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Glacier Discovery Train, Alaska Railroad

Glacier Discovery • Anchorage to Grandview

Rail Journey – from £69

Anchorage | Girdwood | Whittier | Portage | Spencer | Grandview

Ride the Glacier Discovery from Anchorage to Grandview and back. This scenic roundtrip features stunning glaciers, mountains, coastal views, and opportunities to spot Alaska’s diverse wildlife along the way.

Highlights:

Relax in comfortable reclining seats
Enjoy refreshments in the dining car
Discover amazing natural sights
Book with flights and hotels as part of a complete Alaska holiday

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Your Rail Journey

The Glacier Discovery Train leaves Anchorage, following the Coastal Classic route with stops at Whittier and Grandview. It offers unique day trips with more stops, including remote locations.

After Girdwood, the train stops in Whittier for glacier and wildlife cruises. At Portage, visit the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre to see bears, moose, and more. Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop features a trail to spectacular glacier views and outdoor activities like rafting and hiking. Enjoy views of Bartlett and Trail Glaciers near Grandview.

On the return, passengers can take a motorcoach from Portage to Girdwood or Anchorage, saving travel time with advance booking.

Adventure Class

Adventure Class is a comfortable and budget-friendly way to experience the Glacier Discovery route, with great views of Alaska’s stunning scenery along the way. Adventure Class seats include:

Large picture windows for great views
Comfortable, forward-facing seats
Access to the Wilderness Café for snacks and drinks
Open seating with the flexibility to move around the train

Anchorage to Seward Timetable

The Glacier Discovery train schedule departs Anchorage daily at 09:45.

Anchorage: 09:45
Girdwood: 11:00
Whittier: 12:45
Portage: 13:30
Spencer: 13:55
Grandview: 15:30
Spencer: 16:40
Portage: 17:25
Whittier: 18:45
Portage: 19:20
Girdwood: 19:45
Arrives Anchorage: 21:00

Anchorage/Girdwood to Whittier round-trip: May 12, 17, 18 & 21, 2025
Anchorage/Girdwood to Whittier & Spencer Whistle Stop round-trip: May 24 – May 30, 2025
Full route: May 31 – September 15, 2025

Timetable correct as of May 2025.

Train Tickets, Flights & More

With FREEDOM, you can book everything you need for your Alaska rail holiday in one place; flights, hotels, tours and more.

Please note, advanced booking is highly recommended.

Route Map

Glacier Discovery • Anchorage to Grandview

Rail Journey – from £69

Include this Rail Journey in an America holiday designed for you

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Please note, train departure and arrival times may change. Please call Freedom Destinations to confirm departure dates and availability. Seasonal variations may apply.