Shoulder Season

Fairbanks in November 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 November visit.

✦9/10

🌡️ Weather in Fairbanks in November

-16°C

Avg Temperature

very cold — heavy layering required

17h

Dark Hours / Night

Long dark nights — excellent aurora windows

🟢 High

Aurora Likelihood

November is prime aurora season — clear nights frequently deliver displays

November in Fairbanks sits at -16°C average, which is very cold — heavy layering required. Expect around 17 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.

🌌 Northern Lights in November

🟢 High likelihood· Aurora score 9/10

Fairbanks has a base aurora score of 9/10. In November, conditions are optimal — long dark nights (17h), typically clear skies, and strong geomagnetic activity combine to make this one of the best aurora months here.

Tips for aurora chasing in November: 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 November

✓Northern Lights Tours

✓Aurora Camp (overnight vigil)

✓Aurora Photography

✓Aurora Glass Cabin Stays

✓Husky / Dog Sledding

✓Snowmobile Safari

✓Cross-Country Skiing

✓Snowshoeing

✓Ice Fishing

✓Photography Tours

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

🎒 What to Pack for November in Fairbanks

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

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Waterproof insulated boots rated to -20°C minimum

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Thermal hat, neck gaiter, and wind-resistant gloves

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Hand warmers — invaluable for cold photography sessions

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

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

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Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots

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Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare

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Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities

📦 View the full interactive packing list for Fairbanks →

🏨 Accommodation in November

Shoulder Season

Shoulder season offers a sweet spot: fewer crowds but conditions are still good. Prices average $68/night for mid-range. Aurora Viewing Domes, Wilderness Lodges, City Hotels are available. Booking 4–6 weeks ahead is usually sufficient.