Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop Train Guide (Updated January 2026)
The Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop remains one of Alaska’s most accessible yet remote glacier experiences, reachable only by the Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery Train in Chugach National Forest. This budget-friendly DIY alternative to pricey guided tours lets you hike to iceberg-filled Spencer Lake, view the massive glacier, or even camp overnight—all via a scenic train ride from Anchorage or Portage.
Key Updates for 2026:
- Operating season: Full service May 30 – September 14, 2026 (limited earlier in May for Whittier/Spencer round-trips).
- Prices have increased slightly (check official site for exact fares; recent estimates ~$125+ round-trip from Anchorage).
- Glacier retreat continues: Trails now cross areas recently exposed by melting ice. Ice caves are unstable/temporary—previous prominent ones have collapsed; access is risky and not recommended without guides.
- Safety note: Stay 400+ ft from the glacier face (calving risk) and icebergs.
Book Tickets
Book via the Alaska Railroad website. Sign up for their email list for discounts.
2026 Estimated Fares (subject to change; confirm online):
- Portage to Spencer Round-Trip: Adult ~$90–100; Child (2-11) half price.
- Anchorage to Spencer Round-Trip: Adult ~$130–150; Child half price.
- Infants free on lap; pets allowed in kennels (loaded as baggage).
2026 Schedule (Glacier Discovery Train)
Daily during peak season:
- Depart Portage ~1:30 PM → Arrive Spencer ~1:45 PM.
- Depart Spencer ~4:40 PM → Arrive Portage ~5:15 PM (Anchorage ~9:15 PM).
From Anchorage: Departs ~9:45 AM.
Getting to the Train & The Ride
- Portage Stop 2 (cheapest): ~60 miles south of Anchorage on Seward Hwy.
- Bring gear (kayaks, bikes, camping, pets) as baggage—no extra fees.
- Scenic ride with views of glaciers and wildlife.
Hiking at Spencer
- To Spencer Lake: Easy 1.3-mile flat gravel trail from Whistle Stop (outhouse/water pump en route).
- To Glacier Viewpoint: Additional ~2 miles around lake (moderate; great overlooks).
On the Lake & Glacier
- Bring inflatable kayak/raft/SUP for iceberg paddling (calm evenings best).
- Onto glacier: High risk (crevasses, calving)—experienced only or with guide. No reliable summer ice caves due to collapse/retreat.
Camping
- Free dispersed: Along lake trail (clearings in trees for wind protection; bear boxes available).
- Developed group sites: $35–65/night (reserve via Alaska Railroad: 800.544.0552).
- Public Use Bench Cabin: Steep 5.4-mile hike; reserve online/offline.
Guided Options
- Free ranger-led hikes (summer).
- Kayak/raft tours: Book via Chugach Adventures or similar (~$200+ incl. train).
- Helicopter flights: From Girdwood (glacier landings possible).
This rail-access-only adventure offers stunning views and solitude—perfect for a day trip or overnight. Bear-aware practices essential; pack out everything. Check Alaska Railroad for latest confirmations!