While summer trains carry visitors to Denali and Seward, the Aurora Winter Train keeps the Alaska Railroad moving in the cold months. It runs from Anchorage through Wasilla, Talkeetna, Hurricane, Healy and Nenana to Fairbanks, mainly on weekends with the northbound trip on Saturday and the return on Sunday, plus some mid-week departures. The northbound journey takes about 12 hours, passing frozen rivers, spruce forest, and mountain views, with flagstop service in the roadless backcountry south of Hurricane Gulch. It is a relaxed way to experience the Alaska winter, with the chance of aurora if the sky is clear. Many travelers pair it with a stay in Fairbanks or a stop in Talkeetna, and some cold-season packages add dog sledding and glacier flights.
Season. The Alaska Railroad's page says the train runs weekends from mid-September to mid-May, so the 2026-27 season is running now. The page did not list exact dates, so check the Alaska Railroad schedules and availability calendar for the days you want. The summer-only Denali Star service ended in September.
Planning. Allow a full day each way, with northbound departures on Saturday and returns on Sunday. A typical plan is to ride north on Saturday, spend a night in Fairbanks, and ride back on Sunday, or to break the trip in Talkeetna or at Denali. Dress warmly, because stations are cold, and carry snacks and a camera. Daylight is short in midwinter, so much of the ride may be in the blue light of dusk and dawn, which is beautiful in its own way.
Why do it. It is a quiet, scenic alternative to driving on icy highways and a good way to reach the aurora country near Fairbanks. Pair it with an Anchorage Northern Lights tour or a day at the Anchorage Museum before you leave. If you want a summer rail trip instead, remember the Coastal Classic and Denali Star run in the warmer season.
What to expect
The experience
A passenger train from Anchorage to Fairbanks with scenic views and flagstop service, running weekends with some mid-week departures.
Best time
Mid-September to mid-May, mainly weekends; check the schedule and availability calendar for exact days.
How long
About 12 hours northbound from Anchorage to Fairbanks.
Tips
Reserve early for peak winter weekends, dress in warm layers and pack food for the long ride.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Winter travelers who want a slow, scenic route and aurora country.
- Families
- Suitable for older children who can handle a long day.
- Couples
- A cozy winter journey with a night in Fairbanks.
- Pair with
- An Anchorage aurora tour and the Anchorage Museum.
- Time needed
- A weekend.
Good questions
When does the Aurora Winter Train run?+
The Alaska Railroad says it runs weekends from mid-September to mid-May, with some mid-week departures. Check the schedule for exact days.
How long does it take?+
About 12 hours northbound from Anchorage to Fairbanks.
Which towns does it serve?+
Anchorage, Wasilla, Talkeetna, Hurricane, Healy, Nenana and Fairbanks, plus flagstops south of Hurricane Gulch.
Does it run to Seward in winter?+
The page checked here did not cover other winter routes, so check the Alaska Railroad schedule for the Coastal Classic and Glacier Discovery.
Can I book now?+
Yes. A buy tickets link is provided, and the availability calendar shows open dates.