From glaciers and fjords to the wilds of Denali, discover Alaska's many wonders on three iconic railroad routes: Glacier Discovery, Coastal Classic, and Denali Star

Your Alaskan journey begins today in the state's largest city, Anchorage. Tucked between the Chugach Mountains and the Cook Inlet, this city offers an enticing mixture of vibrant culture and natural adventures. As you arrive, make your own way to your hotel and check in for the first of two nights.

Afterward, your day here is at leisure to explore either the natural or the urban side - or both. You may wish to join an Anchorage trolley tour or wander through downtown's shops, breweries and pretty parks. Historic 4th Avenue is the pinnacle of downtown's charm. Alternatively, you could venture to Chugach State Park. The restaurant scene is brimming with options that cater to every taste, from American restaurants to eateries serving ramen and fresh Alaskan seafood. Overnight Anchorage.

 Boarding a motorcoach this morning, you travel from Anchorage to Whittier. Enjoy a background framed by the Chugach Mountains as you pass through Girdwood at the foot of Mount Alyeska, then continue through the wilderness to Whittier. Here, you join the 26 Glacier Cruise through Prince William Sound.

This unforgettable expedition navigates 150 miles of water, presenting glacier-carved shorelines, stunning fjords and picture-perfect wilderness views. The boat ventures near massive glaciers, so close that you can hear the towering masses of ice crack as they calve and the thunderous sound of them falling into the ocean below. Spot migratory birds soaring overhead and marine life, including sea otters, harbor seals and many species of whales, playing in the water. Keep your eyes on the shores, as bears, mountain goats, moose and other large animals frequently appear. Lunch is served as you cruise, with options including wild Alaskan smoked salmon chowder and vegetable chili.

Return to Whittier following the 5 1/2-hour expedition to board the Glacier Discovery Train on its journey to Anchorage. Overnight Anchorage.

One of North America's most spectacular train rides lies ahead today as you board the Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic Train. Depart Anchorage early this morning with views of the Turnagain Arm and the Chugach Range. The train passes through Girdwood and Grandview before entering the scenic Kenai backcountry. Look over sights otherwise hidden from travelers before Resurrection Bay comes into view as the train arrives in Seward.

The day's adventure continues with a 5.5-hour cruise through Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay. In addition to the exceptional natural scenery, which includes several types of glaciers and coastal rainforests, this region is home to orcas, whales, seals and porpoises, as well as puffins and seabirds. Sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while your captain navigates through the park's most scenic and wildlife-rich areas. Lunch is included as you explore, and because the cruise is fully narrated, you will not miss any of the most impressive sights.

Following the tour, you are transferred to your hotel, where you can relax or find dinner locally. Overnight Seward.

 The day is yours to spend at leisure in the peaceful harbor town of Seward. This seaside destination puts adventure at your fingertips.

Set out on one of the local hiking trails to see glaciers, forests and pristine wilderness expanses. Experienced hikers can even hike onto the Harding Icefield. Staying in town, Seward has a charming Main Street district lined with historical buildings. Explore local art installations or shop the stores for souvenirs. The waterfront trail that connects downtown and the harbor provides an idyllic perspective on boats approaching and departing Seward and the surrounding mountainscapes.

For a more structured day, consider booking an optional excursion, such as kayaking at Bear Lake or, after May 24th, Bear Glacier Iceberg. You could also book a helicopter tour, or a scenic flightseeing excursion with an incredible glacier landing. Overnight Seward.

Experience the best of Seward on this morning's sightseeing excursion. Your guide delves into the fascinating history and breathtaking beauty of the "Gateway to Alaska," and after touring the city, the excursion heads to Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park. The Exit Glacier region is the only part of the park accessible by land, and a short walk along a nature trail takes you to the face of the glacier. As you meander along the well-kept path, you may spot bears, mountain goats or moose, and in the streams, salmon.

Enjoy lunch with a view at Resurrection Roadhouse, and after, the day continues to the Seavey Homestead, home to three-time Iditarod champion Mitch Seavey. Learn about dogsledding and its cultural significance while meeting the dogs at the kennels, then set out on the IdidaRide's Wilderness Dog Sled Ride and Tour, a two-mile wheeled sled ride to Resurrection Mountain and along Box Canyon Creek.

Wrap up your day on the rails, joining the Alaska Railroad's Coastal Classic Train to Anchorage, where you stay for the night. Overnight Anchorage.

This morning's travels take you inland aboard the Alaska Railroad's flagship route, the Denali Star. Your destination is Talkeetna in the picturesque Mat-Su Valley. Soft morning sunlight makes for beautiful views over the Knik Arm as the journey begins. Look over the Chugach Mountains, and as the train nears Talkeetna, mighty Denali breaks on the horizon. Jump right back into the action on arrival with a jetboat ride aboard the McKinley Queen.

Your cruise explores the Talkeetna, Chulitna and Susitna Rivers and the Chulitna River Gorge, weaving through the wilderness with chances to spot eagles overhead and bears along the shore at every turn. Your boat allows you to explore an Alaskan braided river - a series of channels separated by temporary islands.

Following the tour, an included transfer takes you to your hotel for a night in Talkeetna. Overnight Talkeetna. 

Relax with a free morning in Talkeetna, a town whose wild surroundings, boomtown roots and artsy undertones make it a destination like none other. You can explore the downtown region, where original buildings line the streets and shops and art galleries abound. There are plenty of places to grab a cup of coffee or a bite to eat. Continue down to the Talkeetna Riverfront Park to walk on the sandbar and soak in the glorious scenery. Optional flightseeing excursions, including over Denali National Park, are also available at a supplement.

Later this morning, join the Denali Star in traveling to Denali National Park. This route is a stunning presentation of the Alaskan wilderness, with views of the Indian River, Hurricane Gulch's dramatic landscapes and Healy Canyon. And all of this is in addition to the mountainous backdrop the Alaska Range provides. Arrive in the park this afternoon with plenty of time to begin your explorations independently. Perhaps dip your toes into Denali's history and offerings at the Visitor's Center or take a gentle hike amidst the scenery. Overnight Denali.

A day of marvelous untouched panoramas, majestic wildlife and outback adventures lies ahead as you set out into Denali National Park on a narrated bus tour. Your Tundra Wilderness Tour takes to the park's singular road, built atop a rock glacier. Breathtaking views of Denali, the Alaska Range, lakes, and expansive valleys mark the byway with beauty. Enjoy included photo stops at scenic overlooks throughout the route and plenty of animal-spotting opportunities. Alaska's "Big 5" - bear, moose, caribou, wolves and Dall sheep - call these protected lands home and roam freely, so keep your camera ready.

Following the excursion, you are free to continue your day at leisure. You might like to find dinner locally before watching the sun sink down. Summertime departures are lucky enough to witness the amazing phenomena of the Midnight Sun, during which the sun does not fully set, and even during the wee hours of the night, the remarkable landscapes remain bathed in golden light. Overnight Denali. 

With more than 6 million acres of protected land, Denali National Park has no shortage of scenery to captivate you during your free day in the park. Add as much or as little adventure to your day as you would like. The park has incredible hiking trails that you can explore alone or with a ranger. Choose a scenic river float or Denali helicopter tour with glacier landing for a more thrilling way to spend your time (payable locally).

This afternoon, return to the railway station to join the final leg of the Denali Star route to Fairbanks, located in Alaska's Golden Heart. Views of the vast inland tundra punctuate the path to this unique city. A complimentary transfer takes you to your hotel on arrival this evening. Overnight Fairbanks.

 Enjoy a memorable introduction to Fairbanks this morning as you board the sternwheeler Riverboat Discovery to cruise the Chena and Tanana Rivers*. This excursion unveils fantastic scenery at a leisurely pace, allowing you to spot wildlife along the shores and admire the rugged mountain scenery. Expert narration provides insight into Alaska's history, landmarks and ecology during the cruise.

Watch floatplanes land and take off from the water, and enjoy the opportunity to visit a recreation of a traditional Athabascan village to learn about their native heritage and connection to the Alaskan wilderness. Before the cruise concludes, you will also stop at a dog-sledding facility to meet the sled dogs.

The day is then yours to continue exploring Fairbanks independently. Perhaps take a photo underneath the city's iconic antler arch before visiting the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center or the Museum of the North. You could also venture outside the city to Chena Hot Springs. Overnight Fairbanks.

*Please note: Departures after September 2nd instead spend the day on a Fairbanks City Highlights tour by coach.

By land, sea and the iconic Alaska Railroad, the best of Alaska was revealed on this wilderness exploration. Beginning in Anchorage, you saw the massive glaciers and stunning fjords of Prince William Sound, and then in Seward, scenes of Kenai Fjords National Park and Resurrection Bay left a lasting impression. Heading deeper into Alaska, cruising along Talkeetna's rivers, exploring Denali National Park and discovering the beauty of Fairbanks offered a memorable conclusion to this journey.

Upon checking out of your hotel this morning, your expedition through Alaska's cities and wilderness concludes. If you are not ready to head home just yet, speak to a Rail Specialist about extending your stay in Fairbanks with additional nights or activities.

In general, Alaska hotels tend to be more dated and rustic than hotels found in the continental US. Due to the remote nature of the state, and destinations visited on this tour, access to select food items may be challenging or expensive. We recommend packing personal essentials and snacks to bring with you.

Prices are land-only, per person based on double occupancy. Prices are correct at the time of this web page going live; however are subject to confirmation at time of booking. Hotels & Accommodations are subject to change based on availability.

Traversing 656 miles of Alaskan wilderness and connecting destinations that would otherwise remain unreachable, the Alaska Railroad is as essential as it is scenic. The railway was completed in 1923 and today offers five rail lines that follow varying courses between the cities of Seward and Fairbanks. In addition to presenting expanses of wide-open wilderness and rugged mountain peaks during its routes, passengers can soak in vistas of Alaska's most scenic delights, including Resurrection Bay and Denali, from the train's window-lined carriages.

As a major global hub for international travel, Marriott Anchorage Downtown boasts an enviable location in downtown Anchorage and just 5 miles from Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. Whether awaiting your cruise ship to arrive at the nearby port, attending a conference in downtown Anchorage, or taking a day trip to explore the Alaskan countryside, our spacious rooms provide plush beds for a great night's sleep. Picturesque city and mountain views will greet you when you rise. Jump start your morning with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a buffet breakfast at our Cafe Promenade, also open for dinner. Take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel's public spaces, and enjoy the convenience of valet parking. We also feature six event venues, a fitness center and an indoor pool. Our location within walking distance of the bus and train station makes getting around the city a breeze. Join us at Anchorage Marriott Downtown and let accommodations and amenities make your stay a success. 

Located in the heart of downtown Anchorage, Alaska's Hotel Captain Cook is a perfect basecamp for adventure, offering the best cultural, retail and natural highlights just steps from your door. In the mood to stay in? Indulge in one of our four distinctive restaurants, shop for gifts or unique souvenirs in our 12 shops or take in the views of neighboring Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains from any one of our 546 rooms and suites.

The 3-Star Denali Bluffs Hotel is popular with travelers looking for exceptional views of the majestic Alaska Range and Nenana River Canyon. The hotel's views are made possible by its positioning on the slops of Sugarloaf Mountain, just over the entrance to Denali National Park. This location also puts many adventures, including Denali National Park adventures, riding the Alaska Railroad, river rafting, and more, within minutes of guests' rooms.

The inviting main lodge at Denali Bluffs Hotel features a timber-beamed great room bathed in natural light with a stone fireplace and traditional Alaskan art. Visitors can grab a bite in one of the two onsite eateries or a drink in the grill and bar after a long day of exploring and retire to one of the many comfortable guest rooms designed in a cozy Alaskan fashion. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in each room, as is a refrigerator, an en suite bathroom with a hair dryer, a cable television, and coffee and tea-making facilities.

The Grande Denali Lodge brings you genuine Alaskan hospitality, inviting accommodations and spectacular views! Located above the hustle of the highway, our guests consider their stay with us to be a highlight in their journey. The interior design highlights the Alaska Native Heritage of its owners while it offers panoramic views of the surrounding Denali wilderness and the Nenana River canyon.  You'll find the lodge is a very special place where you can truly relax, meet friends, share a meal, or simply take in the beauty all around you.

Directly on the shores of the Chena River in Fairbanks, the 3-Star Pike's Waterfront Lodge makes for an idyllic getaway spot. The rooms here are traditionally decorated, but include modern amenities such as a television, tea & coffee-making facilities, a hairdryer, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The hotel also offers a restaurant, where it is possible to enjoy your dinner outdoors in the summer, a lounge, an aromatherapy steam room, and mini-golf with a putting green. 

Our hotel in the beautiful city of Fairbanks is the 3-Star Springhill Suites. Located a few minutes away from the Chena River and close to the Fairbanks ice museum, this is a wonderful base from which to explore beautiful Alaska. The rooms are air-conditioned throughout and have an attached sitting area, as well as a television, tea & coffee-making facilities, a minifridge, and complimentary Wi-Fi. There is also a fitness center, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. 

Nestled in the Exit Glacier Valley, minutes from both the bustle of Seward and the untamed nature of Kenai Fjords National Park, our lodge is close to local activities yet secluded and serene. 

Perched atop a ridge on the outskirts of town, the 3-Star Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge offers guests unbeatable views of Denali and the surrounding parkland. The lodge includes a restaurant and a lounge, as well as a viewing deck to observe the stunning scenery that encompasses this corner of the world. It is also possible to rent bikes from the lodge (payable locally) and explore the surrounding beauty of Alaska. Each of the 212 guest rooms includes complimentary Wi-Fi, a mini fridge, en suite bathrooms with hair dryers, and a television.

Come to Fairbanks and cruise the great rivers of Alaska! Your three-hour cruise will take you into the heart of Alaska and introduce you to a family who has made the rivers of Alaska a way of life for five generations. You will see a bush floatplane takeoff alongside the boat, visit the home and kennels of the late four-time Iditarod winner Susan Butcher and see her champion sled dogs in action. Be immersed into the ancient Athabascan Indian culture when our Alaskan Native Guides take you on a personalized tour of the Chena Indian Village.