Amazon.com Alaska residents refer to their state as "the last frontier," and for good reason. The Alaska Railroad takes tourists through areas of the state where it's unlikely that human feet have ever trod. A whole different way of life exists in Alaska, one suited for those self-reliant types willing to turn their backs on much of the rest of society and tough it out through the brutally cold winters and remote locales. En route from Anchorage to Seward, Alaska Railroad passengers will see the Turnagain Arm, a spectacular ocean cove accessible only by rail, as well as glaciers, killer whales, and sea lions at Resurrection Bay. The second leg of the tour goes to Fairbanks, taking sightseers to Talkeetna, the model for the TV show Northern Exposure; Mount McKinley; and Denali National Park. Those willing to make the trip will be rewarded with dramatic scenery unlike anything in the lower 48, and it's a journey that few would be likely to forget. For the residents of the area, the ARR provides local passenger service and is a lifeline for those along the track, dropping off supplies and taking residents to towns where they can stock up on provisions. Loaded with archival railroad footage and interviews with Alaska residents, The Great Alaska Train Adventure is a fascinating look at the northernmost state, one that should hit home for railroad fans and the travel-minded alike. --Jerry Renshaw From the Back Cover Explore America's last great frontier on the Alaska Railroad in this unforgettable two-part journey of discovery. From the glacier bays of Seward to the soaring heights of Mt. McKinley and the historic gold mining region of Fairbanks, The Great Alaska Train Adventure weaves through Alaska's history, revealing a uniquely rugged beauty and frontier spirit rarely ever experienced in a rail adventure. Anchorage to Seward: Our Alaska adventure begins on the Anchorage to Seward run as we journey down the Kenai Peninsula along the breathtaking Turnagain Arm. Traveling through the Kenai Mountains we experience an incredible scenic route only accessible by rail before taking a thrilling aerial tour of the Kenai Fjords National Park. From Seward, we voyage out into Resurrection Bay where killer whales, otters and sea lions are a common sight and great blue glaciers groan and heave giant slabs of ice into the frigid waters. Anchorage to Fairbanks: Our second journey begins in the lively and modern city of Anchorage. As we head north, civilization quickly gives way to dense forests, rushing streams and mountain vistas. Our first stop is Talkeetna, an essential part of the "Alaska experience" that acts as the gateway for mountain climbers ready to conquer the forbidding precipices of North America's highest peak, Mt. McKinley. From this point we'll explore the incomparable Denali National Park then make our way north to Fairbanks to learn about gold mining from a family of Alaska pioneers.
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