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Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Anchorage to Fairbanks One Way

59 Reviews 4.81 out of 5 stars Based on 59 reviews collected by Cool Alaska and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 98% of reviewers | Anchorage, USA

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On average, this is booked 163 (150) days in advance.

12 hours (approx.)
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Instant confirmation
Offered in: English

Overview

Experience the splendor of winter in Alaska from the comfort of a warm railcar, complete with comfortable seats, large picture windows and onboard dining. The Aurora Winter Train travels between Anchorage and Fairbanks, making the northbound 12-hour journey on Saturdays, as well as select mid-week departures (Tuesdays and/or Thursdays) December through March. Flagstop service is provided along the 50-mile stretch of roadless backcountry south of Hurricane Gulch.

While the Aurora Winter Train travels the same stretch of tracks as the summer Denali Star Train, the views are strikingly distinct; the vibrant colors of Alaska’s summer landscape give way to the quiet serenity of pristine snow.  On a clear day, a spectacular view of Denali rises into view above the Susitna River. And anywhere along the tracks, a watchful eye may be rewarded with the sight of a moose in the wild.

What's Included

  • Optional dining and snack bar
  • Comfortable reserved seating in non-smoking cars
  • One-way rail transportation from Anchorage to Fairbanks
  • Lodging in Anchorage or Fairbanks
  • Tours and activities in Anchorage or Fairbanks
  • Transportation to depot in Anchorage or after arriving in Fairbanks
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

411 West 1st Avenue
Anchorage, AK 99501, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Fairbanks
AK, USA

What To Expect

The route spans two of Alaska’s five geographic regions – Southcentral and Interior Alaska. Traveling between Anchorage and Talkeetna, the train crosses the Knik River with the Chugach Mountains as a backdrop. Just south of Talkeetna, watch for views of Denali rising high above the Susitna River. North of Talkeetna, the tracks veer away from the road system and into the backcountry Hurricane area; this region offers views of the snaking Indian River, the occasional remote cabin and the expansive sight of Hurricane Gulch from the top of a 296-foot bridge. South of the Denali National Park, Broad Pass offers majestic views of the Alaska Range in all directions. North of the Denali National Park, the train winds along Healy Canyon, following the curves of the Nenana River below. 
• Depart Anchorage at 8:30 am
• Arrive Fairbanks at 8:00 pm
• Explore Fairbanks on your own, accommodations booked separately and at own expense
• (Option for accommodations or additional rail transportation - to be scheduled directly with Alaska Railroad after booking)Snack bar and optional dining available for purchase.

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Anchorage to Fairbanks One Way?

A: This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

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Activity code: C-48944P11

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.81
59 reviews

Average 4.81 out of 5 stars based on 59 traveler reviews collected by Cool Alaska and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
49
4 stars
9
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
0

Loading Options
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 163 (150) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Optional dining and snack bar
  • Comfortable reserved seating in non-smoking cars
  • One-way rail transportation from Anchorage to Fairbanks
  • Baggage services
  • Lodging in Anchorage or Fairbanks
  • Tours and activities in Anchorage or Fairbanks
  • Transportation to depot in Anchorage or after arriving in Fairbanks
  • These options can be booked independently or through Alaska Railroad directly after booking.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Infants (0-1) may be added to a reservation as lap children (not requiring a paid, reserved seat) but they must be registered in the booking. To register an infant as a lap child, please indicate so in the “Special Requests” option in the final checkout and include the infant’s name, age and gender.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

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Non-refundable

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

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