Summer is a fantastic time to explore Fairbanks, Alaska, with warm days, endless daylight, and plenty of activities that make the most of the scenic outdoors. We are thrilled to share some of the best things to do in Fairbanks during summer, including our exciting wheeled dog sled tours and peaceful Husky Hiking tours. Summer temperatures here generally range from the 70s to 80s, making it perfect weather for outdoor adventures and soaking in Alaska’s natural beauty. If you’re planning a trip to Fairbanks this summer, read our tips and recommendations to get the most out of your adventure!
1. Experience the Thrill of a Sled Dog Safari Tour
One of the most unique ways to explore Fairbanks in the summer is on our Sled Dog Safari Tour. While snow may be absent, we keep the spirit of dog sledding alive with our wheeled mushing setup. These tours provide a chance to witness the power and enthusiasm of our sled dogs as they pull a comfortable vehicle, designed for no/low-snow conditions. It’s an exhilarating ride that’s as close to traditional mushing as you can get during the summer months!
- Morning and Evening Tours: For the safety and comfort of our dogs, we offer the Sled Dog Safari Tour in the morning and evening when temperatures are cooler. Alaska’s summer days can reach into the 80s, but these early and late rides let you experience the cool breeze while watching the dogs do what they love most—running!
- What to Expect on Our Sled Dog Safari Tour: Unlike the snowy sleds, our dog sled safari attaches a team of huskies to a wheeled vehicle, assisted by an engine. This is an unforgettable ride over grassy and forested trails. The dogs are trained to work in all conditions, so you’ll get to see their endurance and drive up close.
- Learning About the Huskies: Along the way, we’ll share our experiences as Iditarod racers (Jeff is a Top 5 Finisher) and dive into the care and training that goes into maintaining a happy, healthy sled dog team. These Alaskan huskies are not only strong and determined but also incredibly friendly, and they love meeting new faces.
If you’ve always wanted to experience dog sledding but are visiting during the warmer months, our Sled Dog Safari tour is the perfect way to experience this iconic Alaskan tradition.
2. Husky Hiking Tours: A Relaxed, Up-Close Experience
If you’re looking for a way to connect with our sled dogs in the middle of the day, our Husky Hiking Tour offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the Alaskan wilderness alongside our friendly huskies. This hiking tour is an ideal option for families, nature lovers, and those who want to get a personal experience with our huskies, but don’t want to get up early or stay up late.
- Personalized Hiking with Huskies: Our Husky Hiking Tour allows you to see a different side of our huskies—they’re curious, social, and love to lead the way on the trails. You’ll explore the scenic forest, guided by both the dogs’ instincts and our experienced team members.
- Perfect for All Ages: The Husky Hiking Tour is a great way to spend time with our sled dogs if you’d prefer a mid-day activity. You’ll learn about the dogs’ training and personalities in an interactive setting, making it a memorable experience for adults and kids alike.
The Husky Hiking Tour is an excellent option for anyone who wants to get up close with our sled dogs in a more tranquil setting. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for these incredible animals and their role in Alaskan life.
3. Midnight Sun Activities in Fairbanks
One of the most unique aspects of summer in Fairbanks is the midnight sun. With nearly 24 hours of daylight in June and July, you can enjoy outdoor activities late into the evening. Here are a few ways to make the most of those endless days:
- Chena River Float Trips: Hop on a kayak, canoe or stand up paddle board, or join a guided float down the Chena River. The serene river setting is perfect for wildlife spotting, fishing, or just taking in the views of Fairbanks under the late-evening sun.
- Explore Pioneer Park: Pioneer Park combines local history with summer fun, and is particularly good for kids. You’ll find small museums, old-time shops, a few walking trails, and playground equipment.
- Hiking Trails: The nearby Angel Rocks Trail and Wickersham Dome Trail offers fantastic hiking with panoramic views of the Alaskan landscape. With cooler temperatures in the evenings, this is a great way to experience Alaska’s scenic beauty at your own pace. For more trails, inquire in at the Public Lands office in the Morris Thompson Visitor Center.
4. Visit Local Museums and Cultural Centers
If you’re interested in learning more about the culture and history of Alaska, Fairbanks offers several fascinating museums and cultural centers:
- University of Alaska Museum of the North: This museum is a must-visit, offering exhibits on everything from Alaska’s wildlife to indigenous art and culture. The museum’s unique architecture is worth a visit alone, and it’s a cool escape from the warmer summer days.
- Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center: For a deeper look into Alaskan life and Native heritage, the Morris Thompson Center provides excellent exhibits and often hosts cultural performances, workshops, and events.
- The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum: The Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum in Fairbanks showcases a stunning collection of over 80 vintage automobiles, paired with historical Alaskan fashion and artifacts. This award-winning museum offers a unique glimpse into the state’s transportation history, blending engineering innovation with timeless elegance.
5. Our Other Favorite Places
As locals, these are the places we always bring family and friends when they visit:
- Breweries and Distilleries: Fairbanks offers a vibrant craft beverage scene perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. HooDoo Brewing Co. is a local favorite, known for its German-style beers and cozy beer garden. At Ursa Major Distillery, you’ll find handcrafted spirits made with pure Alaskan ingredients, offering a unique taste of the North. Black Spruce Brewing Company serves up bold, creative brews with a focus on sustainability and community, making it a must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts. For a truly Alaskan experience, Arctic Harvest Distillery crafts small-batch spirits sourced from local grains, set against a beautiful rural backdrop. Cheers to exploring Fairbanks’ finest!
- Gold Daughters: Owned by two Fairbanks-born-and-raised sisters, Gold Daughters is a real gem! Conveniently located across the road from the Trans-Alaska Pipeline viewing station, Gold Daughters guarantees that you will find gold! These fun experts will teach you how to pan, and help you capture and take home your precious find! Perfect summer fun for people of all ages.
Plan Your Summer Adventure in Fairbanks
Whether you’re here to hike, boat, shop or mush, the culture and nature of Fairbanks in summer offers endless opportunities for fun and discovery. At Black Spruce Dog Sledding, we’re excited to share Alaska’s unique traditions with you—whether through our morning and evening Sled Dog Safari Tour, where you can experience the heart of sled dog culture in a warm-weather setting, or a tranquil Husky Hiking Tour along Alaskan trails.
From midnight sun adventures to dining and shopping, summer in Fairbanks provides memories you’ll carry with you long after your Alaskan journey.
