I took the train from Seward to Anchorage today. I waived goodbye to Travis, the dogs, hopped on board, got seated and prepared for some much needed âmeâ time. The train ride itself was scenic but uneventful. Iâve driven the Seward Highway in the summer and in the winter more than I care to admit and know the nooks and crannies of it. Still, the train doesnât always follow the highway and it was neat to get a new perspective. It certainly seemed more âwildâ taking the train and Seward, rolling through the train windows seemed quieter to me than usual. Travelling by train certainly changed my interpretation of the town and the countryside.
At one point I saw a moose lying down in a beautiful green field of grasses and wild flowers, which most people did not see. Iâve always been rather fond of moose. They are such big, clunky, awkward animals â who wouldnât like that? Black bears were also spotted but darted in the woods before my rail car got to where they had been hanging out. There were lots of scenic views, the best perhaps being Trail Glacier as well as Spencer Glacier. I learned on the ride that if you take a different train, you can actually get off at Spencer Glacier and go hiking or kayaking. I am definitely going to add this to our to do list.
What prompted this train ride? My parents made the decision to come to Alaska last the two weeks ago. They arrived today/yesterday and will be staying in Seward for about a week. Itâs their third trip to Seward â the last trip they took was during the flood â and we are excited to share what we do with them and they insisted on renting their own car while in town. So I took the train up, so I could drive down.
The train doesnât move quickly so if speed is your goal, look elsewhere. If you are looking for a scenic stroll through the mountains and the Alaskan wilderness then this is for you. The train goes a steady 30-40 mph for most of the duration of the trip and slows down whenever something scenic comes along or wildlife is spotted. At times, I found the speed frustratingly slow â but that, I noticed, was really only in the spots where the road parallels the train and IÂ am sure it had more to do with the fact that these areas werenât new.
All-in-all I thought the train was an enjoyable experience and will be sure to do it again. I imagine it would be even more enjoyable if travelling with friends or family, but for the solo traveler this seems like a great way too: cheaper and less stressful than renting a car, lots of cool views, and the option to buy food/beverages.
– Sarah