The Alaska Railroad is taking summer train adventures to the next level by offering passengers a wide-ranging lineup of new and returning add-on experiences. From thrilling helicopter glacier adventures to educational historical tours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Add-ons for the Glacier Discovery or Coastal Classic routes include:
- Helicopter Glacier Landing (Girdwood): A thrilling adventure into the Chugach backcountry to witness stunning glaciers like Lake George, Whiteout and Colony. Land on a glacier for 15-20 minutes of exploration amidst breathtaking scenery and keep an eye out for wildlife like moose, bear and Dall sheep.
- Prince William Sound Glacier Landing (Girdwood): Soar over scenic landscapes and spot wildlife while venturing into the heart of glacier country in Prince William Sound. Experience a glacier landing and marvel at tidewater glaciers and marine wildlife.
- Summer Glacier Dog Sledding (Girdwood): Take a helicopter ride to Punchbowl Glacier for a unique dog sledding experience amidst the majestic Chugach Mountains. Learn about sled dogs and enjoy breathtaking views of scenic peaks and valleys.
New and returning add-ons for the Coastal Classic Train include:
- History City Tour (Seward): Dive into Seward’s vibrant past with a fun and informative one-hour guided tour, starting from the Train Depot. Seward is the southern terminus of the Alaska Railroad’s main line and sits at the head of Resurrection Bay. It is one of Alaska’s oldest and most picturesque communities.
- Historical Glacier Combo (Seward): Explore Seward’s history on a city tour before journeying to Exit Glacier, the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. Visit the nature center, hike trails and admire the area’s natural beauty.
- Seward Deluxe Tour: Embark on an afternoon of fun with a historical city tour, lunch at a local restaurant, a visit to the Exit Glacier Visitors Center, and a trip to the Alaska SeaLife Center—Alaska’s only public aquarium as well as a marine mammal rehabilitation facility.
Back by popular demand, the railroad will once again offer the Centennial Special package, celebrating 100 years since the completion of the main line back in 1923. In this 12-day package, passengers will ride the Coastal Classic, Glacier Discovery and Denali Star Trains—the full length of the Alaska Railroad’s historic main line. Passengers who book this special also get to embark on a glacier and wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park, a Spencer Glacier float trip and a Denali wildlife tour.
Riding the Rails in Alaska
The flagship Denali Star Train offers passengers a scenic journey between Anchorage and Fairbanks with stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna and Denali National Park and Preserve. On this route, travelers will have the opportunity to see Cook Inlet and explore the national park.
The last flagstop train in the U.S., the Hurricane Turn Train summer service offers a unique experience where passengers can flag down the conductor to board or disembark at their convenience. This is one of Alaska’s best kept secrets as it allows passengers to access Alaska’s backcountry to hike and camp in places that are otherwise inaccessible.
The Coastal Classic Train will provide daily round-trip service between Anchorage and Seward, allowing passengers to admire both mountain and coastal views while keeping an eye out for wildlife like moose, bears, eagles and even beluga whales along Turnagain Arm.
The Glacier Discovery Train begins its summer season with partial service to Girdwood and Whittier. After traveling through a one-way tunnel into Whittier, passengers can embark on a glacier cruise in Prince William Sound.
For more information, summer packages, schedules and more, visit alaskarailroad.com.
