Alaska’s pristine wilderness invites exploration for every voyager on her beautiful shores, and what better way to travel through these majestic landscapes than on the infamous Alaska Railroad?
The historic Alaska Railroad weaves a captivating trail through Alaska's vast landscapes, connecting Anchorage to various remote and iconic destinations, allowing for memorable day trips or multi-day family-friendly adventures.
There are four main routes departing from Anchorage - the Coastal Classic, Denali Star, Glacier Discovery, and Aurora Winter Train. Each offers a unique journey and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness. In this guide, we will break down each route so you can pick the best option to fit your adventure.
Coastal Classic: Anchorage to Seward
Schedule: Daily service, May - September
Description: 5.5 hours each way, departing in the morning, arriving by noon, returning in the evening
Route Highlights: Travels along Turnagain Arm, the Kenai Peninsula, ending at Resurrection Bay, gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park
Operating daily from May to September, the Coastal Classic offers a thrilling 5.5-hour journey each way, departing from Anchorage in the morning and arriving in the coastal town of Seward by noon. This route guides you along the stunning vistas of Turnagain Arm and through the remote backcountry of the Kenai Peninsula.
National Geographic Traveler acclaimed the Coastal Classic train ride as among the top ten in North America – and we heartily agree! The journey takes you from the bustling city of Anchorage, meandering alongside the Turnagain Arm where the towering mountains of the Chugach Range seem to dive straight into the sea. You'll pause briefly in the charming town of Girdwood before continuing through the wilderness to your destination - the picturesque shores of Resurrection Bay in Seward.
Seward offers an array of activities for day visitors. Cruise around Resurrection Bay or Kenai Fjords National Park, or enjoy a scenic ride to a remote island lodge for lunch. For land lovers, the 'Real Alaska Tour' offers an array of experiences, including a visit to Exit Glacier and a dog sled ride at the famous Seavey's kennel. Seward also houses charming shops, restaurants, and the superb Alaska SeaLife Center.
The train, offering both GoldStar Service or Adventure Class, departs for Anchorage in the evening, allowing you a seven-hour layover for your exploration. Onboard services include a dining car, baggage service, non-smoking cars, and wheelchair access.
Denali Star: Anchorage to Fairbanks
Schedule: Runs May - September
Description: Departs morning, arrives by afternoon, ideal for multi-day adventures
Route Highlights: Connects Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks, traversing Southcentral and Interior Alaska
The Denali Star offers an unforgettable journey through Southcentral and Interior Alaska. Operating from May to September, this route departs Anchorage in the morning, stops at Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali, and finally arrives in Fairbanks by afternoon.
The train meanders across the Knik River, providing picturesque views of the Chugach Mountains. Look out for Denali, North America's tallest peak, rising majestically above the Susitna River. As the train moves further into the backcountry Hurricane area, you'll see the Indian River, isolated cabins, and the expansive sight of Hurricane Gulch from a dizzying 296-foot bridge.
Consider a multi-day itinerary with overnights at any of the stops to enjoy the local experiences fully. Take a day trip to Talkeetna or enjoy a midday excursion in Denali National Park. The Alaska Railroad reservationists are always on hand to assist you in planning your adventure.
Glacier Discovery: Anchorage to Grandview
Schedule: Full route June - September
Description: 6-hour journey each way, departing mid-morning, arriving by afternoon
Route Highlights: Stops in Girdwood, Whittier, Portage, Spencer, ends in Grandview
Operating from June to September, the Glacier Discovery connects Anchorage to various points of interest including Girdwood, Whittier, Portage, Spencer, and Grandview. Departing Anchorage mid-morning, the train journeys to Spencer by afternoon.
Following a route similar to the Coastal Classic, this train journey veers off the main line towards the quaint port town of Whittier, and then to the spectacular end-point of Grandview. This journey offers several unique day trip options, including visiting the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center in Portage, cruising through the glacier-dotted Prince William Sound in Whittier, or embarking on hiking, rafting, or kayaking adventures at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop.
Beyond Spencer, the train weaves past the Bartlett and Trail Glaciers and into the heart of the Grandview's alpine meadows. The return journey allows passengers to disembark at Portage for a motorcoach transfer to Girdwood or Anchorage, saving about 2.5 hours of travel time. Please note that onboard services for this route include the Wilderness Cafe snack bar, baggage service, non-smoking cars, and wheelchair access.
Aurora Winter Train: Anchorage to Fairbanks
Schedule: Weekend service late September to early May, midweek service in February and March
Description: 12-hour journey each way, departs in the morning, arrives at night, suited for aurora viewing
Route Highlights: Stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna, Hurricane, Healy, Nenana, ends in Fairbanks
The Aurora Winter Train offers an exceptional journey to chase the northern lights. Operating from late September to early May, this route departs Anchorage in the morning and arrives in Fairbanks by night, providing plenty of opportunities to witness the spectacular aurora borealis.
This service operates on weekends, making the northbound 12-hour journey on Saturday and the return trip on Sunday. Additionally, midweek services are available in February and March. The train winds its way through Wasilla, Talkeetna, the backcountry south of Hurricane Gulch, Healy, Nenana, before finally reaching Fairbanks. Each stop offers an opportunity to engage with the wintry wilderness and spot wildlife.
The serene winter landscapes offer stark contrast to Alaska's summer vibrancy but hold their unique charm. From the comfort of a warm railcar, enjoy the views of Denali above the Susitna River, or you might even spot a moose in the wild. The train provides an excellent option for a weekend getaway to Talkeetna, complete with skiing, guided dogsledding, or winter Denali flightseeing.
All Aboard the Alaska Railroad!
From the lush greenery of Kenai Peninsula, the towering majesty of Denali, the glacial landscapes of Grandview, to the dancing northern lights of Fairbanks, the Alaska Railroad offers a window into the heart of Alaska's wilderness.
Reservations are recommended and can be made online on the Alaska Railroad website. The site also includes an updated availability calendar and information about special event trains that are offered throughout the year.
