Why Alaska Railroad Offers the Best Seats for Leaf Peeping

Take family travel to new heights during a trip along the Alaska Railroad. Sit back, relax and take in the vibrant yellows, reds and oranges during Alaska’s leaf peeping season on a four- to six-hour journey.

For those looking to experience the bright, vibrant colors, here are some of the best leaf-peeping routes:

Denali Star Train

Denali Star Train takes guests from either Fairbanks or Anchorage on a journey through Southcentral and Interior Alaska, featuring stops in Talkeetna and Denali National Park and Preserve. Once off the train at the Denali stop, passengers can marvel at the tallest mountain in North America covered with beautiful fall foliage.

Hurricane Turn Train

Hurricane Turn Train, the last flag stop train in the country, allows passengers to hop on and off the train as they please. The train travels into the Alaska backcountry, passing the ghost town of Curry before venturing across Hurricane Gulch Bridge, the tallest bridge in Alaska. Along the ride, catch glimpses of the red, orange and yellow spruce and birch trees.

Coastal Classic Train

Travel through Anchorage and Seward on the scenic Seward Highway while aboard the Coastal Classic Train. This ride offers views of rugged cliffs, the Pacific Ocean, glaciers, crystal lakes and the chance to spot some unique wildlife.

It’s best to stay flexible with plans for a trip to Alaska until about two weeks before the peak season. This flexibility allows for adjustments in case unexpected weather affects the timing of the foliage.