OVERVIEW

Experience one of the most stunning, scenic train rides in North America aboard an Alaska Railroads railcar from the Whittier cruise ship dock to the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. The train begins its journey surrounded by the stunning fjords and lush greenery of Prince William Sound. As the train moves inland, it navigates through the breathtaking scenery of the backcountry wilderness—considered one of the most picturesque stretches of the Alaska Railroad. From Portage, the route hugs the Turnagain Arm, where the towering mountains of the Chugach Range meet the sea. Domed windows provide unparalleled viewing of landscapes, and there are excellent opportunities to spot wildlife. Along the route, passengers are treated to stunning views of glaciers as they make their way through the pristine wilderness, with towering icefields and glacial-fed rivers adding to the dramatic landscape. A bistro car offers snacks and beverages for additional purchase. You will be directed from the terminal to a waiting motorcoach for a short 15-minute ride to the hospitality center in downtown Anchorage. From there, you can check your hand-carry luggage and explore the wonders of downtown. When you get ready to head to the airport, you will claim your luggage that is at the hospitality center and then catch one of the free hourly shuttles (3:00 - 10:00p) that depart every hour at the top of the hour.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience one of the most stunning, scenic train rides in North America.
• Domed windows provide unparalleled viewing of landscapes.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Settle in for a spectacularly scenic cruise across the iceberg-dotted waters of Portage Lake, where you will pause at an ancient 10-story glacier that terminates at the water’s edge. To reach the lake, you will drive through the 2.6-mile Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, an engineering marvel that is the longest dual-use vehicle and railroad tunnel in North America. Soon after boarding the M/V Ptarmigan, a fully-enclosed and heated 80-foot vessel built on site, you will begin cruising across the typically placid waters. Whether looking through the large viewing windows or enjoying the fresh air out on the top deck, you can’t help but be taken by the natural beauty. The onboard narrator will share fascinating insights into the surrounding Chugach National Forest and the Portage Valley. Still nothing compares to seeing towering Portage Glacier up close. You may even be lucky enough to watch a huge chunk calve off with a startling loud crack.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise Portage Lake, a glacially fed body of water that is spectacularly beautiful.
• Behold the natural wonders from the comfort of an enclosed, heated 80-foot boat.
• Pass floating icebergs that have broken off – or calved – from Portage Glacier.
• Enjoy a close-up look at the glacier and hold a piece of it, if conditions permit.
• Drive through a long tunnel to reach the lake and along Turnagain Arm on the way to the airport.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.