Anchorage & Arctic Circle Aurora Borealis

Private Custom Tour
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Anchorage & Arctic Circle / March 6th - 13th

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Anchorage & Arctic Circle Aurora Borealis

Experience the wonders of Alaska as you journey from Anchorage to the Arctic Circle. Enjoy scenic rail rides, wildlife viewing, cultural immersion, and multiple opportunities to witness the magical aurora borealis in the vast northern wilderness. Discover the unique beauty and adventure of Alaska’s winter landscapes.
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Northern Lights Adventure

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At a glance

6th March Day 1 - Arrival Anchorage

Arrive in Anchorage
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Arrive in Anchorage and Explore Downtown

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Arrive at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

Arrive at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.
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Evening leisure and dinner options

Evening: Leisure time; explore downtown Anchorage or enjoy dinner at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant.

Hotel Captain Cook boasts a variety of dining experiences to suit every palate:

  • Crow’s Nest – A AAA Four-Diamond fine dining restaurant perched atop Tower III, offering French and New American cuisine, an extensive wine cellar, and panoramic views of the city and mountains. Perfect for a special evening.

  • Fletcher’s – An English pub-style venue serving seafood, pizzas, pastas, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

  • The Pantry – Located in the main lobby, this spot is ideal for a hearty or health-conscious breakfast before a day of adventure.

  • The Cubby – A casual café offering specialty coffees, beer, wine, and light bites for guests on the go.

  • Whale’s Tail – A lively restaurant and lounge serving small plates and entrées, complemented by refreshing drinks and occasional live entertainment.

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The Wild Birch Hotel by Hyatt

239 W 4th Ave Anchorage, Alaska, 99501 United States
Check inFriday, Mar 6, 2026
Check outTuesday, Mar 10, 2026

Launch Your Alaska Journey at Our Boutique Hotel in Downtown Anchorage

Your Alaska adventure begins in the center of downtown Anchorage in our chic, modern hotel. Fully renovated and redesigned, our 251 rooms and suites weave local heritage into a sophisticated design set off by rich materials and colors. Revel in our boutique hotel’s vibrant urban spaces that will refresh and inspire you, including a brewery, marquee restaurant and a coffee bar. Make The Wildbirch Hotel in Anchorage your basecamp for treks into the wilderness or that all-important meeting or event. We’ll provide the joy of travel, Alaska style.

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7th March Day 2-Iditarod Race Start

Iditarod
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Discover Anchorage

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The Start of Iditarod

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race is Alaska’s legendary long-distance race that begins in Anchorage each March. Spanning roughly 1,000 miles to Nome, it commemorates the historic mail and supply routes once traveled by dog teams. Mushers and their dogs face extreme Arctic conditions, rugged terrain, and breathtaking wilderness. Known as “The Last Great Race on Earth,” the Iditarod celebrates endurance, teamwork, and Alaskan heritage, attracting global competitors and adventurers to this iconic winter challenge.

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Lunch Downtown Anchorage

DateSaturday, Mar 7, 2026

Options:

Glacier Brewhouse

One of Anchorage’s most iconic spots featuring craft beers and a menu of Alaskan seafood, steaks, and wood-grilled specialties. Warm, rustic ambiance.

Club Paris

A classic Anchorage steakhouse known for its tender filet mignon and halibut dishes. Cozy, old-school atmosphere ideal for a hearty meal.

F Street Station

A lively local favorite serving American fare and Alaskan specialties like halibut sandwiches and salmon fish and chips. Great casual vibe.

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Alaska Native Heritage Center (ANHC)

8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage, AK 99504
DateSaturday, Mar 7, 20263pm
Duration1 Hour

The Hall of Cultures features unique exhibits where visitors can learn about Alaska Native peoples through dynamic media and cultural objects. The Identity Galleries housed within the Hall of Cultures help visitors understand the diversity and beauty of the complex composition of Alaska Native cultural identities and several complementary exhibits present contemporary art and important historical stories from the community. We invite you to explore the rich traditions of Alaska Native peoples that have been practiced for over 10,000 years.

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The Wild Birch Hotel by Hyatt

239 W 4th Ave Anchorage, Alaska, 99501 United States
Check inFriday, Mar 6, 2026
Check outTuesday, Mar 10, 2026

Launch Your Alaska Journey at Our Boutique Hotel in Downtown Anchorage

Your Alaska adventure begins in the center of downtown Anchorage in our chic, modern hotel. Fully renovated and redesigned, our 251 rooms and suites weave local heritage into a sophisticated design set off by rich materials and colors. Revel in our boutique hotel’s vibrant urban spaces that will refresh and inspire you, including a brewery, marquee restaurant and a coffee bar. Make The Wildbirch Hotel in Anchorage your basecamp for treks into the wilderness or that all-important meeting or event. We’ll provide the joy of travel, Alaska style.

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8th March-Day 3- Knik Glacier by Helicopter

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Knik Glacier Tour

DateSunday, Mar 8, 202610am
Duration1 Hours
  • Intimate Alaska helicopter glacier tour

  • Fly over the majestic mountains of the Chugach Range and land on Knik Glacier.

  • View beautiful glacial crevasses, moulins, glacial rivers, and waterfalls.

  • Fly down the Great Gorge of the Knik, a National Scenic Landmark.

  • Wildlife viewing on this tour, potentially Dall sheep and black bears

This Anchorage helicopter tour departs from a base at Alaska Glacier Lodge and takes you over the Knik River and Glacier, through the Great Gorge towards Whiteout Glacier, Colony Glacier, and the icebergs in Lake George. Land on the Knik Glacier and explore with your pilot/guide. We almost always see moose, mountain goats, bands of Dall sheep, and occasionally bears during the summer months.

  • Services of a professional Alaska pilot/guide with narration

  • 30-minute scenic helicopter flight

  • 30-minute glacier landing

  • Glacier equipment

Transportation from select locations in Anchorage for $79 per person. For pick up information please click here


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Lunch Anchorage Eatery

DateSunday, Mar 8, 202612pm
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Afternoon of Leisure

DateSunday, Mar 8, 2026
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The Wild Birch Hotel by Hyatt

239 W 4th Ave Anchorage, Alaska, 99501 United States
Check inFriday, Mar 6, 2026
Check outTuesday, Mar 10, 2026

Launch Your Alaska Journey at Our Boutique Hotel in Downtown Anchorage

Your Alaska adventure begins in the center of downtown Anchorage in our chic, modern hotel. Fully renovated and redesigned, our 251 rooms and suites weave local heritage into a sophisticated design set off by rich materials and colors. Revel in our boutique hotel’s vibrant urban spaces that will refresh and inspire you, including a brewery, marquee restaurant and a coffee bar. Make The Wildbirch Hotel in Anchorage your basecamp for treks into the wilderness or that all-important meeting or event. We’ll provide the joy of travel, Alaska style.

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9th March-Day 4-Matanuska Glacier

Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour
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Matanuska Glacier Hike Day Tour

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Matanuska Glacier Tour

DateMonday, Mar 9, 20268am
Duration7 Hours

Our Glacier Hike was featured on CNN! See it here:

An Alaskan glacier hike through uncompromising beauty

Take a hike on the Matanuska glacier, Alaska’s largest road-accessible glacier located two hours north of Anchorage. Salmon Berry Tours supplies transportation and all necessary glacier gear, with local guides trained in Wilderness First Aid and Glacier Rescue. Our 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio offers you a small-group experience with the maximum level of safety and best photo opportunities of this glacier valley and it’s incredible glacier features. A late lunch is included at a lodge overlooking the glacier.

Total trekking distance is 2-3 miles, in approximately 2 hours. There are no benches or places to sit while on the glacier. The route is ever-changing, with unassisted inclines and declines, taking place entirely on the uneven snow and ice covered terrain. If you choose to book the tour and our guide determines that you are not able to do the tour safely, the tour is non-refundable. If in doubt, please call us to discuss before you book.

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Glacier Hike & Meal

This all-inclusive tour allows you to warm up with hot beverages and a hearty lunch (provided) at a local lodge as well as complimentary snacks and water in the vehicle. Conclude your adventures with transportation back to your Anchorage hotel.

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The Wild Birch Hotel by Hyatt

239 W 4th Ave Anchorage, Alaska, 99501 United States
Check inFriday, Mar 6, 2026
Check outTuesday, Mar 10, 2026

Launch Your Alaska Journey at Our Boutique Hotel in Downtown Anchorage

Your Alaska adventure begins in the center of downtown Anchorage in our chic, modern hotel. Fully renovated and redesigned, our 251 rooms and suites weave local heritage into a sophisticated design set off by rich materials and colors. Revel in our boutique hotel’s vibrant urban spaces that will refresh and inspire you, including a brewery, marquee restaurant and a coffee bar. Make The Wildbirch Hotel in Anchorage your basecamp for treks into the wilderness or that all-important meeting or event. We’ll provide the joy of travel, Alaska style.

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10th March-Day 5-Alaska Railroad & Auroa Borealis Night 1

Aurora Winter Train to Fairbanks
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Alaska Railroad to Fairbanks

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Aurora Winter Train

DateTuesday, Mar 10, 20268am
Duration12.5 Hours

The Aurora Winter Train travels weekends between Anchorage and Fairbanks, making the northbound 12-hour journey on Saturday and the return trip on Sunday, as well as select mid-week departures (see train schedule for full details). Along the way, the train stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna, and provides flagstop service along the 50-mile stretch of roadless backcountry south of Hurricane Gulch. Further north, the train stops as needed at Healy and Nenana before arriving to Fairbanks. Due to the nature of this service, the train’s schedule may vary depending on the number of stops.

While the Aurora Winter Train travels the same stretch of tracks as the summer Denali Star Train, the views are strikingly distinct; the vibrant colors of Alaska’s summer landscape give way to the quiet serenity of pristine snow.  Passengers may enjoy the winter wonderland of Alaska’s backcountry from the comfort of a warm railcar, complete with comfortable seats, large picture windows and onboard dining. On a clear day, a spectacular view of Denali rises into view above the Susitna River. And anywhere along the tracks, a watchful eye may be rewarded with the sight of a moose in the wild. Onboard services: Adventure Class service only. Dining car, baggage service (Anchorage and Fairbanks only), non-smoking cars, wheelchair access (Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna and Fairbanks only).

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Check In Marriott Springhill Suites

Downtown Fairbanks
Check inTuesday, Mar 10, 2026
Check outSaturday, Mar 14, 2026
Room typeKing

Experience comfort at our newly-renovated Fairbanks hotel

Discover an incomparable stay at Springhill Suites Fairbanks. We offer numerous modern amenities, such as free high-speed Wi-Fi and a downtown location surrounded by unique dining and shopping. Right next to the Chena River, our hotel is in close proximity to University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fort Wainwright Alaska and the historic Pioneer Park. When in town, bask in the midnight sun or chase the wonderous northern lights at a favorite in-town spot, Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. When you retreat to our spacious suites, you'll find separate areas to work and relax. Take business with you with our ergonomic workspaces or unwind with our deluxe bedding and premium cable and movie channels. After a restful sleep, you can recharge with our complimentary breakfast buffet. Whether in town for business or pleasure, embrace comfort and adventurous surroundings at our hotel in Fairbanks, Alaska

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1st Night Chasing Lights After Hotel Check in Meet Your Guide Nils. Northern Lights (Weather Permitting)

Fairbanks
DateTuesday, Mar 10, 202611pm
Duration3-4Hours

Private Guided Aurora Borealis Tour with Nils Hansen

Private Guided Northern Lights Chase

Embark on an exclusive aurora adventure with your personal expert guide in a rugged 4x4 truck, designed for Alaska’s winter terrain. Starting at 10:00 PM, your guide will navigate remote backroads and scenic vantage points far from city lights, maximizing your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights in all their glory. This flexible, mobile experience allows real-time “aurora chasing,” following weather and solar activity updates to find the clearest skies. Warm beverages, cozy blankets, and photography tips are included as you journey through the silent Arctic night until approximately 3:00 AM. Perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, immersive encounter with one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.

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11th March-Day 6-2nd Night Chasing Lights

Fairbanks
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Night 2 Northern Lights

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Check In Marriott Springhill Suites

Downtown Fairbanks
Check inTuesday, Mar 10, 2026
Check outSaturday, Mar 14, 2026
Room typeKing

Experience comfort at our newly-renovated Fairbanks hotel

Discover an incomparable stay at Springhill Suites Fairbanks. We offer numerous modern amenities, such as free high-speed Wi-Fi and a downtown location surrounded by unique dining and shopping. Right next to the Chena River, our hotel is in close proximity to University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fort Wainwright Alaska and the historic Pioneer Park. When in town, bask in the midnight sun or chase the wonderous northern lights at a favorite in-town spot, Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge. When you retreat to our spacious suites, you'll find separate areas to work and relax. Take business with you with our ergonomic workspaces or unwind with our deluxe bedding and premium cable and movie channels. After a restful sleep, you can recharge with our complimentary breakfast buffet. Whether in town for business or pleasure, embrace comfort and adventurous surroundings at our hotel in Fairbanks, Alaska

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Fairbanks
DateWednesday, Mar 11, 202611pm
Duration3-4Hours

Private Guided Aurora Borealis Tour with Nils Hansen

Private Guided Northern Lights Chase

Embark on an exclusive aurora adventure with your personal expert guide in a rugged 4x4 truck, designed for Alaska’s winter terrain. Starting at 10:00 PM, your guide will navigate remote backroads and scenic vantage points far from city lights, maximizing your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights in all their glory. This flexible, mobile experience allows real-time “aurora chasing,” following weather and solar activity updates to find the clearest skies. Warm beverages, cozy blankets, and photography tips are included as you journey through the silent Arctic night until approximately 3:00 AM. Perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, immersive encounter with one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena.

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12th March-Day 7 - Cold Foot Alaska 3rd Night AB Lights

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Dalton Highway to Coldfoot Camp Overnight in Arctic Circle

DepartureSpend a Night in The Arctic CircleThursday, Mar 12, 20269:45am
DestinationColdfoot CampFriday, Mar 13, 20263pm

A Guided Round Trip Winter Journey By Air and Land Across The Arctic Circle.

  • Depart by ground tour north from Fairbanks to Coldfoot in the personalized comfort of our tour vehicles.

  • Travel the rugged Dalton Highway made famous by the construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline

  • In the late evening depart Coldfoot for the historic community of Wiseman, Alaska on the included Arctic Village Aurora tour.

  • Watch for the Aurora Borealis in the solitude of the Brooks Mountain Range while experiencing a unique cabin visit with complimentary hot beverages.

  • Return to your room at Coldfoot Camp for the remainder of the night.


Next morning the 13th flight back to Fairbanks.

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Brooks Mountain Range Aurora

  • Arrive in Coldfoot Camp in the foothills of the Brooks Mountain Range.

  • In the late evening depart Coldfoot for the historic community of Wiseman, Alaska on the included Arctic Village Aurora tour.

  • Watch for the Aurora Borealis in the solitude of the Brooks Mountain Range while experiencing a unique cabin visit with complimentary hot beverages

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Dinner Coldfoot Cafe

DateThursday, Mar 12, 20268pm
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Coldfoot Camp Lodging (2 Star)

Check inThursday, Mar 12, 202611pm
Check outFriday, Mar 13, 20268am
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13th March-Day 8 - Small Plane Flight from Coldfoot to Fairbanks

Rest and Recover Marriott SpringHill Suites
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Breakfast-Coldfoot Cafe

DateFriday, Mar 13, 20268am
Breakfast and transfer to Fairbanks Airport.
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Rest * Relax Marrott SpringHill Suites

DateFriday, Mar 13, 20261pm
Duration6 Hours
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Transfer to Fairbanks Airport Evening Red Eye Flights to Lower 48

Breakfast and transfer to Fairbanks Airport.
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Map

1. Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport

5000 W International Airport Rd, Anchorage, AK 99502, USA

2. Anchorage Museum

625 C St, Anchorage, AK 99501, USA

3. Alaska Native Heritage Center

8800 Heritage Center Dr, Anchorage, AK 99504, USA

4. Fairbanks (Downtown)

Downtown Fairbanks, AK 99701, USA

5. Coldfoot Camp

Mile 175 Dalton Hwy, Coldfoot, AK 99701, USA

6. Yukon River Bridge (Dalton Highway)

Dalton Hwy, Yukon River Bridge, AK 99712, USA

7. Arctic Circle Sign (Dalton Highway)

Dalton Hwy, Fairbanks, AK 99701, USA

8. Wiseman

Wiseman, AK, USA

9. Fairbanks International Airport

6450 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA

INCLUDED

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INCLUDED

8 Days

8 Nights: Anchorage, Fairbanks & Coldfoot

Start of Iditarod Race Anchorage

2 Glacier Tours

  • Knik Glacier

  • Matanuska Glacier (meal included)

Girdwood & Alyeska Tour

Scenic Helicopter Flight

Alaska Railroad Aurora Train 12 Hours

2 Nights Guided Aurora Borealis with Nils

Dalton Highway to Arctic Circle Tour

Alaskan Pipeline Tour

Wiseman Alaska Aurora Borealis

Experience "Coldfoot"

Small Plane Flight Coldfoot to Fairbanks

NOT INCLUDED

Airfare

Meals

Guide Gratuity: Glaciers, Fairbanks Guide, Pipeline and Coldfoot Guide, Helicopter Pilot and Fixed Wing Pilot.