8 Magical Fairbanks Snowmobile Tours for 2025-2026
What are the best Fairbanks snowmobile tours? Is it worth going snowmobiling in Alaska?
We were lucky enough to live right down the road from several amazing snowmobile tour operators when we resided in Fairbanks, which is why we’re here to tell you that not all tour operators are created equal.
From comfort and safety to price and tour routes, there are a multitude of factors that can make or break your Fairbanks snowmobile experience. But, due to popular demand, there are now plenty of tour companies that don’t provide the optimal service that they’re charging for!
Don’t have time to read the entire post? Don’t fret!
The Aurora Sleighers Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks is unquestionably the #1 tour on this list!
⭐4 Hours of Prime Time Aurora Sightseeing
⭐Small Group Tour
⭐Extreme Winter Gear is Provided!
Fortunately, thanks to our personal insights, we’ve curated this list of the best tours offered by the top-rated tour operators around!
We’ve also included our personal list of tips for hitting the local snowmobile trails in Fairbanks as well as plenty of helpful answers to some widespread questions regarding these favored winter tours.
8 Top-Rated Fairbanks Snowmobile Tours
1. Aurora Sleighers Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks
Undoubtedly one of the best combination tours you can experience in Fairbanks, the Aurora Sleighers Snowmobile Tour offers guests a chance to navigate the snow-covered trails of Alaska under the cover of nightfall, where chances of catching the Aurora Borealis are at their peak!
We found that the best time to see the northern lights was between 10PM and 2AM, which is exactly when this tour takes place.
From the late evening to early morning, you’ll be crossing snowy landscapes in search of the auroras. As the second-longest tour on this list, you’ll have the opportunity to combine two amazing tours into one!
2. 2-Hour Snowmachine Tour
The 2-Hour Snowmachine Tour presents a compact, thrilling experience that’s perfect for visitors looking to get a taste of Alaska’s winter wonderland without committing to a full night out!
This two-hour jaunt takes you through some of the most picturesque snowscapes around Fairbanks, offering a unique opportunity to whisk across the frosty terrain under the broad daylight or the twilight skies.
Designed for both beginners and experienced riders, the tour provides all the necessary equipment and guidance to ensure a safe yet exhilarating ride through the Alaskan wilderness.
It’s an ideal choice for those on a tighter schedule or for families with younger ones eager to experience the thrill of snowmobiling.
Plus, their office is located right on Chena Hot Springs Road, so you can easily plan a snowmobile tour before or after your dip in the hot springs (we would recommend before, that way you can warm up!)
3. 2-Hour Guided Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks
Another fantastic option if you’re short on time or don’t know how long your fingers will last in sub-freezing weather, this 2-Hour Guided Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks has been meticulously designed to cater to both novices and seasoned snowmobile enthusiasts!
Participants will have the opportunity to glide over frozen rivers, weave through beautiful forests, and possibly catch a glimpse of local wildlife in their natural habitat in the Goldstream Valley.
Ideal for families, couples, and groups looking for an exciting addition to their Alaskan itinerary, this local company also provides all necessary gear for the trip!
4. 1-Hour Snowmachine Tour
Have an early dinner reservation at Fairbanks’ #1 restaurant, The Pump House? Maybe you’re planning on going to the Chena Hot Springs for a tour of their Ice Museum. Whatever it is, if you’re pressed for time then you should seriously be considering this 1-Hour Snowmachine Tour!
With some of the top reviews we’ve seen in Interior Alaska, this tour provides everything you need for the ride, a quick-and-to-the-point safety briefing, and the rest is your time to go out and explore the trails.
Particularly if you’ll be visiting Alaska in the middle of winter and you’re anticipating sub-zero temperatures, 1 hour is more than enough time to spend outside, so this tour is honestly ideal for the majority of travelers.
5. 1 Hour Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks Alaska
If the 1-hour tour above is fully booked for your dates, then this 1-Hour Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks Alaska is the next best thing! Tailored to accommodate first-time riders who may be a bit nervous about hopping onboard a snowmachine with treads, this company’s guides are experts at helping newbies out on the trails.
Whether it’s the centerpiece of your day or a complement to other activities around Fairbanks, this tour promises a burst of adrenaline and a unique view of Alaska’s winter beauty.
6. Reindeer and Snowmobile Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp with Lunch
If you’ve researched the top aurora viewing destinations in Alaska, chances are you’ve come across Borealis Basecamp. And if you dug any further, you would see that they have a minimum charge of $980 per person before adding activities!
They do include a few other activities with your stay, but obviously, this isn’t in everyone’s budget.
So, if you’re interested in the idea of visiting the grounds, going on a snowmobiling tour, feeding some local reindeer, and even enjoying a local Alaskan lunch at the Basecamp without having to pay for a night’s stay, then look no further than the Reindeer and Snowmobile Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp!
This experience begins with pick-up from your hotel in Fairbanks, a scenic drive up the Elliott Highway, a beautiful 1-hour snowmobile ride through the Boreal Forest, and a visit to a local reindeer farm where you’ll have the opportunity to feed, pet, and take photos with these beautiful animals, as well as a cozy, hearty lunch at the Borealis Basecamp.
7. Guided Fairbanks Snowmobile Tour
One of the most affordable 1-hour tours on this list, the Guided Fairbanks Snowmobile Tour offers guests the opportunity to drive their own snowmobiles under the guidance of experienced and knowledgeable local guides!
Tailored to fit the needs and skill levels of all participants, this experience takes you through the beautiful Alaskan wilderness, where you’ll have the chance to spot native wildlife and enjoy stunning views of the landscape.
With all the necessary gear provided by the company, this tour is perfect for those looking for a more hands-on adventure on their visit to Fairbanks.
8. Fairbanks Snowmobile Adventure from North Pole
Departing from the nearby city of North Pole, the Fairbanks Snowmobile Adventure is led by expert guides where riders will get the chance to navigate the rugged wilderness of interior Alaska all while having a good chance of encountering local wildlife!
Ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to add a bit of adrenaline to their Alaskan adventures, this is easily one of the best Chena snowmobile tours on this list!
↪️Pro Tip: You’ll notice that this tour is typically the cheapest on this list, and that’s because winter clothing is NOT included. If you’ll be arriving in Alaska with all the sub-zero gear needed to stay warm and safe on this trip, then this is a fantastic 1-hour tour option!
However, if you were banking on the tour operator providing all of that expensive gear, then it’s best to choose one of the other options on this list.
Tips for Hitting the Snowmobile Trails in Fairbanks Alaska
When planning your snowmobiling adventure in Interior Alaska, it’s paramount to be well-prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here’s a detailed list of tips to consider from two people who have seen a lot go wrong out on the trails:
- Dress Warm: It hit -50°F while we were living in Fairbanks in December. I’m sure this explains the severity of the situation enough, but your standard run-of-the-mill single-layer gloves aren’t going to work here. You need thermal layers, and big jackets and snow pants rated for sub-zero temperatures!
- Safety First: Always wear a helmet and goggles. No, it won’t be lame because everyone in your group will be wearing them too. Everything from low-hanging branches to ice chunks that get spit out from the sled in front of you are possible hazards out on the trails.
- Understand Your Snowmobile: If you’re a beginner, familiarize yourself with the snowmobile’s controls and operation before heading out. Most tour operators offer a good training session beforehand, so pay close attention.
- Respect Wildlife: Remember, you are in the natural habitat of Alaskan wildlife. Maintain a safe distance from animals to avoid disturbing them, particularly bears and moose.
- Stick to the Trail: We know it may seem like a good idea to stray from the pack and do a little off-roading, but you won’t know the area and could end up on a soft part of a frozen lake or river. Ravines and powder bowls are also potential risks!
- Check the Weather: Alaskan weather can be unpredictable. It’s usually best to keep your plans flexible either the day before or after your Fairbanks snowmobile tour in case the weather forces you to reschedule!
- Be Environmentally Conscious: Respect the pristine Alaskan environment. Carry out all your trash to preserve the 49th state’s wild aspects.
- Get Insured: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers adventure activities. We always use SafetyWing since it’s so affordable and they offer great customer service!
FAQ
In this last section, we’ve provided some additional helpful information regarding Fairbanks tours including whether it’s actually worth doing a snowmobile tour in Fairbanks, how much the tours typically cost for a single rider versus a pair, if you can combine northern lights viewing on snowmobiling tours, and more!
Is It Worth Going Snowmobiling in Alaska?
Going snowmobiling in Alaska is undoubtedly a worthwhile experience! Not only does it allow for an exhilarating ride across some of the most scenic terrains in the world, but it also provides unique opportunities to witness wildlife in their natural habitat.
What we love about it most is that you get to explore areas that are otherwise inaccessible during the winter months!
Particularly if you combine one of your tours with ice fishing or northern lights hunting, you can really get the most bang for your buck.
Is Snowmobiling Good in Alaska?
Alaska offers guests some top snowmobiling trails in the country, thanks to the region’s unique geographical features, including vast wilderness areas, frozen rivers, and beautiful pine tree-covered trails!
The consistent snow conditions and cold temperatures ensure a long season of opportunities for riding, often from late October through early April.
Additionally, Fairbanks’s location in the interior of Alaska provides a more continental climate, which can offer clearer days perfect for aurora viewing if you choose to take an evening ride.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Snowmobile in Alaska?
On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $400 per person for a standard group tour that lasts between 1 to 4 hours.
However, the cost of snowmobiling tours in Fairbanks can vary greatly depending on several factors including the length of the tour, whether it’s a private or group outing, and the amenities offered.
Longer tours, especially those that include additional activities such as ice fishing or northern lights tours, can be priced higher, in the range of $300 to $500 per person. If you want to skip the tour and simply rent a snowmobile on your own, full-day rates typically start at $325.
We know, we know… it’s expensive. But, if you’ve never been to Alaska before, it’s an experience of a lifetime and one that we believe is well worth the splurge! We actually found these tours are comparable to going bear viewing in Katmai National Park – expensive, but extremely worthwhile!
How Long are Fairbanks Snowmobile Tours?
Most guided snowmobile tours in Fairbanks range from 1 to 4 hours, but the duration of these tours can vary widely depending on the type of adventure you’re looking for.
For those new to snowmobiling or looking for a quick thrill, the 1 or 2-hour tours are perfect! However, for more adventurous souls or those wanting to do a combination tour that also includes other activities, 2-4 hours is more appropriate.
↪️ Pro Tip: If you’re traveling with kids or get cold easily, don’t plan on a tour longer than 2 hours! Chances are, if you’re visiting Alaska in winter, you’re going to be in negative temperatures, so it’s not worth paying for a 4-hour tour if you’re going to turn back once your fingers are numb.
Can You Snowmobile Over Frozen Lakes in Fairbanks?
While snowmobiling over frozen lakes is a popular part of many snowmobile trails in Fairbanks, that doesn’t mean that your tour company is going to take you out on them.
It’s your guide’s primary job to keep everyone safe, so if they don’t feel comfortable with the ice thickness or have any other concerns, they will opt out of riding over them.
Can You See the Northern Lights on Fairbanks Snowmobiling Tours?
Yes, you can indeed see the northern lights on Fairbanks snowmobiling tours, weather and solar activity permitting. Many tour operators offer special nighttime snowmobiling adventures designed to chase the Aurora Borealis, providing an unforgettable experience under the Arctic sky.
These tours typically take place during the late evening to early morning hours when the northern lights are most active and the sky is at its darkest, so you can expect to depart around 9 or 10PM.
However, it’s important to remember that aurora viewing is never guaranteed, as it greatly depends on current weather conditions and solar activity.
Tour guides are experienced in seeking out the best possible viewing locations, but even if you don’t see the lights, evening snowmobile tours are still exceedingly worthwhile!
Can You Snowmobile in Denali National Park?
Snowmobiling in Denali National Park is subject to strict regulations to protect the natural environment and wildlife. In general, the use of snowmobiles is limited to just the Southwest Preserve, however, this may change from year to year based on the snow and trail conditions.
For the most up-to-date information before your trip, check the guidelines with the National Park Service.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Ride a Snowmobile in Alaska?
According to the National Park Service, the minimum age to operate a snowmobile in Alaska is typically 16 years old. However, tour companies may have their own age requirements, often allowing children as young as 6 or 7 to ride as passengers.
It’s essential to check with the specific tour operator for their age policies and any parental consent forms that might be needed for younger riders before you book your group tour.
How Fast Do Snowmobiles Go on Tours?
On guided tours in Fairbanks, snowmobiles typically travel at speeds ranging from 10 to 45 miles per hour. The speed often depends on the terrain, trail conditions, and the experience level of the group.
Tour guides prioritize safety and usually adjust the pace to ensure all participants are comfortable and secure. While more experienced riders might be allowed to enjoy bursts of higher speeds on open stretches, beginners are often required to take it slower, particularly in more challenging or narrow paths.
We know people who were forced to turn back when riders in their group decided to ignore the rules of the guide and go far faster than they allowed, so don’t think you’ll get away with ripping it up too much!
Jump to the bottom of the post? No problem!
The Aurora Sleighers Snowmobile Tour in Fairbanks is unquestionably the #1 tour on this list!
⭐4 Hours of Prime Time Aurora Sightseeing
⭐Small Group Tour
⭐Extreme Winter Gear is Provided!
Snowmobiling is an exciting experience to have in Alaska that offers a unique and exciting way to explore the state’s winter wonderland.
Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or looking to try something unique on your Alaska vacation, these Fairbanks snowmobile tours are the perfect addition!
