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Alaska Railroad · Scenic day train

Glacier Discovery Train

One-day scenic rail journey from Anchorage to glaciers and Prince William Sound

Illustration of Glacier Discovery Train

Alaska Railroad's Glacier Discovery Train is a single-day summer excursion departing from Anchorage and traveling to Grandview, with stops at Girdwood, Whittier, Portage, and Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. The route follows the Placer River Valley and ends at Grandview alpine meadows, serving areas accessible only by train. Travelers can disembark at Whittier to connect to Prince William Sound glacier and wildlife cruises, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center at Portage, or take a 1.3-mile trail from Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop to Spencer Lake for views of Spencer Glacier. Optional rafting, hiking and kayaking are available at Spencer Glacier. A motorcoach return option from Portage saves travel time. This trip suits families, photographers and those new to scenic rail travel seeking a full day of mountain and glacier scenery.

What to know before you look closer

  • The pack lists 'summer' operation but does not specify which months; confirm the departure dates with Alaska Railroad
  • A motorcoach transfer option from Portage back to Girdwood or Anchorage is available and saves about 2.5 hours of train time
  • Most stops are brief; longer visits to Prince William Sound or the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center require separate bookings

Questions travellers ask

What train class is available?
Only Adventure Class is offered on the Glacier Discovery Train.
Can I connect to other activities?
Yes. At Whittier, you can connect to glacier and wildlife cruises in Prince William Sound. At Portage, you can visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. At Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, rafting, hiking and kayaking are available as day trips.
Is this a one-day trip?
Yes, the Glacier Discovery Train departs Anchorage and returns to Grandview on the same day.
What is included in the fare?
The fare includes the train journey with stops at Girdwood, Whittier, Portage, Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, and Grandview. Optional activities and connections are booked separately.

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