House of travel Canada & Alaska Brochure 2017 | Page 42

Alaska by Rail
The Alaska Railroad spans more than 800
kilometres from the coast to Fairbanks, passing
through alpine forests, coastal regions and
two major mountain ranges. Using the Alaska
Railroad’s four routes is a great way to see some
of the country. There is the Denali Star, the
flagship linking Anchorage to Fairbanks, the
Coastal Classic that winds through the stretch of
wilderness between Anchorage and Seward; The
Glacier Discovery that travels from Anchorage
south to Whittier and the Aurora Winter Train that
travels between Anchorage and Fairbanks for an
unforgettable journey into the land of the Northern
Lights. With two classes of service, GoldStar
Service and Adventure Class, you’ll enjoy large
windows, knowledgeable Alaskan tour guides,
open-air vestibules and onboard dining options.
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Denali Star Coastal Classic Glacier Discovery
The Denali Star is the Alaska Railroad’s
flagship train which links Anchorage to
Fairbanks. Along this route you’ll have
numerous mountain views, including the
incredible Alaska Range. Stops along the
way include Talkeetna, a small town that is
known for its world-class flightseeing and
charming main street and Denali National
Park and Preserve which is a must for anyone
visiting Alaska. You may see the ‘big four’:
grizzlies, moose, caribou and Dall sheep. This
train operates daily from mid-May to mid-
September. This local favourite travels, 184 kilometres
through the stretch of wilderness spanning
from Anchorage to Seward. From Anchorage,
the train winds along Turnagain Arm and
through the backcountry wilderness of
the Kenai Peninsula; massive glaciers and
towering waterfalls can be seen along the way.
Upon reaching Seward, the train arrives on
the shores of Resurrection Bay, offering easy
connections for you to explore Kenai Fjords
National Park. This train operates daily from
mid-May to mid-September. Departing from Anchorage, the Glacier
Discovery train stops at Girdwood and
Portage before heading to the port town of
Whittier – the starting point for exploring
the Alaska Marine Highway and glacier day
cruises. After leaving Whittier you’ll enter
roadless backcountry before arriving at
the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. If you’re
looking for an adventure hop off here to enjoy
hiking, rafting or ice climbing, otherwise stay
onboard for the scenic ride to the Grandview
region. This train operates daily from mid-
May to mid-September.