Nestled in Alaska’s pristine wilderness 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Chena Hot Springs Resort is a world-renowned destination celebrating over 100 years of natural healing waters. Discovered in 1905 by gold-mining brothers Robert and Thomas Swan, this year-round resort harmoniously blends geothermal energy innovation with outdoor adventure.
The property features natural hot springs rich in minerals, extensive accommodation options, and sustainable facilities powered by renewable energy. Beyond its therapeutic waters, the resort offers aurora viewing opportunities, an ice museum, dog sledding, and greenhouse tours, making it a unique intersection of wellness, sustainability and Alaskan culture. The resort’s restaurant serves fresh produce from its geothermally-heated greenhouses, embodying its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Their story
Chena Hot Springs Resort traces its origins to August 5, 1905, when gold mining brothers Robert and Thomas Swan discovered the springs while searching for a natural remedy for Robert’s rheumatism. Following rumors from a U.S. Geological Survey crew about steam rising from the upper Chena River valley, they embarked on a month-long journey from Fairbanks and found the healing waters. By 1911, the property featured a stable, bathhouse, and twelve cabins, becoming Interior Alaska’s premier resort.
The springs gained scientific attention when tests revealed unique mineral compositions similar to famous Bohemian hot springs. In 1998, Bernie and Connie Parks-Karl purchased the resort, transforming it into a pioneering sustainable facility powered by geothermal energy, with year-round greenhouses and the world’s only ice museum maintained by geothermal technology. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The resort utilizes geothermal power for electricity production, making it the lowest temperature geothermal resource used commercially worldwide. Their greenhouses, heated by geothermal energy, produce fresh vegetables year-round, reducing food transportation emissions.
- The facility maintains natural hot springs while implementing weekly cleaning protocols to minimize chemical usage.
- Their innovative geothermal technology also powers the Aurora Ice Museum year-round at 25°F, showcasing efficient energy use.
- The resort’s commitment extends to local food production through hydroponic systems and Dutch Basket growing methods, cultivating approximately 9,000 pounds of tomatoes annually.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Chena Hot Springs Resort is powered entirely by geothermal energy, making it a pioneer in sustainable tourism. The resort uses the lowest temperature geothermal resource in the world for commercial power production, tapping into natural hot springs at around 165°F.
Pioneer in waste management
- The resort implements comprehensive waste management through their geothermally-heated greenhouses, which produce fresh vegetables year-round while minimizing food waste. Organic waste is composted and used as fertilizer in the greenhouses.
- The facility recycles materials extensively, including plastic, glass, metal and paper.
- Restaurant waste is carefully sorted, with food scraps going to composting.
- Water conservation measures include flow-through hot springs systems that naturally filter and recycle water.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- Chena Hot Springs Resort uses geothermal energy to power year-round greenhouses, growing over 25 pesticide-free crops through hydroponics. Their “Chena Fresh” program supplies fresh produce to the resort’s restaurant, complemented by seasonal outdoor gardens for sustainable, chemical-free food production.
Actively protects nature and community
- Chena Hot Springs Resort exemplifies environmental stewardship through innovative renewable energy projects and sustainable food production. Their geothermal power plant provides 100% of the resort’s electricity needs.
- The resort actively engages visitors in environmental education through daily renewable energy tours and hosts an annual Renewable Energy Fair to promote sustainable practices within the broader community.
- Their commitment extends to protecting local wildlife habitats and maintaining hiking trails for minimal environmental impact.
Most Popular Activities Near Chena Hot Springs Resort
- Aurora Ice Museum tours showcasing intricate ice sculptures and ice bar.
- Hot springs rock lake soaking in natural mineral waters (adults 18+ only).
- Geothermal energy and greenhouse tours showing sustainable practices.
- Electric snowmobile tours through snowy terrain.
- Ice fishing excursions on frozen lakes.
- Hiking on multiple nature trails ranging from 1.5-8.3 miles.
- Massage therapy services with various treatment options.
- Dog kennel tours and dog sledding experiences in winter.
- Aurora viewing tours in specialized snow coaches during winter. Alaska is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis.
- ATV tours and horseback riding in summer months.
- Dog cart rides in summer around resort trails.
Best Time To Visit Chena Hot Springs Resort
- During the winter months, visitors have optimal chances to witness the spectacular Northern Lights. Winter temperatures can drop below -40°F, but this creates perfect clear skies for aurora viewing.
- Summer months (May-July) offer 24-hour daylight and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and ATV tours, though aurora viewing isn’t possible.
- Spring (April-May) and fall (August-September) provide moderate temperatures and opportunities for activities like dog sledding, horseback riding, and soaking in the natural hot springs.
- The resort is accessible year-round via a maintained state road, though winter driving requires extra precautions.