Alaska Railroad Offers Variety of Train Rides This Summer

From Anchorage to Denali and Seward, travelers have several options to experience the scenic rail journey

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Alaska Railroad is gearing up for its summer schedule, offering a variety of train rides and packages for travelers interested in exploring the state by rail. Passengers can choose from Adventure Class, Gold Star, and Wilderness Express cars, each with different amenities and price points. The railroad also operates trains between Anchorage and destinations like Seward, Whittier, and Denali National Park, allowing visitors to combine train travel with other activities like scenic cruises and hiking.

Why it matters

The Alaska Railroad is a vital transportation link for both residents and visitors, connecting major cities and tourist destinations across the state. As the summer travel season approaches, these train options provide an opportunity for travelers to experience the stunning Alaskan landscape in a unique and comfortable way, without the hassle of driving.

The details

The Alaska Railroad offers several train options for summer travelers. The Adventure Class cars provide basic coach-style seating, while the Gold Star cars feature a full-dome upper deck and include meals. The Wilderness Express cars, originally developed for cruise lines, offer an upgraded experience with all-leather seating and locally-sourced food options. The railroad also operates trains between Anchorage and destinations like Seward, Whittier, and Denali National Park, allowing visitors to combine train travel with other activities.

  • The Aurora Winter Train operates on weekends between Anchorage and Fairbanks.
  • The summer schedule for the Alaska Railroad begins on May 13.
  • Daily service between Anchorage and Seward, as well as Anchorage and Whittier, starts on May 15.

The players

Alaska Railroad

The state-owned railroad that operates passenger and freight services across Alaska.

Holland America Princess

A cruise line that offers package tours including rail transportation and accommodations in Alaska.

Steve Judd

The owner of Alaska Tour and Travel, a company that packages train rides with other activities and accommodations.

Karlyn Wilkie

The vice president of communications for Premier Alaska Tours, which operates the Wilderness Express train cars.

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What they’re saying

“Denali is fantastic, but I always recommend staying two or three days. It's not a day trip.”

— Steve Judd, Owner, Alaska Tour and Travel (adn.com)

“We use as many locally sourced ingredients as we can, including Kahiltna Birch Syrup, reindeer sausage, soups, entrees and desserts.”

— Karlyn Wilkie, Vice President of Communications, Premier Alaska Tours (adn.com)

What’s next

Travelers interested in booking an Alaska Railroad train ride this summer should research the various options and package deals available, and make reservations well in advance to secure their preferred dates and accommodations.

The takeaway

The Alaska Railroad provides a unique and scenic way for visitors to explore the state, with a variety of train options and the ability to combine rail travel with other activities. As the summer travel season approaches, these train rides offer an opportunity to experience the stunning Alaskan landscape in comfort and style.