Ep 2. The Alaska Railroad: Anchorage to Fairbanks
- January 1, 1996
In episode 2 of America's Scenic Rail Journeys season 1, viewers are taken on a breathtaking ride through the Alaskan wilderness on the Alaska Railroad. The episode starts in Anchorage, the state's largest city, where passengers board the train and begin their journey north to Fairbanks.
The train cuts through rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, including vast forests, towering mountaintops, and winding rivers. The journey is narrated by experienced locals who share fascinating stories and facts about the region's history, culture, and wildlife.
As the train makes its way deeper into the wilderness, viewers are treated to up-close views of moose, caribou, and other wildlife native to Alaska. The train also passes over the Tanana River and through the Denali National Park and Preserve, home to the highest mountain peak in North America.
Throughout the journey, viewers get a glimpse of how life in remote Alaska operates, such as the train's refueling stops and railway maintenance crews. The train also makes a stop at the town of Talkeetna, where visitors can disembark and explore local shops and restaurants.
The episode highlights the importance of the railroad in connecting Alaskan communities, especially those without easily accessible roads or airports. The Alaska Railroad is not just a tourist attraction; it's a crucial part of the state's transportation infrastructure.
The episode concludes with the train's arrival in Fairbanks, ending the scenic journey through Alaska's rugged wilderness. America's Scenic Rail Journeys season 1 episode 2, The Alaska Railroad: Anchorage to Fairbanks, is a visual feast for viewers who crave stunning landscapes and fascinating stories about the beauty and challenges of life in remote Alaska.