We are planning to fly to Barrow in the last week in August for an Arctic experience. Two major attractions are the polar bears and the aurora borealis. We wouldn't go if we couldn't see these. Does anyone know the chances of seeing polar bears and the lights in late August? The Alaskan Arctic Adventures sight makes it sound like the bears at least will be in the area. Any experience with this company? Thanks.

Very slim chance to see either. Two years ago we went in the begining of September and we did not see any polar bears or the aurora. I do not know this company

Should see the aurora as long as there is some solar flaring activity that week.

It's probably doubtful if you'll see bears - they may be on shore in late August but not likely near populated areas, but it's technically possible. As for the aurora, the sun doesn't set in Barrow until around 11 PM, and it rises at 4 or so, with twilight lasting until 1 or so and dawn light starting around 2:30. That gives a pretty narrow window of time, but again, it's possible.

Meant to add, the aurora may be visible late at night, but there's absolutely no guarantee that it won't be cloudy.

My 2 cents' on the Aurora: In southcentral Alaska, it is very unusual to see auroral displays in August, due to the remaining summer light. Barrow is much further north, thus even lighter. When we see August auroral displays, they are either pale green, or whitish (not what you are expecting). As for bears, I think that the sea ice needs to be in, for the bears to return??