Alaska Railroad Denali to Fairbanks One Way

Denali National Park , United States

Alaska Railroad Denali to Fairbanks One Way

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(15 reviews)

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About this experience

Make your travel time between Denali National Park and Fairbanks 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 north.

Available options

Alaska Railroad Denali to Fairbanks One Way

What's included

Optional dining and snack bar

One-way rail transportation from Denali to Fairbanks

Comfortable reserved seating

Alaskan tour guide providing narration throughout journey

What you'll see

This route starts in Denali, 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 Fairbanks.
• Depart Denali at 4:00 pm
• Arrive Fairbanks at 8:00 pm
• Explore Fairbanks 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 Fairbanks

Return transportation or transportation within Fairbanks

Tours and activities in Fairbanks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

13 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

1★

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 Denali National Park

Denali National Park is home to North America's tallest peak, Denali (Mount McKinley), and offers vast wilderness, incredible wildlife, and stunning landscapes. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing unparalleled opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Top Attractions

Denali (Mount McKinley)

Denali is the tallest peak in North America, standing at 20,310 feet (6,190 meters). It's a dominant feature of the park and a must-see for visitors.

Nature Varies by activity (scenic views: minutes to hours; climbing: weeks) Free

Denali Visitor Center

The park's main visitor center offers exhibits, ranger-led programs, and information about the park's natural and cultural history.

Visitor Center 1 to 2 hours Free

Horseshoe Lake Trail

A scenic, easy hike around a beautiful lake, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Hiking 1 to 2 hours Free

Eielson Visitor Center

Located 66 miles into the park, this visitor center offers stunning views of Denali and exhibits on the park's natural and cultural history.

Visitor Center Half-day visit Free

Wonder Lake

A stunning, remote lake offering one of the best reflections of Denali when conditions are right.

Nature Full-day visit Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Salmon

Alaskan salmon is a staple of the region, often grilled or smoked and served with local vegetables.

Dinner Gluten-free options available

Reindeer Sausage

A local delicacy made from reindeer meat, often served as a sausage or in stews.

Snack/Dinner Gluten-free options available

Bannock

A traditional quick bread often served with jam or honey.

Breakfast/Snack Vegetarian, gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Wildlife viewing Flightseeing Rafting Ice climbing Scenic drives Photography Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Denali as the weather is relatively warm, and most park facilities and services are open. Wildlife is active, and all park roads are accessible.

5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) 41°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Alaska Time Zone (AKT, GMT-9)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in remote areas

Denali National Park is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the park's remote and rugged terrain. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and wildlife encounters can be dangerous.

Important Precautions:

• Be prepared for all weather conditions.
• Carry a map, compass, and other navigation tools.
• Stay on established trails and follow park regulations.

Getting there

By air

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport • 240 miles (386 km) south of Denali
Fairbanks International Airport • 120 miles (193 km) north of Denali

By train

Denali Park Station

By bus

Anchorage, Fairbanks

Getting around

Public transport

The park's transit bus system offers several routes, including access to the Eielson Visitor Center and Wonder Lake.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Not widely available

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Denali Park Village Savage River Area Eielson Area

Day trips

Talkeetna

70 miles (113 km) south of Denali • Half-day to full-day trip

A charming, historic town known for its Alaskan adventure culture and as the jumping-off point for Denali expeditions.

Healy

35 miles (56 km) north of Denali • Half-day to full-day trip

A small town with a rich history in mining and agriculture, offering a glimpse into rural Alaskan life.

Matanuska Glacier

150 miles (241 km) south of Denali • Full-day trip

One of the largest glaciers in Alaska, offering stunning views and a variety of adventure activities.

Festivals

Denali Arts Festival • June Talkeetna Winterfest • February

Pro tips

Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack layers and be prepared for all weather conditions.
Consider hiring a local guide for a more immersive and educational experience.
Take advantage of ranger-led programs and exhibits at visitor centers.
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance.