Alaska Railroad Tours from Fairbanks

Planning an Alaska Railroad journey from Fairbanks can raise a few questions, especially if you're visiting Alaska for the first time. As Alaska travel specialists, we've answered these questions hundreds of times. Here you'll find practical answers about traveling by train from Fairbanks, including journey times, destinations, rail services, luggage and what to expect along the way. Whether you're planning a Fairbanks rail vacation or combining the Alaska Railroad with an Arctic Circle adventure or a self-drive trip, these FAQs will help you plan your journey.

Can I start an Alaska Railroad tour in Fairbanks?

Yes. Our Fairbanks railroad tours are designed to start in Fairbanks and travel south by rail toward Denali National Park, Talkeetna, Anchorage and, on selected itineraries, Seward and the Kenai Peninsula. Some tours also include an Arctic Circle experience before the railroad journey begins.

Where does the Alaska Railroad travel from Fairbanks?

The Alaska Railroad connects Fairbanks with Denali National Park, Talkeetna and Anchorage. From Anchorage, selected itineraries continue south to Seward or west to Whittier for a Prince William Sound glacier cruise. Our Fairbanks-based tours combine these rail routes with hotels, sightseeing and guided excursions.

Can I visit Denali National Park on a railroad tour from Fairbanks?

Yes. Denali National Park is one of the main highlights of our Fairbanks railroad tours. Several itineraries include rail transportation from Fairbanks to Denali, overnight accommodation and a guided or park-based sightseeing experience before continuing south by train.

How long does the Alaska Railroad take from Fairbanks?

Travel times vary by destination. From Fairbanks, the Alaska Railroad takes approximately 4 hours to Denali National Park, about 4½ hours to Talkeetna, and around 12 hours to Anchorage. Selected itineraries can continue from Anchorage to Seward or Whittier. The Alaska Railroad does not offer sleeper cars, so overnight train travel is not available. Actual journey times may vary by season and scheduled service.

What is the difference between Adventure Class and GoldStar Service?

Adventure Class offers comfortable seating in large picture-window cars with access to shared outdoor viewing areas. GoldStar Service includes elevated dome-window seating, an outdoor viewing platform and additional onboard amenities. GoldStar Service is available on selected summer trains and routes.

Do I need to reserve my Alaska Railroad seat in advance?

Yes. Reservations are recommended, particularly for summer travel. Your ticket is for a specific train and travel date, and seating is assigned according to the service and train you have booked.

Can I combine an Arctic Circle tour with an Alaska Railroad trip from Fairbanks?

Yes. Fairbanks is an excellent starting point for an Arctic Circle adventure before continuing south by rail. Selected itineraries include a guided Arctic Circle tour along the Dalton Highway, with options reaching the Yukon River, Coldfoot or the Brooks Range, followed by the Alaska Railroad to Denali and Anchorage.

Can I bring luggage on the Alaska Railroad?

Yes. Checked Luggage: Each ticketed passenger can check up to two pieces of luggage. No single checked bag may weigh more than 50 pounds. Up to two extra bags can be checked for an additional fee.

Carry-On Luggage: Each passenger is allowed one small personal item or daypack to bring into the passenger coach. It must fit under your seat. Standard wheeled airline carry-on rollers are generally too large for the passenger seating area and must be checked.

Checked Baggage Access: You will not have access to your checked bags while the train is moving, so pack all essentials (medications, electronics, valuables, and extra layers) in your small carry-on.

Is food available on Alaska Railroad trains from Anchorage?

Yes. Food and drink service is available on almost all Alaska Railroad passenger trains, with the exception of the Hurricane Turn Train.
Onboard Dining Options are:

Wilderness Café: Available for Adventure Class passengers on all active routes, offering grab-and-go items like sandwiches, salads, warm fare (such as pasta and curry bowls), snacks, and alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.

GoldStar Service: Features all-inclusive sit-down dining in a lower-level dome car dining room, with meals, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. 

Important Payment Note: The trains are completely cashless, meaning all onboard purchases must be made using major credit cards, debit cards, or pre-paid cards. 

Can I bring my own food and drinks on the train?

Yes. Passengers may bring food and non-alcoholic drinks on the Alaska Railroad train.
Food & Snacks: You are welcome to pack your own meals and snacks to eat at your seat. This is especially helpful on routes like the Hurricane Turn Train, which does not offer any onboard food or beverage service. Drinks: You can bring your own water, soda, or other non-alcoholic beverages. You cannot bring or consume your own personal alcoholic beverages onboard. All alcohol must be purchased through the train's licensed bar and dining services.

Is Wi-Fi available on the Alaska Railroad?

Wi-Fi is not generally available throughout the Alaska Railroad network. Mobile phone service is unavailable in most remote areas, so we recommend downloading anything you may need before your journey.

Is the Alaska Railroad a hop-on, hop-off train?

No. Regular Alaska Railroad trains operate on scheduled routes and require a ticket for a specific train and travel date. The Hurricane Turn Train is a special flag-stop service that operates differently from the regular scheduled trains.

Does the Alaska Railroad operate from Fairbanks in winter?

Yes. The Alaska Railroad operates winter service on selected routes, including the Aurora Winter Train. Summer and winter schedules are different, so check the schedule for your travel dates when planning a Fairbanks departure.

Where is the Fairbanks Railroad Station located and How to Get There?

The Fairbanks Alaska Railroad Depot is located at 1031 Alaska Railroad Depot Road, Fairbanks, AK 99701, near downtown Fairbanks. The station provides ticketing, baggage services and a gift shop during the operating season. If you are staying at one of our included Fairbanks hotels, a complimentary transfer to the railroad depot is provided. This makes it easy to get to the station without arranging your own transportation. The Alaska Railroad itself does not provide transfers, but taxis and rideshares are available in Fairbanks. The depot also offers free parking if you are driving yourself to the station. We recommend arriving at the station in plenty of time before departure, particularly if you need to check luggage.