Alaska Railroad Routes

Alaska Railroad routes span over 470 miles with daily scheduled service in the summer months to eight different Alaska communities. To keep things straight, and to highlight the special features of each railway route, the railroad has named each one.  The Denali Star heads north from Anchorage to Talkeetna, Denali Park and Fairbanks, while the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery head south from Anchorage to Seward or Whittier, respectively.

Alaska Railroad Coastal ClassicCoastal Classic Route

One train departs Anchorage for Seward each morning with the same train returning in the evening. This schedule allows a same day roundtrip with enough time for a Kenai Fjords National Park cruise… although we highly recommend an overnight in Seward if your schedule allows. Learn More »

Alaska Railroad Denali StarDenali Star Route

Two separate trains depart northbound from Anchorage to Fairbanks and southbound from Fairbanks to Anchorage at the same time each morning. When the trains pass each other along the way, it is customary to give the passengers on the other train a “moose antler wave”… you will learn more about that on board. Both north and southbound trains stop at Denali Park and Talkeetna. Learn More »

Alaska Railroad Glacier DiscoveryGlacier Discovery Route

One train departs Anchorage for Whittier in the morning, with the same train returning in the evening. Glaciers cruises to Prince William Sound are available from Whittier during the day, or you can continue by train for a scenic day trip to Spencer Glacier and Grandview.  Learn More »

Alaska Train MapRoute Maps

Perhaps the easiest way to understand the different railway route options in Alaska is to see them visually on a map. Choose from printable pdf or interactive versions. Learn More »

Talkeetna AlaskaCruise Transfers

Many cruise passengers travel between Anchorage and Seward on the Coastal Classic or between Anchorage and Whittier on the Glacier Discovery. Get more details on cruise transportation here. Learn More »

Alaska Railroad Route GuideRoute Guide by City

Looking for more details on a specific train trip or individual rail segment? We have broken down each one by departure city.  Learn More »