How to Get from Whittier to Anchorage

Whether you take the bus, train, or drive yourself, on the way out of Whittier you will pass through a two-mile long tunnel, the second longest in the United States. Whittier is just 60 miles from Anchorage, but the one-way tunnel operates on a schedule to accommodate alternating directions of both train and vehicle traffic. Plan on a couple of hours by bus or car, and a bit more by train for the trip to Anchorage. However you travel, the trip is a scenic one, passing by Portage Glacier after exiting the tunnel and following along the spectacular Turnagain Arm all the way to Anchorage.

2.5 hours by train | 2 hours by bus | 1.5 hours by car

If you are ready to book bus or train seats now, the visit the Train & Bus Express Checkout.

Take a Bus

The Park Connection Motorcoach only operates from Whittier on select cruise ship days. The service picks up directly at the cruise ship terminals at 9:45 AM and drops off in Anchorage at either the airport or downtown.

Take a Tour or Private Transfer

See more along the way on a four-hour or six-hour guided tour. Private transfers from Whittier are also available, either as a direct transfer or longer customized transfer and tour. Both include a driver-guide and transportation via Mercedes Sprinter Van.

Ride the Train

The Alaska Railroad offers Adventure Class service on their Glacier Discovery train, departing Whittier at 6:45 PM and arriving in Anchorage around 9:00 PM. Note that Whittier is a very small community with little infrastructure to support travelers waiting a full day to board the train. Because of this, we recommend that disembarking cruise guests only select this service if they have prebooked same-day activities in Whittier to complement the transportation.

Drive Yourself

Driving to and from Whittier is easy enough, but to avoid a long wait on either end of the tunnel, be sure to consult the schedule for tunnel "openings". You won't be able to pick up a rental car in Whittier, but here's a solution: Ride the Park Connection Motorcoach to Anchorage to pick up a car rental instead.

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Arriving by Cruise Ship

Nearly all cruise travelers will need a transfer to Anchorage, and the cruise line may offer transfer options as part of a cruise package. The Alaska Railroad's scheduled train service departing at 6:45 PM is generally too late for most cruise travelers who need to disembark by mid-morning. The Park Connection Motorcoach is often the best choice for guests making their own independent cruise transfer arrangements. A same-day connecting service is also available on the Park Connection to Seward, Talkeetna or Denali Park. If your schedule allows for a few extra days after your cruise, we highly encourage you to explore the land side of Alaska on a post-cruise tour. If you have five to seven days for a land tour after your cruise, even better!

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