Anchorage to Fairbanks train: 12-hour Aurora Winter journey

Watch Denali and moose from a warm railcar crossing Alaska's roadless interior

The Aurora Winter Train is a one-way rail journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks that departs at 8:30 am and arrives at 8:00 pm, running Saturdays year-round plus select mid-week dates December through March. The train crosses two geographic regions (Southcentral and Interior Alaska) passing the Chugach Mountains, the Susitna River, Hurricane Gulch and Healy Canyon. Reserved seating in heated cars, large picture windows and optional onboard dining are included. You arrange your own lodging in Fairbanks after arrival.

The experience

You board in Anchorage and spend the day watching the landscape shift from river valleys and mountain backdrops into genuine backcountry. The first stretch crosses the Knik River with the Chugach Mountains visible behind, then the tracks veer north of Talkeetna into the 50-mile roadless stretch south of Hurricane Gulch. The part where flagstop service means the train stops to pick up or drop off passengers at remote cabins with no road access. From the top of a 296-foot bridge you see Hurricane Gulch itself. Further north, Broad Pass opens up views of the Alaska Range in all directions.

On a clear day Denali rises above the Susitna River, and moose sightings happen often enough that watching for them becomes part of the rhythm of the day. The train follows the Nenana River's curves through Healy Canyon as you approach Fairbanks, arriving at 8:00 pm. Winter transforms the route: the summer Denali Star travels the same tracks, but the snow-covered landscape and shorter daylight hours create an entirely different experience. A snack bar and optional dining are available for purchase during the journey.

Lodging in Fairbanks, transportation to the Anchorage depot, and any tours or activities in either city are booked separately and at your own expense. The Alaska Railroad can help arrange these after you book the train ticket.

What’s included

• One-way reserved seating in heated, non-smoking railcars with large picture windows.
• baggage services.
• access to a snack bar and optional dining available for purchase.
• wheelchair-accessible cars and facilities.

Before you book

Days and timesSaturdayDeparts at 08:30

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (under 12)

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends at a different place from where it starts.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Alaska Railroad Corporation

Is this one for you?Book this train if you're arriving in Anchorage and want to reach Fairbanks by evening without driving the Parks Highway yourself: the 12-hour daylight journey through roadless backcountry is the experience, not a shortcut to get there. The fixed Saturday schedule (plus mid-week winter dates) means you plan around those departures. If you need flexibility, a rental car or flight gives you more options.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 12).

Can I see Denali from the Aurora Winter Train?

On clear days, Denali rises into view above the Susitna River as the train travels north of Talkeetna. Winter weather and daylight conditions affect visibility, but the mountain is a frequent sight on the route.

What is the flagstop service on the Aurora Winter Train?

Flagstop service operates along the 50-mile roadless backcountry stretch south of Hurricane Gulch, where the train stops to pick up or drop off passengers at remote locations with no road access: a unique feature of this route.

How long does the journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks take?

The Aurora Winter Train departs Anchorage at 8:30 am and arrives in Fairbanks at 8:00 pm, making it a 12-hour one-way trip.

What days does the Aurora Winter Train run?

The train departs Saturdays year-round, plus select mid-week departures on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays from December through March.

Is food included on the train?

A snack bar and optional dining are available for purchase aboard the Aurora Winter Train. Meals are not included in the ticket price.

Do I need to arrange my own hotel in Fairbanks?

Yes, lodging in Fairbanks is booked separately and at your own expense. The Alaska Railroad can help you arrange accommodations after you book your train ticket.