This 500-mile railroad takes you to National Parks and Glaciers as well as some of the best destinations for viewing the Northern Lights in the U.S.

If someone tells you that only Europe has the most efficient and memorable trains, then they have never ridden the train. Alaska Railroad. This scenic and historic transportation method is the best way to get around. Alaska You may see a bear or moose along the way.

The railroad dates back to early 1900s and operates all year round. However, the main season begins in mid May and ends in mid September. Travelers from all over the world are making their way to Anchorage to enjoy two of the most popular routes of the railroad: the Denali Star, and the Coastal Classic. Alaska Railroad’s flagship route, the Denali Star, takes passengers 356 miles north to Denali National Park. The latter is shorter, just over 100 miles from end to end, but it’s still rich in jaw-dropping views—especially if you book the GoldStar Service. This class includes a glass-domed train car and an outdoor viewing platform where you can take pictures without glare.

I recently took a trip to Kenai Fjords National Park and boarded a Coastal Classic. AnchorageArmed with a fully-charged phone and camera, I sat in my window seat. After checking my suitcase at the station—it would be promptly delivered to my hotel in Seward—I settled into my window seat without realizing just how many incredible sights were in my future, from the turquoise waters of Kenai Lake to glaciers, mountains, and waterfalls.

Alana Nerup is the manager of the onboard services for the Alaska Railroad. She suggests that you approach your trip with some flexibility. “I recommend visiting as many small towns across the Alaska Railbelt as possible… and plan to stay at least one night at each destination to really immerse yourself in unique local highlights,” she says.

No matter how many travel days you have—or which route you take—she has one other piece of advice: “Hours of daylight and weather can change between 470 miles of our tracks, so bring plenty of warm and cool layers, and prepare for the elements.”

Routes, schedules and other information

The Alaska Railroad has five main routes—and each offers a different, but equally memorable, experience.

Coastal Classic

“Our Coastal Classic train Nerup says that Alaska has stunning ocean and mountain views. The best time to see animals is early in the morning or late at night. “Alaska ‘sunsets’ are beautiful in late August and September!” The train leaves Anchorage, Alaska at 6:45 am, and makes a stop in Girdwood where you can find Alyeska Resort. At 11:20, it pulls up to Seward. Visitors often go hiking at Exit Glaciers or on wildlife cruises through Kenai Fjords National Park. This service is available daily between mid-May and mid-September.

Denali Star

Available only in summer, the Denali Star train The flight leaves Anchorage at 8 a.m., and arrives 12 hours later in Fairbanks. It stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna (“Gateway to Denali”) and Denali National Park & Preserve. The Denali Star offers a variety of photo opportunities and access to Denali – the tallest mountain in North America – as well as up to 350 miles worth of varied and rugged landscapes.

She notes that the Denali Star trail and the Hurricane Turn trail will both cross the Indian River at milepost 269 and then head over the Hurricane Gulch Bridge at milepost 284. The bridge measures 296 feet in height and 914 feet wide. It is the longest and tallest bridge along our route. “This spot is absolutely breathtaking. Our conductors travel very slowly over the bridge to allow guests to savor it,” she says.

Glacier Discovery

“The Glacier Discovery train Nerup says that “the Glacier Discovery offers a close-up view of glaciers and is an excellent commuter train to other adventures such as hiking, rafting or remote camping.” The Glacier Discovery and Coastal Classic share much of the route. The Glacier Discovery departs from the main train line, travels to Whittier, and then turns around at Grandview. On the Coastal Classic or Glacier Discovery train, mileposts 48 to 50 are filled with glaciers, tunnels and waterfalls. There is also a chance to see black bears. She says, “It’s a truly magical area of our Railbelt.” The entire route is available from mid-May to the end of June.

Hurricane Turn

“A local’s secret is the Hurricane Turn train—a rare flagstop train that caters to locals (and visitors who like seeing the off-grid lifestyle) heading in and out of town for supplies year-round,” says Nerup. “This is the best way to experience Alaskan life from those who live it!” Flagstop trains allow passengers to get on or off at any stop by waving the flag. The Hurricane Turn operates two routes: one for winter and one for summer. Between mid-May and mid-September it runs between Talkeetna & Hurricane Gulch. From October to May it runs every first Thursday between Anchorage, and Hurricane Gulch.

Aurora Winter

As its name implies, the Aurora Winter train only runs in the winter months—and it takes passengers to some of the best places to see the aurora borealis. The train runs weekends and on select weekdays between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Also, flagstop service is available for 50 mile south of Hurricane Gulch. Nerups advises that both the Denali Star trains and Aurora Winter trains should keep an eye on the town of Nenana, located at milepost 412, when traveling. “This is the spot where President Warren Harding drove the golden spike in 1923, to signal the completion of railroad,” says Nerups.

Tickets and Reservations

Alaska Railroad tickets vary in price depending on class, season and passenger age. purchased online. Active or retired military receive an additional discount. Passengers with disabilities, Medicare card holders, seniors 65 and older and Medicare cardholders also get a 50% discount on the Aurora Winter train ticket.

You should carefully read the service descriptions before purchasing your ticket. Some routes have full dining service, while others, such as the Glacier Discovery or Hurricane Turn trains only offer the Adventure Class. Alaska Railroad offers a number of different services. travel packages For those who wish to ride more than one route. Although you can reserve tickets online, you must check in at the train station with your government-issued photo identification to receive your boarding card.

Classification of Services

Alaska Railroad offers two service classes. Adventure Class You can also find out more about the following: GoldStar Service. The GoldStar Service, which is available only on Denali Star and Coastal Classic trains, has a few differences.

You’ll be in for a treat if you ride in one of GoldStar’s bi-level railcars with glass domes. They are always placed at the front of the train. The views are spectacular from the glass-domed windows, and you can take some great photos on the upper level viewing platform. All passengers are seated in this class on the second floor, while the dining room with full service, where you can enjoy your meals, is below. This ticket includes two alcoholic beverages and all soft drinks.

While Adventure Class passengers don’t have glass dome ceilings, they can still enjoy the views through the large picture windows. With your boarding card, you will be assigned a seat. However, you are free to move around the other Adventure Class cars. Bring your own food or purchase a meal from the GoldStar dining area if one is available. (Meal vouchers may be purchased at ticket windows in the depot). There is some sort of dining or bar service on all routes except the Hurricane Turn train.

What to expect

Alaska Railroad’s experience will vary depending on which route and class you select, but a few things will remain the exact same. There is no Wi-Fi and no plugs in your seat. Nerup says that the cell service on trains is limited. “Plan ahead and download what you need later,” he advises. “Airplane mode will save your battery.”

As for her general packing list she offers a few recommendations. Always pack extra supplies such as snacks, a bottle of water, and additional clothing layers to accommodate our varied weather and landscapes. “Portable electronics chargers and power banks are great to have on any trip,” says Ms. She. Also, a camera is a nice addition.

The tour guide program is a standout feature on any Alaska Railroad trip. Nerup explains that the Alaska Railroad High School Tour Guide Program is a program designed to train and recruit young adults for summer positions onboard trains. Passengers can talk to young, educated local staff during their train trip, and they will also be able hear them prepare guests onboard for historical and photogenic areas. You’ll be notified when a bear is spotted, a glacier is approaching, and it’s time to head downstairs for lunch, dinner, or breakfast for Goldstar Service fares.