Alaska Railroad Destinations
One of the great things about the Alaska Railroad is how it travels through the heart of Alaska, including many of the most popular and scenic areas the state has to offer. Known for being the transportation hub of Alaska, it is no surprise that Anchorage is home to the railroad’s corporate headquarters and largest train depot. From there you can ride the rails north on the Denali Star route to Talkeetna, Denali Park and Fairbanks… taking in spectacular scenery, wildlife and views of Mt. Denali along the way. Heading south from Anchorage you can ride either the Glacier Discovery route to Whittier, or travel all the way to Seward on the Coastal Classic. On both trips you will travel along the Turnagain Arm, known for occasional sightings of Dall sheep and beluga whales, as well as for having the fourth largest tidal range in the world at 30 feet. Whether you arrive in Alaska by plane to Anchorage or Fairbanks, or by cruise ship to Whittier or Seward, you are sure to find the train a convenient way to explore Alaska.
Anchorage
This All-American City is home to almost 300,000 residents, nearly half of the state’s population. So of course you will find big city amenities like fine dining, first class hotels, cultural events and a word class museum. But the city is also chock-full of truly Alaskan things to do, with parks, trails and outdoor activities galore. With a wide array of transportation links by air, rail, bus and ship… most Alaska visitors will begin or end their vacation in Anchorage. Learn More »
Denali National Park
Once you have visited Denali National Park you will understand why it is the most popular railroad destination in Alaska. Spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and the majestic Mt. Denali are just a few of the highlights. Most visitors to the park do not have cars, and consequently there is an excellent system of shuttle and tour buses to get you where you need to go. Learn More »
Fairbanks
The town of Fairbanks is as far north as you can travel on the Alaska Railroad, and is certainly worth the trip if you have a few extra days. Summers are typically warm and sunny, with over 20 hours of daylight for much of the summer. Try an Alaskan salmon bake or a cruise on an authentic sternwheeler riverboat. Fairbanks is also a good jumping off point for tours to the Arctic Circle, Barrow or Prudhoe Bay. Learn More »
Seward
Many local Alaskans consider the ride between Anchorage and Seward to be the most scenic portion of the Alaska Railroad. In addition to being the southern terminus of the railroad and cruise line port, the city also boasts a wide array of popular events, activities and attractions, including the Alaska SeaLife Center. Seward is also the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park, and wildlife and glacier cruises to the Park are among the most popular day trips in the state. Learn More »
Talkeetna
The railroad takes you right through the quintessential small Alaskan town of Talkeetna, just shy of the midpoint between Anchorage and Denali Park. Spending at least one night here is highly recommended, and will give you a great southern perspective of Denali National Park. Not to be missed… take a flightseeing tour on a real Alaskan bush plane, and land on a glacier near towering Mt. Denali. Learn More »
Whittier
If you are traveling to Whittier by train, bus or car, your journey will ultimately take you through the second longest highway tunnel in North America… roughly 2.5 miles in length. This town of just a few hundred residents is located about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage on the western edge of Prince William Sound. Glacier cruises, kayaking and fishing are among the most popular activities, and several cruise lines use Whittier as an embarkation port. Learn More »