WHY IT RATES: These two new packages from Alaska Railroad provide passengers access to some of the state’s most highly-sought after experiences.—Mia Taylor, TravelPulse Senior Writer.
The Alaska Railroad is increasing its excursion opportunities this winter season with two new winter packages. The packages are focused on two of Alaska’s most highly sought-after experiences: northern lights viewing and the state sport of dog mushing.
These once-in-a-lifetime experiences provide passengers with a trip aboard the Alaska Railroad, paired with uniquely Alaska adventures and lodging options.
The Borealis offers guests an eight-night excursion exploring Alaska’s Interior. The journey begins in Fairbanks and treats guests to a two-night stay at the popular Borealis Basecamp, which offers rare opportunities to watch for the aurora borealis from the inside of a comfortable geodesic dome.
Passengers will then head south on board the Aurora Winter Train towards the quaint town of Talkeetna for time to explore the area and visit an Iditarod champion sled dog kennel. The rail journey continues with a visit to the state’s largest city, Anchorage.
The Borealis package starts at $1,639 per person and is based on double occupancy. The first chance to depart on this experience is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018, and will be available select dates through the end of March 2019.
The new weeklong winter package, The Aurora, delivers passengers views of snow-covered mountain vistas, traveling north from Anchorage and stopping in Talkeetna for two nights. Once departed from the train, guests can partake in a guided sled dog tour and visit an Iditarod champion sled dog kennel.
The rail journey continues north to Fairbanks, the largest city in Alaska’s Interior. Along the way, guests pass by picturesque views of Alaska’s backcountry and, on a clear day, they may catch a glimpse of majestic Denali— the tallest peak in North America.
Once in Fairbanks, passengers disembark the railroad for aurora viewing opportunities and a visit to Chena Hot Springs. The Aurora package starts at $1,459 per person and is based on double occupancy. The first excursion departs Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2018, and is available through the end of March 2019.
“We are thrilled to offer two new winter travel options centered around the sought-after, aurora borealis and Alaska’s state sport of dog mushing,” says Dale Wade, vice president of marketing and customer service for the Alaska Railroad. “The Aurora Winter Train will deliver passengers awe-inspiring views of our state and unforgettable memories searching for the northern lights. I look forward to visitors and locals alike jumping on board this season to experience some of Alaska’s most iconic winter activities.”
The Alaska Railroad is still offering several other seasonal packages including winter favorites, Denali In A Day and Talkeetna Pie Making. Both tours will be running through the end of April, and every package offers the ability to enhance the journey with activities like snow machining, wildlife viewing, aurora-chasing and more. Passengers can also work with Alaska Railroad reservation agents to customize a package that includes the new items for the 2018-2019 season.
SOURCE: Alaska Railroad press release
