Our family moved to Eielson AFB in summer 2024 which is just east of Fairbanks, Alaska. Our new adventure began with a mix of excitement and apprehension. By this time, the sun was hardly dipping down below the horizon at night, a natural phenomenon commonly known as midnight sun. The extended days meant we had plenty of time to explore this beautiful state and adjust to our new surroundings.
Alaska’s summers are short and we didn’t want to waste any time in becoming locals – though some might call us tourists. 😉 We started off our exploring with a hike on the Angel Rocks Trailhead, which is about an hour outside of Fairbanks inside the Chena River State Recreation Area. There is a small fee for parking which is invested right back into the recreation area. This is a steep and challenging hike that is around 4 miles roundtrip. The views start at the bottom as you walk along the Chena River and then make your way to the top. The experience of completing Angel Rocks Trailhead was more than just a hike; it was a rite of passage and as we continue adjusting into our new life in Fairbanks, Alaska. Pro tip: check out the app called AllTrails for trail guides and maps.
Some parts of Alaska, Fairbanks specifically, is home to gold mining. My husband and I have loved watching the show Gold Rush over the years and when we found out we’d be moving here, we knew we had to join the locals and tourists for some gold panning. We visited Gold Dredge 8, which is located just north of Fairbanks in Fox, Alaska. They start the tour with some history of gold mining in Alaska and the dredge on the property along with some cool facts about the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. The staff was beyond friendly and accommodating. Also, don’t forget to grab your tickets at ITT on Eielson AFB to save a few bucks. PS. You can find the Trans-Alaska Pipeline in various places above ground around Fairbanks. It is a crude oil transportation system that is 800 miles long that transports about 13% of the nation’s domestic oil. If you’re a history buff, or just wanting to feel like the locals, you’ll want to check out Gold Dredge 8 and the Trans-Alaska Pipeline.
This next attraction will earn you your tourist badge and it’s a must visit. The Santa Clause House, located in North Pole, Alaska. It is between Eielson AFB and Fairbanks. You can meet Santa and Mrs. Clause, grab local and handmade souvenirs and enjoy some coffee on site. I mean, who doesn’t want to say that they’ve been to the North Pole? 🧑🎄 Be sure to stop out front for a few excellent photo ops for your scrapbook.
Lastly, if you love to pick and enjoy fruit, you will appreciate the chance to pick wild blueberries at Murphy Dome. About 20 miles outside of Fairbanks, this spot offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills for miles with a snack on side 😉 During late summer and early fall, you will feel like a local by berry picking just steps off the trails. Pro tip: bring a thermos or temperature regulated container to keep your berries fresh. The berries are safe to eat but we do recommend giving them a thorough wash before consuming as Alaska shares it’s landscape with many wildlife like Moose, Fox and Bunnies – to name a few.
From endless hikes, to fruit picking and mountains of history, Fairbanks Alaska is certainly a location to add to your bucket list. And as one of Military Mom Collective’s contributors Ellen said, Alaska, as Wonderful as it Looks. Be sure to take a read of Ellen’s blog as she and her family had the opportunity to explore the southern parts of Alaska on her cruise this past summer. Trust us, Fairbanks Alaska is calling and you won’t want to miss the adventures.
After your visit, will you call yourself a local or a tourist?
