Situated in the middle of the Alaskan wilderness is Chena Hot Springs Resort. With soothing warm waters sourced from nearby geothermal springs, this eco-friendly, 3-star resort is a great place for relaxation and escaping modern-day problems. Bathing in the healing waters of the springs is only one of the many highlights there. Here is everything to know about the resort, from accommodation to activities and dining, plus tips for a great experience.
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For over 115 years, people flocked to Chena Hot Springs for its natural mineral waters and scenic views. The springs were discovered in 1905 by gold mining brothers Robert and Thomas Swan, who sought out a place where they could ease the pain caused by rheumatism. Then, they built cabins, a stable, and a bathhouse that could accommodate more people.
However, the resort has changed a bit since the Swan brothers were there. In addition to the bathing pools, the resort now has on-site accommodations, restaurants, spa services, and an ice museum, making it a truly immersive getaway. Chena Hot Springs Resort can be found in the Fairbanks North Star Borough, roughly 56 miles up the valley.
When it comes to choosing where to bathe at Chena Hot Springs Resort, you have quite a few options. The largest and most popular spot is the outdoor wading lake. Surrounded by rocky boulders and views of a snow-covered forest, the lake is geothermally heated to a comfortable 106°F (41°C) year-round. This pool is unchlorinated and, therefore, only open to adults older than 18.
There is also a heated indoor pool, where the water is supplied by the hot springs but has been chlorinated just like a swimming pool, so it is safe for kids. It’s also a bit colder than the outdoor pool, only at about 90°F (32°C). The indoor and outdoor hot tubs at the resort are also chlorinated and open to all ages. One of the biggest benefits of hot spring water is the geothermal minerals in it.
The water in the lake, pool and hot tubs contain sodium, potassium fluoride, calcium, magnesium, and chloride, all of which are believed to have healing properties. Not only can they help with rheumatism, but it is also known to treat skin irritations, inflammatory conditions, and digestive issues, as well as certain chronic illnesses thanks to the traces of sulfur in it, which gives the water a somewhat eggy smell.
Sure, most people come to Chena for the hot springs, but in addition to swimming and bathing, the resort offers several other activities.
To enhance your experience, book a massage with one of the resort’s professional therapists. They offer different types of massages, from deep tissue and Swedish to hot stone and foot reflexology. All massages take place in one of the cabins on the property, allowing you to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere away from the pools. A 30-minute session costs $75. Check prices.
Aurora Ice Museum, located next to the resort, features a collection of carved sculptures made from 1,000 tons of ice and snow. Grab your parka, provided on-site for free, and take a 45-minute guided tour to see the mesmerizing ice sculptures, from an overhead chandelier made of individually carved ice crystals to a giant chess set and life-sized jousting knights, up close and personal. Then, grab an appletini served in a hand-carved ice glass at the Aurora Ice Bar.
The museum and the bar are open year-round, thanks to a chiller that keeps the museum nice and frosty even in the middle of summer.
If you want to experience the outdoors like a true Alaskan, book a trip through the forest with the Chena Kennel. Winter dog sled rides are offered from November to April and include a trail run through the forest and additional time to play and take photos with the Huskies. For visitors in the summer, from May to September, you’ll be on a custom-wheeled cart instead of a sled.
If you visit during the shoulder seasons, you can join the dogs and handlers on a training run. While you won’t be on the cart or sled, you can ride alongside them in an ATV, a thrilling experience in its own right. The Chena Kennel also offers tours of the facilities throughout the year. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about dog sledding and how the pups are trained.
For an exhilarating adventure through the snow, join this 45-minute snowmobiling tour. You’ll spend most of your time exploring the Monument Creek Trail, a looped path that winds around the resort and hot springs. Snowmobiles are single-rider only, so drivers need to be 16 years or older to participate.
The “dancing” aurora borealis is a unique phenomenon you can only see in select places in the world, like Alaska. If you’re visiting the resort in spring or winter, you can join an Aurora Viewing Tour, which takes you to the top of Charlie Dome and look for the lights from the comfort of a warm yurt. Tickets include transportation, equipment, warm drinks, and snacks.
Cruising around in an ATV is a fun activity in the summer at the resort. You can book a tour in one of their single-rider vehicles (driver must be 16 or older) or a side-by-side ATV for larger groups (passengers must be 5 years or older) to explore the beautiful surroundings of Fairbanks.
In the summer, you can also enjoy a relaxing horseback ride along the scenic trails around the resort. This is a great activity for both experienced riders and first-timers, but you must be over 4.5 feet tall to participate.
Spending a few nights at the resort is a great way to experience everything Chena Hot Springs has to offer. Depending on your party size and budget, you have several options for accommodation.
The resort has two on-site restaurants: the fine-dining Chena Hot Springs Restaurant and the casual Aurora Cafe. Chena Hot Springs Restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and serves classic American fare. Most veggies are grown in the resort greenhouse, while other products are sourced from local Alaska farms and producers. Aurora Cafe is great for a quick bite and serves fresh salads, sandwiches, soups, coffee, and packaged snacks.
Whether you’re here for the day or the weekend, here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting the Chena Hot Springs:
Whether you’re chasing the northern lights, gliding through the snow on a dog sled, or enjoying a glass of wine by the fireplace, you’ll walk away from your trip to the Chena Hot Springs feeling completely relaxed and well-rested.
