Navigating the Alaskan Railroad
The frosty plains of Alaska can be intimidating to the tourist or visitor. However, railways cross this isolated state, linking some of the most interesting parts of Alaska tightly together. In addition, tour packages allow visitors to explore this beautiful - if frigid - state safely and with comfortable rides in between destinations. What better way to see the state than in the luxury and grandeur of a train?
The packages, available from the website of the Alaska Railroad company, range from just a few hundred dollars to $5,439 and offer a wide variety of options to appeal to every sort of traveler. Each of the packages includes, in addition to the railroad transit, hotels and tours along the journey, along with other benefits. Listed here are just a few - many other options exist to suit whatever needs you might have, and the offers change seasonally.
One of the more basic packages offers a trip from Anchorage to Denali with simple but lovely accommodations and transportation. The route includes a stop at Talkeetna, which has a local roadhouse that offers truly gigantic (and, presumably, delicious) cinnamon rolls. Passengers are then taken to Denali, where they can tour the local State Park, hike, see dog sleds, or otherwise enjoy a full day of fun before returning back to Anchorage. In addition to this, of course, all the sights of Alaska are visible along the journey. For those on a budget or seeking to guide their own experience, it may be the perfect tour.
For those who love the outdoors, the Rails and Trails tour, lasting ten days, may be the best choice. The tour goes all through Alaska, with regular stops for hiking, kayaking, or simply observing. There's even an extra option that allows a passenger to go dog-mushing atop a glacier. The tour concludes with a spectacular ride by jet boat through the state park, allowing the passengers to see the diverse wildlife that the park offers. With many tours and opportunities, guided and otherwise, this package is great for anyone who wants to explore the natural world of Alaska.
Another option allows for exploration of all of Alaska's wonders, both natural and cultural. The trip, the Alaska by Daylight package, takes visitors all around Alaska, starting and ending in Anchorage. Stops include chances to go on brief cruises, trips to museums, tours of gold mines, a visit to Denali, and far more. While no one aspect is focused on for more than a while, it's great for those seeking to understand all of Alaska's aspects.
With a range of options and prices, the Alaska Railroad offers trips for everyone - and, of course, you can always travel on your own and explore the many branches of the railroad yourself. No matter what you choose, you're sure to discover something amazing on your trip.