If you’re planning an Alaska family vacation and looking for a little warmth between your big adventures, Chena Hot Springs is the perfect destination. Imagine a place where you can slow down, warm up, and make memories that have nothing to do with rushing from one attraction to the next. These steaming geothermal pools sit in Alaska’s interior. They offer an oasis of comfort in a landscape known for its rugged beauty. And yes, there’s something extra magical about stepping into hot, mineral-rich water while surrounded by snowy spruce trees.

Whether you’re road-tripping from Fairbanks or staying at the resort itself, Chena Hot Springs gives families a chance to relax, reconnect, and explore one of Alaska’s most loved natural treasures.

Chena Hot Springs: A Family-Friendly Alaska Adventure of Warmth, Wonder & Winter Magic

A Bit of History About Chena Hot Springs

Long before the resort existed, the healing waters of Chena Hot Springs were known to Alaska’s Indigenous communities. The springs were formally “discovered” in 1905 by two gold miners looking for relief from the aches and pains of frontier life. Because nothing says “spa day” quite like hauling mining gear through the Alaskan wilderness.

Today, the springs are still naturally heated and remain filled with mineral-rich water. You’ll find minerals like chloride, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, boron, and even a little lithium floating around in there. They’re known to help soothe everything from sore muscles to tired parents who maybe didn’t anticipate how much energy their kids would have on vacation.

And yes, that slightly funky smell? It’s just the sulfur. Think of it as part of the Chena charm.

Things to Do at Chena Hot Springs with Your Family

A visit to Chena Hot Springs is about more than just the warm water (though trust me, your body will thank you for that part). The resort and surrounding wilderness offer plenty of activities to keep the whole crew entertained.

Relax in the Hot Springs Rock Lake

The steamy outdoor lake is the highlight for most families. Kids love watching the mist rise off the water. And grownups love feeling their muscles melt in minutes. During winter, soaking while the world around you is covered in snow feels absolutely magical.

Meet the Sled Dogs at the Kennel

The resort’s working kennel is a family favorite when everyone is not in the Chena Hot Springs. You can meet the friendly Alaskan huskies. Learn how dog mushing works. And if you’re visiting during the right season, experience a dog sled ride or a wheeled cart ride. It’s one of those “only in Alaska” moments kids never forget.

Explore the Ice Museum

This isn’t your average museum. Built entirely out of ice (and kept frozen year-round), the Chena Ice Museum features intricate sculptures, an ice bar, an ice chandelier. Families love wandering through the icy hallways and marveling at the creativity behind each frozen design.

Take a Tour of the Surrounding Wilderness

Depending on the season, families can choose from:

• Nature walks and guided hikes

• ATV adventures

• Flightseeing tours

• Snowmobile rides

• Wildlife viewing excursions

The area surrounding Chena Hot Springs is full of wildlife, scenic trails, and that wide-open Alaskan feeling that makes every outing feel like an adventure.

Watch the Northern Lights

If you’re visiting between late fall and early spring, you may luck into the ultimate bonus. The aurora borealis. The clear skies around Chena Hot Springs make it one of the best places to catch the dancing greens and purples of the Northern Lights.

Kids will talk about it for years. Parents may cry (just a little) from the beauty.

When to Visit Chena Hot Springs

You can visit Chena Hot Springs year-round, and each season comes with its own perks:

Summer

• Easy driving conditions

• Endless daylight for exploring

• Perfect for families who love hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures

Winter

• Prime time for Northern Lights viewing

• Snow-covered landscapes that feel like Narnia

• A cozy contrast between icy air and hot springs warmth

Many families visit in winter specifically to combine aurora viewing with the resort’s magical hot springs experience.

If your family is dreaming of a trip that mixes adventure with relaxation, Chena Hot Springs belongs on your Alaska itinerary. From the mineral-rich waters to the dog sled rides, ice sculptures, and aurora-lit skies, this destination offers experiences your whole crew will talk about long after you’re home.

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary that includes a visit to Chena Hot Springs in Alaska?

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