2026 Alaska by Rail

You’ll arrive in Fairbanks and meet our private shuttle to the hotel.

Those who arrive early will have time to explore downtown Fairbanks, the Chena River walk, and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitor’s center, all within walking distance from the hotel.

In the afternoon we’ll visit the Alaskan Pipeline en route to our welcome dinner at The Pumphouse. Get acquainted with our Trains Magazine special guest, guides and your fellow tour guests while we will enjoy a classic Alaskan meal.

We’ll depart early and enjoy breakfast on the train as we begin our rail journey southward into Denali National Park. Arriving in the heart of the park around noon and transferring to our hotel, where we’ll settle in for a 2-night stay.

In the evening we’ll head to the Alaska Cabin Nite Dinner Theater, which offers a night of fun, festivity and food! We’ll join their heroine Fannie Quigley and an unforgettable cast of characters in this true-to-life Gold Rush tale of adventure in early 1900s Alaska. It’s a great mix of colorful storytelling, spirited music and humor, brought to life by talented performers.

With a full day in the park, we take a chartered Tundra Wilderness Tour, to learn about the history and wildlife of this grand national park, which houses the country’s tallest mountain and over 6 million acres of protected wilderness. Get ready for an amazing journey through epic vistas and rugged, awe-inspiring landscapes.

In the early afternoon, we’ll journey south by rail to the charming town of Talkeetna, founded in 1916 as the headquarters of the Alaska Railroad.

Once there, we’ll check in for a two-night stay at the historic Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, where cozy accommodations and stunning mountain views provide the perfect base for exploring this iconic Alaskan destination.

Today we’ll spend the afternoon on the Hurricane Turn Train, one of the last in the nation to provide flagstop service.

Locals have long loved the Hurricane for access to remote cabins, hunting and fishing, while visitors consider this train the Alaska Railroad’s best-kept secret for a truly authentic Alaskan experience – not to mention the panoramic views at the train’s turnaround point, Hurricane Gulch. On a clear day, we can see Denali towering over the braided Susitna River.

Enjoy some free time in Talkeetna. Guests can use the hotel’s shuttle to visit the historic town at their leisure and explore the many shops and restaurants.

In the late afternoon, we’ll head to the Alaska Railroad depot and board the train to Anchorage. Dinner will be served on the train, and though we’ll arrive to Anchorage by 8:00PM, here in the Arctic that will still be in time for sunset, a guaranteed stunning display.

Today’s journey takes us by rail to Whittier, as we pass through North America’s longest combined vehicle-railroad tunnel—a thrilling passage through rugged Alaskan terrain. The stunning landscapes unfold outside your window, making this more than just a journey—it’s an experience to remember.

After our adventure, we return to Anchorage by bus, giving you a chance to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant charm. The day concludes in style at the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, where you’ll enjoy a two-night stay amid majestic mountains, luxurious accommodations, and the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of discovery.

Our day takes us on an adventure down the Kenai Peninsula to Seward. Breakfast will be served as we view sunrise around the Turnagain Arm.

Upon arrival in Seward,  we’ll enjoy a 6 hour cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park. This cruise explores in-depth the world of whales, wildlife, and glaciers found in the fjords. Our experienced captains will fully narrate your journey and will point out the spectacular sights while providing information on the area’s unique fauna, history, and geology.

After a leisurely morning, we’ll journey to the home of Engine 557 for an exclusive visit to the restoration shop, where guests can watch firsthand the fascinating process of bringing this iconic locomotive back to life.

Following this one-of-a-kind experience, guests will have some free time to relax and prepare for their flights home, before we gather for a memorable farewell dinner to celebrate the incredible adventures of the tour.

Farewell

Breakfast will be included at the hotel.  Depart for your journey home (or elsewhere!) at your leisure. Until next time!