Hot Springs Near Fairbanks, Alaska

Five hot springs sit within 150 miles of Fairbanks, all in the interior Alaska wilderness. The closest is Chena Hot Springs Resort, about 60 miles east on Chena Hot Springs Road, with 165-degree source water cooled to 106 in an outdoor rock lake. The resort is open year-round and is a top destination for viewing the northern lights. Tolovana Hot Springs, about 60 miles northwest, is a backcountry cabin site with hot tubs reached by bush plane or a 10-mile ski trail in winter. Hutlinana, about 80 miles north, is a free remote spring accessible by bush plane or winter trail. Manley Hot Springs Resort is about 90 miles west at the end of the Elliott Highway with private tubs and a geothermal greenhouse. Kanuti River Hot Springs, roughly 140 miles north, is extremely remote in the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge, accessible only by bush plane or river trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest hot spring to Fairbanks?

Chena Hot Springs Resort is about 60 miles east of Fairbanks on Chena Hot Springs Road, roughly one hour by car on a paved road open year-round. The resort has an outdoor rock lake, indoor pool, and geothermal facilities. It is the most accessible hot spring in interior Alaska.

Are there free hot springs near Fairbanks?

Two of the five hot springs within 150 miles of Fairbanks are free. Hutlinana Hot Springs, about 80 miles north, is a primitive spring with no facilities, accessible by bush plane or winter trail. Kanuti River Hot Springs, roughly 140 miles north, is in the Kanuti National Wildlife Refuge, reached by bush plane.

Can I see the northern lights at hot springs near Fairbanks?

Chena Hot Springs Resort, about 60 miles east, is one of the most popular aurora viewing destinations in Alaska. The outdoor rock lake allows soaking under the northern lights from September through April. The resort offers aurora wake-up calls for overnight guests when conditions are favorable.

Which hot springs near Fairbanks are accessible by road?

Two of the five hot springs near Fairbanks are road-accessible. Chena Hot Springs Resort is 60 miles east on paved Chena Hot Springs Road, open year-round. Manley Hot Springs Resort is about 90 miles west on the Elliott Highway, a mostly gravel road. The other three require bush plane or winter trail access.

How far is Fairbanks from Manley Hot Springs?

Manley Hot Springs Resort is about 90 miles west of Fairbanks at the end of the Elliott Highway, roughly two hours by car on a mix of paved and gravel road. The small resort has private tubs and a geothermal greenhouse. The Elliott Highway is maintained year-round but conditions vary with season.