Northern Lights and Dog Sledding: Our Alaskan Adventure
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Dog Sledding & Northern Lights in Alaska: Our Unforgettable Winter Adventure
If there are two bucket-list experiences that define winter in Alaska, they’re dog sledding through the snowy wilderness and watching the Northern Lights dance across the sky. For us, these were the two things that made us choose Alaska for a winter trip—and they absolutely lived up to the hype.
We planned our February trip to Fairbanks around these two incredible experiences, and it turned out to be one of the most magical trips we’ve ever taken.
From racing through snowy trails behind a team of powerful sled dogs to lying under a sky lit with glowing green auroras, this trip felt like stepping into a real-life winter wonderland.
If you’re considering a winter trip to Alaska, here’s what our dog sledding and Northern Lights experience was really like, what surprised us, and what you should know before planning your own Alaskan adventure.
Why We Chose Alaska for Dog Sledding and the Northern Lights
When we started brainstorming winter travel ideas, Alaska immediately stood out.
Most travelers visit Alaska in summer for cruises and wildlife, but winter offers something completely different—and honestly, much more unique.
We were specifically looking for:
• Authentic dog sledding in snowy wilderness
• Strong chances of seeing the Northern Lights
• A destination that truly feels like winter
Fairbanks checked every box.
Located under the Auroral Oval, Fairbanks is considered one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The cold temperatures and clear skies make winter prime aurora viewing season.
On top of that, the surrounding wilderness is perfect for classic Alaskan activities like:
- Dog sledding
- Snowmobiling
- Ice fishing
- Visiting hot springs
- Staying in glass-roof igloos
For us, dog sledding and the Northern Lights were the clear highlights.
Our Dog Sledding Experience in Alaska
Dog sledding is one of the most iconic activities in Alaska. It’s deeply connected to the state’s history and culture, especially with famous races like the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
But nothing compares to actually experiencing it yourself.
Meeting the Sled Dogs
The first thing you notice when arriving at a dog sledding camp is the excitement of the dogs.
They absolutely love to run.
Before the sled even starts moving, the dogs are barking, jumping, and howling with excitement. It’s not aggressive—it’s pure enthusiasm. They know they’re about to do what they love.
Our guide introduced us to the team of sled dogs and explained how everything works.
Each dog has a role:
- Lead dogs guide the team and respond to commands
- Swing dogs help steer
- Team dogs provide power
- Wheel dogs sit closest to the sled and help with turns
These dogs are incredibly strong, athletic, and friendly.
Once the team was hooked up to the sled, the anticipation from the dogs was unbelievable.
The moment the brake was released—they took off.
Riding Through the Alaskan Wilderness
As soon as the sled started moving, everything changed.
The barking stopped instantly.
The only sounds were:
• The sled gliding across snow
• The rhythmic breathing of the dogs
• The quiet of the winter forest
It was peaceful in a way that’s hard to describe.
We raced through snow-covered trails surrounded by tall spruce trees, frozen rivers, and endless wilderness.
Dog sledding is surprisingly smooth. The sled glides over packed snow, and you feel like you’re floating through the landscape.
Our guide shared stories about life in Alaska, sled dog racing, and what it takes to train these incredible animals.
The entire experience felt authentic and deeply connected to Alaska’s culture.
Why Dog Sledding Is So Special
There’s something unique about traveling through nature powered only by dogs.
No engines.
No crowds.
Just wilderness.
It feels adventurous and peaceful at the same time.
Dog sledding also gives you a real appreciation for how people historically traveled through Alaska’s remote regions long before modern transportation existed.
It’s not just a tourist activity—it’s part of Alaska’s heritage.
Seeing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks
While dog sledding was unforgettable, seeing the Northern Lights was the moment we had been dreaming about.
And when they finally appeared, it was even more incredible than we imagined.
Why Fairbanks Is One of the Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Fairbanks sits directly beneath the Auroral Oval, which means auroras occur frequently here.
Several factors make it ideal:
• Long winter nights
• Low light pollution
• Cold temperatures that create clear skies
Peak aurora season runs from late August through April, with winter offering some of the darkest skies.
February is often considered one of the best months to visit.
The Moment the Northern Lights Appeared
Aurora viewing requires patience.
You wait.
You watch the sky.
And then suddenly—something happens.
At first, we saw what looked like faint clouds forming across the sky.
But then they started moving.
Slowly at first… then faster.
Suddenly, bright green ribbons stretched across the sky, twisting and swirling like glowing waves.
It was mesmerizing.
The lights pulsed and shifted constantly, sometimes fading and then exploding back into bright color.
Photos and videos don’t truly capture how magical it feels in person.
Standing there under a sky alive with color was one of those rare travel moments you never forget.
Staying in a Glass Igloo to Watch the Northern Lights
One of the coolest parts of our trip was staying in a glass-roof igloo designed for aurora viewing.
Imagine lying in bed and watching the Northern Lights above you.
Fairbanks offers a few options for these glass domes or cabins designed specifically for aurora viewing. The best being Borealis Basecamp.
They typically include:
• Heated glass ceilings
• Comfortable beds
• Aurora alerts when lights appear
• Remote locations away from city lights
It’s one of the most magical ways to experience the Northern Lights.
Instead of standing outside in freezing temperatures all night, you can enjoy the view from a warm bed.
What the Northern Lights Actually Look Like in Person
A lot of people wonder if the Northern Lights really look like the photos.
The answer is yes—but sometimes slightly different.
Cameras capture colors more vividly than the human eye, but the movement is what makes the experience so incredible.
You may see:
- Green ribbons across the sky
- Pulsing waves of light
- Curtains of color dancing overhead
- Occasionally purple or pink hues, red and blue can also be seen.
The constant motion is what makes it unforgettable.
It feels like the sky is alive.
Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights
If seeing the aurora is on your bucket list, a few tips can improve your chances.
Stay Multiple Nights
Auroras are unpredictable.
Staying 3–4 nights greatly increases your odds of seeing them. We stayed three nights and had very strong aurora activity for two of them.
Get Away From City Lights
The darker the sky, the better the aurora visibility.
Fairbanks has many remote viewing areas outside town.
Watch the Aurora Forecast
The KP Index measures geomagnetic activity. Higher numbers mean stronger auroras.
Apps and websites provide nightly forecasts.
Be Patient
Sometimes the lights appear quickly.
Other nights you may wait hours.
But when they finally show up, the wait is worth it.
Be Prepared for late nights
The aurora is typically most active between 12:00am – 3:00am. Go to bed early and sleep in late so you can make the most of the viewing hours. It helps that in February the sun is only out from 10:00am – 4:00pm.
How Cold Is Alaska in Winter?
Let’s talk about the obvious question—the cold.
Fairbanks winter temperatures often range between:
0°F to -30°F
It sounds extreme, but it’s manageable with the right clothing.
The key is layering.
We wore:
• Thermal base layers
• Insulated pants
• Heavy winter jackets
• Wool socks
• Hand warmers
• Insulated boots
Once you’re properly dressed, it’s surprisingly comfortable.
Alaska is very dry which makes it feel warmer than a moist winter climate. This temperature sounds cold but if your coming from somewhere like New England you’ll be surprised to feel warmer in Alaska then you were at home.
Why Alaska in Winter Is So Underrated
Most travelers think of Alaska as a summer destination, but winter offers something completely different.
Instead of crowds and cruise ships, you get:
- Snow-covered wilderness
- Quiet landscapes
- Incredible winter activities
- The Northern Lights
It feels more adventurous and unique.
Winter Alaska also offers experiences you simply can’t get in summer, like dog sledding and aurora viewing.
Our Favorite Moments From the Trip
Looking back, a few moments really stand out.
Racing Through the Snow Behind the Sled Dogs
The speed, the wilderness, the energy of the dogs—it felt like something out of an adventure movie.
Watching the Aurora Dance Across the Sky
Seeing the Northern Lights for the first time is pure magic.
The Quiet of the Alaskan Wilderness
Winter Alaska feels incredibly peaceful.
The snowy landscapes, frozen rivers, and silent forests create a unique kind of beauty.
Is Dog Sledding Ethical?
This is a question many travelers ask.
Responsible dog sledding operators care deeply for their dogs.
The dogs at Borealis Basecamp are actually the pets of the dogsledders. They go home every night, they love coming to work and all the attention they get at work. These Alaska sled dogs are a normal pet at home. Imagine a German Shepherd or Belgian Malinois, these dogs need a job, they crave it, they are happiest working. This is an Alaskan sled dog.
These sled dogs are bred and trained for running, and they genuinely love it.
Signs of a responsible operation include:
- Healthy, energetic dogs
- Proper housing and care
- Guides who prioritize animal welfare
- Opportunities to interact with the dogs
The dogs’ excitement before each run is usually the biggest sign—they can’t wait to go.
Is an Alaska Winter Trip Worth It?
Absolutely.
Between dog sledding, Northern Lights viewing, snowy landscapes, and unique winter accommodations, Alaska in winter feels like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
It’s the kind of trip that stays with you long after you return home.
If dog sledding or seeing the aurora is on your bucket list, Alaska is one of the best places in the world to experience both.
Final Thoughts: Dog Sledding and the Northern Lights in Alaska
Our winter trip to Alaska delivered two unforgettable bucket-list experiences.
Racing through the wilderness behind a team of sled dogs was thrilling and uniquely Alaskan.
Watching the Northern Lights swirl across the night sky felt magical and surreal.
Together, these experiences created one of the most memorable adventures we’ve ever had.
If you’re dreaming of a winter trip filled with adventure, stunning landscapes, and one of nature’s greatest light shows, Alaska should absolutely be on your list.
