Preferred side of the train from Anchorage to Denali?

[Hoppalong]

Next June we'll be taking the Golden Dome train to Denali from Anchorage. On the return we'll travel by the private rail car.

 

Is there a preferred side of the train for the north bound or the souith bound trip?

 

I searched the archives with no success.

Thank you.

[Nancyquilts]

Northbound - left for any possible views of the mountain.

[knorrisb07]

left side going to Anchorage.

[Nancyquilts]

left side going to Anchorage.

Just curious - why?:)

[Budget Queen]

You probably don't know this but seats are assigned. (not sure of your "private" rail car reference, however???, a private car that you have been invited to ride in??) The west side is overall more scenic, IF McKinley is viewable. Otherwise there are sections of trees and more trees. :)

 

You have two conflicting sides recommended above. IF McKinley is NOT viewing, there is little difference which side.

[Hoppalong]

I'm not sure if that includes the Princess cars or others. There is a basic service, the gold star domed cars(for an additional $85 but with gaurenteed seating in the domed area) and meals below. And private cars for about the same price as the basic cars but with a guarenteed seating in a domed car. The car is a restopre 1950s Budd car. (whatever that is).

More at:

http://www.alaskatravel.com/alaska-railroad/train-finder.html

 

 

"Alaska Railroad Standard Service (Adventure Class)

Over the years the vast majority of our guests have traveled on the standard Alaska Railroad railcars, and feedback on this service continues to be great. The standard railcars are single level and feature comfortable seating, large picture windows and knowledgeable high school tour guides who have taken a special course on Alaska train history. There is a separate dining car as well as a dome observation car which is shared on a rotating basis. Since the standard railcars are single level they are generally considered to be the most stable, and also are a good choice for those in a wheelchair or with limited mobility.

 

Private Dome Railcars

For those travelers looking for a guaranteed full-time seat in the dome, private dome railcars are a great deal. These two level railcars are attached to the Alaska Railroad train, but the railcar itself is operated by a private company. These railcars are classically restored “Budd cars” from the 1950’s and feature comfortable seating, curved domed windows and an informative tour guide. Beverage service is available upstairs in the dome and basic meal service is available in the dining room downstairs. Between Denali Park and Anchorage the private dome service we offer is priced roughly the same as the Alaska Railroad standard train service, so we think it is a true bargain for those looking for the improved viewing provided by the upper level dome seats. The dining service and windows size is more limited then the GoldStar train service available below but the price can’t be beat.

GoldStar Dome Railcars

The GoldStar dome railcars were put in service several years ago and our guest feeback has been fantastic. These two level railcars are operated by the Alaska Railroad and will be the finest rail service available in Alaska. The cars were custom built for this run, and feature large dome windows, fine dining service and an informative tour guide. The GoldStar service features a confirmed seat in the upper level dome car, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages served at your seat, a special GoldStar gift, priority check-in and boarding, priority seating in the lower level dining room showcasing original Alaska artwork, and a private outdoor viewing deck - the only one of its kind in the world. GoldStar service is an $85 upgrade ($110 between Anchorage and Fairbanks) from the standard Alaska Railroad service list above. Space on the GoldStar railcars are limited, for this reason we recommend you reserve your seats early. Give us a call today!"

[kfran]

Did the Princess land tour that went from Anchorage to Denali on 9/3. You were assigned your seats (table for 4), but because the car had openings we were able to sit where we wanted. However, there were plenty of picture moments, people would just stand in the aisle and look to either side when someone announced what they saw. You also have the opportunity to go down outside on the observation deck. You have a tour person in the car with you who explains what is coming up, hurricane gulch, etc., so you have plenty of time to get yourself in position. When we took the train from Denali to Whittier, they gave plenty of warning to get into a good position to view McKinley. They know the route and kept us informed which made the trip interesting. We had a great time, I'm sure you'll enjoy.

 

Karen