Glacier Discovery Train question

Question

Does anyone ride this train twice, once to Spencer Glacier and then the next day all the way to Grandview? Is that a bad idea? We will be in Anchorage for a few days before going to Brooks Lodge and wondering if we can get off to hike to Spencer Glacier and ride all the way to Grandview over two consecutive days. Maybe ride one day from

Anchorage to Spencer Glacier, get off at Girdwood, spend the night at Aleyska Resort and then the next day ride the train from Girdwood to Grandview and then ride it all the way back to Anchorage? Not sure what we would don with our luggage as I write this so maybe this won’t work? Just seems a shame to have to choose between Spencer glacier and Grandview…

Answer

Yes, it is possible to ride the Glacier Discovery Train on consecutive days to see both Spencer Glacier and Grandview, but there are several logistical and timing considerations to keep in mind.

Day 1: Anchorage to Spencer Glacier

You can take the train from Anchorage to Spencer Glacier and get off to explore or hike the short trails around the glacier.
If you plan to stay overnight at Alyeska Resort in Girdwood, you would need to disembark there instead of returning to Anchorage immediately. Check if the train allows stops at Girdwood and if there are any restrictions on re-boarding the next day.
Luggage could be a complication. If the train service does not offer checked baggage between stops, you may need to carry only a daypack and arrange your main luggage to be at the resort or transported separately.

Day 2: Girdwood to Grandview and return

You can take the train from Girdwood to Grandview the next day. This will allow you to experience the longer scenic ride without missing Spencer Glacier.
Consider the total ride time and train schedules. The Glacier Discovery Train is a scenic excursion, not a high-speed service, so trips can take several hours one-way.
Returning to Anchorage the same day from Grandview may make for a long day, so plan for adequate meals and flexibility for any delays.

Tips and Considerations

Confirm train schedules and whether stops at Girdwood and Grandview allow overnight stays or re-boarding the next day. Not all excursions are designed for multi-day hops.
Consider contacting the train operator about luggage storage options if you plan to stay overnight at Alyeska Resort.
Plan hiking around train arrival times, since most trails near Spencer Glacier are short but still require time to enjoy safely.
Booking accommodations in Girdwood in advance is strongly recommended, especially in summer.

Overall, this two-day plan is feasible, but careful attention to schedules, luggage logistics, and accommodations is necessary to avoid complications. If done correctly, it allows you to see both Spencer Glacier and Grandview without having to choose between them.

Glacier Discovery Train question

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