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.
Sure, it's cold in Fairbanks. But you will really need to bundle up when you take the Arctic Circle Driving Adventure, as it will get even colder on this fun and highly captivating excursion. This guided tour moves along the Dalton Highway into the Alaskan arctic on what is truly a comprehensive ground tour. See gold mines, sections of the pipeline, as well as the Arctic Circle Trading Post. When you see the tundra, you will get a real sense of how expansive Alaska's arctic regions actually are. When you are on your way back, you will see a scenic view of the Yukon River, the northland's most famous waterway. This tour is only available May through September and is not recommended for very young children.
When you consider the vast landscape and tundra-covered terrain that Alaska is known for, it only makes sense that flying would become the most efficient means of transportation in this expansive part of the world. Learn about the origin and development of Alaskan aviation when you visit the Alaskaland Pioneer Air Museum. You'll see interesting exhibits that include 16 aircraft, 17 engines and several pieces of memorabilia that go to make up over 50 years of aviation history.
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.