March 22, 2025

The Ski Train takes you to Alaska’s roadless backcountry for a day of cross-country skiing, back-country skiing, or snowshoeing. From Anchorage, the train journeys north to Curry, a remote area north of Talkeetna. Curry used to be home to a ski resort, long since lost to a fire; today, the Ski Train is a once-a-year chance to get out and explore this terrain.

On the train, enjoy the scenery, play games, and picnic with friends. Off the train, ski, or snowshoe terrain for all levels of skiers and snowshoers.

The Ski Train is a fundraiser for the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage.

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2024 Ski Train photos

2018 Ski Train Video

Alaska Railroad Corp. (ARRC) and the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (AKDOT) are collaborating on a pioneering project that uses unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to advance avalanche mitigation technology. 

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Each year, the Alaska Railroad Corporation commissions an artist to produce artwork that is the basis for a limited edition print, poster and lapel pin and other gifts and materials. The annual Alaska Railroad artwork is a favorite among rail fans and Alaska art collectors. The Alaska Railroad typically hosts print and poster signings with the artist at a couple locations along the Railbelt.

For 2025, ARRC commissioned artist Scott Clendaniel for the official commemorative posters/prints. The artwork features some of Alaska's favorite animal riding aboard a GoldStar coach. The public can meet Scott at two public sign-and-sale events scheduled for 2025.

ANCHORAGE: Saturday, Jan. 11, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. a the Anchorage Historic Depot at 411 W. 1st Avenue.

FAIRBANKS: Saturday, Jan. 18, 10 a.m.to 12:30 p.m. at the Fairbanks Railroad Depot at 1031 Railroad Depot Road.
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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced on Wednesday, Oct. 30, that the Port of Seward and the Don Young Port of Alaska were selected to receive over $47.6 million through EPA’s Clean Ports Program to support zero-emission port technology and infrastructure.

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Alaska – Bridge 413.7 Rehabilitation Project (Up to $43,071,887) Alaska Railroad Corporation (ARRC) The proposed project was selected for Final Design and Construction and includes rehabilitation of the existing 1,298-foot, 12-span, through truss bridge across the Tanana River in Nenana, Alaska. The project aligns with the selection criteria by enhancing safety and improving system and service performance, as the project will extend the bridge's useful life to carry mainline freight and passenger rail traffic between Fairbanks and Anchorage, Alaska’s two largest cities. The Alaska Railroad Corporation will contribute the 20 percent non-Federal match. This project qualifies for the statutory set-aside for projects in Rural Areas.

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ARRC is seeking a contractor to perform a high-level audit of the Alaska Railroad's (ARR) locomotive maintenance procedures. The audit aims to evaluate current practices, identify areas for improvement, and enhance locomotive availability and reliability.

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The Loram rail grinder and Union Pacific locomotives are all going south on this barge. The Loram rail grinder is sitting in Princess track preparing loading while BR-32 waits for winter Whittier yard service. All three Union Pacific locomotives are being returned.

 

In Anchorage:

 

10.15.2024 City Council Regular Meeting; The ARR presentation begins at 43:50.

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The Alaska Railroad is looking into the purchase of a new hi-rail crane. Check out Appendix C for specifications and some cool reference photos.

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My sources in Whittier told me the LORAM rail grinder arrived on the barge on October 10. It is currently on the Princess track and should be rolling out on October 11. It will be on the rails for two weeks, covering the entire railroad and then head back to the lower 48.

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Henry and Mary Krull have purchased Troop Kitchen car #0020 and are moving it to Soldotna as part of the mecca at Whistle Hill.

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“It’s a Dall sheep!” the train tour guide exclaims as we swoop past a jagged cliffside dotted with fuzzy white creatures impressively balanced on their rocky perch.

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