If you are travelling in Alaska and thinking about how to get from Anchorage to Fairbanks, you will probably notice that it is fast and driving is flexible. But there is a third option that often gets talked about for a reason: taking the train.
The train ride between Anchorage and Fairbanks isn’t just transportation. For many people it ends up being one of the most memorable parts of the trip. It is slow, scenic, and very “Alaska” in a way that planes and Highways simply are not.
I will walk you through what the trip is like, when it makes sense to take the train, and what you should know before booking.
The train is officially run by the government; it covers approximately 470 miles, and it depends on the season how much time it will take. We can say that it takes 10 to 12 hours.
If you think this is a long train journey, then you are wrong. This isn’t a commuter train or a bullet train. It is designed so passengers can actually look out the window and enjoy the landscape.
Once you leave anchorage the city fades quickly. You will be able to watch many heart throbbing scenery like Forest, wide river valleys and long wilderness you feel like you are disconnected to the rest of the world because there is no network no roads and also no cell service but here is some peace for you because it is remote and word can’t explain it.
Many times trains also slow down for sightings or scenic areas. There is no guarantee that you can see the animals during these sightings but sometimes you will be able to see some moose, bears and Eagles while travelling in summer months.
Summer: The Denali Star During late spring through early fall, most travelers take the Denali Star. This is the classic sightseeing train people talk about.
The Denali Star train runs daily in peak season and also stops at beautiful places like Talkeetna and Denali. In the summers you can enjoy long daylight hours to see scenery, especially in the months of June and July. This is the train most tourists use, and it is also the one that sells out fastest.
In winter, the Aurora Winter Train Operates on a reduced schedule. The scenery is completely different: snow covered forest, frozen rivers and very quiet landscapes.
Daylight is limited but the winter ride has its own appeal. There will be less people for this train journey with much less disturbance. It feels like you are more local to that place and occasionally people get the glimpse of northern light also.
Adventure class is the standard option. As we all know standard class doesn’t give some features as premium class members but there are very comfortable seats with large windows for sightseeing and you can move freely, for snacks and beverages there is a cafe car on the train which offers both things.
The seats are comfortable, the windows are large, and you can move around freely. There is a cafe car where you can buy food and drinks. For low budget travelers this option is very good.
Goldstar service is the premium service which was offered by the train company. In this service you get the seating upstairs in a dome with glass ceilings, so you can get the full view of your travel journey where it is with windows or with a roof dome. Goldstar Premium service meals and drinks are included and also there is a viewing platform outdoor from where you can step outside for photos. It is costly but every penny is worth it, especially for first time travelers.
You should book a ticket in advance, especially for summer travel. Prices vary many times as demand may increase or decrease.
Goldstar tickets are booked more fastly, because it gives an amazing experience for the travelers. Adventure class has more availability but popular dates still fill up.
You can book directly through FamelyTravel Website by calling through the helpline number which was posted on the website or you can book directly on the website.
Luggage rules are also very good as compared to airlines, it is helpful if you are a traveler.
Driving gives you flexibility but it is a long drive and you have to pay attention to road conditions and wildlife. The only negative part is you cannot fully enjoy the scenery while driving the vehicle.
The train sits somewhere in between. Yes, it is slower but it gives you more time to enjoy the view and if you are travelling with family that’s bingo. It also reduces your stress from long focused driving and not being able to enjoy it fully.
If this is your first trip you would miss the amazing stretches of wilderness and landscapes and many other things also. Flight saves your time but you will miss the fun of train ride as well as good sightseeing.
Most of the time the train takes between 10 and 12 hours, depending upon the weather and many other things.
Yes, but schedules vary by Season. Summer has more frequent service.
For the first-time visitor and photographers, many people feel it is. It also gives you premium services on the train and you are priority for them.
Yes you can Break the Trip and continue on a later train. You have to inform them while booking for any misunderstanding.
It depends, the train is more relaxing and scenic while driving offers flexibility.
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