Experience the aurora borealis like never before on the Alaska Railroad's Aurora Winter Train! Journey through snowy landscapes, witness breathtaking views, and potentially see the Northern Lights dance above. This unique travel experience offers a cozy and comfortable way to chase the celestial phenomenon. Don't miss this chance for an unforgettable Alaskan adventure.
The Alaska Railroad: A Comfortable Mobile Observatory
Forget shivering in the cold or navigating icy roads. The Alaska Railroad offers a warm, comfortable, and scenic journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the state. Several of their routes provide opportunities to see the Northern Lights, particularly during the aurora season, which generally runs from late August to mid-April. The large, panoramic windows of the observation cars provide an unobstructed view of the night sky, allowing you to relax and enjoy the show as the train gently glides through the darkness.
One of the most popular options is the Aurora Winter Train. This train, which runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks, is specifically designed to chase the Northern Lights during the winter months. The train travels at night, maximizing your chances of seeing the aurora. Plus, it stops in various remote locations along the way, allowing passengers to disembark and take in the Northern Lights away from the city lights. This gives passengers greater opportunities to photograph the Northern Lights.
Planning Your Aurora Viewing Train Trip
Seeing the Northern Lights is never guaranteed, but careful planning can significantly increase your odds. Here are some factors to consider when booking your Alaska Railroad aurora viewing experience:
Timing: The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when nights are long and dark. Aim for periods around the new moon, as the darkness enhances the visibility of the aurora.
Location: The further north you travel, the greater your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. The Aurora Winter Train to Fairbanks offers a good starting point.
Train Route: Research the specific routes offered by the Alaska Railroad and choose one that aligns with your travel dates and desired destinations. Some routes may have better viewing opportunities than others.
Accommodation: Plan your accommodation in advance, especially if you plan to stay overnight at any of the stops along the train route.
To help you better plan your trip, here's a table comparing some key aspects:
Route |
Duration |
Best Time for Aurora |
Stops |
Highlights |
|---|
Aurora Winter Train (Anchorage to Fairbanks) |
12 hours |
Late August - Mid-April, around new moon phases |
Talkeetna, Denali National Park (winter access), Healy |
Prime Northern Lights viewing, winter landscapes, access to Denali in winter. Often stops at certain spots to allow passengers to get out and view the aurora. |
Coastal Classic (Anchorage to Seward) |
4 hours |
Limited (summer only, daylight), can sometimes see weak aurora in late August. |
Girdwood, Whittier |
Scenic coastline, glaciers, wildlife viewing (summer), shorter trip. This trip is more tailored towards scenery than Northern Lights viewing. |
Denali Star (Anchorage to Fairbanks) |
12 hours |
Summer only (daylight) |
Talkeetna, Denali National Park |
Denali views (summer), comfortable travel. This trip is not for Northern Lights viewing. |
Tips for Maximizing Your Aurora Viewing Experience on the Train
Once you've booked your trip, here are some tips to make the most of your Northern Lights viewing experience aboard the Alaska Railroad:
Dress warmly: Even though you'll be inside a heated train, venturing outside for a better view requires warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and a warm jacket.
Bring a camera: Capture the magic of the Northern Lights with a camera that can handle low-light photography. A tripod is also recommended for sharper images.
Check the Aurora Forecast: Before and during your trip, monitor the aurora forecast to get an idea of the likelihood of seeing the lights. Websites like the Geophysical Institute at the University of Alaska Fairbanks provide valuable information.
Be patient: The Northern Lights can be unpredictable, so be patient and prepared to wait. Sometimes the best displays happen when you least expect them.
Minimize light pollution: Turn off interior lights when possible to improve visibility through the windows.
Talk to the staff: The Alaska Railroad staff are knowledgeable about the area and can offer valuable tips and insights on where to look for the Northern Lights.
The Alaska Railroad provides a unique and memorable way to witness the Northern Lights. By combining comfort, scenic views, and the thrill of the chase, it offers an unforgettable aurora viewing adventure.
So, ditch the car and hop on board the Alaska Railroad for a chance to see one of nature's most spectacular displays!
