"Train Ride Through Alaska's Interior" Top 5 Page for this destination Alaska by kaloz

Alaska Travel Guide: 7,877 reviews and 13,795 photos

Greetings from Honolulu . . . Alaska

I live in Alaska, on Kodiak Island. This page is dedicated to a train trip I took in February 2003 from Anchorage to Fairbanks. The halfway point is at mile post 288.7 Honolulu Pass. Most people don't think of Honolulu in Alaska, and many Alaskans don't know about this place either. I saw it on the map and had to go even if just for a picture. Thank goodness there was snow there, we have had a very mild winter.

My friend Gretchen travelled with me on this trip, and though she says she gets cold, was a real trooper, putting up with my crazy ideas.

Alaska Railroad

All Aboard

The history of the railroad in Alaska dates to 1904 when the first tracks were laid, but the Alaska central folded in 1909. The Railroad is still an important link to Alaska's interior though passenger service had suffered due to the completion of a roadway. It is still important for homesteaders who rely on it for transportation and supplies.

The Alaska Railroad uses a beautiful blue/gold motif.

Enjoy the Fantastic Scenery

Hurricane Gultch

Alaska is increadibly beautiful, and the train is a wonderful way to enjoy the scenery. Let them drive while you gawk. The train goes at a leisurely pace from Anchorage to Fairbanks taking 12 hours, and skirts Denali Park, if the skies are willing you may get excellent views of "The Great One".

This photo is of Hurricane Gultch at mile post 284.2. The creek is 296 feet below.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Leisurely paced ride through some great scenery
Cons:At twelve hours it might be too long for some
In a nutshell:A great way to visit the interior.

Last visit to Alaska: Feb 2003
Intro Written Mar 1, 2003
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Reviews (33)

An invaluable resource Shopping (1)

If you want souveniers of the Alaska Railroad, buy them at the Anchorage Depot. The other depots do not have gift... more travel advice

Nenana Ice Classic Sports & Outdoors (1)

Since 1917, Alaskans have been betting on when the ice in the Nenana river will break up. A wooden structure is planted... more travel advice

Denali National Park Hotels (3)

I don't have information on this lodge as I didn't stay there, but many visitors finish their rail journey at... more travel advice

Relax in the Hot Springs Hotels (3)

60 miles outside of Fairbanks is the Chena Hot Springs Resort, where you can relax in a beautiful setting. For a full... more travel advice

Transportation (6)
See All If you don't have a dog team
Things to Do (2)
See All Meet the Conductor

Comments (20)

amandajayne81 Dec 10, 2010 at 10:47 PM Report Abuse

I really enjoyed your train trip. We would love to visit Alaska to see Denali, bears and snow but realise that possibly 2 out of 3 at any one time might be our best hope. We were thinking of September next year.
volopolo Nov 28, 2008 at 3:27 AM Report Abuse

Have cold here i know (i love warm) but anyway it is an excellent website!
killaree Oct 31, 2007 at 3:08 PM Report Abuse

I grew up here! Nearest house 5 mi; no water/electric. Kids were homeschooled; dad fixed tracks. To learn more, read "Journey to a Dream" by Mary Lovel available at lulu.com. I would love to have a higher resolution copy of this photo.
shermancityhall May 28, 2006 at 10:55 PM Report Abuse

Enjoyed the picture of my homestead - Sherman City Hall. Thanks! Cityhallresident.
ronny_m21 May 12, 2005 at 8:42 AM Report Abuse

good page!!! excellent reportings on your train trip....
annk Mar 13, 2004 at 1:35 PM Report Abuse

Excellent page and enjoyed your sense of humor! The train is a great way to travel. Just the info I was looking for.
Sharrie Feb 3, 2004 at 9:41 PM Report Abuse

Haha... u are funny :D Great info about the permafrost. Lots of it in Coldfoot area. Yes, saw the aurora though not spectacular ones. Will be back & next time on the railroad!
GrantBoone Jan 19, 2004 at 11:42 AM Report Abuse

It was great to meet the conductor !!
awayhome Jan 9, 2004 at 7:39 AM Report Abuse

my son name McKinley is the name of the mountain in Alaska. I have never been there yet. but i think I have to go soon. there are so wonderful. you have a great page I enjoyed it=)))
diageva Dec 29, 2003 at 10:59 AM Report Abuse

Beautiful cold Alaska :))