Northern Lights at Borealis Basecamp

There is nowhere quite like America's Last Frontier, and in the winter, it is even more spectacular, with snow softening the rugged, mountainous terrain. You get your first look at the stunning views as your vacation begins today in Fairbanks. Known fondly as the Golden Heart City, this destination is your gateway to the breathtaking colors of the Aurora Borealis.

As you arrive, you make your own way to your hotel for the night, and after checking in, you are free to get to know Fairbanks at your own pace. The city is beloved for its unique art installations and historic buildings that date back to the height of the Gold Rush. You might like to wander around downtown in search of these highlights or find dinner in one of the diverse restaurants. Overnight Fairbanks.

You are welcome to continue exploring Downtown Fairbanks this morning. There are several boutique coffee roasters throughout the city, in addition to numerous coffee shops, so you might like to grab a cup before exploring Golden Heart Plaza.

Around mid-day, an included shared transfer takes you outside the city's lights to Borealis Basecamp. This unique hotel is located just 25 miles outside Fairbanks, yet feels worlds away with its wide-open skies and 100 acres of boreal forest. On arrival, you are shown to your accommodations for the next two nights: a private fiberglass dome.

These domes are cozy, personal nests for Northern Lights viewing with all the amenities of home. With free time, you might like to check out Latitude 65, the central hub of Borealis Basecamp. This yurt is home to the onsite gourmet restaurant and comfortable open lounge areas with views of the White Mountains. This evening, an unforgettable perspective on the Northern Lights awaits as you settle into your dome to watch dancing hues. Overnight Borealis Basecamp.

Today is yours to explore the snow-clad terrain and relish the serenity of your surroundings. Enjoy a continental buffet breakfast as you wake, and then your choice of excursions. During the fall touring season, you may select either a UTV ride through the surrounding forests and mountains or a dogsledding tour. Come November, those options change to dogsledding or snowmobiling through the snowy landscape. While your vacation includes just one option, others are available to fill your day further (payable locally).

Later in the day, board a Borealis Basecamp vehicle for a ride to a scenic hilltop lookout. Join the group in toasting with a complimentary glass of champagne, a cup of hot cocoa or a soda, depending on your preferences, as the sun sinks behind the trees. Return to your dome in time to watch the reds and greens of the Aurora as they make their nightly appearance in these unspoiled skies. Overnight Borealis Basecamp.

• Breakfast

After breakfast this morning, bask in the beautiful forested scenery of the White Mountains during your complimentary transfer back to Fairbanks. Spend the day sightseeing and exploring as you please after you check in at your downtown hotel.

Perhaps find yourself immersed in Alaskan culture at the Museum of the North or visit the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum to set your sights upon over 70 beautifully preserved vintage cars. While the Chena River is frozen over at this time of the year, walking along the paved Chena Riverwalk is a wonderful way to pass the time. As you explore, pause to get your picture taken under the iconic moose antler arch for a quintessential Fairbanks souvenir.

With incredible restaurants within reach, you might like to seek out one serving local favorites, such as elk or Alaskan salmon. Overnight Fairbanks.

• Breakfast

With a complimentary transfer to the station this morning, get ready for an all-day expedition through the vast wilderness of Alaska on the Alaska Railroad. Today's journey takes you to Anchorage, and your chariot for this memorable, 12-hour trip is the Aurora Winter Train, which follows the same route as the iconic Denali Star.

As the Aurora Winter Train departs Fairbanks, spend the day marveling at views of the tranquil, snow-clad landscapes. The rail line ventures through parts of Alaska inaccessible by car, and you can watch these hidden views of Denali and the Susitna River from your large picture window in your heated rail car. Comfortable seating pairs with paid onboard dining options to ensure your grand introduction to Alaska is as pleasant as it is scenic. After skirting the scenic Knik Arm, the train arrives in Anchorage, and you can make your own way to your hotel with the remainder of the evening at leisure. Overnight Anchorage.

Please note: If you want to spend more nights under the auroral oval, speak to a Rail Specialist about adding additional nights in Fairbanks.

With a free day spanning ahead of you today, you can begin getting to know the unique city of Anchorage. While this is the largest city in Alaska and packed with museums, galleries, restaurants and urban amenities, it also sits at the cusp of nature, putting many natural adventures within reach. You can choose to explore either side of the Anchorage area on your own today, or you could book one of the following optional tours, available at a supplement.

Matanuska Glacier Hike - After driving through the scenic Matanuska Susitna Valley, enjoy a hike on top of the Matanuska Glacier alongside an expert guide.

Glacier & Wildlife Flightseeing Tour - Soar over the expansive Knik Glacier aboard a small plane, looking for local life, including moose and grizzly bears, while admiring the stunning scenery.

Half-day Wildlife Tour - Drive along the picturesque Seward Highway to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Enjoy time to learn about and observe Alaskan wildlife before a food truck dining experience in Girdwood.

Overnight Anchorage.

There is no shortage of ways to enjoy your free day in Anchorage. The city is incredibly walkable, offering you easy access to public art installations, diverse restaurants and beautiful parks - even in the winter. One of the best ways to see it all is on a winter city tour by bus (payable locally). These tours explore some of Anchorage's most notable sights, including some exclusive to winter.

Heading out on foot, you can discover the art galleries and cute boutique shops in which to find a variety of souvenirs and artwork. The Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center are excellent places to explore the region's culture.

The optional excursions from Day 6 are also available to you today and can be booked at a supplement. Overnight Anchorage.

Two incredible Alaskan cities pair set the stage for this unforgettable winter vacation. Your explorations began in the "Golden Heart" of Fairbanks, where you spent a night in the city before transferring into the wilderness to Borealis Basecamp. Staying at this unique facility is an experience like none other, with its private fiberglass igloos and minimal light pollution providing the perfect setting for viewing the Northern Lights.

Back in Fairbanks, you joined the iconic Aurora Winter Train on its southbound journey through remote stretches of the Alaska interior to Anchorage, where you have two full days to explore your way. Having seen these many sides of Alaska, your journey comes to a close this morning. Transfer on your own to Anchorage's airport to begin your travels home, or if you would like to experience more, speak with a Rail Specialist about extending your stay.