Chena Hot Springs Resort: Geothermal Relaxation & Ice Museum Experience

After coordinating countless Northern Lights Adventures in Alaska’s interior, we’ve found that Chena Hot Springs Resort is one of the best places to spend an afternoon before settling in for a night of aurora viewing at our lodge. Located 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, the resort offers natural geothermal pools, creative ice architecture, and a glimpse into Alaska’s innovative use of renewable energy — all wrapped in a relaxing, scenic setting.

Established in 1905 as a therapeutic destination for gold miners seeking relief from harsh frontier conditions, Chena Hot Springs Resort has evolved into Alaska's most innovative geothermal facility while maintaining its historic character and commitment to harnessing natural resources for guest comfort and environmental sustainability. The resort's hot springs maintain constant temperatures year-round, creating opportunities for outdoor soaking even during Alaska’s coldest winter months while providing therapeutic benefits that enhance both physical comfort and mental well-being for guests pursuing intensive Alaska adventures.

Guests can soak in the natural hot spring, surrounded by snowy spruce forests and crisp winter air, then wander through the Aurora Ice Museum and Ice Bar, where cocktails are served in hand-carved ice glasses. This mix of outdoor relaxation and uniquely Alaskan artistry makes Chena a fun and memorable daytime highlight within our broader Northern Lights itinerary.

What Makes Chena Hot Springs Ideal for Photography?

While Chena Hot Springs isn’t part of our aurora photography experience, the resort does offer beautiful daytime photography opportunities. The steaming geothermal pools, rustic interior Alaska scenery, ice sculptures, and the surreal interior of the ice museum give photographers plenty to capture.

The contrast of rising steam against snowy backdrops, geometric ice carvings, and the glowing blue tones inside the ice bar make it an enjoyable stop for creative shots that complement the night-sky photography you’ll practice later during aurora-viewings at our remote, local lodge.

Geothermal Pools

The natural hot springs — consistently around 106°F — are the resort’s centerpiece. Soaking in these mineral-rich waters is deeply relaxing after days of winter activities and a perfect warm-up before your evening of aurora viewing back at our lodge.

Whether you're easing tight muscles, seeking a peaceful moment in nature, or simply wanting to experience a classic Alaska winter ritual, the hot springs offer a restorative break that balances out the excitement and late nights of chasing the Northern Lights.

How Do Hot Springs Enhance a Winter Alaska Trip?

There’s something unforgettable about sinking into warm geothermal water while the air around you hovers far below freezing. The sensory contrast — heat, snow, open sky — creates a quintessential Alaska moment that feels both grounding and energizing. Soaking in natural hot springs during sub-zero winter conditions creates authentic Alaska experiences that demonstrate the therapeutic value and psychological benefits of geothermal resources during challenging seasonal conditions.

These contrasts between warm water and frigid air temperatures create memorable sensory experiences while providing practical relief from cold-weather exposure during extended outdoor activities. For our Northern Lights travelers, this midday soak becomes a recharging pause between nights spent outside watching the sky. It adds comfort, warmth, and a bit of indulgence to the itinerary. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression — something guests often highlight in their Google reviews as something that adds to the excitement of their adventure:

“We had a fabulous week! Gondwana included everything to provide the ultimate Alaska winter experience: excellent guides & Aurora expert, Running Reindeer Ranch, Chena Hot Springs, an introduction to curling, dogsledding and more! Mother Nature provided a magnificent light show 3 nights. I enjoyed it so much I’d book the trip again!"
– Michele L.

“We travelled 4,000 miles from England to do the Northern Lights tour and it was absolutely worth it! We enjoyed every minute of the 8-day tour, particular highlights being Chena hot springs, the Running Reindeer Ranch, curling, and dog sledding; we even saw the aurora! The tour guides were incredibly knowledgeable and kind, going the extra mile to make sure we all had the best time, and each day was filled with just the right amount of activity. It was all meticulously planned to ensure we made the most of our time in Alaska, and it truly was the holiday of a lifetime.”
– Mary T.

The resort's geothermal pools remain accessible throughout winter months, providing reliable warmth and comfort regardless of weather conditions or aurora activity levels. This dependable amenity ensures that visitors have positive experiences even during cloudy periods or geomagnetic inactivity that prevents aurora viewing while maintaining year-round therapeutic benefits.

Lodging Options and Activities

While we do not stay overnight at Chena Hot Springs, the resort offers a variety of on-site activities that make the visit worthwhile:

• Aurora Ice Museum & Ice Bar (open year-round)
• Geothermal energy and sustainability tours
• Ice sculpting demonstrations
• Cross-country skiing and winter trails
• Electric snowmachine tours

The Ice Museum, in particular, is often a guest favorite — a shimmering ice palace sculpted and maintained year-round using geothermal technology. The ice bar’s carved glasses make for great photos (and fun memories).

What Unique Activities Distinguish Chena Hot Springs?

The resort’s innovations go beyond its hot springs. Its geothermal power systems, greenhouse projects, and sustainable operations showcase some of Alaska’s most forward-thinking renewable energy initiatives. These behind-the-scenes tours offer insight into how remote locations harness natural heat for electricity, food production, and building climate control.

Combined with the Ice Museum — kept frozen through geothermal-powered cooling — Chena stands out as both a relaxing and educational stop within your day.

Visitor Tips and Booking Advice

Because this is a daytime excursion included in your Northern Lights adventure, we handle the logistics. Guests should simply:

• Bring appropriate winter layers for walking between facilities
• Pack swimwear and waterproof sandals for the hot springs
• Consider bringing a towel or robe (we also prepare towels at the lodge for you to bring)
• Expect both indoor and outdoor temperature changes

If you're interested in any of the resort’s optional activities (like massages), let us know in advance so we can help coordinate availability.

Chena Hot Springs Resort offers the perfect blend of geothermal relaxation, creative ice architecture, and sustainable innovation — making it an ideal way to spend an afternoon before a night of Northern Lights viewing at our lodge. Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs or sipping a drink from an ice glass, Chena adds warmth, variety, and a touch of whimsy to your Alaska winter adventure.