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

Another good resource for information on Whittier to Anchorage transportation is our cruise transfer page. Or, if you are ready to book bus or train seats now, the quickest way is to use our Train & Bus Express Checkout.

Take the Bus

The Park Connection Motorcoach only operates to Whittier on cruise ship days, typically Saturdays and Wednesdays during the summer. The service picks up directly at the cruise ship terminal at 9:45 AM and drops off in Anchorage at either the airport, or downtown at the museum. The Park Connection utilizes a fleet of nearly new deluxe Prevost motorcoaches, and it is one of the quickest, most comfortable and convenient ways to travel from Whittier to Anchorage.

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 9:15 PM. The train is a great return option for travelers who want to visit Whittier for the day from Anchorage, take a day cruise, or another activity.

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". If you need to pick up a rental car in Whittier, consider the special we offer on our Whittier rental car page. You can ride the Park Connection Motorcoach for free to Anchorage, pick up a premium 4x4 car rental, and drop it off in Anchorage or Fairbanks at the end of your trip.

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Arriving by Cruise Ship

During the summer, Princess Cruises offers seven-night, one-way cruises from Vancouver to Whittier. Nearly all travelers will need a transfer to Anchorage, and the cruise line may offer transfer options as part of their 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 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, that is even better.

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