Are you dreaming of an epic adventure from the sunny shores of Los Angeles to the rugged wilderness of Alaska? Even though Amtrak doesn’t run trains to Alaska directly, you can still combine Amtrak services with other modes of transportation to create a trip that will never be forgotten. This guide will cover the routes, costs, and advice for a smooth journey when traveling from Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska.
Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska Coast Starlight
While Amtrak does not operate a direct train route from Los Angeles to Alaska, you may still have an amazing trip by combining the Amtrak Coast Starlight with other modes of transportation.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | Los Angeles (LAX) to Seattle (SEA) |
| Duration | 35 hours |
| Cost (Coach) | 120−120−150 (One Way) |
| Cost (Sleeper) | 300−300−600 (One Way) |
| Amenities | Dining car, observation deck, Wi-Fi (limited), sleeper accommodations |
Amtrak Los Angeles Transportation Options from Seattle to Alaska
If you’re looking to travel from Seattle to Alaska, Amtrak doesn’t offer direct train service to Alaska. Here are your main transportation options:
| Option | Details | Duration | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | Fly from Seattle to Fairbanks or Anchorage. | 3-4 hours | 300−300−600 (Round Trip) |
| Ferry | Alaska Marine Highway System from Bellingham, WA, to Alaska ports. | 2-4 days | 500−500−1,000 (One Way) |
Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska Price Breakdown
You can look at other ways to get to Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska Price Breakdown
| Segment | Details | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak (LAX to SEA) | Coach or sleeper accommodations. | 120−120−600 (One Way) |
| Flight (SEA to Alaska) | Round-trip flights to Fairbanks or Anchorage. | 300−300−600 (Round Trip) |
| Ferry (Bellingham to Alaska) | One-way ferry ticket with or without cabin. | 500−500−1,000 (One Way) |
Amtrak Los Angeles to Fairbanks Alaska Itinerary
By combining the Amtrak Coast Starlight with airplane or other modes of transportation, you may make the trip smooth. A thorough itinerary is provided below that will help you with vacation planning.
| Day | Activity | Transportation | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Depart Los Angeles on Amtrak Coast Starlight | Amtrak Coast Starlight | ~35 hours |
| Day 2 | Arrive in Seattle | Local Transportation | 1-2 days |
| Day 3 | Fly from Seattle to Fairbanks | Flight | ~3-4 hours |
| Day 4 | Explore Fairbanks | Local Transportation | 3-7 days |
Amtrak Ferry Itinerary from Bellingham to Alaska
To assist you in organizing your trip, below is a full itinerary
| Day | Activity | Transportation | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Travel from Seattle to Bellingham | Bus/Train/Car Rental | 2 hours |
| Day 2 | Board Alaska Marine Highway Ferry | Ferry | 2-4 days |
| Day 3 | Arrive in Alaska | Local Transportation | Varies |
Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska Flight vs. Ferry Comparison
Traveling from Los Angeles to Alaska involves multiple transportation options, including flights and ferry services. Here is the table below:
| Factor | Flight | Amtrak + Ferry |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | ✅ 5–7 hours | ❌ 5–7 days |
| Scenic Views | ❌ Limited | ✅ Stunning landscapes |
| Cost | ✅ $220–$600 | ❌ $600–$2,000+ |
| Flexibility | ✅ Daily flights | ❌ Limited ferry departures |
| Experience | ❌ Functional travel | ✅ Adventure & unique journey |
Amtrak Los Angles Local Transportation in Alaska
You’ll need local transportation when you get to Alaska if you’re using Amtrak from Los Angeles
| Option | Details | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | Explore Alaska at your own pace. | 50−50−150 (Daily) |
| Shuttle/Bus | Affordable option for short distances. | 20−20−50 (One Way) |
| Tours | Guided tours to Denali National Park, Northern Lights, etc. | 100−100−300 (Per Tour) |
Why Pick Amtrak for Your Trip from Los Angeles to Alaska?
Here is a detailed table why Amtrak is a great choice for your Los Angeles to Alaska adventure:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Comfort and Convenience | Spacious seating, onboard dining options, and attentive staff make your journey relaxing and enjoyable. |
| Scenic Routes | Amtrak’s Pacific Coast and Northwest routes offer breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and coastlines. |
| Flexibility | Multiple departure times and route options allow you to customize your journey to fit your schedule. |
| Affordable Options | Competitive pricing with opportunities to save through early bookings or rail pass programs. |
| Eco-Friendly Travel | Traveling by train has a lower carbon footprint compared to flying, making it a greener choice. |
| Observation Cars | Exclusive viewing cars provide panoramic views, perfect for enjoying the spectacular scenery. |
| Connectivity | Amtrak connects you to major hubs like Seattle, enabling a smooth transition to Alaska-bound transportation. |
| Adventure Opportunities | The combination of Amtrak, ferries, and other modes of travel offers a multi-faceted adventure. |
| Relaxation | No long security lines or cramped airline seats—Amtrak’s trains are designed with comfort in mind. |
| Memorable Experience | Train journeys offer a unique way to explore the country, creating unforgettable memories along the way. |
Sample Budget of Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska
Here is a sample budget for a 10-day trip from Los Angeles to Fairbanks, Alaska:
| Expense | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Amtrak (LAX to SEA) | 120−120−600 (One Way) | Coach or sleeper accommodations. |
| Flight (SEA to Fairbanks) | 300−300−600 (Round Trip) | Book in advance for the best deals. |
| Ferry (Optional) | 500−500−1,000 (One Way) | If you choose the ferry option instead of flying. |
| Accommodation | 800−800−1,200 | Budget for hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals. |
| Food | 300−300−500 | Dining out and groceries for 10 days. |
| Activities | 400−400−600 | Tours, entrance fees, and outdoor activities. |
| Local Transportation | 200−200−400 | Rental car, shuttles, and public transportation. |
| Total | 2,620−2,620−4,900 | Depending on your travel style and preferences. |
Tips for Planning Your Amtrak from Los Angeles to Alaska Trip
Use the Amtrak mobile app or the Amtrak official website to make reservations for the Amtrak trip from Los Angeles to Alaska Station. Tickets can also be bought over the phone at Amtrak’s reservation center or at stations with staff.
- Book Early: Amtrak tickets, especially sleeper accommodations, sell out quickly. Book your tickets well in advance to secure the best prices.
- Pack Smart: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable shoes for outdoor adventures.
- Combine Transportation Options: Consider combining Amtrak with flights or ferries to create a unique and flexible travel experience.
- Check for Discounts: Amtrak offers discounts for seniors, students, military personnel, and AAA members. Be sure to check for any available deals.
Final Thoughts
The combination of Amtrak’s beautiful routes plus other modes of transportation provides for an amazing trip, even though there isn’t a direct Amtrak route from Los Angeles to Alaska. This vacation promises breathtaking scenery, unforgettable experiences, and lifelong memories, whether you’re traveling to Fairbanks or touring the rest of Alaska.
Several Popular Amtrak Routes
- Amtrak Los Angeles to San Jose Stations and Routes
- Amtrak Los Angeles to New York Stations Route
- Amtrak Los Angeles to San Francisco Stations
- Amtrak Los Angeles to San Diego Station Route
- Amtrak Los Angeles to Seattle Train Route
- Amtrak Los Angeles to San Joaquin Station
- Amtrak Los Angeles to Santa Barbara
- Amtrak Union Station to Los Angeles
- Amtrak Los Angeles to California
- Amtrak Los Angeles to Sacramento
- Amtrak Los Angeles to Chicago
- Amtrak Los Angeles to San Luis
FAQs about the Amtrak Los Angeles to Alaska
Yes, Amtrak trains, including those connecting Los Angeles to Alaska routes, are equipped with reliable air conditioning for passenger comfort.
Prohibited items include firearms (without proper documentation), flammable materials, sharp objects, hoverboards, corrosive chemicals, and controlled substances.
Yes, Amtrak provides accessible seating areas for disabled passengers, including wheelchair spaces, transfer seats, and accessible bedrooms for comfort.
Amtrak departs from Los Angeles Union Station, located at 800 North Alameda Street, a historic and central transportation hub.