ralfstinson Loc: SF Bay Area

1. Start Preparations Now. Find and go to the Aurora Prediction Sights and learn how to read them and find one or two you like and really understand. The aurora is in a ring around the magnetic pole, and the ring gets bigger (father south) when stronger displays are there. Displays are usually better in Fairbanks than Anchorage. For some unknown reason, the displays around the solar equinox on the average are more energetic. So close to the equinox and new moon will give you the best changes, now hope for good weather. Warmer and less predictable weather for the September equinox, better in the colder March equinox. Winter is cold.

2. Your camera settings will be about the same for star photography. You can do that now during the new moon. Practice that now without flashlight (or a red one if you must) and wear gloves! Don't forget to set the camera's monitor to low level, and return it to normal for the daytime (I thought my monitor was broken.).

3. Cold: No problem taking a warm camera into the cold, but bringing it inside, you will get condensation. Plan for that. From my Nikon experience with a dozen Aurora trips, The camera won't have temperature problems (maybe monitor slow, but not damaged), but rubber contracts and plastic becomes brittle. Inspect your setup and see where things can go wrong or rubber shrinks and the camera become loose on the tripod. Have gaffer's tape on hand to temporary repairs. Also, best to remove filters from the camera.

4. Check the weather. I was up in colder Fairbanks. My friend who lives there said not worry about getting waterproof (Gortex) clothing, there is no water, it is all frozen! Also, most recommendations for clothing tells you to use layers. Great advice for the active person. You are motionless by your camera - bulk up!

5. Get away from city lights with a clear view to the north. Be careful to stay oriented. In the cold dark of night, you can get lost, and might not be seen until springtime!

6. The best lens for Aurora Photography is the Nikkor 14-24mm f/2.8. Even confirmed Canon users will use that lens with an adapter. Buy, Rent, Borrow but please don't steal. If that is out of your reach, you have something to aim for.

7. I have a couple pages of advice for Aurora Photography. If you email me (ralf1@comcast.net), I will email it to you.

mundy-F2 Loc: Chicago suburban area

I agree that the light and weather conditions can be a potential problem, but if prepared, you will be fine. I suggest you have a good lite down jacket with hood and a good rain jacket to go over the down jacket to block the wind and rain.
I worked in Alaska and the weather can change very quickly, so dress in layers. I also suggest you bring a pair of gloves which you can use to adjust the settings on your camera. If it gets cold, especially at night, you do not want your fingers to stick to the metal on your camera...been there, not fun. Also bring a large plastic bag to cover your camera and lens if it starts to rain.
The trip on the lake will either be calm or choppy, so be prepared. Ask the boat company in advance how big the boat is and if you will have room for a trtipod. I suspect you will hot have room, but ask. A telephoto is tough in choppy waters. Also a polarizing filter is nice to have near water. As noted by others, the sun will be low in the sky. I went golfing in Alasks in August and we finished our round about midnight, so know how to use your camera in different lighting conditions to capture stars ect. at night. I went for an airplane ride over Denali and it was great, but I took the trip in July. Danali is usually covered in clouds, but there are times it lghts up like a white beacon. I used a Nikon F2 with a 35mm f/1.4 for all my shots.
Have a good trip and be prepared.
Mundy

PS: The Alaskan Railtoad is a must see and do going north to Denali and beyond.

mundy-F2 Loc: Chicago suburban area

I agree!!!!
Mundy