Chena Hot Springs

Question

Hi, 3 of us will be staying at the Aurora Borealis Lodge Sept 7-11. We will have a rental car, we love scenic drives we are considering the 1 1/2hour drive to Chena Hot Springs. There have been many mixed reviews on the hot springs being worthwhile, a lot of people mention it is dirty, & a tourist trap. Is it worth going in or would we better off choosing a different scenic drive or hot spring. I see some mentions of the Steese Hwy as a nice drive. Thanks for your time.

Answer

Chena Hot Springs is one of the more well-known tourist attractions near Fairbanks, and opinions on it vary depending on what visitors are seeking. The drive itself from Fairbanks to Chena Hot Springs is scenic and takes about 1.5 hours each way, giving you an opportunity to enjoy Alaska’s northern landscapes, forests, and open tundra. Many visitors consider the drive a worthwhile part of the experience, even if they don’t spend much time at the hot springs themselves.

As for the hot springs resort, here are some key points to consider:

The hot springs themselves are natural geothermal pools, and many visitors enjoy the experience of soaking in warm water surrounded by snow or autumn colors, particularly if the Northern Lights are visible.
It is a commercialized tourist spot, so it can feel crowded during peak times, and some areas may appear less pristine than natural, remote hot springs.
The resort also offers additional amenities such as an ice museum, hiking trails, and guided activities, which can add value if you plan to stay for several hours or overnight.

If you are mainly interested in a more “off-the-beaten-path” scenic drive or quieter hot springs experience, there are alternatives to consider:

The Steese Highway drive north of Fairbanks is renowned for its scenic vistas, with rolling hills, rivers, and the chance to see wildlife. You can combine the drive with short hikes or picnics without the crowds.
There are also more remote hot springs in Alaska, such as Manley Hot Springs or Tolovana Hot Springs, though they require more planning and time, and some are accessible only by small plane or long drives on gravel roads.
Local hiking trails or short drives along the Parks Highway can provide scenic viewpoints and a quieter experience compared to the commercial resort environment.

Overall, Chena Hot Springs is worth a visit if you enjoy a mix of convenience, scenery, and the novelty of soaking in a hot spring while surrounded by Alaskan wilderness. If your priority is solitude, pristine natural hot springs, or purely scenic drives, then exploring alternative routes like the Steese Highway or other remote locations may better suit your preferences.

Chena Hot Springs

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