Chena Hot Springs Resort

Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, exceptional service, and the beautiful, convenient location near attractions. Some mention the need for better signage.

We visited on the 4th of July with our family. The kids wanted to do the hour-long horse trail ride. I asked if they could take a third person so an adult from our party could go. They said they had an older horse that should be fine if I had some riding experience, which I did. When we got on the horses we were told they sometimes trip a little on their feet. Half-way into the ride the horse I was on tripped and fell with me on it. It landed on my left leg. I was able to get it out from under the horse and up quickly. The poor horse was having trouble getting up due to it being so hot. (about 80 degrees) They called someone to help get the horse back up. One person came on an ATV and helped get the horse to its feet. That person then left and I either had to ride or walk a horse back to the barn. I was able to work but it was very painful, and I was pretty shaken up however my adrenaline help me do it. When we got back my cuts were cleaned and bandaged and I filled out an accident form. After we left my foot started swelling and I could put no weight on it. I had to go to the ER. Here is my real problem. Nobody from the resort even checked back in with us to see if I was ok or if there were any issues after we left. Also, when we went riding no one was given a helmet to wear and I feel as it was implied this horse had fallen before. I do not feel they had much in the way of safety measures in place. Why weren't' more than one person sent out to see what happened and take me the injured person back to the lodge? A refund was never even mentioned. We have visited the lodge in the past and liked it. It has gone downhill, and we will not return. On the flip side the hospital in Fairbanks was excellent!

We did not stay at the resort, but we did visit the hot springs. The hot springs were very relaxing and peaceful. There were very few other guest there on the day we went. You must be over 18 years old to get in the hot springs. I would recommend bringing flip-flops or water shoes to walk between the different areas ( no other shoes allowed).