Coming tomorrow (3/31) for 2, maybe more ? nights

Question

We are coming tomorrow afternoon and will stay for at least 2 nights (Monday and Tuesday). Have booked with Ronn and Marketa Murray(http://theaurorachasers.com) for both nights. Clouds look pretty challenging per cleardarksky.com , hoping for some good luck.

If we don’t get a good view of the aurora we have some flexibility to stay a bit longer in Alaska. In that case, wondering if we should stay back in Fairbanks on Wednesday (could stay for rest of the week). Or perhaps go to Anchorage and try that area. Where are the clouds likely to be better ? What is the best website for cloud forecast; clear dark sky goes only 3 nights out ? My understanding is that a weak aurora could be seen from Fairbanks but Anchorage would need a stronger kp index. The 27 day forecast from https://www.gi.alaska.edu/monitors/aurora-forecast says there should be pick up towards end of the week. Or should we go back to SoCal and try our luck later.

Also what else could we do in the afternoons ? I have been to the university and a museum there. Haven’t done anything else in Fairbanks.

Answer

Visiting Fairbanks for aurora viewing in late March is a good choice, as the nights are still long enough for potential sightings. However, cloud cover is often the main challenge. Since you already have reservations with Ronn and Marketa Murray, you’ll have guides who are experienced at finding the best clear areas near Fairbanks for aurora hunting.

Regarding extending your stay:

Staying in Fairbanks: This is usually your best bet if you want a realistic chance at seeing the aurora, especially for weak to moderate KP indices. Fairbanks is far enough north that you can often see the aurora with KP 2–3, and guides can drive you to clearer skies nearby.
Traveling to Anchorage: Anchorage is further south, so you generally need stronger aurora activity (higher KP index) to see it. Cloud cover can also be more persistent in Anchorage during early spring, so your chances may be lower.
Monitoring forecasts: Besides Clear Dark Sky, you can also check:

University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute 27-day forecast for aurora activity, as you mentioned.
NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center for short-term KP index forecasts.
Weather apps or websites showing cloud cover, wind, and temperature for Fairbanks and surrounding areas.

If the forecast shows continued clouds in Fairbanks, you can consider a flexible plan to stay an extra night or two, but generally the northern interior is still better than Anchorage for aurora sightings.

For daytime activities in Fairbanks:

Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center – exhibits on local history and Alaska Native culture.
Chena Hot Springs – about 1 hour from Fairbanks, offers hot springs and ice museum tours.
Riverboat Discovery Tour – a daytime cruise on the Chena and Tanana Rivers with historical and wildlife commentary.
Gold panning or visiting local historical sites, such as Pioneer Park.
Dog sled demonstrations or snowmobile tours, if available and depending on conditions.

Given your interest in aurora photography, staying flexible in Fairbanks for a few extra nights is likely your best strategy. Evening aurora tours with experienced guides maximize your chances, while afternoons can be filled with scenic, cultural, and adventure activities nearby.

Coming tomorrow (3/31) for 2, maybe more ? nights

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