Peak Season⭐ Top Pick

Fairbanks in March 2026

Aurora chasers from North America and Asia wanting the continent's most reliable viewing with hot spring soaks. Here's everything you need to plan your March visit.

9/10

🌡️ Weather in Fairbanks in March

-11°C
Avg Temperature
cold — warm layers and waterproofs needed
9h
Dark Hours / Night
Some darkness — limited aurora viewing window
🟢 High
Aurora Likelihood
March is prime aurora season — clear nights frequently deliver displays

March in Fairbanks sits at -11°C average, which is cold — warm layers and waterproofs needed. Expect around 9 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.

🌌 Northern Lights in March

🟢 High likelihood· Aurora score 9/10

Fairbanks has a base aurora score of 9/10. In March, conditions are optimal — long dark nights (9h), typically clear skies, and strong geomagnetic activity combine to make this one of the best aurora months here.

Tips for aurora chasing in March: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.

Book a guided aurora tour with a local expert — they track forecasts obsessively and know the best viewpoints. Many operators offer "chase" trips that drive to clear sky patches.

🎯 What to Do in Fairbanks in March

Northern Lights Tours
Aurora Camp (overnight vigil)
Aurora Photography
Aurora Glass Cabin Stays
Husky / Dog Sledding
Snowmobile Safari
Cross-Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Ice Fishing
Midnight Sun Viewing
Photography Tours

Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.

🎒 What to Pack for March in Fairbanks

Merino wool base layers, fleece mid-layer, and a windproof insulated jacket

Waterproof insulated boots rated to -20°C minimum

Thermal hat, neck gaiter, and wind-resistant gloves

Hand warmers — invaluable for cold photography sessions

Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod

Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket

Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots

Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare

Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities

🏨 Accommodation in March

Peak Season

This is peak season — book accommodation 2–4 months in advance. Expect prices around $80+/night for mid-range options. Popular choices include Aurora Viewing Domes, Wilderness Lodges, City Hotels. Aurora lodges and glass cabins sell out fastest.

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🧭 Also Great in March

Other top polar destinations worth considering for a March trip

Plan Fairbanks by Month

Highlighted in green = best months for Fairbanks