Scenic Train Ride from Anchorage to Denali on the McKinley Explorer

Experience Alaska's majestic beauty aboard the McKinley Explorer, offering unparalleled views of Denali and the Alaskan wilderness on a memorable train journey.

Last updated: Apr 2024

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Adult rate is $306. No child rate; infants under 2 travel free on a lap.
More than 500 Miles from you
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Description

Experience Alaska's majestic beauty aboard the McKinley Explorer, offering unparalleled views of Denali and the Alaskan wilderness on a memorable train journey. The McKinley Explorer offers a unique opportunity to witness Alaska's breathtaking landscapes on a scenic 7-hour train ride from Anchorage to Denali. Departing from Anchorage at 9:15 AM, passengers are treated to the majestic sight of Denali on the horizon within just 30 minutes. The journey continues through charming towns like Willow and Talkeetna, crosses over the Knik and Susitna rivers, and presents awe-inspiring sights such as Hurricane Gulch and Broad Pass. The train features two-level cars with all passenger seating on the upper level, equipped with footrests and fold-down tray tables. The highlight of these seats is the large curved dome windows that provide sweeping views of the passing scenery. For a more immersive experience, the lower level offers a private outdoor viewing platform and a dining area where breakfast and lunch are served, featuring local specialties and a variety of dishes ranging from $9 to $17 for breakfast and $12 to $16 for lunch. Operated by Holland America Line and Princess Cruises, the McKinley Explorer caters to both cruise line group tours and independent travelers, making it a versatile option for exploring Alaska's natural wonders.

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Itinerary

Check-in: Arrive at the Anchorage Train Depot an hour before the 9:15 AM departure to check in with a valid ID and receive your boarding pass and seat assignment.
Boarding: Take your seat on the upper level for the best views through the large dome windows.
Departure: The train departs Anchorage, with Denali appearing on the horizon within the first 30 minutes.
Sightseeing: Enjoy the passing landscapes, including towns, rivers, and natural wonders.
Dining: Visit the lower-level dining area for breakfast or lunch, and the snack bar after 1:00 PM for light snacks and drinks.
Arrival: Arrive at the Denali Train Depot around 4:40 PM, where local hotel and lodge shuttles meet passengers.

Location

3900 Arctic Blvd Suite 304, Anchorage, AK 99503

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Packing List

Camera
Medications
Government-issued photo ID
Credit card for onboard purchases
Layered clothing for varying temperatures

4.6 ● Google reviews

We choose the Wilderness Express option from Fairbanks to Anchorage. The Wilderness Express are 2 cars at the end of the Alaska railroad train. Same ride, different service and staff. Our guide was really knowledgeable and gave us plenty of warning on what we were approaching and the relevant information about it. We really enjoyed the commentary and the food and drinks. It's a 12 hour train ride, which the staff said not many people do. We loved it, the time went by fast, it did not feel like a 12 hour train ride. Then we took the Alaska train from Anchorage to the Seward cruise terminal. This ride had commentary and food as well. We really liked that you could check your luggage all the way through to the cruise terminal. We didn't see our bags till we got to our rooms. There is no way for these photos to convey the sheer size and beauty of Alaska. If you are considering a trip, go, you won't be disappointed. We got lucky and were there during the 2 - 3 weeks of the year that the colors on the trees change.

Wow the experience is so worth it! We had a round trip train ride between Anchorage and Seward, one ride on GoldStar and one on Adventure. The view of this whole ride was gorgeous and the staff on the train introduced the glaciers, rivers and other scenic views along the way. They also offer luggage delivery service to certain hotels, this is extremely convenient when you have suitcases and would love to tour around before hotel check-in.

Stunning views. You can look up at any given time during your ride and have a perfect view of the mountains which was surreal. Tristan was awesome at spotting all the animals and pointing them out to us. The meals were pretty good and very affordable. Thank you for such a wonderful experience!

I rode the Alaska Railroad from Denali to Anchorage and it was great. The views were spectacular and dining in the dining car was a great experience. The food and drinks were great, the staff was great, and the cars were clean. Check in was easy, and I didn't have to worry about my bags because they went straight from my hotel to the train. Getting the bags in Anchorage was a little chaotic, but nothing crazy. I highly recommend booking a trip on the Alaska Railroad.

We had a blast riding the train from Anchorage to Talkeetna last week. What a great way to see Alaska! The breakfast was wonderful and the Mimosas were even better. We did the gold star experience and were very glad we paid for the upgrade. We spent most of the time enjoying the fresh air on the outdoor viewing platform. We hope to ride other legs in the future.

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FAQs

What should I bring on the McKinley Explorer train ride?

Bring a camera, medications, a government-issued photo ID, and a credit card for additional onboard purchases. Dressing in layers is recommended due to varying temperatures.

Are meals included in the McKinley Explorer train ride?

Breakfast and lunch are available for purchase in the dining area, with prices ranging from $9 to $17 for breakfast and $12 to $16 for lunch.

Can I bring luggage on the McKinley Explorer?

Yes, passengers are allowed two checked bags plus one carry-on, with standard airline dimension and weight restrictions. Oversized or excess baggage is charged at $20 per item.