incredible places including the Alyeska Pipeline Viewing Point, Hilltop Restaurant & Marketplace (with the best pies!), Finger Mountain and the BLM Arctic Circle Monument Sign.

“My husband and I had the best time! We had a great guide as he was very knowledgeable and friendly. The drive is long but beautiful and well worth it. A great once in a lifetime experience!”

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At Finger Mountain, guests take a leisurely walk around the short hiking path for unrivaled views of the Arctic landscape. From there, everyone heads to the Yukon River Camp and visits one of the most powerful rivers in Alaska.

Before heading home you will also have a chance to buy some more snacks or visit a one-of-a-kind store with handmade gifts and fur items not found anywhere else.

✅ TIPS for Tours from Fairbanks to Arctic Circle

Preparing for your trip and bringing along some essentials might make or break how positive your experience is!

💡 Mentally prepare for and expect a VERY LONG DAY. There is no way around it, the trip to the arctic circle is a long one!

💫 The Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) is a natural phenomenon and can not be guaranteed! There is NO refund for tours if the Northern Lights can not be seen.

Below are some recommended items for your travels – of course some items depend on the time of year you travel.

✔️ Bug spray for those pesky Alaskan mosquitoes
✔️ Binoculars
✔️ Water and snacks, perhaps a bagged lunch (check tour details)
✔️ Toilet paper and sanitizing hand wipes
✔️ Extra portable battery charger for your camera or phone
✔️ Summer: bring mosquito repellent and warm clothes
✔️ Winter: bring LOTS of warm clothes

🚫 WEATHER Cancellations 🛩
The weather and conditions in Alaska, especially in the winter, can be fierce. Roads become hazardous, temperatures can reach -50 or colder, wildfires occur (in summer), and things can become downright life-threatening for travelers whether it is by road or air.

It’s important for those who book trips involving flying, especially, to know that small planes can and will cancel flights due to various circumstances sometimes, leaving you no choice but to spend another few hours or even a day or two extra in Coldfoot.

Consider this part of the experience and while no one, even the pilot, likes it when these delays occur, their hands are tied and everyone has to wait things out.

❇️ FAQS: The Arctic Circle and Fairbanks Alaska

Let’s be honest, this type of trip is a big deal so you may have some questions about the area you are looking at visiting!

Not everyone gets to visit the Arctic Circle in their lifetime but if you do get the chance, it’s nice to be able to answer questions that come up in conversation.

What is the Arctic Circle?

The Arctic Circle is an important circle of latitude located in the Northern hemisphere. It marks the boundary between the Arctic and the Northern temperate zone, cutting through places like Alaska.

The arctic circle plays an important role in defining the northernmost range of continuous sunlight and darkness. In other words, it is what marks our night vs. day cycle!

Fascinatingly enough, its exact position shifts because of Earth’s tilt as well as the tidal forces from our moon.

Where is the Arctic Circle in Alaska?

It starts about 80 miles northwest of Fairbanks and ends at the Arctic Ocean. The Arctic Circle in Alaska is located at the latitude of 66° 33′ north.

It marks the southernmost point where the sun remains visible above the horizon for 24 hours during the summer solstice, and conversely, it is also the northernmost point where there are 24-hour periods of complete darkness during the winter solstice.

The Arctic Circle Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) encompasses 19 million acres of land that lie directly inside this circle. In addition, Gates of the Arctic National Park covers 3,238 square miles and sits entirely inside the Arctic Circle.

How far is Fairbanks from the Arctic Circle?

The road distance to Arctic Circle is 198 miles north from Fairbanks up the famed Dalton Highway. The air miles distance is 149 miles.

Is the road paved from Fairbanks to Arctic Circle?

It is a rough road! Only small sections are paved. Most of the Dalton Highway is gravel.

How long is the drive from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle?

It takes about 6-7 hours to reach the Arctic Circle sign from Fairbanks. There is no way around the fact that it is simply a long drive! Arctic Circle Day Tours from Fairbanks will take the whole day.

This is the Yukon River, breathtaking in size and a very memorable place to visit.

⛰ The Wrap-Up: Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks

How many people can say they’ve crossed the Arctic Circle? Explore and discover one of the most remote places on Earth and have an Alaskan adventure of a lifetime!

Dare to venture into the frozen, wild frontiers of Alaska and become part of a select group: ice road truckers who brave the icy highway; pipeline workers who fearlessly maintain vital infrastructure in extreme conditions; and intrepid travelers exploring landscapes unlike any other on Earth. 

From breathtaking views of arctic wildlife, landscape, and culture to unforgettable experiences under the Northern Lights, arctic circle tours from Fairbanks offer an unparalleled adventure.

Embark on a journey that only a few have ever dreamed possible. Don’t wait to make your Arctic dreams come true—start planning today!