The Clientel
Let me guess. You want your Alaskan vacation to include whale watching, salmon fishing, and bear viewing. But you also want to see the northern lights and go dog sledding. You’re afraid of the cold, so you’re thinking October could be the perfect time of year to check all of these items off of your bucket list. Am I right?
Here’s the bummer: October is actually one of the worst times of year to visit Alaska. Summer activities (like wildlife viewing and water-base activities) all wrap up in September as temperatures drop. And most winter activities (like dog sledding, snowmobiling and skiing) require a significant snowpack, that isn’t usually present until mid-November. October lands right in the middle of these two seasons, and that’s just one of the reasons we call it Awkwardtober.
The Weather
October is loathed by many Alaskans because of its variable weather conditions. In Fairbanks, things are generally wet or frozen; muddy or icy; and brown or gray. All of the leaves are off the trees by the end of September, and temperatures will vacillate right around the freezing mark for most of October. Somedays it rains, and somedays it snows. Somedays it does both. Road conditions can be really tricky for inexperienced or unprepared drivers.
If seeing the northern lights is your #1 reason for coming to Fairbanks, you really ought to consider a month other than October.
To see aurora, skies need to be clear – no clouds; no precipitation. This year, I can count the number of clear October night skies we’ve had on one hand. That is to say, there haven’t been many aurora viewing opportunities. (Better months are December, January and February, when winter precipitation is generally scant.)
The Upside
OK, so you’re going to come in October anyway. I’ve tried, but I can’t talk you out of it. You’re coming to celebrate an anniversary, a birthday, a honeymoon. You’re on fall break from school, or you are really, really afraid of those cold weather months.
Is there any upside to visiting Fairbanks in October? What activities can be done?
One of the biggest benefits to visiting Fairbanks in October is that most people don’t. The airport will be mellow. You might find discounts on lodging or rental cars. There should be shorter wait times at popular restaurants. There will be fewer people in the pool at the hot springs. And what tours there are available, won’t be sold out.
Yes, indeed, an October trip is ideal for bargain-conscious travelers, who are looking to avoid crowds, and not have to plan their trip super far in advance.
Indoor Activities
If you’re not a super outdoorsy person, October could be a great time for you to visit Alaska. Here are some fun indoor things to do in Fairbanks.
- Axe Throwing – A very “northern” thing to do, and yes, it can be done indoors!
- Breweries and Distilleries – There are so many. Drink at a new one each day, and you still probably won’t get through all of them.
- Ice Skating – Catch a semi-pro, college, or local women’s hockey game. Or try ice skating for yourself.
- Museums – There are a few, showcasing everything from children’s exhibits and northern science, to ice sculptures and automobiles.
- Planetarium – Newly constructed at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. We can’t wait to check it out!
Outdoor Activities
You came to Alaska. You have to spend at least some time outside. Here’s are some great options.
- Sled Dog Safari Tour – This is very similar to wintertime dog sledding, but the dogs pull a wheeled rig instead of a traditional sled. Still a ton of fun for humans and dogs!
- Scenic Driving – Rent an AWD or 4WD vehicle from a local place like Fairbanks 4 x 4 or Alaska Auto Rental. Or hire a shuttle service. We love Fairbanks Trails and Rivers.
- Hiking – Once the wet, muddy spots have frozen, hiking in Fairbanks in October can actually be pretty great. Just a few inches of snow makes everything beautiful.
- Hot Springs – From a day trip, to a multi-day adventure, there are a few hot springs options within a few hours of Fairbanks.
- Meet Reindeer – Up-close tours featuring these unique animals have gotten really popular in Fairbanks in recent years. A great way to get your wildlife fix.
- Aurora Viewing – When the weather cooperates, seeing the northern lights in October can be fantastic. Even a little bit of snow creates a nice, bright foreground for photos. And with warmer temps, you won’t mind staying up all night to enjoy the show. Just don’t make this the only reason for your visit, due to those persistently cloudy skies.
