How to get to Denali National Park? There’s no finer way to arrive than aboard Alaska Railroad’s flagship train, the Denali Star. Passengers especially appreciate the panoramic views, as on a clear day the route offers incredible views of the train’s namesake peak: Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. We recommend that passengers made advance reservations for accommodations at the Park, as it is not possible to get to and from Denali from Anchorage by rail in the same day. A return rail journey from Denali to Anchorage may be booked separately for a subsequent day.
The route spans two of Alaska’s five geographic regions – Southcentral and Interior Alaska. On a clear day, passengers enjoy sights of the train’s namesake peak: Denali, the tallest mountain in North America. Traveling between Anchorage and Talkeetna, the train crosses the Knik River with the Chugach Mountains as a backdrop. Just south of Talkeetna, watch for views of Denali rising high above the Susitna River. North of Talkeetna, the tracks veer away from the road system and into the backcountry Hurricane area; this region offers views of the snaking Indian River, the occasional remote cabin and the expansive sight of Hurricane Gulch from the top of a 296-foot bridge. Just south of Denali National Park, Broad Pass offers majestic views of the Alaska Range in all directions; north of the park, the train winds along Healy Canyon, following the curves of the Nenana River below. • Depart Anchorage at 8:20 am • Arrive Denali 3:40 pm • Explore Denali National Park on your own, accommodations booked separately and at own expense • (Option for accommodations or next day return trip by rail back to Anchorage or on to Fairbanks - to be scheduled directly with Alaska Railroad after booking)
Snack bar and optional dining available for purchase.
You will make your own way to the meeting points
BAGGAGE: Passengers are allowed two checked bags and one carry-on and up to two extra bags for additional fees. No item may weigh over 50 lbs. Special handling fees apply for oversized bags, bicycles, and other recreational equipment. Firearms must be either disassembled (slide or bolt removed) or have a lock (trigger or cable type) installed to prevent operation, and must be in a locked case. Concealed weapons are not permitted onboard. Camping fuel, motor fuel and other hazardous items are not permitted. Animals must be transported in kennels in the baggage car. All bags must have name tags attached. CHECK-IN: Check-in one hour prior to departure time at the ticket counter to receive Boarding Pass. DINING SERVICES: Passengers may choose from a variety of hot and cold meal selections. In dining areas, guests may be seated four to a table on busy days to accommodate all guests onboard. Lighter fare available in the Wilderness Cafe. Onboard purchases may be made with American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa, including debit and gift cards. Cash payments are no longer accepted. SCHEDULES AND FARES: Delays can occur with rail service. We recommend that you do not book your rail arrival and air departure on the same day. The Alaska Railroad will not be responsible for missed connections. Schedules, fares, and tours are subject to change without notice. ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION: The Alaska Railroad will provide the best alternate service available in the event of unforeseen circumstances that may require any part of our service to be altered. ACCESSIBILITY: Wheelchair lifts are available at all stations. Passenger trains are wheelchair accessible and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For accessibility on other connecting modes of transport please check with an agent for details. Service animals are welcome aboard. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Passenger Information and Resources page: https://www.alaskarailroad.com/passenger-information