Running Reindeer Ranch - Fairbanks, Alaska

Angela

Okay. This was THE BEST way to end our two week trip to Alaska. We had time to kill so we noticed they still had room for a reindeer walk.
I'm so glad I found this group.
Leroy 😉 (Tyrone) was such an amazing leader for the event. He just made everyone feel at home. He got to know each person individually, he shared stories, and I felt so welcomed. This didn't feel like a tourist event. It felt like a friend sharing their home with us. It's such a unique experience. For anyone who is in Fairbanks this is a must-do recommendation.
I soooo wish we could do reindeer yoga because that sounds so fun but sadly we had to head home!!!

C

There are several gentle and beautiful reindeer here. Except for Toby, you can pet them and take amazing photos of the herd walking through the forest. In winter, you can even capture stunning pictures of the reindeer walking through the snowy mountains. There’s plenty of time for photos with the reindeer, and the staff provides excellent explanations. One tip: if you visit in the winter, make sure to wear non-slip snow boots and very warm clothing, as the paths can be slippery and the mountain slopes are quite cold. It’s an unforgettable experience, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Fairbanks!

Aliza B.

Great little small business to come see some adorable reindeer and walk with them through a snowy forest. The staff were super knowledgeable about every reindeer here and knew them all by name and their personalities. The hike itself was super easy and short. Goes up a small hill around the property and back down. We loved Toby! He is such an old man and doesn’t like to be pet. George was also adorable. You’ll be given the opportunity to take photos holding the rope of either Toby or Poppy. This is not a petting zoo but rather the reindeer roam freely around you as you walk through the forest. They are super curious creatures and will come up to you for pets. They are super soft and have the thickest fur. Really magical experience in the winter. Definitely worth the money spent. About a 2 hour experience total.

Sonia G.

Amazing experience. The tour starts by an introduction of the 13 reindeers one by one with some information on their personalities and where they stand among the group. The walk through the boreal forest was educational, we made 3 stops where the staff shared information on the reindeers' characteristics and habits. After the last stop, we were able to take some photos with the reindeers and interact with them. Overall, it was a great educational experience, and I loved getting to pet these beautiful animals. The tour ended with some complimentary hot chocolate and homemade cookies, which were delicious. I'd love to come back again if I'm ever back in Fairbanks.

Side note: I visited at the end of March and the snow had already started melting. The trail can be pretty slippery at times so plan accordingly and bring some boots with good traction. The staff also had some spikes you could borrow to put under your shoes, as well as hiking poles.

The ranch is easy to find, just follow Google Maps but look for the "1470" sign and another sign up the driveway with the ranch's logo. Google Maps will take you slightly past their driveway if you miss those signs and you will have to turn around. A member of the staff will welcome you and tell you where to park.

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Rebecca O.

This was such an incredible experience. We got to learn all the reindeer names and their stories, and how the ranch got started. All the staff did such a great job with the tour and talking with us. The reindeer are so fun and playful, exciting to watch. I love that it's not like a "petting zoo" type setting, you walk with them in their own setting and they're free to just wander about along with you. We got to pet them and take all kinds of pictures with them. The tour ended with hot chocolate and cookies, so great after a chilly walk! If you're thinking about doing this and not sure if you should...do it!

Roxie C.

Very cool experience! You get to pet the reindeer and walk with them for about an hour. The guide was very informative and kind. I joined as a solo traveler but was placed with a large group, which is totally fine.

Vini D.

We loved our tour at the Running Reindeer Ranch!

When we started seeing Jane's videos, we already felt it was going to be a nice experience.

She wasn't there, but Zach and the crew made up for it! We met around 14 Reindeer while walking around their property.

They also explained a lot and answered all of our questions.

So definitely a recommended experience if you don't see/have them back home.

Maria A.

My daughters and I loved our time here. The reindeer are beautiful creatures, I'm thankful that Toby and Forest let me love on them ❤️.
Thank you Jayce, Zack and Nicki for the wonderful experience.