The Ultimate Guide to Train Travel in Canada and Alaska
When thinking about breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable travel experiences, Alaska and Canada stand out as premier destinations. These regions are renowned for their stunning natural beauty, and there’s no better way to immerse yourself in this splendour than through train travel (and cruising of course). From the rugged wilderness of Alaska to the picturesque scenery of Canada, train journeys offer a unique and luxurious way to explore these vast territories. In this post, we’ll delve into the magic of train travel in Alaska and Canada, highlighting five exceptional rail experiences, including the Skagway Scenic Railway, McKinley Express, Alaska Railroad, VIA Rail, and Rocky Mountaineer.
Alaska Train Travel
⚓ Skagway Scenic Railway: A Journey Back in Time
The Skagway Scenic Railway, operated by the White Pass & Yukon Route, is a historic rail line that takes you on an incredible journey through the heart of Alaska’s gold rush country. Starting in the charming town of Skagway, this narrow-gauge railway climbs nearly 3,000 feet to the White Pass Summit.
As you ascend, you’ll traverse trestle bridges, skirt along sheer cliff faces, and pass through tunnels carved out of solid rock. The panoramic views of glaciers, gorges, and waterfalls are nothing short of spectacular. This journey is not just about the destination but the rich history and the awe-inspiring landscapes you witness along the way.
⚓ McKinley Explorer: Majestic Views of Denali
The McKinley Explorer offers an unparalleled way to experience the grandeur of Denali National Park. This luxurious train, featuring double-decker dome cars with 360-degree views, runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks, stopping in Talkeetna—a quaint town offering spectacular views of Denali (formerly known as Mount McKinley).
Travelling on the McKinley Explorer, you’ll pass through the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, witnessing its diverse wildlife and majestic landscapes. Whether you’re admiring the sweeping vistas of the Alaska Range or spotting moose and bears from your seat, this journey encapsulates the essence of Alaska train travel at its finest.
⚓ Alaska Railroad: The Spirit of the Last Frontier
The Alaska Railroad is synonymous with adventure and discovery. Spanning 470 miles from Seward to Fairbanks, this rail line offers several routes that showcase the best of Alaska’s natural beauty. The Coastal Classic, Glacier Discovery, and Denali Star routes are among the most popular, each offering unique glimpses into the state’s diverse landscapes.
The Denali Star route, in particular, is a highlight, connecting Anchorage to Fairbanks with a stop at Denali National Park. Travellers can enjoy guided tours, wildlife spotting, and stunning views of Denali. The Alaska Railroad combines convenience, comfort, and the thrill of adventure, making it a top choice for exploring the Last Frontier.
Canada Train Travel
⚓ VIA Rail: Exploring Canada’s Vast Wilderness
VIA Rail is one of Canada’s premier passenger rail services, offering routes that traverse the country’s vast and varied landscapes. The Canadian, one of VIA Rail’s flagship routes, travels from Toronto to Vancouver, crossing the plains of the Prairies, the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield, and the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Another notable route is the Jasper-Prince Rupert line, which takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful regions of British Columbia. On these journeys, passengers can experience the charm of Canada’s small towns, the beauty of its national parks, and the hospitality that VIA Rail is known for. With comfortable accommodations and excellent service, VIA Rail makes Canada train travel a truly memorable experience.
⚓ Rocky Mountaineer: Luxury in Motion
The Rocky Mountaineer is synonymous with luxury rail travel and service excellence, having won numerous international awards and accolades. With delicious locally inspired culinary experiences, expert storytelling of regional history, wildlife and culture, and a convivial social atmosphere, an unforgettable experience through the Canadian Rockies awaits.
Including routes such as Journey Through the Clouds and First Passage to the West, the Rocky Mountaineer train service provides unparalleled views of towering mountain peaks, emerald lakes, and lush forests. Plus, the train only travels during the day, ensuring guests enjoy everything there is to see and experience during daylight hours only.
One of the most popular routes is the Vancouver to Banff journey, which takes you through breathtaking scenery and offers exceptional onboard service. The Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf Service features bi-level dome coaches, gourmet meals, and an open-air viewing platform, ensuring a journey that is as comfortable as it is scenic. This is train travel at its finest, combining world-class service with the stunning beauty of Western Canada.
Why Choose Train Travel in Alaska and Canada?
Train travel in Alaska and Canada offers a unique and immersive way to experience these regions’ natural beauty and diverse landscapes and is a fantastic complement to a cruise in the region. Trains – like cruise ships – provide panoramic views and the opportunity to see remote and inaccessible areas up close, and if you package both into one holiday, you’ll get to see Canada and Alaska by sea and land, in ways that not many have experienced.
Here are a few reasons why train travel is such a good way to explore Alaska and Canada:
⚓ Scenic Beauty: Train journeys through Alaska and Canada offer unparalleled access to some of the most beautiful and remote landscapes in the world. From towering mountains and glaciers to dense forests and pristine lakes, the scenery is breathtaking
⚓ Comfort and Convenience: Modern trains like Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail provide luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and excellent service, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free journey
⚓ Unique Experiences: Train travel allows you to visit small towns, national parks, and other attractions that are often inaccessible by other means. Whether it’s the historic charm of Skagway or the majestic views of Denali, these journeys offer unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else
⚓ Wildlife Viewing: Train routes through Alaska and Canada are known for their abundant wildlife. From the comfort of your train car, you can spot bears, moose, eagles, and more in their natural habitats
⚓ Rich History: Many of the railways in Alaska and Canada have a rich history, dating back to the gold rush and the construction of the transcontinental railroad. Travelling these routes allows you to step back in time and learn about the history and heritage of these regions
⚓ Seamless Transitions: Combining a rail tour with a cruise itinerary provides seamless transitions between different landscapes and experiences. After exploring the coastal wonders on a cruise, you can effortlessly transition to the majestic inland scenery via train, ensuring a smooth and continuous adventure.
Final View from the Deck
Train travel in Alaska and Canada is a journey like no other, offering an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, comfort, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the rugged wilderness of Alaska on the McKinley Explorer or enjoying the luxury of the Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies, these train journeys provide a unique and memorable way to experience two of the world’s most beautiful regions.
Pairing your rail tour with a cruise itinerary enhances the luxury of the Rocky Mountaineer train, allowing you to witness the majestic coastal landscapes and marine wildlife from the comfort of a cruise ship, then transition seamlessly to the breathtaking inland vistas via rail. This combination offers the best of both worlds, providing a comprehensive and luxurious exploration of Alaska and Canada. With exceptional service from both the cruise line and the rail tour, your adventure will be one to remember, filled with diverse and awe-inspiring experiences.