Ride the Alaska Railroad
Imagine winding through untouched mountainous landscapes and over glacier-carved mountain ridges that look down to turquoise waters and the remote wilderness beyond.
This is the Alaska Railroad, and you can experience a whole Alaska vacation using the railroad as your main mode of transportation. Ditch your car keys, grab a window seat, and enjoy the scenic views. With more than 470 miles of track linking top destinations and two national parks, the train offers access to some of Alaska’s most epic scenery. Whether you want to see an ancient glacier, admire Mt. Denali (North America’s tallest mountain), or just witness the grandeur of Alaska, the railroad is a magical way to do it.
What is the Experience Like on the Alaska Railroad
Different companies offer a slightly different experience (see options below), but you'll find a full-service bar, locally inspired and sourced cuisine, and onboard narration and expertise. You can elevate your journey by selecting a ticket with glass dome cars featuring panoramic views or open-air viewing platforms.
Alaska Railroad Train Experiences
Where Can I Go on The Alaska Railroad?
The track runs from Seward on the Kenai Peninsula north to Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks. Other stops include Whittier, Girdwood, and the Spencer Whistle Stop.
When Can I Ride the Train?
There are daily departures from mid-May to mid-September. Each train has only one departure per day, so it’s important to book your ticket in advance. In Winter, there is weekend service between Anchorage and Fairbanks with sporadic mid-week trains. See Alaska Railroad Schedule for more.
Pros and Cons
The train takes longer and costs more than driving if there are more than two in your party. But you can relax in spacious, comfortable seats and enjoy the views through giant picture windows and dome cars. If visiting Denali National Park, there are shuttles to get around. If riding to Seward, Whittier, or Talkeetna for the day from Anchorage, the schedule aligns perfectly to take an afternoon tour before your return train.
Other FAQs About Riding the Train in Alaska
Railroad Companies
Denali Rail Tours
Routes from Anchorage to Denali
Take in the scenic views from the domed windows in the private McKinley Explorer railcars by Gray Line Alaska. Independent travelers can book a seat, but most opt for a multi-day package including hotel and transfers. Enjoy excellent service from your car manager, who will point out sights and scenery along the way. Dine in the restaurant located just beneath you, and don’t miss a thing as you continue to gaze out of large picture windows. ...more
Wilderness Express
Routes from Anchorage to Fairbanks
Riding the train in Alaska is a relaxing and fun way to take in amazing sights around every bend, and many travelers choose a dome car for the best viewing experience. When you’re headed north of Anchorage, hop on a Wilderness Express private dome car for deluxe viewing at great value.
Alaska Railroad Corporation
May - September services Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali, Fairbanks, Girdwood, Whittier, Spencer Glacier, and Seward. In Winter, service between Anchorage and Fairbanks.
This train travels through the forested areas north of Anchorage into the boreal forest, and eventually into the tundra regions further north. On a clear day the train will slow down to allow you to see beautiful vistas of Denali. You may also spot wildlife along the way. Day Trip from Anchorage: Talkeetna Day Trip from Fairbanks: Denali Multi-Day Trip from Anchorage: Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and / or Fairbanks Multi-Day Trip ...more
Winter in Alaska is a magical time, with fewer visitors and a serene, snow-covered landscape. If you’re here from mid-September to mid-May, you can take it in from the comfort of the Aurora Winter Train, which runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks. It’s an easy and memorable way to travel north and experience the aurora borealis, or even do a weekend getaway to Talkeetna.
The Hurricane Turn Train operates on Thursday through Sunday between Talkeetna and Hurricane Gulch from mid May to mid September. You can either take a scenic journey round trip, or you can ask to be let off at whichever mile marker you choose. This train is how many people who live in the backcountry gain access to their homes or cabins. It is also popular for fishermen who gain access to some great fishing spots by train. Get back on the ...more
The Coastal Classic train runs between Anchorage and the town of Seward — a four-hour trip that’s the most beautiful along the entire Alaska Railroad. You’ll see Turnagain Arm as the train departs Anchorage, then a panorama of mountains, glaciers, lakes, and streams. You may even see wildlife like Dall sheep, Beluga whales, moose, bear, and more! Day Trip from Anchorage: Seward, Girdwood Multi-Day Trip from Anchorage: Overnight Seward, or ...more
The train can be used as a mode of transportation, however it can also be a round-trip sightseeing excursion. This primary destination is the town of Whittier, a major cruise ship and afternoon day cruise hub. Day Trips from Anchorage: Whittier, Girdwood, Spencer Glacier, Grandview
Princess Rail Tours
Routes from Anchorage to Denali
Step aboard Princess Rail, whose cars have two levels with 360-degree dome views, a dining area, and large open-air platforms at the rear. You may choose to ride as an independent traveler, or with a larger package that will include lodging at the Princess properties along the way.
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