Murphy Dome and Cleary summit Aurora Tour FREE Photography

Discover the Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit Aurora Tour in Fairbanks

For those eager to catch the elusive northern lights, the Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit Aurora Tour offers a focused, well-organized experience in Fairbanks, USA. Priced at $179 per person, this 5-hour tour is designed for Aurora enthusiasts who want more than just a glimpse—you’ll visit multiple prime viewing spots, including the renowned Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit, known for their clear, dark skies ideal for Aurora viewing. With an expert guide bringing 8 years of aurora hunting experience, this tour promises a blend of reliable sightings and practical photography advice. The tour is particularly appealing because it guarantees an aurora sighting and includes free photography, making it a solid choice for both serious Aurora chasers and casual visitors.

The tour departs from Fairbanks around 10:00 pm, with pick-up offered between 9:30 pm and 10:00 pm, and concludes around 2:00 am to 3:00 am. This schedule suits those comfortable with late-night outings, and the small group size of up to 14 travelers helps ensure a personal experience. The tour’s value is reinforced by complimentary hot beverages, cold water, and aurora portrait sessions at no extra cost. This tour balances practical logistics, expert guidance, and memorable views, making it an excellent choice for Aurora seekers.

Key Points

• Expert Guide with 8 years of aurora hunting experience ensures knowledgeable supervision.
• Multiple prime viewing locations including Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit boost chances of seeing the Aurora.
• Free Aurora Portraits and complimentary photography tips are included, ideal for capturing the moment.
• Pickup and drop-off services simplify logistics, with a late-night schedule from 9:30 pm to 3 am.
• Cost is $179 per person, with free cancellation available if needed.
• Tour is limited to 14 participants, creating a cozy, personalized atmosphere.

Start with Fairbanks: The Perfect Launch Point for Aurora Viewing

The tour begins in Fairbanks, a city famous for its prime Aurora viewing conditions thanks to its northern latitude and minimal light pollution. After collection from your accommodation, the guide sets out to find the best spots for viewing the Northern Lights. The focus on multiple locations ensures that if the Aurora is faint or temporarily hidden, the group can shift to a different site with clearer skies. This flexibility is a core strength of the tour, reducing the risk of missing a sighting.

The pick-up service is scheduled between 9:30 pm and 10:00 pm, allowing travelers to settle in comfortably before heading out into the cold night. The tour ends around 2:00 am to 3:00 am, giving ample time for late-night Aurora viewing while maintaining a comfortable pace. The tour’s small group size helps create a more intimate experience, letting guests ask questions and enjoy the night in a relaxed setting.

Visiting Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit: Prime Aurora Viewing Spots

Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit are the main stops, both celebrated for their high elevation and dark skies. Murphy Dome is often regarded as one of the best locations near Fairbanks for Aurora viewing because of its unobstructed views and minimal light interference. Cleary Summit offers a similar advantage with its elevated vantage point, providing a wide horizon to observe the night sky.

Traveling between these locations, the guide offers insights into the Aurora phenomenon and helps with photography techniques. The stops are carefully chosen to maximize the chances of witnessing a vibrant Aurora display, and the guide’s knowledge about the best viewing tactics enhances the experience. Visitors can expect to see the Aurora dancing overhead in vivid greens, and possibly other colors, if conditions are right.

Complimentary Aurora Photography and Portraits

One of the most popular features of this tour is the free Aurora photography service. The guide provides tips for camera and smartphone settings, helping travelers capture the lights in stunning images. Aurora Portraits are taken at no extra charge, giving guests professional-quality photos of themselves under the Northern Lights.

This inclusion is particularly valuable for those who want to document the moment without the hassle of setting up their own equipment in the cold. The complimentary photography adds an extra layer of value, ensuring that everyone leaves with memorable images of their Aurora experience.

Warm Beverages and Comfort Amidst the Cold

Recognizing the chilly nights in Fairbanks, the tour provides hot beverages, including coffee, tea, hot water, and snacks, to keep everyone warm and comfortable. These little touches help guests enjoy the experience without discomfort and foster a convivial atmosphere among the small group.

The tour’s focus on comfort, despite the late hour and cold weather, makes it accessible for those concerned about the cold. The hot drinks serve as a simple yet effective way to enhance the overall experience, allowing everyone to relax and focus on the breathtaking sights overhead.

Logistics and Group Size: Personal and Organized

The pickup service is designed to make the evening hassle-free, with transportation included. The group size is capped at 14 travelers, which promotes a more personal and engaging environment. Smaller groups allow guides to tailor advice, respond to questions, and ensure everyone gets ample time for photography.

The drop-off also occurs around 2:00 am to 3:00 am, providing a late-night adventure that respects the small-group dynamic. The logistics are straightforward, with clear timing and attentive service, making this tour accessible even for visitors new to Aurora hunting.

The Guide’s Experience and Approach

The guide leading this tour has 8 years of experience in Aurora chasing, which translates into a knowledgeable and confident approach. According to reviews, the guide, named Michael, is highly praised for his professionalism and ability to enhance the experience through clear explanations and helpful tips.

The guide’s expertise shines through in the choice of viewing locations and in providing practical advice for photography, whether guests use cameras or smartphones. This guidance helps ensure that everyone leaves with not only memories but also skills to photograph the Aurora on their own.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

The most significant strength of this tour is the guaranteed Aurora viewing, thanks to strategic location choices and flexible stops. The expert guide enhances the experience with photography tips and additional portraits, making it especially appealing to those wanting quality images.

A key limitation is the late-night schedule, which may not suit all travelers, especially those with early commitments the next day. Plus, the success of the Aurora sighting still depends on good weather conditions, as the tour requires clear skies to be effective. In case of poor weather, the tour offers full refunds or alternative dates.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This tour is ideal for Aurora enthusiasts seeking reliable sightings in a small group setting. It suits those who value professional guidance and want free photography of their Aurora experience. The late-night schedule is perfect for night owls and serious Aurora chasers, while the focus on comfort and logistics makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit Aurora Tour

The $179 fee is competitive, considering the inclusion of multiple prime viewing locations, free Aurora portraits, and hot beverages. The small group size and experienced guide reinforce the tour’s appeal, promising a focused, fun, and memorable night under the Northern Lights.

While the late hours may not suit everyone, this tour offers a strong chance of seeing the Aurora in one of the best locations near Fairbanks. It’s well-suited for those who want a mixture of expert guidance, flexibility, and the opportunity to photograph one of nature’s most stunning displays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time of the tour? The tour begins with pickup between 9:30 pm and 10:00 pm.

How long does the tour last? The experience lasts approximately 5 hours, from late evening until early morning.

What locations are visited during the tour? The tour visits Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit, both renowned for their Aurora viewing conditions.

Is photography included? Yes, complimentary Aurora portraits and photography tips are part of the package.

How many people participate in each tour? The group is limited to 14 travelers to maintain a personal experience.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance; full refunds are available if weather cancels the tour.

What should I bring? Warm clothing, a camera or smartphone, and enthusiasm for the night sky.

Is food included? Snacks, hot beverages, and cold water are provided, but alcohol is not included.

What if the weather is poor? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad conditions, a different date or full refund will be offered.

Who operates this tour? The experience is provided by LUCKY BEAR TOURS.