Face The Outdoors FAQ's Page
We are pleased to provide our guests with a list of frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers, alongside crucial information that we consider vital for your understanding. Our goal is to ensure that our guests are equipped with accurate and unbiased information, rather than being influenced by any promotional material. We hope that you find the contents of this document useful and informative, and feel free to contact us should you require any further information.
What Sets Face The Outdoors Apart From Other Tour Companies?
At Face the Outdoors, I pride myself on being born and raised in Alaska. My childhood was filled with endless outdoor adventures that we now get to share with our guests. We don’t believe in using flashy marketing tactics or overpromising to gain your trust. Instead, we rely on our local knowledge, experience, and the word of mouth from our previous guests to speak for us. Our primary goal is to provide our guests with an unforgettable experience that meets the highest standards possible. We understand how important it is to see the aurora, and we will do everything in our power to make that happen. Some nights require more effort, but we will always go the extra mile because we value your trust and satisfaction. Alaska is more than just our home; it’s where we’ve chosen to lay our roots, and we take great pleasure in inviting you to experience the beauty and wonder that Alaska has to offer. We don’t sell the same tours as everyone else or work with other tour companies. Instead, we keep things personal, intimate, and authentic. We achieve this by deciding to share our home with our guests to comfortably await and view the aurora. Come and experience the great outdoors with us, and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
What time do you pick us up? What time do we return?
Our team will call/text you at least six hours before the viewing to confirm that the weather is good for your trip. We will start picking everyone up between 8-8:30 pm and will call/text you on the day to let you know the exact time. Due to weather or time of year we may push the time back, but that will be communicated with everyone booked for that night. We will usually return to Fairbanks by 5 am and drop you at your hotel, but sometimes we may need more time than that if we are chasing something. We appreciate your understanding and can’t wait to have you on board!
What's included?
- Light Snacks
- Hot and Cold Drinks
- Camera assistance
- Transportation
- 1 aurora portrait of your booked group ( 5 photos on our private tours )
- Explanation of the science behind the aurora
- Viewing locations away from the crowds and light pollution
- The option to chase when weather dictates unfavorable viewing at our lodge
What's not included?
We don’t provide an SD card for our Sony A6000 and Canon EOS R cameras for rent, so if you plan on renting a camera you will need to provide the SD card. They take the standard SD card. It’s highly encouraged to bring a quality camera to capture the best photos of the aurora as you can. There is 1 aurora portrait included of your booked group that your traveling with, that’s not a group photo of everyone on the tour, its just of you and whomever you’re traveling with. I can take more photos, however I do charge for that service for my equipment and time. Don’t worry, we’ll retake the included photo if the aurora gets stronger and better so that you walk away with the best photo of you under the aurora as we can, but do know that no matter how many reshoots we do there will only be 1 photo sent to you from night that is of the best quality. If you would like to purchase any of the photos that I take during the night aside from what’s included the costs are as follows per picture:
$50 per additional photo for a full resolution digital copy emailed to you.
Tips are greatly appreciated.
Metal/Acrylic prints of your aurora portrait. Contact for more details.
How far away from Fairbanks is the lodge?
We offer our home in Delta Junction Alaska as a viewing lodge. The drive time is approximately an hour and a half to an hour and forty-five minutes, depending on road conditions. We appreciate respect for our space as it is also our residence. Though operating tours from our home was an afterthought, we will continue to share it with our guests as long as that respect is met. Please note, this drive time is similar to that of Chena Hotsprings. Our secluded location is a hidden gem and well worth the trip. We invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the unique experience we offer.
What's the difference in a Private Tour and a Small Group Tour?
Thank you for considering our services. We are pleased to inform you that we offer a private option for your traveling group to ensure that you have an exclusive experience during your tour. Our private tour is only available on nights that a small group tour isn’t already booked. The private tour has more included photos ( a total of 5 ) from the tour vs the small group tour only has 1 “group” aurora portrait included; additional photos are extra. In case you opt for our small group tour, please note that we limit the maximum to 10 people to provide an enjoyable and personalized experience. We do not operate like other lodges, as we value your privacy and do not allow other companies to bring their groups to our viewing location. Rest assured that our viewing location is exclusively for your group’s use, ensuring a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. We prioritize quality over quantity and strive to avoid overcrowding, which is why we limit the size of our tours as well primarily operate our tours from the comforts of our home. If you have a bigger group please contact us about accommodation. We look forward to providing you with exceptional service.
Can you see the aurora if it's overcast?
The visibility of the Aurora Borealis is affected solely by the presence of thick clouds. Thin and wispy clouds have a marginal impact on the definition of the Aurora, but visibility remains largely unobstructed. Weather conditions are known to vary significantly between Fairbanks and the lodge, thus the weather in Fairbanks cannot be used to infer the conditions at the lodge. Our team constantly monitors the weather situation, and in the event of unfavorable viewing conditions, we have the means to relocate to areas with better visibility. Prior to the commencement of the tour, guests will be notified if such relocation is necessary. Our facility is unique in its proactive approach to cloud-chasing, and we stand out as the only viewing lodge that provides such a service.
What is the difference between chasing the lights and a viewing lodge?
Our guests can rest assured that they will fully experience the breathtaking spectacle of the aurora borealis, even when the sky is not completely clear, thanks to our unique “chasing the lights” option. In addition to our comfortable viewing lodge, which is an ideal location to witness the northern lights under clear skies, our home provides all the necessary amenities, including a bathroom. We understand that the weather can be unpredictable, and our team is always prepared to take our guests on a nighttime adventure in our van if clouds limit visibility. Our ultimate goal is to provide a world-class experience, allowing guests to take in the majestic beauty of the Alaskan wilderness. Even on nights when unfavorable conditions are forecasted, we will embark on a search for clearer skies, which may be up to four hours away. While it may seem like a long drive, we are committed to ensuring that our guests enjoy an unforgettable glimpse of the aurora borealis during their stay.
* Please note that our “chasing the lights” doesn’t mean we spend all night driving trying to find the lights. We seek out a location with clear skies and await the phenomenon to take place. The aurora doesn’t just pop out in certain spots in the sky, when the aurora is out, it’s out. Just like the moon when it’s out, the aurora can be seen from a lot of places as long as we can see the sky. Also know that depending on the time of year the restroom situation can be very limited when we have to chase. We will do our part to accommodate this request, but you’ll be notified well in advance if we have to chase as to prepare. Snacks and drinks will be available and optional due to the nature of this situation.
Do you offer any lodging?
We do not provide lodging for our aurora tour as our home is the base of operation and it is not feasible for us to provide such facility due to logistical constraints and the tour’s unique nature.
How far is Castner Glacier ice cave?
Castner Glacier ice cave is 45 mins south of Delta and from our viewing lodge. You could do an ice cave activity during the day and grab an aurora viewing during the night if you wanted to drive. Otherwise, we will pick you up in Fairbanks and bring you back down to Delta for the viewing and back to Fairbanks. The ice cave is about 5-6 hours round trip driving from Fairbanks and only 45 mins from us, so if you book our Airbnb you can explore before or after your stay with us. Update: The ice cave entrance has collapsed, still a nice hike.
When is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
If you’re planning to visit between August 20th and April 20th, you’ve got a great chance to witness the stunning northern lights! Our skies are wonderfully dark during that period, allowing you to witness the aurora with your naked eye. As you may know, the intensity and color of the aurora depend on how the solar flares interact with the earth’s atmosphere. Although green is the most commonly seen color, you might just get lucky and witness a vibrant and colorful display! We suggest keeping an eye on space weather and data to better plan your trip. For helpful information, be sure to check out auroranotify. We can’t wait for you to witness this breathtaking phenomena in person!
What time does the aurora come out?
Do you have a booking minumn?
We absolutely love sharing the amazing experience of viewing the northern lights. It’s what makes Alaska so special during the fall and winter months! While we do sometimes have limitations on bookings, we are happy to take one person for the night. So don’t worry, we’re here to make sure everyone has a chance to witness this breathtaking sight.
Are there bears out?
What services do you offer?
Thank you for considering experiencing the wonder of the aurora borealis in Alaska with us. Our lodge which is our home is fully equipped with all the essential amenities, such as a warm indoor bathroom, kitchen, and a spacious viewing area with large windows, so you can enjoy the magnificent views of the northern lights comfortably. Our tours are meticulously planned to provide a private and personalized journey, ensuring that your adventure with us is beyond your expectations. Even if the aurora is low on the horizon, our open skies ensure the optimal viewing experience. We are always seeking new ways to elevate your experience and expand our activities, and we encourage you to stay tuned for updates. Additionally, we provide convenient transportation from hotels in Fairbanks, and select Airbnb’s when booked with us. Unlike other viewing lodges, we are committed to tailoring your experience and will chase the lights when clouds impede optimal viewing conditions at the lodge. Thank you for considering us, and we look forward to providing you with a memorable experience.
We offer the option of purchasing additional photos for a fee. Please note that this is not a formal photo shoot due to the unpredictability of the aurora. As part of your booking, we include one photo of your group. This ensures that everyone has an opportunity to capture a picture under the aurora. If time and conditions permit, we can accommodate requests for additional photos at a cost of $50 per photo.
I'm not a photographer, this says photography tour. Can I still go?
Our photography tours are designed for all levels of skill, so don’t worry if you’re a beginner. We have experienced professionals who are always ready to provide guidance and support to help you capture the most amazing shots of the northern lights during your tour. Whether you plan on using your own camera or need to rent one of ours, you can rest assured that we’ll be there to support you every step of the way.
Do you pickup from Airbnb's?
We do provide pickups from Airbnb’s in addition to hotels in Fairbanks. However, some Airbnb’s are located in areas that are difficult for our shuttle to reach. In such cases, we’ll arrange a meeting point for pickup after reaching out to you.
Why choose us?
Our facility is keenly located away from the light pollution of Fairbanks, which enhances your chances of seeing the magical Aurora spectacle. We are committed to quality because we believe in tailored and private experiences that guarantee you a personalized experience. The lodge provides a warm indoor space for your convenience and freedom of movement. Unlike other tours, we offer unique perspectives because our tours allow you to explore freely, without the constraints of restricted mobility and large crowds. Situated directly under the aurora oval, we extend an impressive 85-90% sighting success rate. Our tour groups consist of up to ten guests to give you the comfort and experience you deserve. Michael will guide you through camera settings, ensuring you capture your remarkable memories. By choosing us, you become a member of our family and not just another tourist. Check out our reviews to get a feel of what others think of our services. Besides, our experienced tour guide was born and raised in Alaska, guaranteeing you an authentic and unique experience.
Do you offer discounts?
We don’t offer any discounts for individuals due to the type of service we provide. However, we offer group discounts for 10 or more people traveling together. If you have a larger group, please contact us to discuss details and accommodations. Please visit our contact page for more information. Since our groups are small in nature, we only have 10 spots available on any night, therefore the cost is the same regardless of age. We do offer 10% off for multiple nights, contact us for with questions.
What is the cancellation policy?
Our company will still operate viewing tours even during overcast skies. However, if the weather takes a sudden turn for the worse, we reserve the right to cancel the tour for your safety. Oftentimes, the lights can still be seen through the clouds or if there is an opening in the sky. Our guests often have better chances of seeing the lights while on our viewing tours than spending the night in a hotel room. In the event of cancellations, we follow a specific policy. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for more information.
Cancellations made 30 days prior to the scheduled tour incur a $50 cancellation fee, as well as any booking fees that may apply. Cancellations made less than 30 days before the tour are subject to a 50% refund of the deposited amount, while cancellations made a week prior to the scheduled tour are non-refundable. If we cancel a night tour due to severe weather, we will issue a full refund. We regret to inform you that we cannot provide refunds to guests who become ill during their stay. We understand that falling sick during a vacation is not expected; however, given the operational costs associated with our business, we cannot allow last-minute cancellations and refunds. See our Terms and Conditions for more information.
Guests can also reschedule their tour to another night/month without any additional costs. We encourage our guests to opt for travel insurance to cover any unexpected issues or cancellations that may arise during their trip. We highly recommend Travelex as an insurance option for travelers.
Our company has implemented a refund policy in order to cover the operational costs associated with our unique tour. We understand that not everyone may have a large group to book with, which is why we happily take bookings for just one person. Our goal is to ensure that everyone who joins us has the opportunity to experience the phenomenon of our tour. Therefore, we strive to make every effort to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for all of our guests. Thank you for considering our tour and we look forward to having you join us.
Will we see the aurora?
The unpredictability of weather and space weather makes it difficult to ensure optimal viewing conditions. While we cannot control cloud cover or the intensity of the aurora, we will endeavor to improve the chances of successful viewing. The best opportunity to witness the aurora is to spend time outdoors under the night sky. Our lodge holds a commendable success rate, attributed to its fortunate positioning under the aurora oval and a wide expanse of sky for guests to observe. Meanwhile, amidst clear skies and while waiting for the aurora to appear, one can appreciate the splendor of the myriad of stars and constellations above.
How far out can I book?
If there is availability on the booking calendar you can book out as far as it will allow you to do and for when you are planning your trip. Feel free to always contact us in helping you with your bookings as well.
Does the moon effect the ability to see the northern lights?
The luminosity of the moon does not in fact hinder visibility of the aurora. Rather, the brightness of the moon’s light on a night of full moon may slightly impede the perception of subtle auroral activity in comparison to a night of a new moon. Nevertheless, if the aurora forecast is favorable and coincides with a full moon, the auroral lights can still be observed, and, in fact, can aid those with cameras possessing f-stops slower than 2.8 with increased lighting.
What to bring?
When venturing into the outdoors to view the aurora, it is essential to dress warmly in appropriate clothing such as a hat, gloves, boots, jacket, and pants. We strongly recommend that you layer your clothing for maximum warmth and comfort. A headlamp can be beneficial but not vital, especially when using a camera. If you plan to bring your camera, do not forget to pack a durable tripod. It is an indispensable tool for capturing the aurora. As Alaska’s weather can be much colder than your hometown, prepare accordingly. Renting cold-weather clothing from local suppliers is also a reasonable option. One of them is Akarcticwear, and you can contact them to arrange for your rental.
Will my cell phone take a picture of the aurora?
Depending on the phone model, it may be possible to capture the aurora using your phone’s camera. However, please note that the quality of these pictures may not compare favorably to those taken with a dedicated camera. While phones may incorporate camera functionality, they are primarily designed for telephony and other purposes. For this reason, we recommend renting a camera from us to ensure you get the best possible shots of the northern lights. Our rental cameras are of high quality and will produce pictures worthy of showing off to your friends and family. If you are interested in renting a camera, please note that availability is on a first-come, first-served basis and can be reserved when you book your tour.
Will I see it like I see in photos online?
As humans, we may perceive the aurora borealis in a manner similar to the images often shared online; however, capturing the aurora on camera involves utilizing long exposure photography. This technique enables the camera sensors to gather light throughout the entire exposure, potentially capturing more colors and details than our eyes can discern in low light or dark conditions. The solar activity occurring during your visit will also significantly influence what you may observe on any given night. While the aurora’s vibrant beauty is undeniable, it is essential to note that it may not appear every night. Please remember that witnessing this natural phenomenon is not guaranteed for all visitors.
Do you share your photos?
As a professional photographer, I would like to inform you that I provide an optional 3 photo package for an additional fee, which will be charged at the end of the night if you still decide you’d like to go ahead with them. Since we don’t know how the night will play out, this lets me know who’s interested in possible more photos, but I don’t charge for them upfront until after we see how things go. Please note that my photography equipment is of high quality and my editing process takes time, so I do charge a fee for my services. This compensation enables me to properly carry out my other duties and ensure that you receive quality photos of your aurora portrait.
If you are looking for clean and crisp photos, I highly recommend renting one of our cameras or investing in a good camera with a fast wide-angle lens. I will be taking pictures throughout the night alongside everyone and will include your aurora portrait as part of the package. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns about your camera or what camera you should choose.
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