Alaska Railroad Aurora Train Denali to Fairbanks

Overview

Soon after departing the Denali Park depot at midday, the Aurora Winter Train bound for Fairbanks quickly heads into the Nenana River Gorge. The path winds around tight corners on a narrow, icy perch above the frozen river below. This exciting stretch of rail makes for many photo opportunities, so find a spot on the right side of the train and keep that camera handy.

The track winds above a frozen river below.

The train leaves the gorge near the mining town of Healy. From here, snowy mountains give way to a windswept, wide open land and arctic evening skies. Before reaching Fairbanks, the train crosses the Tanana River, likely covered with a thick layer of ice at this time of year. It was in this spot in 1923 that President Harding drove the final spike to complete the Alaska Railroad.

MORE DETAILS

The Alaska Railroad only offers Adventure Class on the Aurora Winter Train. Passengers enjoy spacious cars with tall windows and large forward-facing seats and the ability to easily walk between different cars on the train. Although there is no dining car on the Aurora Winter Train, hearty hot and cold food, drinks, and adult beverages are available for purchase onboard in the Wilderness Café.

WHAT TO BRING

Bring a government issued photo ID for checking in and a credit or debit card for onboard purchases (cash not accepted). Don't forget a camera. It is also a good idea to keep your coat with you while on board.

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. All passengers are assigned seats by the Alaska Railroad upon check in at the depot. The Alaska Railroad offers checked baggage service. Passengers are allowed two checked bags plus one carry on, with dimension and weight restrictions like those of airlines. The Alaska Railroad charges $20 per item for oversized or excess baggage.

DEPARTURE/ARRIVAL POINTS

Denali Train Depot
Mile 1.5 Denali National Park Road
Denali Park, AK 99755

Fairbanks Train Depot
1031 Alaska Railroad Depot Road
Fairbanks, AK 99701

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.

DEPARTURE TIMES

Departure times and locations are listed below. Click on a link for an interactive map.

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Availability

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.