"Chena Hot Springs Resort" Top 5 Page for this destination Chena Hot Springs by kaloz

Chena Hot Springs Travel Guide: 54 reviews and 59 photos

Soak and Relax in the mineral pools

Chena Hot Springs is about 60 miles outside of Fairbanks at the end of the road. We went on a winter special with Alaska Railroad on the Aurora Train. The train goes along the edge of the Denali National Park and Preserve. On a clear day you have many miles of views of the great one, at one point you are only 46 miles away.

This is my first trip to the interior.

I am accompanied by Gretchen, to whom this page is dedicated.

The Aurora Train

Stopped at Talkeetna

Alaska Railroad with it's blue/gold motif was once the only way to explore the interior, except by foot or dog sled. Towns grew, flourished, and died as there was more transportation options. Many of the stops along the way are now just names from the past. Get a "Ride Guide" at the Anchorage Depot, it is invaluable well worth the $5.

The train makes its way slowly so there are plenty of views, and homesteaders can flag the train to travel, get or send supplies. I highly recommend the train, even though it is a 12 hour ride.

Pile of Bones

During a weekend stay, you will not run out of activities, or you can just relax. If the sky is clear, you will see the northern lights (not in summer!), as well as wildlife in the area. This pile of bones has moose horns, elk and caribou. This is a good spot to relax and enjoy your holiday.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Take a break and relax
Cons:Isloated, and they know it
In a nutshell:A good weekender

Last visit to Chena Hot Springs: Feb 2003
Intro Written Feb 27, 2003
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Reviews (20)

Gretchen, Serena, Kaloz, & Isabella - Chena Hot Springs

Greetings from Honolulu!!!! . . . Alaska Off The Beaten Path (1)

The midpoint on the train ride is Honolulu. (I told Brendan to make sure and get the sign). Honolulu is a flag stop, and... more travel advice

Lodge or Cabin -- camping in summer only Hotels (1)

We stayed in the Moose Lodge (not the fraternal organization -- just the name of our building). The rooms were spacious,... more travel advice

Gretchen at her best! - Chena Hot Springs

Private Party Nightlife (1)

We met lots of nice people on the Aurora train, and formed a little community. A very Alaskan thing to do. We'd meet up... more travel advice

Boat made of Baleen (a whale's mouth) - Chena Hot Springs

Gifts and souveniers Shopping (1)

Every resort need a gift shop. All manner of souveniers are available: shirts, stuffed animals, magnets, jewelry,... more travel advice

Favorites (3)
See All Giant Asparagus
Warnings Or Dangers (2)
See All I was so mad . . . this makes no sense
Things to Do (2)
See All Winter fun
Transportation (4)
See All Rent a snowmobile for high speed fun

Comments (17)

blaird Oct 26, 2005 at 10:59 AM Report Abuse

I may be able to talk my wife into an Alaska trip ...to visit a spa like this!
herzog63 Dec 28, 2003 at 11:01 AM Report Abuse

Hahah gold panning in a shack!! I think the Shack owners have struck gold in the form of tourists!! Great Page Nick! Happy New Year!!
nepalgoods Sep 9, 2003 at 9:54 PM Report Abuse

Honolulu in Alaska! Everyday I learn a bit more about the world thanks to VT!! Funny and interesting page!!!
zrim Aug 6, 2003 at 12:49 PM Report Abuse

The outhouse tip is undoubtably the most useful "warning and dangers" tip I have come across.
bhewitt Jul 23, 2003 at 6:24 AM Report Abuse

You are a great writer. Enjoyed reading about your trip. I try to visit Chena Hot Springs as often as possible. Love Kodiak too.
mrclay2000 Jun 8, 2003 at 7:17 PM Report Abuse

Poop on the toilet seat and boats made of baleen. I'm with you -- I'll take the massage and the hot spring anyday!
spintobecca Apr 28, 2003 at 2:15 PM Report Abuse

Glad your trip went well! I went last summer and it was fantastic!
Drphoto Mar 11, 2003 at 10:35 PM Report Abuse

Make some space for me in that pools ! Super page !
O.Etsu Mar 11, 2003 at 10:21 PM Report Abuse

Dog Sled is fun. i did it in yellow knife Canada. ^0^
whitneyone Mar 11, 2003 at 1:03 AM Report Abuse

wow...if i could sit in the springs and see the northern lights...that would be a perfect life! Is it possible?