It was July 15, 1923, when then-president Warren G. Harding drove in the golden spike signaling the completion of the railroad in Nenana, Alaska. And as the new year dawns, Alaska Railroad gets ready to mark 100 years since the completion of its 470-mile mainline.
“Many things have changed in the past 100 years,” said Dale Wade, v.p. of marketing and customer service. “We’ve updated our equipment, the destinations have grown, and the onboard experience turns many passengers’ in-state travel into a trip highlight. Technology has also made a more sustainable travel experience possible. But over the past century one thing has remained constant: our unwavering dedication to our passengers and to Alaska.”
To kick off its centennial year, Alaska Railroad is launching an all-new, 12-day, centennial-themed package that whisks passengers along the entirety of the historic Railbelt. The new limited edition Centennial Special travel package is now available for booking and includes destinations all along the historic mainline, including time in Seward, Anchorage, the remote Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, Denali National Park and Preserve, and Fairbanks.
Rail Packages Abound During 100th Anniversary for Alaska Railroad
Additionally, now through mid-May, the Aurora Winter Train connects passengers to Anchorage, Talkeetna, Fairbanks, and more—destinations known for activities like aurora hunting, dog mushing and flightseeing. The Aurora Winter Train operates on weekends with additional midweek departures starting in February.
Your clients also have a chance to extend their time in Alaska by packaging rail travel with accommodations and activities booked through the Alaska Railroad. The packages range from quick weekend getaways to multi-day trips. The Alaska Railroad’s winter packages are Winter Escape, Talkeetna Getaway, Denali in a Day, Arctic Circle Adventure, The Aurora and The Borealis.
For more information on the Centennial Special package, visit alaskarailroad.com/travel-planning/packages/centennial-special.
