alaska railroad tours 2023

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Alaska Railroad Tours, Luxury Alaska Rail Vacations & Trips

Alaska Railroad Vacations & Alaska Rail Tours & Alaska Train Trips

Alaska Railroad Tours, Luxury Alaska Rail Vacations & Trips | Designed to your distinct travel preferences.

Alaska’s wild beauty, abundant wildlife and colorful culture offer great appeal to those looking to travel off the beaten track on a self drive road trip or alaska rail vacation. alaska railroad is by far the best way to do so, from the rugged mountains of denali national park and the calving glaciers of prince william sound to the wildlife-rich waters of kenai fjords national park . our team doesn't believe in a one-size-fits-all vacations. we offer a variety of activities that will make your trip even more exciting., our best selling alaska land tours & remote lodges.

For the past 22 years our team has been designing and selling dream Alaska land tours and remote lodges. Our team regularly travels throughout Alaska, discovering new adventures that later become our best sellers.

Explore our Alaska Rail & Land Vacations by Category

Whether you're interested in an Alaska train tour, wildlife adventure, tailor made road trip, shore excursion or stay at a luxury remote lodge, we can help you experience Alaska in a way that suits you.

Alaska Northern Lights with Alaska Railroad

Experience Alaska's magical winter season by combining Northern Lights viewing with an Alaska railroad tour.

Alaska Post Cruise Land Tours

Our Alaska Rail Tours connect one extraordinary Alaska experience with the beginning of another, and such is certainly the case with Alaska post-cruise land tours.

Alaska Rail Tours

Browse through our Alaska rail tours and start dreaming of your Alaska Rail Vacation, running from Seward to Fairbanks and passing through Whittier, Anchorage, Talkeetna and Denali National Park.

Alaska Road Trips

Whether you refer to them as Alaska road trips or Alaska self drive tours, planning the perfect itinerary in Alaska can be a tricky task.

Alaska Luxury Lodges

Luxury Alaska Wilderness Lodges, featuring mountaintop havens and wilderness retreats, here are the finest luxury Alaska Remote Getaways.

Alaska Rail Vacations REVIEWS

"Agents were knowledgeable, easy to work with."

Elsie S Dallas, TX

"They were professional and pleasant to work with."

Jemma L New York

"Just a note to tell you how much we enjoyed our unexpected trip. "

Lynne Sydney, Australia

"Alaska by Design created a perfect itinerary for my clients."

Michael Figueriedo Spain

"We are so grateful for the careful planning and ideal itinerary for our vacation."

Wayne Michigan, United States

"They were a pleasure to work with, very knowledgeable and responded timely."

Lori S Austin, TX

"Excellent services!"

Polona Australia

"I enjoyed working with Alaska Rail Vacations"

Haleh M California, USA

"Alaska Rail Vacations were very helpful and had a quick turn around on price quotes."

Tracey Los Angeles, CA

"Nothing was too much trouble for Mandy or Kris when we were planning our holiday."

Anne Mathews Australia

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Best Train Tours

From the most scenic trains in Alaska to the best rides for those short on time.

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• Best Alaska Train Tours

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• Denali Star Train
• Seward Coastal Classic Train
• GoldStar Dome Service

Wilderness Express Dome Rail

Train & bus express checkout.

Transportation Finder

There are three things to consider when picking your best Alaska train tour. First, what route would you like to take? The railroad runs 470 miles from Fairbanks to Seward. Popular Alaska train routes include the Denali Star between Fairbanks and Anchorage with a favorite stop in Denali National Park , the Coastal Classic between Anchorage and Seward , and the Glacier Discovery running roundtrip from Anchorage to Whittier and Grandview. What's the best of the best? Check out our Most Scenic Alaska Train Routes advice page.

Next, what train service are you interested in? The Alaska Railroad , which includes the Adventure Class and GoldStar Dome classes of service, runs the full length of the railway in Alaska. The Wilderness Express and McKinley Explorer are privately operated premium dome train services. The Wilderness Express runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks, while the McKinley Express only travels between Anchorage and Denali Park. To see what each has to offer, please visit our Alaska train comparison page. You can also visit our Best Alaska Train for Me advice page for more amenity details.

Finally, how much time do you have? Although taking the train in Alaska is a wonderfully scenic experience, travel by railway most often takes longer than traveling by road. We usually recommend combining train and motorcoach service to make the most of your time and budget. And for those travelers with less time to play, a train day trip out of Anchorage is a perfect option. You can either head north to Talkeetna near Denali Park or south to Seward near Kenai Fjords . There is also an exciting day trip train option to Spencer Glacier and Grandview .

Many of the best Alaska trains are incorporated into our custom travel packages . To see more, head to our Alaska Trip Finder and search for packages based on travel by train.

Alaska Railroad Denali Star Train

See the sites and go the distance between Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks aboard the Alaska Railroad's flagship train route. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic Train

Ride between Anchorage and Seward on what many describe as the most scenic train route in Alaska. See the Turnagain Arm, several glaciers, and blue mountain lakes on the way. Learn More >

Alaska Train Day Trips

Discover train adventures perfect for visitors with an extra day or two in Anchorage. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad GoldStar Dome Service

An upgrade from the standard Alaska Railroad train service, the luxury GoldStar service offers reserved upper-level seating beneath dome windows plus all-inclusive meals. Learn More >

Alaska Railroad Adventure Class Service

Ride the Alaskan rails in Adventure Class, the Alaska Railroad's standard class service offering reserved seating and fantastic views at value-oriented rates. Learn More >

Splendid views from dome windows, reserved upper-level seating, and delicious food await passengers aboard this deluxe train service traveling between Anchorage and Fairbanks. Learn More >

McKinley Explorer Dome Train

Travel from Anchorage to Denali National Park and back aboard this specialty Alaska train service offering reserved dome seating and a full-service dining room. Learn More >

The quickest and easiest way to book Alaska train and bus transportation. Compare all train suppliers, view live inventory, rates, schedules, and get an instant confirmation. Lowest rates and satisfaction guarantee. Learn More >

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Showcasing the best Alaska Train Trips with Alaska Railroad Tours & Vacations

Alaska Train Trips & Luxury Alaska Tours & Vacations

Alaska Train Trip & Luxury Alaska Train Tours & Vacations (2)

Alaska Train Trip & Luxury Alaska Train Tours & Vacations (3)

Get ready for your ultimate Alaska railroad vacation with Alaska Train Trips, your go-to provider for tailor-made tours. Our team have been exploring Alaska for over 22 years and crafting dream vacations with local expert insight.

Imagine yourself embarking on a journey of a lifetime, traveling from Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad and discovering the unspoiled wilderness of Denali National Park , witnessing the awe-inspiring Northern Lights in Fairbanks , visiting the Kenai Peninsula and Kenai Fjords National Park for world-class trophy sport fishing, taking in breathtaking glacier and wildlife cruises, and bear viewing, or experiencing the majestic calving glaciers of Prince William Sound . Our team doesn't believe in a one-size-fits-all vacations. We offer a variety of activities that will make your trip even more exciting.

Best Alaska Vacations 2023

From glaciers to bear viewing, breathtaking trips with Alaska Railroad to unique wilderness lodges or the northern lights of the Arctic, Alaska has something for everyone.

Alaska Train Trips REVIEWS

"Amazing Vacation ! Well Planned"

Stephanie L Chicago, IL

"Excellent service. Clients enjoyed a wonderful experience!"

Tina M Los Angeles, CA

"Just a note to tell you how much we enjoyed our unexpected trip. "

Lynne Sydney, Australia

"They were professional and pleasant to work with."

Jemma L New York

"I enjoyed working with Alaska Train Trips a division of Alaska by Design"

Haleh M California, USA

"Amazing Service ! I use this company all the time for my clients"

Janie P Austin, TX

"Loved this vacation!"

Ina Dominican Republic

"So Knowledgeable and amazing service"

Jeff Los Angeles, CA

"We are so grateful for the careful planning and ideal itinerary for our vacation."

Wayne Michigan, United States

"Alaska Train Trips created an excellent trip. Well planned out!"

Paul Williams Canada

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Call +1 604 639 9868 World or Email us

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Alaska by Rail Tour

Experience the entire rail line of the alaska railroad route system and the mountain and glacier wilderness landscapes of alaska. all aboard for adventure.

Photo Journey:

Home » Tours » Alaska Railroad Tours » Alaska by Rail Tour

Tour Overview

Perfect for rail enthusiasts of all ages, you will travel the entire Alaska Railroad system in just nine days! This Alaska by Rail Tour includes travel between Anchorage to Seward, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks. Discover local highlights at each stop along the route and learn what living like a real Alaskan is like. Traveling by rail in Alaska ensures a relaxed pace for sightseeing across scenic vistas. The itinerary includes a host of fun, from a cruise through the majestic waters of Kenai Fjords National Park to exploring Alaska’s great interior region.

This adventure tour by train moves at a relaxed pace and includes many major Alaskan highlights. Enjoy a Kenai Fjords glacier and wildlife cruise, an exhilarating jet boat adventure on a remote river in Talkeetna, and explore Denali National Park with a guided Tundra Wilderness Tour. The grand finale is a visit to Fairbanks with its rich Gold Rush era history, including a classic sternwheeler river cruise.

What's Included

• 9 nights of hotel accommodation
• Train from Anchorage to Seward (round trip), Anchorage to Talkeetna, Talkeetna to Denali, and Denali to Fairbanks
• Scheduled flight from Fairbanks to Anchorage
• 6-hour Kenai Fjords National Park cruise with lunch
• 2-hour wilderness jetboat tour in Talkeetna
• 4-6 hour bus tour into Denali National Park (depending on weather and road conditions)
• Half-day sightseeing tour of Fairbanks
• 3-hour Sternwheeler riverboat tour
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included

Transfers in Anchorage, meals, optional excursions, and gratuities.

Tour Itinerary

All aboard for an adventure of a lifetime on one of the most scenic train routes in the world!

Anchorage Arrival

Arrive in Anchorage and transfer to your hotel on own.  Anchorage is Alaska’s largest city, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and Cook Inlet. Anchorage provides an excellent start to your Alaskan vacation and offers an abundance of shopping, cultural attractions, and a great selection of restaurants.  Overnight in Anchorage.

Anchorage to Seward

Very early this morning, transfer on your own to the Anchorage rail depot to board the Alaska Railroad to Seward (train departure at 6:45am) This scenic journey takes you along Cook Inlet and into the glacier filled Kenai Mountains. Upon arrival in Seward the rest of the day is at your leisure. The Alaska SeaLife Center, a world-class marine research facility funded by the Exxon Valdez oil spill settlement, is recommended as well as adding a dog sledding tour or guided sea kayaking excursion (see Tour Add-ons). Overnight in Seward.

Seward to Anchorage

This morning you will depart on a 6-hour cruise of Kenai Fjords National Park.  The park boasts abundant wildlife, alpine and tidewater glaciers, and breathtaking scenery.  As you cruise through Resurrection Bay keep watch for Stellar sea lions, harbor seals, puffins, eagles and whales. You will also cruise along the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge, home to a large variety of birds, on your way to either the Holgate or Aialik Glacier.  Spend some time in front of the glacier for a chance to watch ice calve off into the ocean with a thunderous splash! A lunch is served on-board.  Following your cruise meet the Alaska Railroad for the return to Anchorage.  Arrival is approximately at 10:15pm where you transfer to your hotel on your own.  Overnight in Anchorage.

Anchorage to Talkeetna

This morning transfer to the rail station to board the Alaska Railroad bound for Talkeetna.  From the Talkeetna depot transfer to your hotel by courtesy shuttle or on your own.  On clear days the Talkeetna area has awe-inspiring views of Denali, North America’s tallest peak. This afternoon you will embark on a 2-hour jet boat adventure aboard the Talkeetna Queen.  Cruise to a wilderness site where you will take a leisurely 1/4 mile nature walk to an authentic trapper’s cabin, complete with original furnishings.  See how trappers lived in “Bush” Alaska at the turn of the century.  Your guide will display raw furs from the local area, demonstrate trapping methods, and acquaint you with the wildflowers and plants that grow in abundance here.  Along the river you will have the opportunity to look for bald eagles, beavers, and possibly even moose and bears.  Overnight in Talkeetna.

Talkeetna to Denali National Park

This morning, relax or take an optional excursion. At 11:20am, depart Talkeetna and travel aboard the Alaska Railroad to Denali National Park. The afternoon is free in Denali for optional tours such as river rafting, hiking, and exploring on your own. Tonight we can also recommend the delicious salmon dinner and amusing antics served at the Cabin Nite Dinner Theatre Show (see Tour Add-ons). Overnight near the Denali park entrance.

Denali National Park

Today depart on a narrated bus tour into Denali National Park.  As you travel through the pristine wilderness, look for wildlife, such as bears, caribou, and moose, as well as views of the Mountain. Your experienced driver/guide will provide commentary.  The tour is approx. 4-6 hours long and takes you approx. 30 – 43 miles into the park, depending on weather and road conditions. The rest of the day is free for optional tours, such as river rafting and flightseeing tours (see Tour Add-Ons). Overnight near the Denali park entrance.

Denali National Park to Fairbanks

This morning you have time to participate in optional tours. In the afternoon, depart Denali on the Alaska Railroad for Fairbanks. On board the train you will have the opportunity to purchase dinner, before your evening arrival in Fairbanks scheduled for approximately 8:00pm.   Transfer to your hotel via courtesy shuttle or on your own.  Overnight in Fairbanks.

Today, enjoy a narrated sightseeing tour, bringing you to the highlights of Fairbanks. Immerse yourself in life-sized exhibits of traditional Alaska Native culture at the Morris Thompson Cultural Center. Then stop at a viewpoint for the Trans-Alaska Pipeline where your guide will explain the astonishing engineering of the 800-mile pipeline and Alaska’s oil industry. Next, explore the University of Alaska Museum of the North with exhibit galleries on Alaska’s wildlife, art and natural history (on days when the museum is closed you will visit the Antique Auto Museum instead). It’s Christmas year-round in the nearby town of North Pole where you will visit the Santa Claus House and may even get to meet Santa and his reindeer. Additionally, you will embark on a sternwheeler cruise on the Chena River. Along the route you will watch a bush plane take off, see a champion line of sled dogs, and learn about Native Athabascan culture at Chena Village. Overnight in Fairbanks.

Fairbanks to Anchorage

Today you will transfer via hotel courtesy shuttle to the Fairbanks Airport for a scheduled flight to Anchorage.  The flight is typically in the afternoon / early evening. Flight time is approximately 55 minutes. Transfer in Anchorage on own or via courtesy shuttle. Overnight in Anchorage.

Anchorage Departure

Depending on your departure flight, you might have some free time for some souvenir shopping or additional excursions such as a guided hike in Chugach State Park.  You will transfer to the airport on your own to meet your departure flight.

Dates & Rates

To complete this reservation we will need for each person: Full name including middle name(s), gender and date of birth.

Our Standard Program Includes:

2 and 3 star hotel accommodations..

The program will include a combination of hotels or motels that are considered moderate to standard tourist class. Please be aware not all hotels have shuttle services.

Standard train car seating on all rail services (reserved seats).

If you would like to book the standard program but with upgraded rail seating, the option and surcharge will be listed when you save to your cart.

Our Upgraded Program Includes:

* 3 and 4 star hotels (best available) wherever possible..

The program will include standard rooms at this category of hotel where possible. Alaska has very limited hotel choices in remote areas and small towns. The properties will typically offer a wider range of services such as a full-service restaurant, room service and perhaps a pool or spa facilities. Please be aware the upgraded accommodations in downtown Anchorage do not have hotel shuttle services. Many of the upgraded hotels also offer guaranteed view rooms for additional cost. If you would like a specific room type, in addition to the upgraded program, please ask us about availability and cost difference.

Deluxe dome train car seating between Anchorage, Denali and Fairbanks, or Anchorage and Seward.

All journeys between Anchorage and Whittier are in standard seating as deluxe dome cars are not available on that route.

Contact us to book this Tour.

Thank you for your interest in this tour! At this time, it is not currently available to book online. Please feel free to continue to peruse our website for more Alaska travel ideas. If you would like options and information from our team of Alaska experts, please call 1-866-317-3325 or fill out the form below.

• * First Name: *
• * Last Name: *
• Questions or Special Requests:
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Tour Add-ons

Browsing optional excursions for the alaska by rail tour :.

Denali Flightseeing Experience from Talkeetna

Length: 1 hours

Starting at: $331 / pp

This flight tour from Talkeetna takes you within six miles of Denali’s 20,310-foot summit. As your flight departs Talkeetna, you see how the last Ice Age has shaped Alaska’s landscapes. Moments later, you enter a world of rugged high mountain […]... Browse itinerary

Denali Highway 4×4 Jeep Excursion

Length: 4 hours

Starting at: $179 / pp

This guided Denali Highway Jeep, 4×4 day tour, allows you to explore the scenic Denali Highway, just south of Denali National Park. Since driving the Denali Highway is prohibited by most rental vehicle companies, this exclusive excursion provides access to […]... Browse itinerary

Thank you for the beautiful trip you organized. The route was beautifully thought out, the suggested itinerary worked well, all the hotels and reservations were expertly handled. We were grateful for your expertise and for helping us select different activities for different members of our group.

Moshe | Facebook

Related Historical Sites Tours

All Alaska Classic Self Drive Tour

Duration: 15 days

Starting at: $3649 / pp

Explore three of Alaska's National Parks: Denali, Wrangell - St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords. Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout. Travel on four designated National Scenic Byways showcasing Alaska's natural beauty with its jagged mountain peaks, lush alpine meadows,... Browse itinerary

Circle Alaska Adventure Tour

Duration: 12 days

Starting at: $3139 / pp

Ride the Alaska Railroad, explore Denali National Park, search for gold, meet a sled dog team, and much more! Travel abroad on the Alaska Railroad to Denali and Fairbanks and by car to Valdez, Seward, and Anchorage. We... Browse itinerary

Alaska National Parks Guided Bus Tour

Duration: 8 days

Starting at: $2769 / pp

The Alaska National Parks tour is a guided Alaska group tour by bus and by the Alaska Railroad featuring two amazing iconic parks: Denali National Park and a cruise into Kenai Fjords National Park! Enjoy stunning wilderness scenery... Browse itinerary

Relax Alaska

Duration: 11 days

Great for travelers looking to explore Alaska at a relaxed pace. This tour starts in Anchorage and combines travel by train and motor coach between Seward and Fairbanks, ending with a scheduled flight from Fairbanks returning to Anchorage.... Browse itinerary

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Alaska Train Vacations and Luxury Alaska Train Tours with Alaska Railroad

Browse through our selection of handcrafted Alaska train tours and luxury Alaska train vacations combing the iconic Alaska Railroad from Seward to Fairbanks. 

On a relaxing and scenic journey taking in whittier, anchorage, talkeetna and denali national park en route, our alaska railroad tours offer an unparalleled window into alaska’s backcountry “soul” and include the "must-do" excursions and wildlife viewing tours. , all our alaska land & rail tours include alaska railroad's luxury goldstar rail cars, which feature plush, upper-level seating, an outdoor viewing platform and all your meals and drinks. .

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Alaska By Design REVIEWS

"We want to thank you for the wonderful job you did in setting everything up, and also for your courteous assistance and recommendations along the way. "

Nick Florida, United States

"Excellent trip. Well planned out!"

Paul Williams Canada

"Just a note to tell you how much we enjoyed our unexpected trip. "

Lynne Sydney, Australia

"Alaska by Design created a perfect itinerary for my clients."

Michael Figueriedo Spain

"Agents were knowledgeable, easy to work with."

Elsie S Dallas, TX

"They were professional and pleasant to work with."

Jemma L New York

"Nothing was too much trouble for Jennifer or Karen when we were planning our holiday."

Anne Mathews Australia

"Alaska By Design was very helpful and had a quick turn around on price quotes."

Tracey Los Angeles, CA

"Excellent services!"

Polona Australia

"Fabulous Alaska!"

Ann McKinnon Australia

"It was good that you do Nome as many do not"

Wendy A Australia

"I enjoyed working with Alaska by Design Absolute Experts "

Haleh M California, USA

"Excellent service. Clients enjoyed a wonderful experience!"

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Visit Denali National Park by Train

Embark on your alaska tour.

Gray Line Alaska offers a wide array of options from multi-day Alaska tours with transportation, lodging and activities to sightseeing day trips lasting 2 to 10 hours. For over 70 years, Gray Line Alaska has proudly offered the best in Alaska vacations. We handle the details of your itinerary so you can focus on exploring the Great Land.

Our vacation packages will create unforgettable memories whether you’re arriving on your own or booking a pre- or post-cruise vacation. Gray Line Alaska’s diverse travel options allow you to see the best of Alaska. For a signature Alaska experience, choose a train tour to Denali National Park, following the famed Alaska Railroad route with scenic vistas of mountains and rivers along the way. Abundant wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and a host of activities await!

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Explored Planet

Add These Scenic Train Rides In The US To Your Bucket List

Posted: November 21, 2023 | Last updated: November 22, 2023

Every day, over 87,000 passengers ride an Amtrak train in the U.S. Because the popularity of trains is only growing, they aren't going anywhere. Trains don't only get you to your destination quickly, but they also provide stunning views of the landscape that car drivers can't see.

If you want to explore America, board a train that provides one-of-a-kind views of the natural habitat. From the Grand Canyon to the glaciers of Alaska, these trains give you a relaxing and exciting peak of the country. Definitely add these U.S. train rides to your bucket list!

The Coast Starlight From Los Angeles To Seattle

Since 1971, the Coast Starlight has sent people from southern California through Oregon and Washington. The train glides next to the Pacific Ocean for 30 to 35 hours. Passengers can see Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, Mount Shasta, and the Cascade Range.

Along with great views, the Coast Starlight offers dining and large, comfortable seats. The train offers four menu options, and some passengers can even bring their pets. If you want to see the major cities of the West Coast, travel on the Coast Starlight .

The Summit Excursion Across Alaska

The Summit Excursion travels down the White Pass Yukon Railroad, which rises 2,865 feet through the mountains of Alaska. Passengers ride in old cars that date back to the Klondike Gold Rush, and they see glaciers, waterfalls, tunnels, and historical sites throughout the state.

Since Alaska gets so cold, you can sightsee within the warm train. But if you want some outside activity too, you can book a train ride and bike ride package, or a train ride and bus trip. The Summit Excursion is a well-rounded view of Alaska.

Cape Cod Central Railroad In Massachusetts

The Cape Cod Central Railroad sends tourists across the natural wonders of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. For two hours, passengers can see cranberry bogs, salt marshes, and sand dunes. The train stops for a Sunday brunch or a five-course dinner meal, depending on which ride people book.

Throughout the 27-mile train ride, a narration plays that guides passengers along the route. Tourists can learn about the natural habitat and history of Massachusetts, with views that you can only see from the tracks. If you're interested, remember that Cape Code Central Railroad only runs on certain dates.

Mount Washington Cog Railway Through New Hampshire

In the middle of New Hampshire, the highest peak in the American Northeast, Mt. Washington, tours 6,288 feet into the air. During the late 1860s, engineers built the first mountain-climbing train in the world, which became Mount Washington Cog Railway .

The three-hour train ride cuts through New Hampshire State Park and panoramic views of five other states. If the weather is clear enough, you can even see Canada! An onboard tour will direct your attention to the prettiest sights. For breathtaking views of the snow, board the train in winter.

Grand Canyon Railway In Arizona

If you want a scenic journey through one of the seven wonders of the world, hop on the Grand Canyon Railway . The train passes centuries-old rail cars that have been restored to reflect the Wild West. The railway partners with the Grand Canyon Hotel, where visitors can stay after the ride.

Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway has taken tourists through the deserts, pines, and prairies around the Grand Canyon. You can reserve your car and food ahead of time and enjoy musicians along the ride.

The Southwest Chief Throughout Southern America

There's no better tour of Southwest and Midwestern America than the Southwest Chief. Covering 2,265 miles, the train crosses eight states from Chicago to Los Angeles. Passengers can view the red cliffs of Sedona, the plains of Kansas, the Grand Canyon, and the famous Mississippi River.

The Southwest Chief runs for over 40 hours and provides lounge cars, sleeping cars, and onboard dining. From the train, you can see modern farmers and ancient missions alike. It's no wonder that celebrities have been riding the Southwest Chief since the 1930s!

The Pacific Surfliner, Southern California

As its name suggests, the Pacific Surfliner glides along the California coastline of the Pacific Ocean. The train rides from San Louis Obispo (above Santa Barbara) down to San Diego, and it hugs the coast the entire time. If you travel at sunset, you'll get a show!

If you want to visit California Disneyland in Anaheim, the Surfliner offers deals for anyone who wants to tour the Happiest Place on Earth. If not, you can explore the entirety of southern and mid-California with food and drinks included.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Through Colorado

If you want to explore Colorado through the eyes of 19th-century gold and silver miners, hop on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad . The locomotive zigzags through 64 miles of forests, the San Juan mountains, and the border of New Mexico. At its highest point, the train climbs 10,015 feet up a mountain! (Don't worry; it's only a 4% rise.)

If you ride in the deluxe parlor car, you'll see that the coach glimmers with Victorian design and a golden shimmer. Keep your eyes out, and you may spot some elk or bears among the aspen trees.

The California Zephyr From Illinois To California

Do you want to see abandoned mining towns from the 1840s Gold Rush? If you buy a ticket for the California Zephyr , you can see all the notable ghost towns from Chicago to Denver to San Francisco. On this train, you can witness seven states' worth of history in under two hours.

The California Zephyr offers four-day packages where you can catch the train leaving from different stations. The cars offer several service rooms, roomy seats, and awe-inspiring views. You can't catch a better view of the Rocky Mountains!

The Empire Builder From Chicago To Portland

Amtrak's Empire Builder Train follows the adventures of Lewis and Clark. Since 1929, the Empire Builder has traveled from Chicago to Portland and Seattle. Passengers explore the Mississippi River, Minneapolis, and the North Dakota plains in the same order as Lewis and Clark did.

The Empire Builder travels north through Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and the tip of Idaho. Passengers see forests, mountains, and Montana's Glacier National Park. Plus, the train offers full family bedrooms for those who choose to explore 2,200 miles of the American wilderness.

The Strasburg Railroad In Pennsylvania

The Strasburg Railroad has operated since 1832, making it one of America's oldest railroads. The short, 45-minute train ride takes visitors through the Amish countryside of Pennsylvania. The trains mirror authentic steam locomotives, with pumps cars and conductors dressed as 19th-century employees.

The Strasburg slices through Pennsylvania's industrial heart, filled with rolling hills and farms that once fed the entire state. The trip offers "train robbery" and "murder mystery" rides, complete with full performances that transport passengers back to 1934. At its cheapest, Strasburg Railroad only costs $15!

The Napa Valley Wine Train, Northern California

Hundreds of vineyards dot Napa Valley, an area that stretches north of San Francisco, California. If you're a wine tasting fan, you can explore the most beautiful vineyards in the country through the Napa Valley Wine Train . The train stops by several wineries for passengers to disembark and have some fun!

The Napa Valley Train also offers a unique murder mystery ride. If you sign up, you'll ride on an antique train and solve a "murder" where you may have to hide your identity from fellow dinner guests. It's a unique train ride to be sure!

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Check out these new releases from Alaska musicians and bands

We are almost truly feeling spring in Southcentral, and there’s nothing better to celebrate a new Alaska season than new Alaska music. This has already been a fertile 2024, with some outstanding releases and plenty more coming soon. Here’s a look at some of the best of the year up to this point and a few that dip back into 2023.

Josh Fortenbery's “No Such Thing as Forever”

Josh Fortenbery

Juneau’s Josh Fortenbery has evolved into one of the state’s most formidable songwriters, as evidenced in his newly released album “No Such Thing as Forever.” The album delivers a lush country/bluegrass sound and sharp lyricism, from the starkly reflective ”Heirlooms” to “Sewing the Same Seam,” a toe-tapper that thematically threads inertia and aspiration.

Saucy Yoda's “Who They Are"

Melodie Langer, aka Saucy Yoda, dropped “Who They Are” last month. In typical Saucy style, the album is full of pop fun, frivolity and cutting commentary, including from “Pickles,” a song about the service industry: “Forget you with your wants and your needs, I don’t have time to walk the line for more Parmesan cheese.”

Hilary Gardner's “On the Trail with the Lonesome Pines”

Hilary Gardner

Gardner is based in New York but grew up in Wasilla. Her new release “On the Trail with the Lonesome Pines” sits at the crossroads of jazz, country and swing. Gardner’s velvet voice makes the trail less bumpy as she guides the listener through a selection of prewar ballads and cowboy songs.

“T.O.I.L.” by The Forest That Never Sleeps

The Forest That Never Sleeps

The Forest That Never Sleeps, the solo project by Anchorage musical dynamo Kat Moore, recently released “T.O.I.L.” The 10-song album was recorded nearly a decade ago with Chad Reynvaan at Wattage Studio. The record features Moore on piano delivering vocal performances that shift between rousing and restrained.

Spaffdaddy's “Dyecaster”

Anchorage’s Mark Spafford has been a regular on the blues scene for years as a member of The Unknowns. His first solo album as “Dyecaster” was recorded in Austin and released under his pseudonym Spaffdaddy. The record includes plenty of heavy hitters, like Joey Fender on drums, and features classic blues and rock riffs and themes.

"Too Much" by Ava Earl

Alaska folk-pop favorite Ava Earl released “Too Much,” her second full-length album, establishing an evolution of her sound. Still maintaining her pop sensibilities and natural delivery, Earl’s albums takes on a bit more of an indie-rock vibe. “Jealous of Her” is a standout, slightly dreamy with cutting lyricism.

"Country" by Medium Build

Medium Build

Nick Carpenter has been busy on the road with a worldwide Medium Build tour. But that hasn’t stopped the Anchorage singer-songwriter from releasing new material. Just last week, Medium Build released “ Country ,” a 12-song record. He’d already released the video for one of songs, “Cutting Thru the Country,” last month.

Casey Smith Project's “Red Lights & Whiskey”

Casey Smith Project

The Casey Smith Project released a full-length album, “Red Lights and Whiskey,” last year. But the Fairbanks group hasn’t stopped, putting out a pair of singles since. The most recent of those, “Confess My Love,” has a little Motown feel at the intro and evolves into a raucous rocker, featuring Smith’s signature searing vocal throughout.

Gregory Rhodes' “The Dearly Departed and the Recently Returned”

Gregory Rhodes

Anchorage musician Gregory Rhodes recorded a collection of original songs last year entitled “The Dearly Departed and the Recently Returned.” Recorded at his own home studio, Rhodes’ album spans a number of genres, but the melodic and meticulous “Good Medicine” is a highlight of the release.

Singles and shows

Songwriter Keeley Boyle has released a vibey new single called “Inviting.“ Boyle, who has a soon-to-be-released EP of the same name, grew up in Kenai and is based out of Nashville. James Glaves , the Anchorage producer/artist who releases music as Glaves, released multiple singles in the second half of last year, including the infectious “Dance Machine.” L.A.-based Fairbanks artist Emily Anderson released the beautifully reflective and wistful ”30th Birthday” last month. Anderson is one of the featured artists in the season finale of Parlor in the Round on Thursday at Bear Tooth Theatrepub.

Rock trio SunDog is in the midst of a West Coast tour that included another stint at Treefort Music Fest. The Anchorage group last month released a new single, “Spinning Out,” which drives with a soaring hook. Anchorage band Wiley Post also released a new single last month. “Sundays” has long been a favorite of the band’s live sets, but the recording highlights their knack for dynamics with a slow burn.

Mark Ward relocated to Washington but was a longtime stalwart of the Alaska music scene with Last Train and Ryebender. Last year he released “Key of E,” a collection of songs that features Alaska musical friends and former co-conspirators like Aaron Benolkin and Chad Reynvaan. The album’s opening track, “Missing,” is about his departure from Alaska.

Alaska-rooted duo Maeve & Quinn relocated to Chicago many years ago, but twin sisters Maris and Bryce O’Tierney continue to make music, most recently the album “Another Door.” The duo created a video for the album’s lead song, “Stuck Inside,” a COVID-era composition that addresses the uncertainty of the time and dreams for a brighter future.

(If you’re an Alaska artist or musician with a new work or project, email Chris Bieri at [email protected] with the details.)

Chris Bieri

Chris Bieri is the sports and entertainment editor at the Anchorage Daily News.