Chena Hot Springs is an unincorporated community and hot spring resort in the Fairbanks North Star Borough, about 56.5 miles northeast of Fairbanks near the Chena River State Recreation Area. It uses geothermal power and is known for aurora viewing and the Aurora Ice Museum.[1]
| Location | About 56.5 miles northeast of Fairbanks |
|---|---|
| Founded by | Robert and Thomas Swan |
| Cabins built | 1911 |
| Geothermal plants | Two 200 kW ORC units |
| Backup diesel only since | July 2006 |
| Attraction | Aurora Ice Museum |
History
The resort was founded more than 100 years ago by the gold mining brothers Robert and Thomas Swan. In 1905 Robert Swan sought relief from rheumatism, and the brothers took a little over a month to find the springs. Twelve small cabins were built for visitors in 1911, and the site grew into an Interior Alaska resort. The U.S. Department of Agriculture sent chemists to analyse the water. The U.S. Census has never reported a population, and the USGS listed an estimated summer population of 10.[1]
Geothermal power
The resort uses two 200 kilowatt Organic Rankine cycle geothermal plants, the first of their kind in Alaska. Since July 2006 diesel generators have served only as backup, and the source says power costs fell from 30 cents to 5 cents per kilowatt-hour. The resort has also explored hydrogen production, vegetable oil fuel and greenhouse vegetable trials with the University of Alaska Fairbanks.[1]
Climate and visitors
The average yearly temperature is −4.9°C, with a July average high of 20.4°C and a January average low of −31.2°C. Annual precipitation averages 357 mm and snowfall 161.8 cm. The area offers aurora viewing, especially around the March equinox, and the Aurora Ice Museum is open year-round. The source does not give the spring water temperature.[1]
FAQs
Where is Chena Hot Springs? About 56.5 miles northeast of Fairbanks.
Who founded it? Gold mining brothers Robert and Thomas Swan.
How is it powered? By two 200 kW geothermal plants, with diesel as backup.
Sources
Key facts
- First geothermal ORC plants in Alaska
- Power cost 30 to 5 cents per kWh
Quick checkWhen were the first cabins built at Chena Hot Springs?Show answer
1911
Sources
- Wikipedia. Chena Hot Springs. 2026 (accessed 2026-11-14)
Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 14, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue