A recent collaboration between the Alaska Railroad and the U.S. Forest Service lets travellers take a train from Anchorage, Girdwood, or Portage deep into remote areas of Chugach National Forest.
At the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, for example, visitors can take a 1.5-mile hike to a glacier-viewing platform. The completed project will involve five such stops along a system of trails linking recreation sites near lakes, glaciers, and mountain passes, outfitted with campsites and public-use cabins.
The service is available May through September. The $95 fare from Anchorage or Girdwood includes rail to Spencer and return to Portage, back country use, guided hike, and motor coach from Portage to Anchorage. Round trip from Portage or Whittier is $55 and includes the guided hike and backcountry use.
