Traveling by train isn’t just about getting from one place to another. It’s about the journey, the views, and the unforgettable experiences along the way. Come along with us as we watch the adventure of traveling by train from Miami to Alaska!
In an almost three-hour video by Michael Downie, we follow along on a remarkable adventure that takes us through some of America’s most stunning landscapes. Below is a recap of what is covered in this full video!
A Journey Across America by Rail
The adventure began at the southernmost Amtrak station in the United States. We begin in Florida, setting the stage for a journey that would span thousands of miles across 28 states. From the lush landscapes of the East Coast to the sprawling deserts of the Southwest, the trip connected some of the most iconic rail experiences in a train from Miami to Alaska.
Along the way, there were unforgettable stops: the fastest train in America in the Northeast, the steepest train ride at Pikes Peak, the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and the Grand Canyon Railway, which transported the group to one of the most famous natural wonders in the world.
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A Grand Arrival at the Canyon
After an exhilarating train ride, the travelers arrived at the Grand Canyon Depot. It’s one of only three wooden train stations still standing in the United States. Accompanying him were friends and colleagues, both of whom had played key roles in producing this travel series.
Stepping off the train and onto the South Rim, the sheer scale of the canyon was overwhelming. For Mike, the experience was emotional, proving that travel can be just as much about personal moments as it is about the destinations themselves.
With three and a half hours to explore, the group marveled at the vast canyon views, taking in the surreal beauty that stretched endlessly before them. They may have been the last ones off the train, but that just meant they got to soak up every second of the experience.
A Surprise Awaits on the Train Back
Just when they thought the adventure was winding down, they discovered a surprise waiting for them on the return train ride. A classic Western-style train robbery reenactment!
With bandits on horseback, playful theatrics, and plenty of laughs, the unexpected spectacle made for a perfect finale to their Grand Canyon excursion.
A Farewell to Friends
As the train rolled back towards civilization, there was a bittersweet realization that this leg of the journey was coming to an end. After three weeks of traveling together, it was time for the group to part ways. But as one adventure ended, another was only beginning. We started on the train from Miami to Alaska and now find ourselves nearly there.
All Aboard the Alaska Marine Highway
From the desert landscapes of the Grand Canyon, the journey shifted dramatically to the cool waters of the Pacific. The next destination? A five-day ferry ride on the Alaska Marine Highway System. This was the route that would take them from Bellingham, Washington, to Whittier, Alaska.
The ferry ride was a unique experience—five nights at sea on a vessel that felt more like a floating town than a luxury cruise. With comfortable berths, a rotating menu of freshly prepared meals, and endless views of rugged coastlines, the slow pace of travel allowed them to truly absorb the beauty of the journey.
Unexpected Alaskan Encounters
The ferry made stops in remote Alaskan towns, including Ketchikan and Juneau. This allowed for quick excursions into charming communities nestled among towering mountains and dense forests.
In Juneau, they took a spontaneous detour to visit the Mendenhall Glacier. A stunning natural wonder that was as mesmerizing up close as it was from a distance.
Battling the Elements at Sea
Not every moment at sea was calm and peaceful. At one point, the ferry hit rough waters. While the rocking vessel continued, it tested the sea legs of everyone on board.
But instead of hiding in their cabin, they embraced the storm—bundling up, heading out to the deck, and riding the waves with laughter and camaraderie. And so, the most unexpected challenges make for the best memories.
A New Rail Adventure Begins in Alaska
After arriving in Whittier, it was time to trade the ferry for the rails once again. The next leg of the journey took them aboard the Alaska Railroad, one of the most scenic train routes in the world.
With massive panoramic windows, comfortable seating, and outdoor viewing platforms, the train ride from Whittier to Anchorage provided an up-close look at Alaska’s wild beauty. The views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and even glimpses of moose along the way were more than enough entertainment.
But the true highlight was yet to come. The next morning, they boarded the Denali Star. This was a 12-hour train journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks through some of the most remote and stunning landscapes in North America. With luxury gold-class service, gourmet meals, and endless views, it was a fitting grand finale to a cross-country train adventure.
Reflections on an Unforgettable Journey
Looking back on the trip, they realized it wasn’t only about the train from Miami to Alaska or the feat they had accomplished. It was about the experiences along the way—the friendships made, the surprises encountered, and the sheer joy of exploring the world at a slower pace.
Whether it was seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time, crossing the Alaska wilderness by rail, or simply sharing stories with fellow travelers, every moment added to the rich tapestry of the journey.
As the train pulled into Fairbanks, marking the end of the adventure, one thing was clear. Travel isn’t only about reaching a destination—it’s about the incredible memories made along the way.
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