Chena Hot Springs Resort - Day-use fee or pay-per-soak in Fairbanks, AK (2026)
A 60-mile scenic drive from Fairbanks delivers aurora-ready cabins, an ice museum, dog mushing, and a massive rock-walled hot lake.
Chena Hot Springs Resort sits 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks at the end of paved Chena Hot Springs Road — Alaska's most accessible hot springs and one of the best aurora-viewing destinations in the U.S. interior. The 165°F geothermal source feeds an outdoor rock-walled hot lake (kept around 105°F), several indoor pools, and powers most of the resort via on-site geothermal generation. The property also runs the Aurora Ice Museum (open year-round, kept at 25°F inside), a sled-dog kennel, and clean-energy demonstration projects.
What to expect
Drive in from Fairbanks (60 miles paved, ~90 minutes — bring a full tank of fuel and emergency gear in winter when temps drop to -40°F). Day pass is $25; the outdoor rock lake is the famous soak, especially August-April when aurora season runs. Cabins, hotel rooms, and a full restaurant on site. The Ice Museum tour is a separate $20 — kitschy but actually impressive once you see the carved-ice martini bar.
Temperature
104°-108°F
Pools
3 soaking pools
Best season
Year-round
Reservations
Walk-up friendly
Dog policy
No pets at pools
Family policy
Family windows available
Safety notes
- Winter roads can hit -40°F with black ice—carry emergency gear and top off fuel before leaving Fairbanks.
- Jewelry tarnishes quickly in the high-iron water; remove watches and rings.
Amenities & etiquette
FAQ
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