Large Animal Research Station LARS
Discover Arctic giants like muskoxen and reindeer at this vital research station. Educational tours offer close encounters and insights into wildlife ...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Baby animals are active!
Large Animal Research Station LARS
Best Time
Baby animals are active!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Arctic giants like muskoxen and reindeer at this vital research station. Educational tours offer close encounters and insights into wildlife conservation.
"A cool tour, learned so much about the reindeer and muskoxen and got a glimpse of the bison."
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge & up-close views. Essential for understanding the animals!
🧥 Layer Up!
Alaskan weather is variable. Bring layers for warmth and protection against wind and rain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Muskox Encounters
LARS Grounds
Witness these magnificent, ancient Arctic mammals up close. Learn about their incredible adaptations to extreme cold.

Reindeer & Baby Calves
LARS Grounds
See reindeer and their adorable calves, especially in spring and summer. A heartwarming sight for all ages!
Wood Bison
LARS Grounds
Get a glimpse of the impressive wood bison, North America's largest land mammal, on this working research farm.

Interactive Learning Room
Visitor Center
Engage with animal skulls, horns, and antlers. A hands-on experience that delights kids and adults alike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your LARS Tour in Advance
Dress for Alaskan Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge & up-close views. Essential for understanding the animals!
🧥 Layer Up!
Alaskan weather is variable. Bring layers for warmth and protection against wind and rain.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the research station. Prioritize comfort for your exploration.
📸 Photography Opportunities
Great chances to photograph muskoxen and reindeer. Bring your camera for amazing shots!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Guided Tours
Highly recommended for in-depth knowledge & up-close views. Essential for understanding the animals!
🧥 Layer Up!
Alaskan weather is variable. Bring layers for warmth and protection against wind and rain.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the research station. Prioritize comfort for your exploration.
📸 Photography Opportunities
Great chances to photograph muskoxen and reindeer. Bring your camera for amazing shots!
🛍️ Support the Program
Purchases from the gift shop directly benefit the research and conservation efforts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Large Animal Research Station for its informative tours and the incredible opportunity to see muskoxen, reindeer, and wood bison up close. The interactive elements and knowledgeable guides make it a highly recommended stop for families and anyone interested in Arctic wildlife. Some visitors noted that the experience is best enjoyed with a guided tour to fully appreciate the research and animal insights.
"We had a great time on the $20 tour. Got to see male musk ox, reindeer w/ babies, and 2 mama musk ox w/their babies. There were also male reindeer and wood bison on the research farm. Nice little gift shop - when you buy something at least the profits go toward the program"
Shauna Baird
"Informative, enthusiastic tour guide and opportunity for up-close views of musk ox, reindeer and bison! My kids especially enjoyed the show-and-tell room with its horns & antlers... would definitely recommend to visitors in the Fairbanks area!!"
Liene K
"Such a cool tour, learned so much about the reindeer and muskoxen and got a glimpse of the bison. Highly recommend!"
Sharlotte Omoletski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
LARS is located at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. If you're driving, follow signs for the university and then for LARS. Public transportation options might be limited, so check local bus routes or consider a taxi/rideshare service.
While direct routes might vary, it's advisable to check the current Fairbanks public transit schedule for buses serving the University of Alaska Fairbanks area. Rideshares are also a reliable option.
From the airport, a taxi or rideshare service would be the most direct and convenient way to get to LARS at the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors at the Large Animal Research Station. Follow the signage upon arrival.
Depending on your starting point on campus, LARS is generally accessible by a walk. The campus is quite spread out, so check a campus map for the most direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tours at LARS are typically around $20 per person, offering great value for the educational experience and animal encounters. It's always best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, booking your guided tour in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak visitor seasons.
LARS typically offers guided tours during specific hours, often in the morning and afternoon. It's crucial to check their official schedule for the exact times and days of operation.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is usually available on the LARS website or can be inquired about when booking your tour.
While some areas might be visible, the full experience and educational insights are best gained through the guided tours. It's recommended to join a tour for a comprehensive visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see muskoxen, reindeer (often with babies in summer), and wood bison. The station focuses on Arctic and sub-Arctic ungulates.
While direct interaction is limited for safety and research purposes, tours offer very close viewing opportunities. There's also an interactive room with animal artifacts.
Absolutely! Children often enjoy the interactive room with skulls and antlers, and seeing the large animals up close is a memorable experience for them.
A guided tour at LARS usually lasts about an hour, providing ample time to see the animals and learn from the knowledgeable guides.
Dress in layers, as Fairbanks weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the grounds.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged at LARS. It's a fantastic spot to capture images of muskoxen and reindeer.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. However, the animals are visible throughout the day during tour hours.
Yes, a telephoto lens can be very useful for capturing detailed shots of the animals from a safe distance.
While general photography is permitted, always be mindful of your surroundings and follow any specific instructions from your tour guide. Avoid flash photography if it might disturb the animals.
You'll have opportunities to photograph muskoxen, reindeer, and wood bison. The station is a great place for learning about and capturing these Arctic species.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opting for a guided tour is highly recommended, as the guides are often enthusiastic and skilled at making the information accessible and fun for younger audiences. The relatively short tour duration is also ideal for keeping children engaged. Remember to dress everyone in layers, as Alaskan weather can be unpredictable, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider the time of day for optimal lighting; early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light. The unique Arctic landscape surrounding the station can also add a dramatic backdrop to your photos. Don't forget to capture the baby animals if you visit during the spring or summer – they are particularly photogenic!
📚 Educational Travelers
LARS is a prime example of how research institutions can contribute to public awareness and education. Learning about the challenges faced by Arctic animals, such as climate change and habitat preservation, provides a valuable perspective on global environmental issues.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Muskox
Visitors often remark on the sheer size and presence of the muskoxen. The R.G. White Large Animal Research Station (LARS) plays a crucial role in studying muskoxen, including their reproductive biology, nutrition, and how they cope with environmental changes. This research is vital for understanding and preserving Arctic ecosystems.
Seeing a muskox calf is a particular treat, especially during the spring and summer months. These young animals are born with a thick coat and are able to stand and walk within hours of birth, a testament to their survival instincts in a harsh environment.
The Role of LARS in Research and Education
Through guided tours and educational programs, LARS provides invaluable opportunities for visitors to learn about these unique animals and the importance of Arctic research. The interactive learning room, featuring animal skulls, antlers, and pelts, offers a hands-on experience that makes learning engaging for all ages. This direct engagement fosters a greater appreciation for wildlife and the scientific efforts to protect it.
Recent social media content highlights the station's dedication, even in the face of loss, such as the passing of their beloved muskox, Yessey. This underscores the deep connection the staff has with the animals and their commitment to their well-being, even as they continue their research.
Photography Tips for LARS Visitors
Consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the most flattering light. This can create dramatic shadows and warm tones, enhancing your wildlife photos. Remember to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately, as comfortable conditions will allow you to spend more time capturing the perfect shot.
Experiment with different angles and compositions. While capturing the animals is key, don't forget to include some of the unique Arctic landscape in your shots to provide context. The interactive room also offers unique macro photography opportunities with the various animal artifacts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit