The World Ice Art Championships take place in Fairbanks every March. The competition is held over the course of eleven very dramatic and excitement-filled days. The event attracts the best ice sculptors in the world as they display their considerable talents in various competitive classes. Among the many categories, two of the most popular are abstract and realistic ice sculptures. The public is invited to watch the sculptures being created during the first two weeks in March and then to view the finished work during the last two weeks of the month. The festival is held at Ice Alaska's Ice Park which not only features the competition but also offers a kids' park with rides and other attractions.
Whoever says that history isn't dramatic has never set foot in the Pioneer Museum and The Big Stampede in Fairbanks. This is a truly unique venue that spotlights various aspects of life in what was once frontier Alaska. See where Sourdoughs carved their means of livelihood in unexpected places throughout the cold wilderness. In addition to seeing genuine tools and articles used to accomplish daily activities, there is also the Big Stampede Show that displays the dramas and victories of what life was like on the Gold Rush trails.
The chill in the air is nearly palpable when you set out to explore the Gates of the Arctic National Park and Reserve. The park is either accessible by foot, car or airplane, and depending on your sense of adventure, there are many ways to experience this unique outdoor area of wilderness. You will encounter craggy ridges, glacier-carved valleys and fragile flowers as you make your way through this amazing park. It should be noted that dogs must be kept on leashes and are only allowed in the backcountry of the park.
The Angel Rocks Trail in Fairbanks offers a short day hike to Angel Rocks, which is a visually captivating group of granite walls and towers. This recreation trail is also popular with hikers for a day-long or overnight excursion.