Alaska Railroad travelling along the Turnagain Arm.

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward

It’s all aboard the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic for this popular four-hour route to the quaint coastal community of Seward.

Alaska Railroad travelling along the Turnagain Arm.

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward

It’s all aboard the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic for this popular four-hour route to the quaint coastal community of Seward.

Train riding into the sunset along the Turnagain Arm.

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward

It’s all aboard the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic for this popular four-hour route to the quaint coastal community of Seward.

Picturesque lake and train shot near Seward, Alaska.

Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward

It’s all aboard the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic for this popular four-hour route to the quaint coastal community of Seward.

Overview

Mornings at the historic Anchorage Depot are abuzz with passengers eager to board the full-service Coastal Classic bound for Seward. The trip treats travelers to some of the most scenic miles of rail in the state.

After passengers settle into their comfortable seats in Adventure Class or GoldStar Dome cars, the train departs the depot and slowly emerges into an expansive Alaskan landscape. The route meanders for 50 picturesque miles along the Turnagain Arm, a body of water with North America's second highest tidal change. The view from each side of the train offers something unique. To the right, beluga whales can sometimes be seen chasing salmon on the incoming tide. To the left, passengers often spot Dall sheep balancing on the steep, rocky mountainsides above.

One of the most scenic train routes in Alaska.

Beyond the ski town of Girdwood, the track leaves the Turnagain and heads south into pristine Kenai Mountains wilderness. The train passes through the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop and arcs along the Bartlett Glacier for one of the best photo ops on the rail. Topping out among the alpine meadows of Grandview Pass, the track then descends to the east side of Kenai Lake. The striking turquoise color of this beautiful 16-mile lake is a result of sunlight striking suspended glacial silt in the water. The trip concludes at about 11:20 AM at the Seward Depot.

Quick Facts

  • Price From $111
  • Duration 4.5 Hours
  • Options Adventure Class, GoldStar Dome
  • Operating Dates Daily from 5/16/2025 to 9/14/2025

What's Included

  • Access to onboard dining.
  • Forward-facing assigned seats.
  • Onboard narration by host guides.
  • Scenic views out large picture windows.

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