Murphy Dome and Cleary summit Aurora Tour FREE Photography

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the elusive Northern Lights in Alaska, the Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit Aurora Tour might just be what you’re looking for. This five-hour night adventure is designed to chase the aurora across some of the most scenic spots near Fairbanks, with the added bonus of professional photography included if luck is on your side.

What we love about this tour is how it combines expert guidance with convenience—pickups from your hotel, multiple prime viewing locations, and warm beverages to keep you comfortable. One potential consideration is the fixed schedule; if the weather doesn’t cooperate, the tour offers a full refund or a new date, which is reassuring for cautious travelers.

This experience suits those who want a well-organized, immersive aurora chase with quality photos and a small-group vibe. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned aurora chaser, it offers a good balance of adventure and comfort.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: With 8 years of experience, guides know the best spots and how to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora.
• Multiple Locations: Visiting Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit enhances your odds of witnessing the Northern Lights.
• Free Aurora Portraits: Professional photos are included, allowing you to take home a memorable snapshot.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup service, hot beverages, and a small group size make the night enjoyable without feeling crowded.
• Weather Contingent: Tours depend on good weather, but options are available if conditions aren’t ideal.
• Booking in Advance: The tour often sells out around 42 days ahead, so plan early.

The Experience Overview

This tour is crafted around the thrill of spotting the Northern Lights — a phenomenon that’s as unpredictable as it is spectacular. Starting between 9:30 and 10 p.m., you’ll be picked up from your hotel or designated meeting point in Fairbanks, ready for a five-hour adventure that promises a high likelihood of witnessing the aurora. The small group size (maximum 14 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for focusing on the skies and your camera settings.

The tour is priced at $179 per person, which including expert guidance, multiple viewing stops, hot beverages, and complimentary photography. This makes it a solid value, especially considering the cost of professional photos and the opportunity to visit two renowned aurora spots.

The Itinerary in Detail

Fairbanks Departure

The adventure kicks off in the late evening, with pickups typically happening between 9:30 and 10 p.m. The guide then drives you toward the best aurora viewing locations, making real-time decisions based on weather and aurora forecast updates. The primary stops are Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit, both known for their elevation and minimal light pollution, which are essential ingredients for good aurora viewing.

Murphy Dome: The First Stop

Murphy Dome is often lauded for its expansive, unobstructed views of the northern sky. Its high elevation makes it a favorite among local aurora hunters. Here, you’ll have the chance to settle in with hot beverages and scan the sky, with your guide offering tips on how to photograph the lights, whether you’re using a smartphone or a more advanced camera. The guide’s expertise is a real highlight, helping you capture the best possible shot of Lady Aurora if she decides to make an appearance.

Cleary Summit: The Second Location

If the aurora hasn’t shown up at Murphy Dome, the group moves on to Cleary Summit. This spot offers a different perspective, often with more cloud cover or weather variations, increasing your overall chances of seeing the lights. The guide’s flexibility and knowledge will help maximize your viewing time, even if the conditions are less than perfect.

The Return Trip

After around four hours of chasing, you’ll be brought back to Fairbanks, arriving roughly between 2 and 3 a.m. The tour concludes with warm memories and, if successful, a collection of professionally taken aurora portraits—completely free of charge.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expertise & Personalization

Having an experienced guide with 8 years of aurora hunting know-how means your chances are higher. The reviews confirm this, with travelers praising guides like Michael for their skill and enthusiasm.

Multiple Prime Spots

By visiting both Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit, the tour offers a well-rounded experience, covering different vantage points. This flexibility is crucial because the aurora’s appearance can vary based on weather, cloud cover, and geomagnetic activity.

Photographic Perks

The inclusion of free Aurora Portraits is a significant perk. Many travelers appreciate these professional shots, which they can cherish long after the lights have faded. The guide even offers camera tips, making it a learning experience as well.

Comfort & Convenience

The pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, especially after a late night. Free hot beverages—coffee, tea, and hot water—are simple but thoughtful touches that keep you cozy during the long waits.

How the Tour Compares for Value

At $179, this tour’s price seems reasonable when you factor in the included photography, expert guidance, multiple stops, and amenities. Compared to solo or less-organized attempts, this guided experience reduces the stress of finding good viewing spots and increases your chances of success. Plus, the small group size ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd, adding an intimate element to your adventure.

The Authentic Experience

Travelers have shared glowing reviews, often emphasizing the breathtaking views and the professionalism of guides. One commented, “Our driver and tour guide, Michael, was excellent! We went to two different locations and the Aurora did not disappoint!” Such feedback underscores the tour’s focus on quality experiences rather than just ticking a box.

Practical Tips

• Book Early: The tour is popular, often booked 42 days in advance.
• Dress Warmly: Temperatures can drop late at night, especially at high elevations.
• Bring Your Camera: The guide offers helpful advice, but having your own gear ready enhances your photos.
• Be Prepared for a Late Night: The tour ends around 2-3 a.m., so plan accordingly.

Weather and Cancellation

Fairbanks weather can be unpredictable, and aurora visibility hinges on clear skies. The tour has a flexible policy—if poor weather cancels the outing, you’re offered a different date or a full refund, which provides peace of mind.

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a guided, hassle-free night of aurora chasing with a high probability of success. It’s ideal for those who value professional photos and a small-group environment, making the experience more intimate. If you’re new to aurora viewing and want expert tips, or if you’re eager to visit some top spots around Fairbanks, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate comfort: hot beverages, hotel pickup, and a cozy setting while waiting for the lights. However, if you’re after a more flexible, independent experience or prefer to chase the lights on your own schedule, you might consider other options.

The Murphy Dome and Cleary Summit Aurora Tour delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience at a fair price. It combines expert guidance, scenic spots, and the chance to capture professional-quality photos. The small-group approach ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of warm drinks and a reliable pickup service heightens comfort levels.

This tour makes for a dependable choice for anyone eager to witness the Northern Lights with minimal hassle. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a guided experience that emphasizes safety, authenticity, and chances of success. While the weather remains a wildcard, the flexible policy and expert approach significantly boost your odds of a memorable night under the Alaska sky.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pickups occur between 9:30 and 10 p.m., and the tour finishes around 2:00 to 3:00 a.m., giving you roughly five hours of aurora chasing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off service from Fairbanks, making the logistics smooth and straightforward.

How many people are on the tour?
The small group size is limited to 14 travelers, which promotes a more personalized experience and better chances to see the lights.

What should I bring?
Dress very warmly—think layers, hats, gloves, and boots—since you’ll be outside in cold conditions. Bringing your camera or smartphone is recommended, along with any extra batteries or accessories.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes. If the weather forecast predicts poor viewing conditions, the tour can be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are photographs included?
Absolutely. Aurora Portraits are provided for free, giving you professional images of your night under the lights.

To sum it up, if you’re after a reliable, well-organized way to see the Northern Lights near Fairbanks, this tour offers a compelling mix of expertise, scenic variety, and comfort. The focus on authentic experience and high-quality photos makes it a standout option for any aurora enthusiast.