Recently I went to an open house sponsored by our local visitor’s center, entitled, “Winter Rocks!” As I talked to the twenty plus vendors there, I discovered they shared a common thread: they were pursuing their passion.
From ATV (all terrain vehicles) and snow machines to snowshoes and skis, each told me how they enjoyed what they now offer as a service what initially started as a hobby.
One individual provides sled dog rides with her purebred Canadian huskies. Her team of 6 dogs pulls 700 pounds with no effort. Another demonstrated her quick release short skis and quipped that no winter sport is enjoyable”unless the person is warm.” Yet another gentleman boasted of his very tall heated garage from which his snow machines enter and exit so his clients are comfortable beginning to end.
A high percentage of all the vendors offered variations of aurora viewing, tips, tours, and photo taking techniques. Fairbanks has definitely grown into a “go-to” destination for aurora viewing and as such some have even named their business or tour “aurora chasers.” Such diligence requires staying up all night, driving long distances, and traveling to remote locations–definitely requiring a strong desire to catch that coveted sighting of the northern lights.
I’m sharing just a few shots of what winter is like –more what I enjoy about winter: the beautiful pristine beauty of sunrise and sunset, the moose and the people as they pursue their passion. 
Moon set over Pioneer Park
The moose next door
AllAboutAlaska 