Chena Hot Springs

No matter the season, Chena Hot Springs is a top Alaska destination

One of the best places to view the northern lights in all of the world can be found just outside Fairbanks, at Chena Hot Springs.

The area is known around the world for its hot springs, but there is plenty do and see in the area that make it a destination for Alaskans and visitors all year.

Chena Hot Springs Resort is Alaska's top natural mineral hot spring destination. The 440-acre resort area also has plenty of other attractions, such as hiking, biking, rafting, canoeing and fishing. In the winter, there are flightseeing opportunities, as well as great cross-country ski and snowshoe trails around the area.

The town obviously gets its name from the naturally occurring hot spring.

The springs are 60 miles from downtown Fairbanks on Chena Hot Springs Road. Along the route, the meandering Chena River crosses the highway four times.

No matter what season you go there, chances are you'll wind up seeing plenty of wildlife.

If visiting in the spring or summer, make sure to take your fly rod because there is fantastic grayling fishing along the way. There are hiking, camping and canoeing spots along the route to Chena Hot Springs, making for a multi-day trip filled with activities.

Readers of Alaska Magazine have annually voted Chena Hot Springs Resort as the best place to watch the aurora borealis. The majestic aerial light display can be seen during the winter, when the temperatures in the area dip well below zero degrees and the crisp air make for ideal conditions.

When traveling to Chena Hot Springs by car in the winter, allow for plenty of time. The trip from the Valley to Fairbanks along the Parks Highway is a day trip in the winter, with snow and extreme temperatures along the way.

Don't make the drive unprepared -- or else you may not make it to Chena Hot Springs in the first place.