Located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, along a scenic mountain road, the Chena Hot Springs is the most accessible thermal pool in The Last Frontier.
Its geothermal water emerges at around 165 °F (74 °C), but is gently cooled into luxurious facilities: an indoor heated pool, multiple outdoor hot tubs, and an adults-only rock-lined warm lake with a soft sandy bottom. Rich in gold-rush history since its founding in 1905 and powered by geothermal energy, the resort offers wellness, sustainability, and often the chance to watch the Northern Lights from warm outdoor pools
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History of Chena Hot Springs Resort
The Chena Hot Springs were discovered in 1905 by brothers Robert and Thomas Swan, after reports of steam rising in the Upper Chena River valley.
By 1911, the site had grown into a small resort with twelve cabins, a bathhouse, and a stable, attracting the first wave of visitors.
Over the next century, the springs evolved into a world-renowned resort, welcoming millions of guests and expanding with new facilities, while still preserving the charm of its wild Alaskan setting.
Today, Chena Hot Springs is one of the premier hot spring resorts in Alaska, known for its geothermal pools, aurora viewing, and unique attractions like the Aurora Ice Museum.
What Should You Know Before Going to Chena Hot Springs Resort?
Chena Hot Springs combines rustic Alaskan charm with resort-style comfort. The centerpiece is the natural outdoor rock lake, which is reserved for adults only, while younger guests can enjoy the indoor pool and hot tubs.
The water emerges at about 165 °F (74 °C) but is cooled to a comfortable soaking temperature before flowing into the pools.
The Pool House is open daily from 7:00 AM until 11:45 PM, with the last entry at 11:30 PM, and all guests must leave the water by 11:45 PM. There are no lifeguards on duty, so children must always remain under adult supervision.
Facilities include locker rooms, showers, and changing areas, with lockers ($0.50) and towels ($5) available on site. The outdoor lake is wheelchair accessible, and a special chair is provided for easier entry.
How to Get to Chena Hot Springs Resort
Chena Hot Springs Resort is located about 61 miles (98 km) northeast of Fairbanks and is reached by driving the Chena Hot Springs Road, a scenic route that follows the Chena River through forested valleys and rolling hills. The drive takes a little over one hour, making the springs one of the most accessible hot spring destinations in Alaska.
The road is paved and maintained year-round, but in winter months conditions can change quickly, so having a 4WD vehicle or proper winter tires is strongly recommended. In summer, the drive is easy and offers many opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. There is free parking available at the resort for day visitors and overnight guests.
For a stress-free trip, you can opt for the resort’s official Chena Shuttle, which operates round-trip service from Fairbanks. The fare is $180 per person round-trip, or $90 one-way, and must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.
There is also a round-trip transfer service from Fairbanks. Pick-ups usually take place in the morning hours, followed by a scenic 60-mile drive through Alaska’s interior. Guests then have several hours of free time at the resort to soak in the hot springs, tour the Ice Museum, or enjoy a meal before returning to Fairbanks in the afternoon.
This option is especially convenient for those who don’t plan to stay overnight at the resort, as it provides enough time to enjoy the highlights before heading back the same day.
Best time to visit Chena Hot Springs Resort
Chena Hot Springs can be visited year-round, and each season offers a very different experience. In winter, soaking in the steaming outdoor lake while surrounded by snow-covered forests is unforgettable, and this is also the best time to see the Northern Lights, for which the resort is world-famous.
In summer, the long days and warmer weather make it perfect for combining a soak with hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.
Spring and fall bring fewer visitors and a more peaceful atmosphere, ideal if you prefer quiet and solitude. For a more relaxed stay, it’s best to avoid major holidays and peak weekends, when the resort is at its busiest.
Opening Hours and Entry Costs in Chena Hot Springs Resort?
The Pool House at Chena Hot Springs is open daily from 7:00 AM to 11:45 PM, with the last entry at 11:30 PM. All guests must be out of the water by 11:45 PM.
Daily passes include access to the outdoor rock lake (for adults 18+), the indoor heated pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, as well as locker rooms, showers, and changing areas. Admission fees are $20 for adults (18–59), $18 for seniors (60+), $17 for children aged 6–17, and free for children under 5 when accompanied by a paying adult.
Additional services include towel rental for $5 and locker use for $0.50 (two quarters). The outdoor hot spring lake is non-chlorinated and naturally replenished, while the indoor pool uses saltwater and the hot tubs are chlorinated.
Attractions at the Chena Hot Springs Resort
The Chena Hot Springs Resort is much more than a simple thermal complex. Instead, it is a full-service luxury facility that boasts several ways to engage with the region’s landscape, history, and world-famous mineral waters.
Hot Spring Pools
For more than a century, the main attraction has been the natural geothermal waters, celebrated for their high mineral content and therapeutic properties.
Fed by a deep underground source, the springs absorb minerals like sulfate, chloride, and bicarbonate of sodium on their long journey through the earth’s crust, giving the water its reputed healing qualities.
Guests today can choose between the indoor heated pool and hot tub or the outdoor rock lake, which stays at about 106 °F year-round. The indoor pools are chlorinated and slightly cooler, while the outdoor lake remains 100% natural mineral water for an authentic soaking experience.
Both resort guests and day visitors can enjoy the baths, though day passes must be arranged in advance.
Thermal Spa
For an extra dose of relaxation and rejuvenation, the resort features its own onsite spa. Here, guests can choose from a wide range of treatments, including Swedish and deep tissue massages, hot stone therapy, reflexology, and aromatherapy.
Sessions run from 30 to 90 minutes, with special packages designed to complement the healing powers of the hot springs. It’s the perfect way to extend your wellness experience after a soak in the mineral waters.
Aurora Ice Museum
One of the resort’s most unique highlights is the Aurora Ice Museum, the largest year-round ice environment in the world. Built with over 1,000 tons of ice and snow, everything inside was crafted by master ice sculptor Steve Brice.
The museum features spectacular ice sculptures, from full rooms to giant chess sets and jousting knights. Even the building itself is made of ice, complete with glittering ice chandeliers that illuminate the frozen interior.
This attraction makes Chena Hot Springs not just a soaking destination but also a place to step into a world of frozen artistry.
Dining Options
The resort offers several places to eat and drink, each with its own character. The main Resort Restaurant follows a greenhouse-to-table concept, serving local and international dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that showcase Alaskan flavors.
For something quick and casual, the Aurora Café is open 24 hours a day, offering snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and a place to plan your activities at the booking desk available daily from 9 AM to 9 PM.
If you’re looking to unwind in the evening, the Trails End Lounge serves a variety of Alaskan craft and imported drinks, making it a perfect spot to relax with friends or meet fellow travelers.
Where to Stay Nearby Chena Hot Springs Resort
The Chena Hot Springs Resort features several visitor accommodation options, from simple campgrounds to luxury suites. The resort features a selection of RV and camping sites and even a traditional yurt on the property From May through September.
Unfortunately, these onsite camping options do not accompany swim passes; day passes must be purchased to use the facilities.
Meanwhile, the complex’s indoor accommodation includes simple lodgings, pet-friendly rooms, and even family suites. These more extensive accommodations also offer unlimited access to the hot spring pools.
For those who prefer to stay in town, Fairbanks offers a wide array of hotels, restaurants, and services, ideal for a night before or after your Alaskan retreat.
Fairbanks is the nearest city and an easy base before/after your soak. Downtown sits along the Chena River and the University of Alaska Museum of the North close by; it’s also a prime hub for Northern Lights viewing in season.
Recommended places to stay nearby Fairbanks
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Fairbanks
Set next to the Chena River in downtown, this all-suite hotel offers spacious rooms with separate living areas, microwave/mini-fridge, complimentary breakfast, and a heated indoor pool—a comfortable, convenient choice if you want space to spread out.
Bridgewater Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
A boutique-style property overlooking the Chena River, walking distance to restaurants and shops. Rooms include the key comforts (Wi-Fi, coffee maker, microwave, mini-fridge), with friendly service and courtesy airport/train shuttle based on availability, great value in the heart of town.
If these picks don’t fit your plans, browse more stays on the interactive map below:
What to do nearby Chena Hot Springs Resort
A trip to Chena Hot Springs is more than just soaking in warm mineral waters. One of the highlights is the Aurora Ice Museum, open year-round and carved entirely from ice and snow. Inside, you’ll find stunning ice sculptures and even an ice bar where you can sip a cocktail in a carved glass.
If you’re visiting in winter, Chena is among the best places in Alaska to see the Northern Lights, thanks to its dark skies and remote location. Many visitors plan their trip here specifically for the chance to watch the aurora while enjoying the warmth of the springs.
The surrounding area also offers plenty of outdoor activities. In summer, you can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and dog kennel tours, while in winter there are dog sled rides, snowmobile adventures, and cross-country skiing. The resort often organizes guided tours, making it easy to experience the wild Alaskan interior in every season.