Header photo credit Ian Merculieff
Today, we start a series on some of the trains of North America.
We will begin in Alaska.
If you’re looking for an adventure of a lifetime, the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery should be at the top of your bucket list. These two scenic rail journeys take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes and breathtaking glaciers Alaska has to offer.
Photo Credit: Glenn Aronwits
Coastal Classic
The Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic is a 114-mile journey that starts in Anchorage and ends in Seward. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the Turnagain Arm, where you may even spot beluga whales, Dall sheep, and other wildlife. The train also takes you through some of the state’s most beautiful forests and rugged mountain ranges, including the Kenai Mountains and Chugach National Forest.
The Coastal Classic runs straight through to the coastal town of Seward, where you can connect to a Kenai Fjords National Park cruise. In addition to the beautiful scenery and wildlife, the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic train itself is a sight to see.
The train features fully-domed railcars that offer stunning, panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. There’s also a dining car where you can indulge in delicious, freshly-prepared meals while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Photo credit: Nandini Prabhakar
Glacier Discovery
If you have more time and want to see even more impressive glaciers, the Glacier Discovery journey is a great option. This journey starts in Anchorage and takes you through some of Alaska’s most spectacular scenery, running about 180 miles round trip down to Whittier, where you’ll see the beautiful Prince William Sound and numerous glaciers.
On the Alaska Railroad Glacier Discovery, the train makes whistle-stops where you can disembark and take a guided tour of the glacier, learn about the unique features and wildlife of the area, and even step onto the ice itself. At the Spencer Glacier stop, you can take a guided float or kayak tour or hike to the glacier’s face, and you’ll pass Bartlett and Trail Glaciers along the way. From Whittier, a Prince William Sound cruise brings you face to face with the magnificent Blackstone Glacier and other tidewater glaciers.
The Glacier Discovery is a seasonal day train with comfortable seating and large windows, so you can take in the wilderness as it rolls by.
No matter which journey you choose, the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery are both experiences you’ll never forget. The stunning scenery, unforgettable wildlife, and the unique opportunity to see some of the most beautiful and largest glaciers in the world make these train journeys special. Plus, the train is a comfortable and relaxed way to see Alaska’s rugged wilderness without worrying about navigating the sometimes treacherous roads on your own.
When you’re ready to explore some of the state’s greatest natural wonders on board the Alaska Railroad, set up a complimentary consultation with me. The Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery journeys are unforgettable, and will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Next week, we will learn about another train in North America, the Denali Star and Hurricane train.