Embrace Late Winter: Ski, skate skijor

As the snowflakes twirl gently from the sky and the sun begins to warm the crisp air, Fairbanks, Alaska, transforms into a playground for late winter adventurers. While you might think those who live with 8 months of winter would be anxiously anticipating spring, Fairbanks residents and visitors eagerly embrace the final weeks of freezing weather, engaging in exhilarating activities like skiing, skating, and skijoring.

Skiing in Fairbanks during late spring is a treat like no other. With its vast wilderness and pristine snow-covered landscapes, Fairbanks offers a paradise for both cross-country and downhill skiers. The Birch Hill Recreation Area, just minutes from downtown Fairbanks, boasts over 30 kilometers of expertly groomed trails suitable for skiers of all levels.  Moose Mountain with its school bus lift is only 20 minutes from town for a great downhill skiing experience.  Less than half a mile up the hill from 7 Gables Inn are numerous cross country ski trails at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, with some that offer lighted trails for evening hour tours.

Hockey may as well be synonymous with skating as it is a favorite pastime in Fairbanks—whether as spectator or participant. Friday night Ice Dogs, or UAF Nanook games are well attended by avid fans. The Big Dipper has open skate (in between practicing hockey teams) with both indoor and outdoor rinks, as does the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

Skijoring combines the thrill of skiing with the companionship of canine friends. Harnessing the power of sled dogs, skiers glide effortlessly across the snow, propelled forward by the boundless energy of their furry teammates. With trails winding through pristine forests and open meadows, skijorers can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the Alaskan wilderness while enjoying the excitement and energy of their canine companions.

Late spring in Fairbanks offers more than just outdoor adventures; it provides an opportunity to embrace the spirit of community and camaraderie. Local events such as the Arctic Winter Games, Sonot Kkaazoot, and Oosik Classic Ski Race bring together enthusiasts from near and far, celebrating the joy of winter sports and the rich cultural heritage of Alaska.

As the snow begins to melt and the promise of spring looms on the horizon, now is the perfect time to seize the remaining days of winter in Fairbanks. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a novice adventurer, there’s something magical about experiencing the beauty of Alaska’s late winter landscape. So, grab your skis, lace up your skates, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the white wild of Fairbanks.

Cultural Collision

February in Fairbanks is the prime place to be for all things Alaskan. The crystal clear ice carvings glistening in the bright sun; the leaping dog teams anticipating a long run cross rugged trails and sparkling snow powder; the convocation of Natives of the North who gather to advocate for their indigenous rights; and of course, the etheral glow of the aurora borealis as it flows through the skies, attracting visitors from all over the world. Fairbanks is host to all these amazing events.

The annual World Ice Art Carving Championship began last Saturday. Our local fairgrounds are host to carvers from around the world come to display their talent in single block, multi-block classes. Visitors to the park get to enjoy ice slides, ice rinks, and games made with ice (when was the last time you played ping pong on an ice table?)

Mushers are in their glory time when temperatures allow for long and short sprints without severe cold. Any number of races abound and are available for all ages and experience. Watching the energy and excitement of the dogs is amazing as they leap and howl to get started. Two of the most famous events, the Yukon Quest and Iditarod are accompanied not only by their support crew, but also “groupies” who travel to Alaska and drive to a checkpoint to watch these events.

And the endless nights of northern lights; who can resist the temptation to stay up and scan the sky in hopes of catching the mysterious flow and glow of this phenomenon? Seekers from around the world come to view the aurora. With Fairbanks as the Northern Lights Capital of the World, our destination is perfect for adding Alaska in the winter to your bucket list.

The Alaska Federation of Natives is the largest statewide Native organization (191 tribes and villages to be exact) who advocate for indigenous rights, education, and cultural preservation. They have gathered yearly, this marking their 50th year at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. This particular group has two individuals I worked with at UAF, Sean and Amy; they are still working at the university, now as professor and staff there. Fun fact I learned last night; Sean’s native name means “bad boy” (he is not!) and Amy’s native name means “little girl.”

A Spectacular Symphony of Light: Chasing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, Alaska

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a breathtaking natural phenomenon that has captured the hearts and imaginations of people from around the world. For many, the dream of witnessing the dancing curtains of green, purple, and red light in the night sky becomes a reality in Fairbanks, Alaska. In this blog post, we’ll explore the magical experience of seeing the Northern Lights in Fairbanks, a destination renowned for its stunning displays of this ethereal spectacle.

Getting to Fairbanks

Before embarking on your Northern Lights adventure, you’ll need to make your way to Fairbanks. The city is located in the heart of Alaska, making it one of the prime locations for Northern Lights viewing in the United States. Travelers can reach Fairbanks by air or road, with Fairbanks International Airport serving as the main point of entry.

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Fairbanks is during the winter months, from September to April. While they can potentially be seen throughout this period, the peak months are generally from December to March when the nights are the longest, and the skies are the darkest. To increase your chances of witnessing this breathtaking spectacle, it’s advisable to plan your trip during these prime months.

Choosing the Right Location

Once in Fairbanks, the next step is to select the perfect location for your Northern Lights viewing. The city’s surroundings offer a variety of spots that are far from the city lights, ensuring a clear view of the night sky. Some popular locations include Creamer’s Field, Cleary Summit, and Murphy Dome. These places provide not only unobstructed views but also a tranquil natural setting to enhance your experience.

The Role of Weather

Weather plays a crucial role in your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. Fairbanks is known for its cold and clear winter nights, which are ideal for viewing the Aurora Borealis. However, the weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sub-zero temperatures and bring the appropriate clothing, such as insulated jackets, snow pants, and warm footwear, to stay comfortable during your night of stargazing.

The Chasing Game

Seeing the Northern Lights is not guaranteed, and it often requires a bit of patience. Some tourists come for several nights before they are rewarded with a spectacular display. To increase your chances, consider booking a guided tour with local experts who can use their experience and knowledge to predict the best times and locations to spot the lights. Many tour operators offer heated cabins and hot drinks, making your experience all the more enjoyable.

The Magical Moment

When the Northern Lights do make their appearance, the sight is nothing short of magical. The night sky is painted with shimmering curtains of green, purple, and red light, swirling and dancing overhead. It’s a sensory overload of beauty and wonder that leaves visitors in awe of the natural world.

Capturing the Moment

Don’t forget your camera, as capturing the Northern Lights is a must! Set your camera to a long exposure and a low ISO setting to capture the vibrant colors and movement. Tripods are essential to keep your camera steady in the cold Alaskan night. Be sure to also take some time to simply enjoy the show without the lens.

Conclusion

Fairbanks, Alaska, is a remarkable destination for those seeking to witness the Northern Lights, a celestial phenomenon that has mystified and enchanted humanity for centuries. The combination of the right time, the right place, and a little bit of luck can result in an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime. So, pack your warmest clothes, prepare your camera, and chase the Northern Lights in Fairbanks for an unforgettable adventure in the land of the midnight sun.

Hunting

Alaska is a land of adventure—you never know just what you might run into.

Wildlife is a huge attraction for visitors.  While most people are able to see several types of animals in Denali Park, some are fortunate enough to run into them (figuratively we hope of course!) on the roadside.  One spot close to Fairbanks that moose frequent is Chena Hot Spring Road.  The upper Chena meanders alongside the two lane road and offer a watering hole for moose.    This picture was taken by my daughter on her way back to Fairbanks up the Richardson Highway—these bear were happy to pose while checking out the car passing by.

Wildlife is also a draw for hunters within Alaska as well as from around the country.  My nephew hunts every fall and is usually able to harvest a moose to pack the freezer for the winter.  This past month several of our guests were returning from remote sites where they were seeking caribou.  Indigenous people will be embarking upon whale hunting soon so they can share their good fortune with their community.

If you are hunting for views of the aurora, this is the time to come; people are already flocking to Fairbanks for what looks to be a very promising winter of auroral activity.  There are three “S’s”  to know about this hunting adventure:  (1) Skies that are clear (think seeing stars) are a must; (2) Sun spots that create a heighten amount of solar activity and (3) Staying awake and away from light interference (consider the phrase, “sleep is overrated”)

Many come to Alaska “hunting” a fresh start, new job, and make a new life.  Alaska does not disappoint; with wide open opportunities to launch a business, many locals are proof that given the gumption to keep on trying you can reach your goals to succeed in entrepreneurial pursuits.  My favorite example is one of a young upstart who began with a lemonade stand downtown, and retired as a Chancellor for the University of Alaska Fairbanks.

What adventure will you seek in Alaska? 

April “Showers”

Fairbanks celebrates spring in many different ways—the theme of water runs through them all. We don’t usually have rain showers in April. That is fortunate because the combination of melting snow, freezing and thawing is quite treacherous for pedestrians and vehicles alike. Our three water related events are the geese to ponds on Creamer’s Field, the Nenana Ice Classic, and “Breakup.”

What the local news paper, the New Miner, calls the “goose watch” starts the end of March, beginning of April.  This year, the first geese arrived in Fairbanks on April 6^th.

The first individual in the interior of Alaska (that would include Delta, Tok, Salcha, North Pole, Fox—any of the outlying communities) to spot the return of the geese to Fairbanks receives recognition for this sure sign of spring.  Creamer’s Field is prepped with grain for all the many migratory birds that arrive in the next few months. Pools of water that resemble lakes gather in Creamer’s Field and the birds feast and put on quite the show as they cover from their travels.  It is a wonder to behold—trumpeter swans, Canandian geese, and a variety of ducks.

Another event that begins mid-March and continues until “the Tripod tips” is the Nenana Ice Classic.  This tradition has run since 1917.  A large tripod is placed in the center of the Tanana River at Nenana.  Whoever guesses the minute  when the tripod will “tip” –i.e, the ice will break beneath it wins the jackpot.  This year even garnered the attention of HBO with the uniqueness of the event.  One of our guests, Dona Schneider created the artwork for the poster as shown below.

Break-up is a term locals use to describe that wonderful event—melting of the snow.  Whether this term is peculiar to Alaskans, or not I do not know; I have lived here since I was six.  For me, I consider a true sign that spring is here when the pussy willows show up.  Perhaps the combination of enough light and warm days make it fell more like spring is here to stay (regardless if a snowfall or two happens thereafter).

The Quest is On

 

The Yukon Quest starts today—sleds, dogs, and plenty of spectators on-line and in person.

This year’s event has definitely been redefined in order to make all “things” work—specifically, by reformatting the race.  Essentially, there four distinct races: two in Alaska, two in the Yukon in order to accommodate both mushers, rules and restrictions of both countries. 

Yukon Quest start-up

 

For those who compete in one race in each country, there is chance to win an additional $5000.  This rightly so earns the title of “quest”.  Can you imagine the logistics required—not only to cross borders, but navigate the preparation and execution of food drops, check-points, terrain and weather in both venues?  There are actually four different trails: today’s (Tok to Fairbanks); February 7^th, (Circle to Fairbanks); February 19^th, (Whitehorse to Pelly Crossing); and again on the 19^th (Shipyards to Braeburn). 

Of course, the stakes (“purse” in musher’s language) are high–$35,000 per race!  However, when you consider the costs associated with the entire year to get to the point of actually doing the race, it doesn’t seem all that lavish.  There’s feed for all those dogs, booties, harnesses, straw, blankets, and all the appropriate gear for extreme weather conditions. 

Additionally, there are hazards on the trail.  Sadly, a local musher posted her horrifying experience of watching her dog team be trampled by a rouge moose.  She also stated that she herself feared for own own life but was rescued just in time.  It is not uncommon to encounter wildlife on the trail.  However, this particular year has been extremely hard due to heavy snowfall. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has posted multiple time about the dangers of encountering moose that are “stressed” because they are having difficulty navigating the heavy snow fall in search of food. 

This will definitely be an interesting year for the Quest and its participants. 
Keep an eye out for updates on-line.

The Great Escape

Not only are we the Last Frontier, we may be unarguably the last great escape.
Think about it; Alaska is the epitome of the great outdoors. Wild, unexplored open spaces. Endless miles of wilderness, untold rivers and streams, glaciers, mountains, and forests. Even the highways wind through hundreds of miles with often nary a passing car or two.
In a socially distanced world, where else would one go?
This time of year, we enjoy rugged dog sled races, spectacular aurora viewing, and beautiful ice carving.
You can experience dog mushing in a variety of ways. There are local individuals that frequent the Dog Musher’s Field on Farmer’s Loop Road who may be able to offer you a ride in one of their sleds. Alaskans are notorious for their friendliness and even if you choose to just watch the fun and activity, you will learn plenty.

Dogs at the Yukon Quest

Another way to take part in dog mushing is to come for some of the bigger events—for example, the Yukon Quest or Iditarod are two of the most popular. Many people “follow” the team of their choice along parts of the trail by road systems so they can cheer them on. Plan your visit during these times. You can check with http://www.explorefairbanks.com for more specific information.
Yet another option is to book a tour to one of the local sled dog venues; there are many to choose from and you can again, check out the visitor’s center’s website to select a business that specializes in taking you to the great outdoors for the ride of your life.

Ice carving

If dogs are not your thing, the Ice Alaska International Ice Carving Competition just began this week. The ice park is at the Tanana Valley Fairgrounds, halfway between the downtown area and the University westside. Some people choose to come early and watch the making of the sculptures; others wait so they can enjoy the finished product of approximately 50 different ice carvings. Oh, and don’t forget to bring the family; there are ice slides, skating rinks, and great photo ops for everyone.

Aurora over Ballaine Lake

For many people from around the world, viewing the Northern Lights is on their bucket list. This time of year seems to be accommodating due to a little warmer weather, as well as the above mentioned options for daytime activity. Clear skies, higher aurora Kp levels (check out http://www.gi.alaska.edu/monitors/aurora-forecast for specific information) and low light interference make for great aurora viewing. If you choose not to ventures to hills, there are many “aurora chasers” who delight in seeking great viewing opportunities.
Go ahead and treat yourself to explore our Great Land.

Looking for Light

We just finished doing a little mid-winter window washing (Alaskans consider above zero temperatures to be quite warm this time of year!  Almost like Spring!) and removing the sheers that were blocking the sunlight.   I am definitely enjoying the extra light through the window.  It dawned on me –no pun intended- that I have been noticing the sunrises and sunsets so much more.  Not only because they occur at 10 am and 3 pm, but I really think it’s because of the contrast of darkness and light.  Those long winter nights can be very dark.

8 am moon light

This year particularly.

No one need say more.  The contrast of darkness and light, right and left, the over-riding fears of pandemic and presidential elections have been staggering. 

10 am Sunrise

The experience of light brings hope.  The sun will continue to rise, the aurora borealis will continue to shine, the seasons continue to change.  These constants are stabilizing. 

As we approach the Christmas season, let’s remember to give thanks for the blessings and freedoms we have.  We are the richest country in the world, in terms of liberty and light.  We do not need to cower in fear, but rise up in faith as we look to the Light of the World this Christmas season.  Enjoy the Light, partake of the Light, remember the Light, reflect on the Light, receive the Light, and as we do, we will enter the new year, with greater faith, hope and love in our hearts to face the year ahead as we readjust our focus.

Fabulous Fall

Fresh green of spring above Goldstream

Fall colors above Goldstream

 

 

 

 

The changes are slow but seem all too fast.

The (practicing) yellow school buses rolling out down lanes lined with yellow tinged leaves on the trees.  Couples walking dogs while donning light jackets or sweaters.  The cool night air and reappearance of the moon and stars after a three-month hiatus. Crisp clear mornings as you breathe out with an almost visible breath.   Honking geese flood the skies and the sandhill cranes stock the grounds at Creamer’s Field.    Reports of snow on not-so-distant hills.  We check the lows for the overnight temperature to see if it really is time to pull the last of the garden produce or bring in the hanging baskets.

Sudden rainbow

We experienced record rains this summer, with resulting numerous rainbows, discussions of opening the Chena Lakes Flood Control dam, and preempted many canoe trips down the extremely high river.

Thankfully, some things do not change.  We can count on the seasons, the sunrise, moon and stars, and the beauty of the seasons.  This year, it seems the leaves are hanging on just a little bit longer.  Many more people are out and about enjoying the sun and warmth it provides.  Perhaps it all has to do with slowing down to notice?  I’m not sure, but the things we have taken for granted have definitely come to the forefront.

Sunlit tree

Pursue Your Passion

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