Northern Lights: Anchorage and Fairbanks

Is there any hotel you recommend to photograph the northern lights in the greater Anchorage (Kenai Pennisula) and Fairbank areas (away from city lights).

I realize Fairbanks would be better than Anchorage but I am interested in both areas.

I am aware of Chena Hot Springs Resort looking for other options

Thanks

The best aurora viewing in the Fairbanks area is probably from Cleary Summit, where the Steese Highway crosses from the Goldstream Creek drainage to the Chatanika River drainage. You're near tree line, there are unobstructed views to the northeast and the annoying lights from Fort Knox Mine (a large, open pit gold mine) are out of site.

There are B & B's at Clear Summit, or if you prefer you can stay in Fairbanks and make the 25 mile drive. Another 10 miles out, there's a pull-out on the Steese at 35 mile which is probably the most popular place in the Interior to photography aurora. There's also Chatanika Gold Camp, a former mining camp, but check to make certain it is open. It used to have a aurora viewing dome, but I'm unsure if it is still open.

Chena Hot SPrings is less than ideal: you're in a steep-walled valley, and have to ride the fairly spendy tram up to the ridge top and a heated yurt.

Where the best aurora viewing location is based on the level of activity. during a recent level 5 storm, the best viewing was just south of Anchorage. Hatcher Pass lodge is a great spot an hour north of Anchorage, Sheep Mountain lodge is also great, it is about two hours north of Anchorage. Talkeetna has some nice lodges and views of Denali. There are plenty of State and Forest Service cabins that make good bases for northern lights viewing. There isn't really any lodging past Girdwood (30minutes south of Anchorage) for about 50 miles. The reason Fairbanks and farther north locations are so popular is because if the aurora isn't highly active you can still get good displays.
Jim knows more about Fairbanks and beyond then any other NPN member.