Take the kids (for free): Day trippin’ on the mighty Alaska Railroad!

In Adventure, Railroad, Transportation by scott

AKRR

Riding the Alaska Railroad is a great way to see our state–from Fairbanks to Seward and back! But even if you only have a day, there are some great trips to take. This summer, choose from three routes and bring the kids for free (one child, age 2-11, rides free per paying adult).

a. Anchorage-Talkeetna. Hope aboard the Denali Star train in Anchorage for a scenic ride north to Talkeetna. Spend the day exploring: go for a flightseeing trip with K2 Aviation, or a jetboat adventure with Mahay’s. Float trips also are available with Talkeetna River Guides. Or, go for a Zipline tour with Denali Zipline Tours.

NOTE: Denali Star from Fairbanks to Denali also is available for the kids-ride-free promotion. Book it online using the “KIDSFREE” coupon code.

b. The Hurricane Turn. This is the last flag-stop train in America! During the summer, the train departs Talkeetna several times each week.  Ride the rails for a day and take in the scenery. Check out the folks who count on this train for supplies and a connection to the “rest of the world”. There’s no dining service, so be sure and grab a snack to take along on the 115-mile roundtrip journey!

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c. Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. This is a great daytrip! Board the train in Portage (54 miles south of Anchorage along scenic Turnagain Arm). Your train trip includes a journey up the Placer River valley to a well-maintained stop near the glacier. Here, there’s a 2.6-mile trail up to the glacier and back. It’s a fun hike! Optional tours also are available, including a float trip down the river. Check with Alaska Railroad’s reservations department for details: (800)544-0552.

CLIMB ABOARD the Alaska Railroad!

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