The Alaska Travel Industry Association (ATIA) has officially opened the 2026–27 aurora borealis season, which runs from late August through March. This year's lineup introduces a wave of new infrastructure and experiences aimed at both independent travellers and tour operators seeking to capitalise on the state's winter appeal.
Jillian Simpson, ATIA President and CEO, noted that the extended darkness of Alaskan autumn creates ideal conditions. “The nights are starting to get longer, but the temperatures are mild,” she said, pointing to Fairbanks as a key destination. Positioned directly under the auroral oval, Fairbanks offers some of the highest probabilities of clear-sky sightings in the world, a fact that continues to drive winter bookings for local hotels and ground operators.
New lodging and tour options
Among the most notable additions is The Oriona, a 10-room property near Fairbanks designed specifically for aurora viewing. The hotel features an indoor lounge and an outdoor deck, both oriented toward the night sky, and guests can opt into aurora alerts that notify them when activity is forecast. This type of purpose-built accommodation is becoming a differentiator for Alaska's winter market, appealing to travellers who want comfort without compromising on the experience.
For those who prefer mobility, Aurora Black Lorry Tours has launched private, small-group excursions in heated vehicles. Local guides select viewing locations based on real-time cloud cover and aurora activity, allowing guests to chase clear skies rather than wait for them. The tours are positioned as a flexible alternative to fixed-location viewing, and they cater to photographers and families alike.
In Southcentral Alaska, Outbound Heli Adventures has introduced an aurora viewing dome overlooking Knik Glacier. Accessible only by helicopter, the fully enclosed dome offers panoramic views of the glacier and night sky, combining adventure travel with aurora chasing. This premium offering targets high-end travellers and luxury tour operators looking for exclusive winter experiences.
Meanwhile, Snowhook Adventure Guides has expanded its winter portfolio with a new lodge in Hatcher Pass, complementing its existing dog sledding and snowmobiling programmes. The lodge serves as a base for multi-day winter itineraries, with aurora viewing integrated into the schedule.
The expansion reflects a broader trend in Alaska's tourism industry: winter is no longer a shoulder season but a distinct product line. According to ATIA, the 2026–27 season is expected to draw significant interest from international markets, particularly Asia and Europe, where aurora tourism has grown steadily. The state's investment in infrastructure—from new lodges to specialised tour operators—signals confidence in sustained demand.
For travel agents and tour operators, the new offerings provide fresh inventory to package. The combination of fixed-base lodges and mobile tours allows for flexible itineraries that can be tailored to weather patterns and client preferences. Alaska's appeal as a year-round destination is also bolstered by its connectivity; Alaska Airlines' expanded capacity at Paine Field has improved access for West Coast travellers, while international carriers continue to serve Anchorage and Fairbanks.
As the season progresses, ATIA will monitor occupancy and booking trends. Simpson emphasised that the goal is not just to attract visitors but to deliver a reliable, high-quality experience. “We want every guest to leave with a story,” she said. With the new infrastructure in place, Alaska is positioning itself to deliver on that promise.
