This was definitely a memorable experience! The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. The reindeer were ADORABLE and loved to be pet. The tour itself was a leisure walk around the property with the reindeer frolicking around you. The forested trail was absolutely beautiful. This truly was a wonderful experience that I can NOT stop gushing about. I very much recommend a visit to Running Reindeer Ranch if you are interested in an opportunity to see such amazing animals up close in a very laid back setting. For the people worried about the cold, there are lots of cold weather gear at the ranch for people to use.
Behold the Beauty of the Boreal Forest
With a Guided Tour or a Stay at the Reindeer Haus
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Fairbanks, Alaska, look no further than Running Reindeer Ranch! We offer guided walking tours of the boreal forest with our reindeer friends. Watch them leap and bound among the trees or stroll lazily alongside our group, and get ready to learn the ins and outs of adapting to the polar climate. Can’t get enough of our furry friends? We also offer lodging at the Reindeer Haus, an aptly named chalet with porch views of the Alaskan Range. Check out our offerings below for more information, and make the most of your Fairbanks vacation!
What Our Previous Guests Have to Say
Running Reindeer Ranch is a unique experience. You get to walk and be with the reindeer. Jane does such a great job of explaining all the facts about reindeer and you know that she loves her reindeer. We were there in May and got to feed the new babies. The weather was perfect and the walk was so refreshing. I would recommend this tour to anyone who visits Fairbanks. It is well worth the time and money.
Although extremely cold (-32 degree), it was worth every moment! Jane and the staff were friendly, welcoming, and helped me out with gear when I was frozen over:) It was educational and fun! You can pet, take pictures, and admire the beauty of all of them! After walking with the Reindeer, you get to thaw-out in the cabin with hot drinks and cookies! Definitely worth it!
Why Choose Running Reindeer Ranch?
Alaskan Experts
Jane has lived in Alaska her whole life, and Doug moved here back in 1978. Together, they have a combined 75 years of experience in Fairbanks and can help you discover the area’s best dining, lodging, and entertainment.
Totally Unique
There’s nothing else like the Ranch anywhere in Fairbanks, let alone the state of Alaska! Our Reindeer Walks offer a hands-on experience with one of nature’s most mythical animals.
Media Recognitions
We’ve been featured in publications like Fodor’s Choice, the Washington Post, and Yahoo Travel. Samantha Brown even named us on her list of five Alaskan must-sees!
Tales from the Herd
Check Out the Latest From Our Blog
Winter Reindeer Walk Changes
COVID-19 information and updates (updated 11/3)
Our world famous (and award winning) cookie recipe!
Fun with Doug and Jane
Meet the Minds Behind the Ranch
Running Reindeer Ranch got its start after a request from Doug and Jane’s daughter Robin for a horse. When Jane turned down this idea (due to practical concerns, of course), Robin moved on to asking for goats or sheep. Finally, the family compromised on an animal better suited for the Arctic: reindeer. The first two reindeer, Ruby and Moon, became part of the family in October 2007 — and the rest is history!
Members of:
Tie the Knot at Running Reindeer Ranch
If you want to put a unique spin on your wedding, celebrate your big day at Running Reindeer Ranch. Jane is a certified State of Alaska Marriage Commissioner, and she would be happy to marry you! Get married in the beautiful boreal forest, or celebrate with an indoor ceremony at the Reindeer Haus. The best part? One of our reindeer can even act as your ring bearer!
Can’t Get Enough of Reindeer? Check Out Our Instagram
Our reindeer calves start eating lichen in just a few days. Our tour guests were invited in to feed them some tasty treats. This is Margarita and her calf.
Often the calves have to wait until they are five months old to get their first chance to experience snow but not this year! The calves start growing their antlers at about a week of age. Here is a video of Daisy’s calf starting to boss the tree around. She is confident and bossy already!
Back to cute baby pictures!
Just on track, Daisy has lost her antlers today! The pregnant reindeer are the last to drop them. They usually drop their antlers anywhere from two days to two weeks after calving. Today is day three!