When it comes to icy adventures, Alaska’s glaciers play the lead role. And, if there’s a front-row seat to this frozen spectacle, it’s undoubtedly on the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train. This scenic train ride takes you on a journey through some of the state’s most stunning landscapes, from the Turnagain Arm’s rugged shores to the majestic peaks of the Kenai Mountains. Along the way, you’ll get to see glaciers, wildlife, and historic towns and enjoy the comfort and service of the Alaska Railroad.
The Glacier Discovery Train
The Glacier Discovery Train departs from Anchorage every morning during the summer and returns in the evening. The train follows the same route as the Coastal Classic Train until Portage, where it branches off to the tiny port town of Whittier. Here, you can disembark and join a glacier and wildlife cruise in Prince William Sound, where you can see tidewater glaciers, sea otters, whales, and more.
Moreover, you’ll experience the thrill of passing through the Whittier Tunnel, the second-longest highway tunnel in North America, shared by vehicles and trains. That’s not all; if you stay on the train, you’ll continue south to the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, a remote area in the Chugach National Forest accessible only by rail. From here, you can explore Spencer Lake and the Spencer Glacier, either on foot or by kayak or raft. You’ll be amazed by the sight of the massive ice wall and the icebergs floating on the lake.
Furthermore, you can join a guided hike or a glacier trek with a local guide, who will share their knowledge and stories about the area. Grandview, the trip’s turning point, is the next stop for the train. As it passes through Grandview’s alpine meadows and the Placer River Valley, you’ll glimpse the route’s most breathtaking landscape. Additionally, you will see two other glacial wonders of Alaska: the Bartlett and the Trail glaciers.
The Train’s Return Journey
You can save time on the way back by getting off at Portage and taking a motorcoach to Girdwood or Anchorage. You can also ride the train back to Anchorage and take in the scenery; you’ll get there in plenty of time for dinner.
The Adventure Class service on the Glacier Discovery Train has big viewing windows, luxurious reclining seats, a dining car, and a shared dome viewing vehicle. You can also go to the open-air vestibules to catch some fresh air and take pictures of the surroundings. Plus, the train has a pleasant and helpful crew that can narrate the journey and address any concerns.
