The Alaska Railroad is a special feature of getting to travel in Alaska. A lot of people consider it as a part of doing a cruise, but it’s actually for everyone! We’ve done the Alaska Railroad several times and love the experience of getting to enjoy the beautiful sights as you travel from Fairbanks through Talkeetna and Anchorage, all the way to Whittier or Seward. As you’re planning your Alaska trip, see what sort of railroad option you can add onto your itinerary!
With so much to do and see in Alaska, it’s nice to have multiple transportation options, especially when you have the chance to do something that brings you into epic views AND a change of pace. We’ve put together an easy guide to the Alaska Railroad so you can determine what sort of train travel you can add to your time exploring the state. Whether you do it as a tour or your main method of transportation, there are some fun options. Read on and please let us know if you have any questions or need recommendations for making the Alaska Railroad fit into your visit; leave a comment or send us a note and we’ll be sure to help you out. Happy train trip!
Why Travel on the Alaska Railroad
I am a distracted driver and the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of Alaska make me lose focus when I should be paying attention to the road. And that’s my #1 reason that I enjoy riding the Alaska Railroad, as it allows passengers to fully enjoy the views along the whole route while also being comfortable, conversational, and even having great meals as the scenery goes by. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, riding the Alaska Railroad is a great addition to your trip (and everyone will ask you about it when you get home).
Alaska Railroad from Anchorage
From Anchorage you have the most options for riding the Alaska Railroad: Seward, Whittier, Talkeetna, Denali or Fairbanks. You can plan your whole visit to explore Southcentral Alaska using the railroad if you want, or you can just do a day trip or overnight using the train. A route that we love from Anchorage is actually the Aurora Winter Route which connects Anchorage and Fairbanks during the winter months, taking about 12 hours for the full route. It’s beautiful!
Coastal Classic Route
Denali Star Route
Alaska Railroad from Fairbanks
If you’re starting in Fairbanks, you’ll love the easy journey from there to Denali National Park, stopping just outside the park and then bus service takes you to the visitor hub or lodging. This is an easy way to add Denali to a summertime trip to Fairbanks. Also, if you want to do the journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage with a stop at Denali NP, book your passage for the first leg and then second leg after your time exploring the park. And don’t forget about the Aurora Winter Route from Fairbanks to Anchorage too. The Alaska Railroad is such a joy to travel in the snow.
Denali Star Route
Seward and Whittier Alaska Railroad Options
The shorter Alaska Railroad route to Whittier only runs during peak cruise season, ending in the second week of September. This specialized route, the Glacier Discovery, can only be booked directly through the Alaska Railroad or through a cruise line booking partner. Most people using this leg of service are departing a cruise ship in Whittier or heading there following time in Anchorage.
Hurricane Turn Train Service
One of the most unique options for riding the Alaska Railroad is the Hurricane Turn route. This train trip runs in the summer and departs from Talkeetna, traveling to the remote town of Hurricane. Guests can get off the train and explore a bit before jumping back on same-day to get back to Talkeetna just after dinner time. The Hurricane Turn trip is perfect if you want to add a train tour in Alaska but don’t want to do a long route or be reliant on the Alaska Railroad as your primary method of transportation.
What’s it Like Onboard the Alaska Railroad
The Alaska Railroad is very similar to Amtrak in the Lower 48 in terms of style and luxury. While it’s not the absolute luxe like you may find on the Orient Express or Rocky Mountaineer, it’s a very nice experience. The assigned seating is comfortable with plenty of room, and you can move between your numbered seat and the lounge or bistro car.
There is also dining onboard the Alaska Railroad on the Denali Star and Coastal Classic routes. The food is actually quite good and there’s plenty of it. The menu can vary, but in general it is hearty and with locally sources Alaskan options whenever available.
Is the Alaska Railroad Good with Kids?
That’s a good question. While our kids love it, others may be very bored. It’s all about the scenery and relaxing. There is no wifi onboard and the cell service is very spotty. Riding the Alaska Railroad with kids means being prepared with activities and patience. On the shorter routes, like the Coastal Classic or Glacier Discovery trains, this shouldn’t be much of a problem, but the Denali Star or the Aurora Winter Routes are much longer train ride and kids may get bored after a while.
Can I go Outside on the Alaska Railroad?
During the summer routes you can be both inside and outside. There are parts of the train that have outdoor access which is really wonderful on a sunny, warm day. I love being on the outdoor platform for the views. During the winter, all cars are indoors only.
I hope you’ll consider adding a leg on the Alaska Railroad to your trip. It’s such a beautiful and relaxing way to experience Alaska, and I know you’ll love it. If you have any questions about the journeys or what makes the most sense to book, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more and help you plan a great Alaska trip!
