Enormous toy train replica of the journey from Fairbanks to Denali.

Nate was a happy to be reading instead of driving.

Chatting with the conductor up in the dome car.

Holden was serious about his solitaire game in the dining car.

Papa was happy to be on his first big train ride in 50+ years.

Lunch in the dining car was very scenic.

Scenery beginning to change as we get closer to Denali.

Nate checking out the rapids on the Nenana from the dining car.

Day 3, pt. 1 - Train to Denali

July 17 in the United States ⋅ ☁️ 61 °F

After an early night and much needed sleep, we were up early for our first venture of the day onto the Denali Star on the Alaskan Railroad. The train lived up to the hype and was a wonderful way to see how the land of central Alaska changes from plains to rolling hills and into the mountains that began as we entered into Denali.

One of the unique things about the Alaska Railroad is the dome car, which was such a treat. We were able to go up and sit in the domed area and watch the scenery roll by. When we weren't into the dome car, we were probably in the dining car taking advantage of the huge windows and big table to play cards.

It was great to have so many places to go because most of the first half of the trip I spent trying to avoid a VERY chatty and VERY enthusiastic 11 year old who did not stop LOUDLY TALKING everywhere she went. So shout-out to the Alaska Railroad for giving us so many spots to retreat to and enjoy our ride in peace.

As we got closer to Denali, the train began following the path of the Nenana River. It was a gorgeous way to see the land change and a great way to preview our upcoming rafting trip in a few days.

We rolled into the depot to discover it's actually located inside Denali National Park. Our host picked us up and we headed out.Read more