Alaska Railroad Fairbanks to Denali One Way
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Make your travel time between Fairbanks and Denali National Park a highlight of your trip, by booking a ticket aboard the Alaska Railroad's Denali Star Train. Relax in comfortable seats and watch Alaska unfold from large picture windows. Local guides share Alaska history and the stories behind the sights as you travel south.
Available options
Alaska Railroad Fairbanks to Denali One Way
What's included
Optional dining and snack bar
One-way rail transportation from Fairbanks to Denali
Comfortable reserved seating
Alaskan tour guide providing narration throughout journey
What you'll see
This route starts in Fairbanks, taking you through Interior Alaska with majestic views of the Alaska Range in nearly all directions. Watch for views of Denali as the train winds along Healy Canyon, following the curves of the Nenana River below until you reach Denali National Park.
• Depart Fairbanks at 8:20 am
• Arrive Denali at 12:10 pm
• Explore Denali on your own, accommodations booked separately and at own expense
• (Option for accommodations or additional rail transportation - to be scheduled directly with Alaska Railroad after booking). Snack bar and optional dining available for purchase.
What's not included
These options can be booked independently or through Alaska Railroad directly after booking.
Lodging in Denali
Transportation after arriving in Denali
Tours and activities in Denali
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.3
19 reviews
5★
15
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
3
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair accessible
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Infants (0-1) may be added to a reservation as lap children (not requiring a paid, reserved seat) but they must be registered in the booking. To register an infant as a lap child, please indicate so in the “Special Requests” option in the final checkout and include the infant’s name, age and gender.
Meeting point
Check-in one hour prior to the scheduled departure time to receive boarding passes.
Important notes
BAGGAGE: Passengers are allowed two checked bags and one carry-on and up to two extra bags for additional fees. No item may weigh over 50 lbs. Special handling fees apply for oversized bags, bicycles, and other recreational equipment. Firearms must be either disassembled (slide or bolt removed) or have a lock (trigger or cable type) installed to prevent operation, and must be in a locked case. Concealed weapons are not permitted onboard. Camping fuel, motor fuel and other hazardous items are not permitted. Animals must be transported in kennels in the baggage car. All bags must have name tags attached.
CHECK-IN: Check-in one hour prior to departure time at the ticket counter to receive Boarding Pass.
DINING SERVICES: Passengers may choose from a variety of hot and cold meal selections. In dining areas, guests may be seated four to a table on busy days to accommodate all guests onboard. Lighter fare available in the Wilderness Cafe. Onboard purchases may be made with American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa, including debit and gift cards. Cash payments are no longer accepted.
SCHEDULES AND FARES: Delays can occur with rail service. We recommend that you do not book your rail arrival and air departure on the same day. The Alaska Railroad will not be responsible for missed connections. Schedules, fares, and tours are subject to change without notice.
ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION: The Alaska Railroad will provide the best alternate service available in the event of unforeseen circumstances that may require any part of our service to be altered.
ACCESSIBILITY: Wheelchair lifts are available at all stations. Passenger trains are wheelchair accessible and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For accessibility on other connecting modes of transport please check with an agent for details. Service animals are welcome aboard.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Passenger Information and Resources page: https://www.alaskarailroad.com/passenger-information.
About Fairbanks
Fairbanks, located in the heart of Alaska, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich gold rush history, and unique subarctic climate. It's a gateway to extraordinary experiences like the Northern Lights, world-class fishing, and a vibrant arts scene. Fairbanks offers a blend of rugged wilderness and charming small-town atmosphere, making it a must-visit for adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Chena Hot Springs
A popular destination for soaking in natural hot springs, Chena Hot Springs is located about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. The resort offers a variety of activities, including aurora viewing, dog sledding, and ice museum tours.
Nature
Full day
Moderate to Expensive
Museum of the North
Located on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, this museum showcases the natural and cultural history of Alaska. Exhibits include wildlife dioramas, Native Alaskan artifacts, and contemporary art.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate
Fairbanks Arctic Warfare Training Center
This historic site offers a glimpse into the military history of Fairbanks, with exhibits on the Arctic warfare training that took place during World War II and the Cold War.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to Low
Pioneer Park
A 44-acre park featuring historic buildings, museums, and recreational facilities. It's a great place to learn about Fairbanks' gold rush history and enjoy outdoor activities.
Historical/Entertainment
2-3 hours
Free to Low
Mosquito Lake
A popular spot for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is home to a variety of fish species and is a great place to see moose, bears, and other wildlife.
Nature/Adventure
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Salmon
Freshly caught Alaskan salmon, often grilled or smoked, is a must-try dish in Fairbanks.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Reindeer Sausage
A local specialty made from reindeer meat, often served as sausage or in stews.
Main Course
Gluten-free, high in protein
Bannock
A traditional Alaskan bread made with flour, water, and sometimes berries or other ingredients.
Bread
Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without dairy
Akutaq
Also known as Eskimo ice cream, this traditional dish is made with whipped fat, berries, and sometimes fish or other ingredients.
Dessert
Vegetarian, high in fat
Popular Activities
Hiking
Dog sledding
Snowmobiling
Whitewater rafting
Soaking in hot springs
Scenic drives
Wildlife viewing
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Fairbanks for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the midnight sun. The weather is mild, and most attractions are open.
5°C to 25°C
41°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Alaska Time Zone (AKT, UTC-9)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Fairbanks is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in the winter.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities
- • Carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
Getting there
By air
- Fairbanks International Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train
Fairbanks Depot
By bus
Fairbanks Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city. Buses run on a regular schedule, but service may be limited in the winter.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Fairbanks
College Area
Chena Ridge
Day trips
Denali National Park
120 miles (193 km) • Full day
Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities.
Arctic Circle
115 miles (185 km) north of Fairbanks • Full day
The Arctic Circle is a symbolic line of latitude that marks the northernmost point where the sun is visible at the winter solstice.
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park
250 miles (402 km) southeast of Fairbanks • Overnight
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is the largest national park in the United States and offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities.
Festivals
World Ice Art Championships • March
Midnight Sun Festival • June
Fairbanks Fur Rendezvous • February
Pro tips
- Visit in the summer to experience the midnight sun and enjoy outdoor activities
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak seasons
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter
- Try local cuisine, including fresh seafood and Alaskan specialties
- Be bear aware and carry bear spray when hiking or camping in the wilderness
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
