Best time to visit Alaska

Winter Railroad Trip in Alaska

Ever dreamt of the Polar Express? Try it in Alaska

Best time: October–mid-April

Winter Railroad Trip
Winter Railroad Trip

The Alaskan railroad is something more than just a railway network with trains going from one spot to another. There are plenty of routes and different tours throughout the whole year. Though, the “winter package” excursions are especially interesting.

The peak season is from October until the middle of April. You can choose a one-day trip or even a journey with stops and accommodation for a week; it all depends on your preferences and budget. Explore the Arctic Circle, watch the northern lights, join the famous Iditarod dog sledging race, or just enjoy the majestic landscapes of Alaska!

Though, if you don’t have enough money, just buy a simple ticket from Anchorage to Talkeetna or Seward and enjoy some unforgettable views of the ​Alaskan nature.

Practical info

When is the best time to go on a winter railway trip in Alaska?

The best time to experience a winter railway trip in Alaska is from October to April, when the temperatures are lower and the Alaskan landscapes are at their finest. This period is also known as the peak season for winter railway trips. Visitors can participate in various winter activities, such as watching the northern lights or taking part in a dog sledging race. Show more

Where is the best place to see the northern lights during an Alaskan winter railway trip?

Alaska offers several locations for travelers to marvel at the northern lights spectacle during a winter railway trip. The best locations are Anchorage, Fairbanks, and the Matanuska-Susitna Valley. To provide some of the most awe-inspiring vantage points for the Northern lights viewing during your winter railway trip, the Alaska Railway provides stopovers with private cabins and viewing platforms at scenic locations. Show more

How long does it take to get from Anchorage to Talkeetna or Seward on a winter railway trip?

The journey from Anchorage to either Talkeetna or Seward can be taken via the Alaska Railroad, with both journeys providing excellent views of Alaska's diverse landscape. The Anchorage to Seward journey lasts four hours, while the journey to Talkeetna is four and a half hours in duration. It's worth taking a camera to capture the fantastic views during your winter railway trip. Show more

What are the different winter railway trip packages offered in Alaska?

Alaska Railroad provides an array of winter railway trips, ranging from one-day trips to week-long tours. One-day tour options include the Aurora Winter Train and exploring the Alaskan wilderness, while the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race trip is also available. Winter week-long tours are available and offer stopovers in private cabins at various scenic locations along train routes. Show more

What are the unique experiences that one can have during an Alaskan winter railway trip?

An excellent range of activities is available to the visitors during their winter railway trip in Alaska, which includes dog sledging race, aurora watching, snowshoeing, wildlife viewing, and ice fishing. The exceptional experience of the journey through Alaska's broad railroad routes and the magnificent wintertime panorama with snow-covered mountains, lakes, and rivers will unquestionably provide visitors with incredible memories that will last a lifetime. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin