10 Best Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks, Alaska (2026)
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Are you thinking about making a trip to cross the Arctic Circle in Alaska?
I’ve done it, and I’m here to tell you that you can too! Not many people in life get to say they’ve had this experience, so I encourage you to go for it.
If you’re on the hunt for the creme de la creme, the very best Arctic Circle tours from Fairbanks, Alaska, you’ve come to the right place. Fairbanks is like the mothership for some of the most jaw-dropping Arctic Circle tours.
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.
We were able to make stops in the remote towns along the route where we met locals and got a sense of what life is like in the frozen north.
The drive is incredible, but very long, keep that in mind. But, you won’t regret it.
😎 Travel the Dalton Highway as seen on TV show Ice Road Truckers
📍 Stop at the Arctic Circle sign and take a photo
🏔 View vast distinctive scenery you haven’t experienced before
🦉 See wildlife in its natural element
My husband, Matt, was willing to pose for me when we reached the Arctic Circle sign.
➡️ Disclaimer: Arctic Circle Tours and Seasonal Availability
Please note that the information provided in this blog post is specific to Arctic Circle tours and their availability.
Some tours are seasonal and only operate from September through April, focusing on winter-based activities or the Aurora Borealis.
Be aware that the tour links provided in this blog post may currently be temporarily down for the summer season or the winter season.
During this time, tour operators may suspend their services or modify their itineraries due to the different conditions in the Arctic Circle.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Original Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks
✔️ Small Group Tour
✔️ Visit Arctic Circle Trading Post
Arctic Circle Expedition
✔️ Winter tours available
✔️ Private Tours that are small and intimate
✔️ Reliable Local Host
Winter Drive to Arctic Circle (seasonal)
✔️ Visit Arctic Circle Trading Post
✔️ Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate
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!
🏔 Best Arctic Circle Tours from Fairbanks
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.
1. Original Arctic Circle Drive from Fairbanks
⭐️ 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, which has amazing views of the Arctic tundra, and pristine rivers, and offers a glimpse of 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 ever 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.
2. Arctic Circle Expedition from Fairbanks
⭐️ 5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 10-12 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
🍴 Food: Snacks are included📍 Pick-up available at most Fairbanks area 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 here.
This smaller more private tour offers 10 to 12 hours of exploration and discovery in the Arctic wilderness.
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. 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.
-SEE MORE REVIEWS
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.
They have flexible scheduling options between Winter 2024 – March 2025 operating Monday – Sunday so it makes it easier to make your dream Arctic excursion become a 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.
3. Arctic Circle Winter Drive Adventure (seasonal)
⭐️ 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 surrounded by frozen tundra!
En route to the Arctic Circle, your fabulous guide will share facts and insights about the Arctic landscape’s history, environment, and culture.
Driving on the Dalton highway was an experience that you will never have in the lower 48. The scenery was just spectacular. You need to see it for yourself. On the way back we were lucky enough to see the aurora borelias.
– Hannah (READ MORE REVIEWS)
You will also be able to view various arctic attractions such as the Yukon River, and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. You even receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate!
Photographers will be especially excited with the views – including snow-capped mountains, wildlife, and if you are lucky – the northern lights!
4. Three-Day Arctic Circle of Alaska Northern Lights Tour From Fairbanks (seasonal)
⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 3 Days, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍 Pick up is at 6:30 am at the meeting point 🛩 Includes a flight on 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!
✔️ Two 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
Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in incredible views on your flight back to Fairbanks, experiencing the majestic beauty of flying over the Brooks Mountain Range.
5. Midnight Sun Arctic Circle Drive Adventure (seasonal)
⭐️ 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.
Your 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.
You’ll enjoy 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.
6. Arctic Circle Full-Day Adventure from Fairbanks
⭐️ 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.
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 very cool stop and from the top, you can enjoy 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.
7. Northern Lights and Arctic Circle Trip from Fairbanks
⭐️ 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 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!
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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.
8. Arctic Circle and Northern Lights Tour from Fairbanks
⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, more than 400 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 14 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
🍴 Food: Snacks, Water, Hot Drinks, Sandwiches📍 Pick-up times begin at 2:00 pm
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 being limited to 8 people it provides a more personalized experience if that is what you are looking for.
You’ll stop at Hilltop Restaurant & Marketplace (the BEST pies are found here! YUM!) 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.
9. Arctic Circle Aurora Driving Adventure
⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, ⌛️ Tour Length: 18 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
📍Pick up is at 9:45 am at meeting point. Return to Fairbanks: 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 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 a bonus, you’ll receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate to commemorate your journey.
10. Arctic Circle Day Trip from Fairbanks
⭐️ 4.5/5 stars, more than 300 reviews, ⌛️ Tour Length: 12.5 hours, ➡️ BOOK NOW
🍴 Food: Free snacks + Water📍Pick up is 7:00-8:00 am (most of Fairbanks area)
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!
-SEE MORE REVIEWS
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 the 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.
❄️ I also recommend checking out the Best Dog Sledding Tours in Fairbanks, Alaska! Dog sledding is one of my favorite activities I was able to enjoy in Alaska.❄️
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. It plays an important role because it marks our night vs. day cycle! Its exact position shifts because of Earth’s tilt and the tidal forces from our moon.
Where is the Arctic Circle in Alaska?
Starting 80 miles NW of Fairbanks and ending at the Arctic Ocean, the Arctic Circle 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 summer solstice, and, it is also the northernmost point where there are 24-hour periods of darkness during 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?
Fairbanks is located approximately 198 road miles south of the Arctic Circle, accessible via the renowned Dalton Highway. If you were to measure it in straight-line distance, it’s about 149 air miles between Fairbanks and the Arctic Circle. This journey through Alaska’s rugged terrain is an adventure in itself!
Is the road paved from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle?
The road from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle on the Dalton Highway is indeed a challenging one. While some small sections are paved, the majority of the road is gravel. The surface can vary from hard, bone-jarring rocky terrains to smoother dirt roads. It’s a road that demands attention and preparation, so it’s not for the faint of heart!
How long is the drive from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle?
The drive from Fairbanks to the Arctic Circle is a very long one, taking about 6-7 hours just to reach the Arctic Circle sign. Given the challenging road conditions on the Dalton Highway, it’s no quick jaunt. If you opt for an Arctic Circle Day Tour from Fairbanks, it will take the whole day and then some.
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.
Experience a journey that only a few have ever dreamed possible. Don’t wait to make your Arctic dreams come true—start planning today!
Do you have any trips to possibly see Polar Bears?
Hi Mark! I have an entire post about this. I’m so sorry I missed your comment. I get so much spam that sometimes I miss replying to someone. Anyway, the below post should answer your question about seeing polar bears in Alaska but if not you can ask any questions here!
https://alaskaadventurers.com/can-you-see-polar-bears-in-alaska/