Of the many amenities passengers aboard a private Wilderness Express railcar enjoy (an outdoor viewing deck and seat-side bar service among them) the visibility is most people's favorite. Huge dome windows line these cars. From their seats, passengers on this classic route north can see peaks in the Chugach Range, the wide glacial plane of Matanuska Valley, spruce forests on the way to Talkeetna, and wide open tundra plateaus just before pulling into Denali Park.
Huge dome windows line the upper seating level.
Wilderness Express train cars have two levels. All passenger seating is on the upper level. The car's reclining leather seats are equipped with power outlets and fold-down tray tables. A car attendant provides bar service direct to passenger seats.
An outdoor viewing platform and dining area are located on the lower level. The Wilderness Express offers a superb dining experience, with on-board chefs freshly preparing breakfast and lunch on the ride to Denali Park. The morning menu features favorites like Mountain Blueberry Pancakes and the Hearty Miner's Breakfast. The lunch menu includes a selection of sandwiches, wraps, and salads. Gluten free and vegetarian options are readily available. Passengers can expect to pay $10 to $16 for breakfast and $13 to $16 for lunch. A full bar in the second-level seating area also serves cocktails, wine, and locally crafted beer.
More Details
Wilderness Express railcars are locally owned and operated by a leading Alaska-based tour company. The railcars are used by cruise lines and escorted tours, but they also welcome independent travelers. The Wilderness Express offers adult and child rates, making this a more affordable premier rail option for families traveling with kids age 2 to 11.
What to Bring
Bring a camera, medications, and government issued photo ID. Bring a credit card for additional on-board purchases (cash not accepted). It is a good idea to dress in layers as it is often chilly on the outside viewing platform.
Special Instructions
Check in at the depot with a valid government issued photo ID one hour prior to departure. Boarding passes with seat assignments will be issued then. The Wilderness Express offers checked baggage service. Passengers are allowed two checked bags plus one carry on, with dimension and weight restrictions like those of airlines. The railroad charges $20 per item for oversized or excess baggage.
Departure/Arrival Points
Many Anchorage area hotels provide transportation to the Anchorage Depot. Upon arrival at Denali Park, passengers will be met by their hotel shuttle. In many cases luggage is transferred from the train directly to the hotel.
Anchorage Train Depot 411 West 1st Avenue Anchorage, AK 99501
Denali Train Depot Mile 1.5 Denali National Park Road Denali Park, AK 99755
Rates & Dates
Here are the rates and operating dates for this product. Remember, we have a lowest price guarantee for nearly everything we sell.
Child rates apply to children under the age of 12. Infants under the age of 2 may travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap.
Rates & Dates
Dates
Adult
Child
Infant
5/14/24 (Tu) to 5/31/24 (F)5/14/24 (Tu) to 5/31/24 (F)
Adult: $240.00
Child: $120.00
Infant: $0.00
6/1/24 (Sa) to 8/31/24 (Sa)6/1/24 (Sa) to 8/31/24 (Sa)
Adult: $285.00
Child: $142.50
Infant: $0.00
9/1/24 (Su) to 9/14/24 (Sa)9/1/24 (Su) to 9/14/24 (Sa)
Adult: $240.00
Child: $120.00
Infant: $0.00
The rates above are subject to change without notice.
Departure Times
Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.
Select a departure below to see current availability. If your desired date is sold out (red) we will do our best to find an alternative, but we may not be able to accommodate your request.
