Reindeer and Snowmobile Day Trip to Borealis Basecamp with Lunch

Explore Fairbanks’ Reindeer and Snowmobile Adventure for $238.80

A full-day tour in Fairbanks, Alaska, offers an engaging mix of wildlife interaction and snowmobiling excitement for $238.80 per person. This 8-hour experience includes pickup, a reindeer meet-and-greet, a snowmachine tour, and a lunch at Latitude 65. Bookings are popular, with most reservations made about 71 days in advance, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with specific age and safety considerations.

The tour stands out for its combination of wildlife and Arctic scenery, with opportunities to feed reindeer and ride along the Trans Alaska Pipeline. We appreciate the friendly guides and scenic routes, making this a well-rounded choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and snowmobile fans alike. Limitations include age restrictions and weather dependency, but overall, this offers a memorable Alaskan experience.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $238.80, this 8-hour day trip provides a comprehensive experience, including reindeer meet-and-greet, snowmobiling, and lunch.
• Wildlife Encounters: The 30-minute reindeer tour introduces you to Alaskan-born reindeer, with chances to feed and photograph these animals.
• Scenic Snowmobiling: The 1-hour snowmobile tour traces a route along the Trans Alaska Pipeline, with views of arctic valleys and the White Mountains.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for friendly, knowledgeable, and clear instructions, especially helpful for first-time snowmobilers.
• Additional Activities: During your visit, you can enjoy complimentary resort activities such as fat tire biking, tubing, and nature walks.
• Dining and Facilities: The on-site restaurant, Latitude 65, serves hot and cold sandwiches, noodle dishes, and seasonal soups.

Starting Your Fairbanks Adventure at Borealis Basecamp

This tour begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Fairbanks, followed by a 45-minute drive north along the Elliott Highway to Borealis Basecamp. The basecamp offers panoramic views of the Boreal Forest and the surrounding valleys, setting the scene for an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. The location is ideal for viewing wildlife tracks and enjoying spectacular scenery.

Reindeer Meet-and-Greet at Borealis Basecamp

The reindeer tour lasts 30 minutes and features Alaskan-born reindeer that live at the camp year-round. The reindeer handlers will introduce you to this herd, explain their lifestyle in the Arctic, and give you the chance to feed and photograph the animals. This hands-on interaction appeals to visitors of all ages, especially those interested in Alaskan wildlife.

Snowmobile Ride Along the Trans Alaska Pipeline

The snowmachine tour lasts about 1 hour and takes you along groomed trails through the Boreal Forest. Riders drive their own snowmobiles or ride as a passenger depending on age and experience. The route offers views of the Trans Alaska Pipeline and scenic arctic valleys, with the guide providing informative commentary on notable features. The pace is comfortable, making it accessible even for first-time snowmobilers.

Wildlife Spotting and Trail Highlights

While riding through the snowy forest, it’s common to spot animal tracks in the snow. Although wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the route’s design keeps an eye out for local animals, making it an exciting chance to see Alaskan nature in action. The trail also includes a detour through a genuine trapline, adding an authentic touch to the adventure.

Lunch at Latitude 65 and Optional Resort Activities

A delicious lunch is included, served at Latitude 65, the on-site restaurant. The menu features hot and cold sandwiches, noodle dishes, and seasonal soups, providing a hearty meal after the morning’s activities. Guests also have the option to participate in complimentary activities such as fat tire biking, sledding, or a nature walk to the Alyeska Pipeline.

Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Restrictions

The tour departs at 9:30 am, with most groups limited to 10 participants, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. The return to Borealis Basecamp is scheduled for 4:30 pm. Safety rules specify that guests under 8 cannot participate in snowmachine rides, and those under 16 must ride as a passenger. Guests ages 16 and 17 may drive their own snowmobile with a driver’s license. Most travelers can participate, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking.

Customer Feedback and Guide Performance

Reviews highlight the friendly guides and scenic beauty of the area. Many praise the snowmobile experience as “super fun” with helpful instructions from guides like Cooper. The reindeer walk is appreciated, though some mention it can be slightly dangerous on icy hills. The lunch and service receive consistent praise, and the opportunity to enjoy additional resort activities enhances the overall experience.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers spectacular scenery and fun activities, some reviews note that the reindeer walk can be disappointing for groups with many participants, as it may feel rushed. Also, weather conditions can affect the experience, and poor weather might lead to cancellations or adjustments, but full refunds or rescheduling are available. The group size is small, fostering a more intimate experience, but crowds can impact the timing of certain stops.

Final Thoughts on the Borealis Basecamp Day Trip

This tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Alaska’s Arctic environment, blending wildlife interactions with adventure. The scenic snowmobile ride along the Trans Alaska Pipeline offers photo-worthy views and a sense of the frontier. The reindeer meet-and-greet adds a special touch of Alaskan culture and wildlife education.

We recommend this tour for families with kids, adventure seekers, and nature lovers wanting a full day of outdoor activities in Fairbanks. The inclusion of lunch and optional resort activities makes it a value-packed experience. However, those seeking a more secluded or longer wildlife encounter may find the group size and program structure slightly limiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Fairbanks.

How long is the snowmobile tour?
The snowmobile ride lasts approximately 1 hour.

What are the age restrictions for snowmobiling?
Guests under 8 years old cannot participate, under 16 must ride as a passenger, and 16 or older can drive with a license.

Can I participate if I’ve never snowmobiled before?
Yes, guides provide clear instructions, and the pace is comfortable for beginners.

What should I wear for the snowmobile ride?
While not specified, it’s best to wear warm, layered clothing suitable for cold weather.

Are wild animal sightings guaranteed?
No, sightings depend on wildlife activity, but the route offers good chances to see animal tracks and possibly wildlife.

What do I do in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a hot and cold lunch at Latitude 65 is part of the tour.

What additional activities are available at Borealis Basecamp?
Guests can enjoy fat tire biking, sledding, or a nature walk on the Alyeska Pipeline.

How early should I book?
Most bookings are made about 71 days in advance due to high demand.

This Reindeer and Snowmobile Day Trip from Fairbanks offers a well-rounded, scenic, and engaging Alaskan adventure, perfect for those eager to combine wildlife, outdoor fun, and stunning Arctic landscapes.