Journey by rail through Alaska’s dramatic landscapes aboard the Alaska Railroad, a historic rail system dating back to the early 1900s and originally built to connect Alaska’s remote interior with its coastal communities. Today, it remains one of the most iconic and scenic ways to experience the state, carrying passengers past mountains, rivers, forests, glaciers, and wilderness landscapes that are often best seen by train.

Gate 1 Travel includes selected rail segments designed to showcase the best of Alaska while providing a comfortable and memorable onboard experience. Rail segments vary by product.

Anchorage to Denali – Denali Star (Summer)

Travel north through the heart of Alaska as landscapes gradually shift from city skyline to untouched wilderness. Along the way, passengers pass the Susitna River Valley, dense spruce forests, and the dramatic backdrop of the Alaska Range. On clear days, there may be views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak. This rail journey is one of the most scenic routes in the state and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Estimated Rail Time: 8 hours

Anchorage to Whittier – Glacier Discovery (Summer)

This short but spectacular journey travels south along the edge of Turnagain Arm, one of Alaska’s most beautiful coastal regions. Passengers may see dramatic tidal flats, waterfalls, rugged mountain peaks, and hanging glaciers. As the train approaches Whittier, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with steep cliffs and glacier-carved valleys creating a memorable entrance to Prince William Sound.

Estimated Rail Time: 2.5 hours

Fairbanks to Denali – Denali Star (Summer)

Travel south from Fairbanks through Alaska’s rugged Interior toward the entrance of Denali National Park and Preserve. This scenic route passes quiet forests, open tundra, and river valleys that showcase the remote beauty of Alaska’s wilderness. Passengers travel alongside sections of the Nenana River and through dramatic canyon landscapes, with mountain views appearing as the train approaches Denali. Wildlife sightings may include moose, caribou, and eagles depending on the season. This route provides a memorable introduction to Denali and the vast landscapes that define Interior Alaska.

Estimated Rail Time: 4 hours

Fairbanks to Talkeetna – Aurora Star (Winter)

Experience Alaska’s winter wilderness aboard a scenic southbound rail journey through the Interior. Snow-covered spruce forests, frozen rivers, wide-open valleys, and quiet mountain landscapes create a completely different perspective from summer travel. Winter rail travel offers a peaceful and dramatic atmosphere, with long stretches of untouched snow and the possibility of spotting moose, fox, or other wildlife along the route. During the darker months, conditions may also be favorable for viewing the Northern Lights in the evening skies. This journey highlights the beauty of Alaska’s colder season: quiet, remote, and unforgettable.

Estimated Rail Time: 6–8 hours, depending on seasonal operations and flag stops along the route. Certain trains make scheduled flag stops in remote areas for local residents and backcountry access, which can affect overall travel time

Train Experience

Travel aboard the Alaska Railroad offers a comfortable and scenic way to experience Alaska’s remarkable landscapes. Large picture windows and thoughtfully designed railcars allow passengers to fully enjoy the changing scenery throughout the journey.

• Coach Style: Comfortable railcars designed for scenic sightseeing and long-distance travel through Alaska’s wilderness
• Window Style: Large panoramic windows provide excellent views of mountains, rivers, glaciers, forests, and wildlife along the route
• Dining: Select routes offer onboard dining service, while others provide café-style food and beverage options available for purchase
• Seating: Spacious, comfortable reserved seating allows passengers to relax and enjoy the journey at an easy pace
• Service Team: Professional onboard staff assist throughout the journey and help create a smooth and enjoyable rail experience
• Beverages: A variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages may be available depending on route and service
• Snacks: Light meals, snacks, and refreshments are available onboard depending on the train service and route
• Viewing Areas: Some railcars feature shared dome seating or outdoor viewing platforms for expanded sightseeing opportunities
• Storytelling: Onboard staff often provide commentary and narration about Alaska’s wildlife, landscapes, railroad history, and local culture throughout the journey

Additional Information

• Train schedules and exact departure times are provided locally and may vary by season and operational conditions.
• One carry-on item is allowed per person. Carry-on bags may not exceed 15” x 14” x 6”. Checked luggage will typically be transferred directly to the next overnight destination.
• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that any Alaska Railroad passenger 18 years of age or older present a government-issued photo ID, or two forms of identification, one of which must be issued by a government authority.
• Seating is assigned by Alaska Railroad and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
• Please note that cash is not accepted onboard the Alaska Railroad. All onboard purchases, including food, beverages, and other services, must be made using a credit or debit card. Passengers who do not have a credit or debit card may purchase dollar-value meal vouchers in $1, $5, or $10 increments at Alaska Railroad ticket windows prior to boarding. These vouchers may be used for onboard purchases.
• Wi-Fi and cell service may be limited or unavailable during portions of the journey, particularly in remote wilderness areas.
• Some stations, boarding areas, dome access, or viewing platforms may have mobility limitations depending on the specific train service and route.