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Bears, Trains, & Icebergs Tour

9 Hour Duration

From start to finish

Scenic Alaska Train Ride

From Anchorage to Spencer Glacier

Amazing Wildlife Opportunities

See Bears, Moose, Bison, & Caribou

Spencer Glacier River Float

Stunning views & relaxing rafting trip

Description

Get ready for a day full of adventure on the Bears, Trains, & Icebergs Tour! When you combine guided excursions with Alaska train tours it makes it all about the journey and the destination. Sit back and marvel at the beautiful landscapes of Alaska in a comfortable and roomy railcar with large picture windows. Friendly railroad guides share the stories behind the sights as you pass by rushing rivers and snow-capped mountain ranges on your way to the remote Spencer Glacier. With exciting and fun excursions at multiple stops, it’s the best way to see and experience the beauty of the Last Frontier!

Please note: This tour can depart from Girdwood or Anchorage, so when contacting our reservations team, please indicate where you will be departing from.

Your first destination on the Bears, Trains, & Icebergs Tour comes after the train passes along the dramatic shoreline of Turnagain Arm and then arrives at the Portage stop. Here, a quick shuttle bus takes you to the incredible Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center for a 90-minute guided visit. This rehabilitation center and sanctuary for injured and orphaned wildlife offers the unique opportunity to view bears, moose, bison and more. Hear stories of the resident wildlife and learn about their care as you walk (or opt to ride in a vehicle) for the 1.5 mile tour. Then, fuel up with lunch before the train departs Portage and heads south, away from the road system and into the wild backcountry of the Chugach National Forest.

Excitement builds as the train arrives at the remote Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop and your glacier rafting adventure begins! Your expert local guides row up close to mesmerizing glacial icebergs floating in the lake. Take in the scenery and snap photos with panoramic views of Spencer Glacier and the surrounding mountains. Then, enjoy a mellow and stunningly scenic float down the Placer River before boarding the return train. Your adventure-filled day on the Alaska railroad comes to a close as you depart the train at Portage to board the motorcoach bus for quicker transportation back to Anchorage. This is sure to be one of your best days in Alaska!

Bears, Trains, & Icebergs Tour Itinerary:

8:45 – 9:00 AM – Arrive at Anchorage Railroad Depot for check-in (tickets at Will Call)
9:45 AM – Glacier Discovery Train departs Anchorage
11:00 AM – Guides board train at the Girdwood stop
11:35 – 1:00 PM – Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center visit at Portage stop
1:00 PM – Lunch provided
1:25 PM – Train departs Portage
1:55 PM – Train arrives at Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop
2:00 – 4:45 PM – Spencer Glacier Lake & Placer River float
5:00 – 5:25 PM – Return on the last stretch of your Alaska train ride to Portage Station
5:30 PM – Arrive in Portage and board motorcoach bus to save 2 ½ hours on your return journey
6:45 PM – Arrive at Anchorage via motorcoach

Interested in more Alaska train tours? Check out the Glacier Blue Kayak & Grandview Train Tour for a similar excursion. Also, if you’re headed to Skagway on a cruise, take a look at the Bennett Lake Scenic Journey and White Pass Train & Bike Tour!

Girdwood guests can join this excursion, too! Please see FAQs.

What's Included

Knowledgeable Guides

Lunch and Beverages

Equipment & Gear - rubber boots, rain poncho, PFD (life vest)

Guide Gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the train depot?

The train depot is located at 411 West 1st Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501. Unfortunately, we do not provide transfers for this tour, so you will have to either drive there or inquire if your hotel or the airport offers a shuttle to the train depot. Paid parking is available at the lot across the street for $20 per 24 hours, or you can take a taxi from Anchorage.

Can I join this tour from Girdwood rather than Anchorage?

Your guides will be boarding the train and joining you at the Girdwood stop, so you can board the train with them if you want. If you want to choose this option, please note that there is no ticket counter in Girdwood, so you'll have to check in directly with the conductor. Be sure to arrive at the Alaska Railroad Girdwood Depot at 10:45 AM (15 minutes before the train arrives), located at Brundie Rd, Anchorage, AK 99587. Upon your return journey, when guests depart the train at Portage to board the motorcoach, you will ride in the guides' shuttle van back to Girdwood, arriving around 5:45 PM.

Do I need to check in before my train departure?

Yes, while boarding begins 20-30 minutes before the train's departure, you must check in at the ticket window at least one hour before your train's departure time and, if you are 18 years or older, present a valid government-issued photo ID to receive your boarding passes.

Are restrooms available?

Restrooms are available on the train, at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center (AWCC), and at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. Make sure to take advantage of these restroom stops, as they are the only ones available during the entire river section of the tour.

What should I bring to this tour?

The key to exploring Alaska in comfort is to layer your clothes and prepare for unpredictable weather. Wear layers of non-cotton-based clothes that won't restrict your movement and then choose a water-resistant jacket as an outer layer. Bring an extra pair of warm socks, gloves, and a hat. You should also bring a reusable water bottle, cash for gratuities and personal expenses, a credit card, a photo ID, and a camera to capture incredible nature shots!

Are there rapids in the river float?

While the Placer River is occasionally punctuated by Class I-II rapids, it is primarily known for its tranquil current and stunningly scenic views. There are no major rapids to navigate, so guests can relax and take in the majestic beauty of the Alaskan wilderness without fear of being drenched.

What speed does the train travel?

The train chugs along at a leisurely pace, averaging 30 mph. A unique advantage of this train is that it slows down at the most picturesque areas, allowing you to take in the breathtaking views and capture the perfect photo!

What food and drink options are available on the train?

The train offers a wide selection of hot and cold items, as well as coffee and bar service, none of which are included in this tour. Please be aware that the Alaska Railroad is a cashless system, so if you wish to purchase something, you will need a credit card. Although your booking does not include meals purchased at the onboard Wilderness Snack Cafe, it does include a boxed lunch consisting of a sandwich, chips, cookie, fruit, and water. You are also welcome to bring your food and drinks.

Can I bring luggage or bags on the train?

Each passenger may check two pieces of luggage at the Anchorage train depot, no more than 50 lbs each, and may carry one additional piece on board, though we don't recommend bringing many bags, as you'll be walking and rafting. If you'd like, you may leave your bags on the train, though we can't guarantee their safety, even though we've never had any instances of lost or stolen bags. Keep in mind, however, that you won't return to Anchorage aboard the train, but rather on a motorcoach.

I have more than 4 people in my party, how can I book this tour?

Please submit an inquiry for this tour and we will be more than happy to accommodate your reservation.

Know Before You Book

Minimum Age: 2 years old

This tour can depart from Girdwood or Anchorage, so when contacting our reservations team, please indicate where you will be departing from

Cancel up to 14-days before the tour for a refund. No refund is available if canceled within 14-days of the tour. If for any reason your tour is canceled, or if your cruise ship's schedule changes, you will receive a refund. Refunds do not include any non-refundable fees. Contact us by phone or email to request a cancellation.

Quick Facts

City

Anchorage

Itinerary • 9h 00min • 6 activities

8:45 am arrival to the train station for check-in, registration, and boarding.

Duration

1 hour

Enjoy the beauty of the Alaskan wilderness from the comfort of a train as you head to your first stop.

Duration

30 minutes

Take a guided tour through the Alaskan Wilderness Conservation Center & enjoy a light lunch.

Duration

1 hour 30 minutes

Relax as you take in the beautiful scenery on your way to the beautiful Glacier Lake

Duration

35 minutes

Paddle through icy waters and see icebergs up close in this incredible boat adventure

Duration

3 hours

Kick back and relax as you head back to Anchorage via train and motorcoach

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes