Transportation to Chena
Chena Hot Springs is 60 scenic miles from Fairbanks, at milepost 56.5. Arrive by Chena Shuttle or self-drive, everything you need to know about how to get to Chena Hot Springs.
Quick Facts
Advance Booking
Shuttle seats must be reserved at least 72 hours prior to travel. Seats are not confirmed until a confirmation email is received.
Travel Time
Travel time between Fairbanks and Chena is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road and weather conditions.
Pickup Locations
Choose from select hotels, the airport, and designated pickup points throughout Fairbanks. All locations are listed below.
Pickup Window
Arrives within a 30-minute window of your scheduled pick-up time. Please be ready and waiting.
Book Shuttle
The Essentials
Airport Pickup
✈️ Arriving by Plane?
The Chena Shuttle picks up outside the terminal near Baggage Claim 2
⏱️ Arrival Window
Please allow a 30-minute arrival window for your scheduled pickup time.
Shuttle FAQ
Do I need to book my return trip separately?
Yes. The shuttle service is sold as a one-way ticket ($90 per person). If you need a round-trip, you must add both the “Fairbanks to Chena” and “Chena to Fairbanks” legs to your cart and book them individually.
What is the cancellation policy?
Shuttle transportation is charged at the time of booking. Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours before the scheduled shuttle to receive a refund of the transportation fare. A 10% booking fee is non-refundable once the reservation is confirmed.
Are car seats available for children?
Yes. Car seats are available at no additional charge. Please provide your child’s age, height, and weight at the time of booking so the correct seat can be prepared.
What time will the shuttle arrive at my pickup location?
The shuttle begins its route from Fairbanks International Airport at the scheduled departure time. If your pickup location is not the airport, please allow approximately 10 to 30 minutes for the shuttle to arrive at your location.
For a smooth pickup, please be ready at your selected location during this window. If the driver is unable to locate you or cannot reach you, the shuttle may continue to the next stop.
Where exactly will the shuttle pick me up?
The shuttle will arrive within a 30-minute window of your scheduled pickup time at the selected location. At some pickup points, the driver may enter the building and make an announcement or hold a sign. At others, like the airport, the shuttle will wait at the designated curbside or pickup areas. Please be ready and waiting at your selected location during the pickup window.
Are all public pickup locations open at all times?
Opening hours vary by location and season. We strongly recommend checking operating hours in advance, especially during winter due to freezing temperatures or during rainy weather in summer. Many locations allow you to wait indoors and may provide visibility of the shuttle as it approaches.
The only location open 24 hours is Fairbanks International Airport
What if my hotel or accommodation is not on the pickup list?
If your hotel or accommodation is not listed, please select one of the recommended public pickup locations. These locations are easy for the shuttle to access and provide safe, convenient waiting areas. Suggested locations include:
Fairbanks International Airport: 1st Floor, Baggage Claim Area (open 24 hours)
Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitor Center
Walmart
Can I use the Alaska Railroad station as a pickup location?
The Alaska Railroad station has limited hours and does not have nearby restaurants or stores. For this reason, it is not recommended as a pickup or drop-off location unless you are arriving by train or have a scheduled train departure.