How to Tour Alaska by Rail

Alaska became the 49th state in 1959.

The sheer bulk of Alaska--larger than Texas, California and Montana combined--makes the idea of touring the state by automobile slightly daunting. Consider taking a train. Although no rail line connects Alaska and the continental United States, it is possible to travel inside the state and visit Alaska's two largest cities on the Alaska Railroad. Owned by the state, the railroad extends over 500 miles from the Kenai Peninsula on Alaska's south-central coast to Anchorage, then on to Fairbanks in the interior of the state.

Things You'll Need

• Budget
• Map of Alaska
• Itinerary
• Internet access or telephone

Instructions

1. Get an overview of your budget. Figure out how many people will be traveling with you and how much you want to spend.

2. 

   Alaska has over 700 glaciers.

   Look over the map of Alaska and plan your itinerary. The Alaska Railroad offers three train trips in summer. The Denali Star runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks--a 12-hour trek--stopping along the way at Denali National Park. The Coastal Classic travels between Anchorage and Seward, and the Glacier Discovery connects Anchorage with Prince William Sound and Spencer Glacier, each about a five-hour trip.

3. 

   Wildlife abounds in Alaska.

   Choose your travel dates. All of the train routes operate on a daily basis between mid-May and mid-September; only the Anchorage/Fairbanks line runs in winter, and then only on weekends. Keep in mind that prices are lower in May and September (termed "value" season) than June and July.

4. 

   Alaska is home to many mountains, including the highest peak in North America, Mt. Denali.

   Choose your class of service. The Denali Star and the Coastal Classic offer the possibility of premium class. The price is correspondingly higher.

5. Make reservations and purchase tickets online at the Alaska Railroad Corporation site or by calling 907-265-2494 or 800-544-0552. Your reservation itinerary will be mailed to you and your boarding pass issued when you check in. Arrive at the station at least one hour prior to departure.

6. Arrange transportation to your point of departure in Alaska. Secure lodging for your stay.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider taking the ferry from Washington to Alaska to add southeast Alaska to your tour.

• Don't forget to take the weather into your calculations. While winter tours will be less expensive as well as less crowded, winter conditions can be severe in Alaska.

References

• State Symbols USA: States by Size
• Travel Alaska:Railroad Map
• Travel Alaska:Destinations
• The Alaska Railroad Vacations: Alaska Railroad Trail Information
• Alaska State Library: Alaska's Glaciers

Resources

• State of Alaska:Visitor
• Alaska Marine Highway Systems