New Train Route to Scenic Alaska Strait

Starting May 12, a new train route will carry Alaska visitors from Anchorage all the way to the Gulf of Alaska’s Prince William Sound, famous for its giant Columbia Glacier, harbor seals and other wildlife.

Currently, tourists in Anchorage wanting to take Prince William day cruises must take a bus or drive about 50 miles to Portage, where they board a shuttle train for the 12-mile trip to the port of Whittier, which lacks road access. The new rail route extends the trip to Anchorage.

The train will leave Anchorage daily at 9 a.m., arriving in Whittier at 11:30 a.m.; the return trip leaves at 5:45 p.m., arriving in Anchorage at 8:15 p.m. En route is the scenic Turnagain Arm estuary, with its snow-capped peaks and Alpine glaciers. A box lunch, beer and wine can be purchased on board.

Scheduled through Sept. 17, the Turnagain Arm Railtour has a round-trip fare of $49. Reservations: (800) 544-0552.