Completed in 1923, the Alaska Railroad was built to link the Pacific seaport of Seward with the resource-rich interior long before there were highways. Passenger service offers breathtaking excursions into rugged back-country terrain that is often inaccessible by car.
Choices
The flagship Denali Star operates daily between Anchorage and Fairbanks with stops at Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park. A local favorite, the Coastal Classic, goes to Seward, where boat tours provide access to Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay. The Hurricane Turn provides flag-stop service for campers and fishermen along the Susitna River. The Glacier Discovery runs from Anchorage to Whittier for glacier cruises and to Spencer Glacier and Grandview whistle-stops for kayaking, rafting, and hiking.
When to go
Most trains operate from mid-May to mid-September when the weather is warm, and the days are long. The best time to visit is early in the season when there is still snow on the mountains and little rain. Winter service is provided by the Aurora winter train operating between Anchorage and Fairbanks on weekends and midweek from mid-September to mid-May. Special trains also run.
Good to know
The railroad works closely with major cruise lines, offering cruise passengers Grandview service to connect the ports of Seward and Whittier with the Anchorage airport. The cruise lines also operate their own train with double-decker domes between Anchorage and Denali Park.
Worth doing
The Hurricane Turn provides an escape from sightseeing and tourism overload and a chance to visit with friendly Alaskans on their way to remote cabins. It operates Thursday through Monday and features a dome coach.
Don’t miss
Try either the Coastal Classic or Glacier Discovery. The scenery south of Anchorage is more varied and breathtaking than most of the Denali route.
Getting there
Airlines fly to both Anchorage and Fairbanks. Cruise ships from Vancouver and Seattle are another option.
Location: 411 West 1st Avenue, Anchorage, AK
Phone: 907-265-2494
Website: alaskarailroad.com
E-mail: reservations@akrr.com
Alaska RR Also offers tour packages. Several years ago we did “Alaska by Daylight” tour. Very easy and very enjoyable.