Posted in Alaska Day Trips, Explore July 21, 2021 by

7 Incredible Alaska Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Are you searching for day trips near me in Alaska? Anyone who lives in Alaska knows that the road system can be quite a lofty challenge to tackle. In such a huge state, even a simple day trip can mean spending hours upon end on the wide-open road. But worry not as there is a much-welcomed alternative that will make you happy as can be!

Hop on the railroad and enjoy any of these seven incredible day trips that will lead you to some of the most unforgettable places in the last frontier.

1. Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop – Girdwood
Flickr - Michael Hayes
Flickr - Jessica B.
Developed in an exclusive partnership with the Chugach National Forest Service, this is one of the most popular train excursions in Alaska. The Glacier Discovery Train will lead you to a stop where you can enjoy a well traveled and easily accessible 1.3-mile gravel path that leads from the train tracks to the edge of Spencer Lake. You won't believe the truly spectacular view of Spencer Glacier.

For more information and to book your trip, visit the Alaska Railroad website.
2. Hurricane Turn Train – Indian River Valley
Facebook - Alaska Railroad
Flickr - synapticburn
As one of the last trains in the nation to provide flag stop service, this unique excursion is offered all year long throughout The Last Frontier with slightly more limited offerings during the winter months. Enjoy stops along the way including Talkeetna, Chase, Curry, Sherman, Gold Creek, Twin Bridges, Chulitna, and Hurricane Gulch. It will be one of the best day trips in Alaska you can take.

For more information and to book your trip, visit the Alaska Railroad website.
3. Aurora Winter Train – Anchorage to Fairbanks
Facebook - Alaska Railroad
Facebook - Alaska Railroad
This exclusive wintertime train ride is sure to blow your mind. Head north from Anchorage all the way up to Fairbanks and cross your fingers that you'll see a stunning Northern Lights show along the way. No matter what, you'll be fully submerged into a winter wonderland paradise from start to finish. It's one of the best train excursions in Alaska.

For more information and to book your trip, visit the Alaska Railroad website.
4. Coastal Classic Train – Anchorage to Seward
Facebook - Alaska Railroad
Facebook - Alaska Railroad
After just one ride on this spectacular trip, you'll fully understand why National Geographic Traveler ranked it among their Top 10 Train Rides in North America. Soak in views of the Turnagain Arm and Chugach National Forest as you head south from Anchorage down to Seward on The Kenai on one of the best day trips in Alaska.

For more information and to book your trip, visit the Alaska Railroad website.
5. Denali Star Train – Anchorage to Fairbanks
Facebook - Alaska Railroad
Facebook - Alaska Railroad
As Alaska is home to the tallest mountain in North America, it's no surprise that there would be an enchanting rail excursion focused around this renowned attraction. Enjoy views along the way from Anchorage up to Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali, and the 'golden heart city' of Fairbanks. Get your summer off to a great start by booking one of the best day trips in Alaska today.

For more information and to book your trip, visit the Alaska Railroad website.
6. Grandview Glacier Discovery Train – Anchorage
Flickr - USDA Forest Service Alaska Region
Flickr - USDA Forest Service Alaska Region
Similar to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, this incredible day trip will lead you to some of the most unforgettable places. Start in Anchorage and head south to check out Girdwood, Whittier, Portage, Spencer Glacier, and finally, Grandview. Make sure you have your camera ready because you'll want to snap photos from beginning to end. This is one of the most incredible train excursions in Alaska.

For more information and to book your trip, visit the Alaska Railroad website.
7. White Pass & Yukon Railroad – Skagway
Flickr - Miranda
Flickr - Ted McGrath
This historic train ride will take you on one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life. Enjoy soaking in epic panoramic views of The Last Frontier and the Yukon while you relax in your comfortable onboard accommodations in one of the most unique day trips in Alaska. You can read more about this historic train route in our previous article.

For more information and to book your trip, visit the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway website.

If you’re looking for day trips near me in Alaska, consider one of these incredible scenic train rides. Which one or ones would you like to take? Let us know in the comments!

If you enjoy hiking and you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind trail, read about this one epic hike in Alaska will also lead you straight into another country.

Address: Alaska, USA

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Day Trips Near Me In Alaska

July 27, 2021
Melissa M.

Does Alaska have any train museums? 

Located in Fairbanks, the Tanana Valley Railroad Museum offers exhibits and train rides that show visitors what train travel was like during the gold rush. You’ll see an original steam locomotive that had arrived via steamboat in 1905, a restoration area, and more. Then take a ride aboard the Crooked Creek Whiskey Island Railroad which travels around Pioneer Park and is pulled by another locomotive on the museum’s property. It’s a fascinating museum to visit. You can learn more about this train museum on the website.

What are some of the most unique day trips in Alaska?

Given how Alaska is one of the most unique states in the country, you’d better believe there are unique day trips here! Read our article about some of the most unique day trips in Alaska and start planning your next adventure. Among some of the fascinating places to visit are the Alyeska Resort in Girdwood and Kenai River Brewing Company in Soldotna.

What are some other road trips I can take in Alaska?

The Last Frontier is still a place of discovery and one of the best ways to explore is by taking a road trip along a scenic route. Read our post on road trips in Alaska that will take you to places you will never forget for some ideas. You will be in your car in no time heading out on Denali Park Road, Hatcher’s Pass Scenic Drive, or Old Glenn Highway Scenic Drive.

 

Address: Alaska, USA

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