One of the most exciting ways to see the 49th State is to take an Alaska train tour. The Alaska Railroad travels for 470 miles from Seward on the south-central Kenai Peninsula, to the northern city of Fairbanks. Throughout your journey, your Alaska train tour will bring you through some of the most scenic and rugged territory in Alaska. This includes Denali National Park, Denali State Park, and the Chugach National Forest. You can take your Alaska train tour along either of the two routes that are offered during the summer season.
The Denali Star offers Alaska rail tours of the regions
north of Anchorage. It transports
its passengers between Fairbanks, Denali, Talkeetna and
Anchorage. As the train meanders north from Talkeetna,
you will pass over Hurricane Gulch and Broad Pass before
arriving at the railroad station at Denali National Park.
Look out the window! The bridge at Hurricane spans 918
feet over the Chulitna River. The Alaska rail tours that
go from Denali Park to Fairbanks travel through Healy
and Nenana and several smaller towns. The train trip spans
over 350 miles in a time period of 12 hours. Most passengers
break the train trip up and stay in Denali National Park
or Talkeetna. This exciting Alaska train trip presents
excellent views of Mt. McKinley, as well as a chance to
see Alaskan wildlife.
In the south, the Coastal Classic Alaska rail tours
travel south of Anchorage along the spectacular Turnagain
Arm. Then, they pass through the Kenai Peninsula's scenic
Turnagain and Moose Passes prior to arriving in the quaint
and convivial seaside town of Seward. This Alaska train
trip journeys about 130 miles in each direction and lasts
for about four hours one-way. Along the route, you will
have a good chance to see glaciers and wildlife such as
moose, and beluga whales. Many people who take the Coastal
Classic have arranged for an Alaska rail and cruise vacation.
After spending a night in Seward, they enjoy a cruise
into Kenai Fjords National Park.
Given that rail tours and cruises are two of the best ways to get an up close and personal look at Alaska’s wildlife and natural resources, an Alaska rail and cruise trip can combine the best of both worlds. Alaska rail and cruise trips can combine a variety of destinations. Although the possibilities are endless, for now, why not cruise through the rest of our Alaska pages for inspiration.
