How To Get From Anchorage to Whittier?
Planning a trip from Anchorage to Whittier? You’re in the right place. Nestled about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage, Whittier is a gateway to the stunning Prince William Sound and a popular starting point for many cruises. Whether you’re driving, taking a bus, or hopping on a train, each route offers breathtaking views along the Turnagain Arm. The famous Whittier Tunnel combines history with engineering marvel and adds a unique twist to the journey. This guide will help you choose the best travel option to match your schedule and preferences and provide essential tips for cruise passengers embarking from Whittier.
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Anchorage to Whittier Distance and Travel Overview
Traveling from Anchorage to Whittier can be done by car, bus, train, or with a tour. Each mode offers a unique experience with different travel times.
- By Car. The drive typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It also depends on the Whittier Tunnel schedule, so check it before your drive.
- By Bus. Exploring Anchorage without a car is easy. It’s also easy to get to Whittier by bus. Taking the bus, such as that operated by the Park Connection Motor Coach, usually takes around 2 hours. This option is convenient if you prefer not to drive yourself and still want to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of navigating. Or, you can take Anchorage to Whittier’s narrated direct shuttle bus transfer for cruise ship passengers. Before you book your transport, check whether your cruise line offers a free shuttle. If you are taking an Alaska cruise from Whittier, is it highly possible that your cruise line offers a shuttle from Anchorage.
- By Train. The train journey, provided by the Alaska Railroad on the Glacier Discovery Train Route, takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
- With a Tour. You can also go on an organized tour from Anchorage to Whittier. The travel time will depend on the attractions planned on a tour. We will provide details for each solution below.
An important aspect of this journey is the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, commonly known as the Whittier Tunnel. This tunnel is crucial because it is North America’s longest combined vehicle and railway tunnel.
It operates on a strict schedule to accommodate both vehicles and trains, so checking the tunnel’s schedule in advance is essential to ensure a smooth trip. This will help you avoid unexpected delays and plan your arrival in Whittier, whether you’re catching a cruise or exploring the town.
Agnes’ Advice: Planning to spend more time in Anchorage? See my full Anchorage guide for additional ideas and local recommendations.
Our Experiences
Chris and I have visited Whittier several times, though we often find the weather challenging. We typically drive there. Once, we overlooked the tunnel schedule and waited in a lengthy queue. Based on our experiences, we’re sharing some essential tips to help you avoid similar pitfalls.
If you plan a trip to Whittier, you might also be interested in our related articles:
How to spend one day in Whittier? (itinerary perfect for cruise passengers)
What are the best things to do in Whittier?
Is it worth taking 26 glaciers cruise through Prince William Sound?
How to hike the Portage Pass Trail in Whittier?
Alaska cruise from Whittier? All you should know about Whittier cruise port.
Where to stay in Whittier? Campgrounds and hotels.
Facts about Whittier.
How to see Portage Glacier? Hikes, Tours and Cruises.
If you’re planning a trip from Anchorage, you might find our other guides useful, such as “How to Spend 2 Days in Anchorage” and “The Best Day Trips from Anchorage.”
For those considering an extended journey through Alaska, our articles on traveling from Anchorage to Seward, Anchorage to Denali National Park, and Anchorage to Fairbanks offer valuable insights and advice to enhance your travel experience.
Anchorage to Whittier by Train
Traveling from Anchorage to Whittier by train offers a unique and scenic experience that is hard to match by other modes of transport. The Alaska Railroad’s Glacier Discovery route connects these two cities and provides travelers with breathtaking views of Alaska’s landscapes.
Price
Only Adventure Class service is available on this route. It offers comfortable seating and large picture windows. It’s an economical choice that still provides great views and access to the onboard café. A one-way ticket is $101 per adult and $51 per child (2-11). A round-trip ticket is $129 per adult and $65 per child.
Route Details
- Duration: The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, making it a leisurely way to soak in the stunning views.
- Scenery: As the train moves along the Turnagain Arm, passengers are treated to views of dramatic landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, and possibly wildlife. This route is particularly famous for its picturesque vistas that capture the essence of Alaska’s natural beauty.
Travel Tips
- Check the Schedule. The train operates on a specific schedule, typically once daily, and it’s important to check the Alaska Railroad website for the most current information.
- Book in Advance. Especially during the tourist season, seats can fill up quickly. Booking your tickets in advance ensures you won’t miss out on this incredible journey.
- Tunnel Passage. The train route includes passage through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, which is included in the train schedule, so you don’t have to worry about it.
Arrival in Whittier
Upon arrival in Whittier, the train station is conveniently located close to the cruise terminal, making it an excellent option for those who are boarding a cruise ship. The proximity to the port allows for an easy transition from train to ship.
Anchorage To Whittier By Bus
Traveling from Anchorage to Whittier by bus is a convenient and cost-effective option, particularly for those who prefer not to drive or go on a cruise.
The bus route to Whittier offers stunning views similar to those seen from the train, including the majestic mountains and the expansive Turnagain Arm. The travel is comfortable, with modern buses equipped with large windows allowing you to take in the breathtaking landscapes.
Park Connection Motor Coach
The Park Connection Motor Coach offers a reliable service for tourists, especially for cruise passengers. It’s a cost-effective transfer option compared to those typically offered by cruise lines. Departing from the Dena’ina Civic Center in downtown Anchorage, this bus route concludes at the Whittier Cruise Terminal.
Its afternoon schedule from Anchorage aligns seamlessly with the “Park to Park” route that begins in Denali. It allows travelers to journey from Denali or Talkeetna to Whittier within a single day — an efficient choice for maximizing time before embarking on a cruise.
They depart Anchorage at 3:00 PM at Dena’ina Civic Center and arrive at Whittier at 5:00 PM. The price is $75.00 per adult and $37.50 per child (0-11).
Whittier Alaska Shuttle Bus cruise Service
There is also Whittier Alaska Shuttle Bus Service, which offers dedicated transfers to cruise ship terminals. Moreover, this shuttle will pick you up at most locations in Anchorage, take care of your luggage, and guarantee to deliver you to your cruise ship on time.
Moreover, the price is very affordable because it only costs $49. Since the timetable is adapted to cruise lines and they have several connections, check the website directly to book a ticket and choose the appropriate connection.
This line also offers longer transfers with a stop at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, called a narrated wildlife bus tour for cruise ship passengers.
Other Shuttle Bus Services to Whittier
- ACT BIG BUS also offers specialized transfers to Whittier cruise port. They pick up passengers from several Anchorage hotels. Their departure times and schedules are aligned with those of Princess Cruises and Holland America cruises.
- Whittier Bus offers private and shared transportation to Whittier, Seward, Girdwood, and Denali.
Driving from Anchorage to Whittier
Driving from Anchorage to Whittier is an excellent way to take in the incredible scenery of Alaska at your own pace. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your road trip.
The journey covers approximately 60 miles and typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes without stops under normal conditions. It takes you along the Seward Highway, renowned for its stunning views of the Turnagain Arm, dramatic mountain landscapes, and potential wildlife sightings.
Navigating the Route
- Start on the Seward Highway (AK-1), heading southeast from Anchorage. Along this route, consider stopping at several scenic pullouts to enjoy the views of the Turnagain Arm and surrounding mountains.
- Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. The Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center is on the route, just before the Whittier tunnel turnoff. This conservation center is home to various Alaskan wildlife, including bears, moose, and bison, all within natural settings. It’s an excellent place for families and wildlife enthusiasts to learn about local species and conservation efforts.
- Portage Glacier. Just before the tunnel and before reaching Whittier, a worthwhile stop is the Portage Glacier. Located near Portage Lake, this spot offers a chance to view the impressive glacier and take part in a boat tour that brings you close to the ice formations. It’s a fantastic way to experience Alaska’s glacial landscape.
- Continue following the signs leading you toward Whittier. Prepare to enter the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel, a notable feature on this route.
- Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. It operates on a strict schedule with specific times for vehicle entry in each direction. Checking the tunnel’s schedule before your trip is crucial to avoid long waits.
Travel Tips
- Tunnel Fees and Schedule. Be prepared for the tunnel fee and familiarize yourself with the timing for cars to pass through to ensure a smooth journey. Driving through the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel from Anchorage to Whittier involves a toll fee. The cost for regular vehicles, including motorcycles, is $13. If you’re pulling a trailer, the fee increases to $22. For small buses and regular RVs, the toll is $38, and for large buses, it’s $137. You can purchase toll tickets online.
- Fuel Up. Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel for the journey, as services are sparse along the highway.
- Safety First. Stay alert for wildlife and adapt your driving to weather conditions, which can change rapidly and affect visibility and road surface.
- When planning your drive from Anchorage to Whittier, allow extra time beyond the usual 1 hour and 15 minutes. Road work or traffic jams along the Seward Highway occasionally cause delays, so adding a buffer to your schedule will help you reach your destination stress-free and on time.
Anchorage to Whittier Tour
Organized tours from Anchorage to Whittier can provide delightful and informative day trips, blending scenic beauty with unique experiences. These tours typically include several engaging activities and stops along the way, making the most of the picturesque Seward Highway and Turnagain Arm’s dramatic landscapes.
Based on our personal experiences, we highly recommend the Prince William Sound Glacier Cruise (we purchased this tour). The ticket price conveniently includes shuttle transportation from Anchorage and back, making it hassle-free whether you’re starting from the city or prefer to drive yourself, as we did with a rental car.
This six-hour glacier cruise is a breathtaking journey through the pristine Alaskan wilderness. It offers close encounters with wildlife and stunning views of majestic glaciers. It’s an enchanting experience that showcases some of Alaska’s most impressive natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
In planning your journey from Anchorage to Whittier, especially if it culminates in a cruise, you must organize your transportation well in advance. Pre-booking can alleviate the stress of last-minute arrangements and ensure availability for those opting for shuttle services or public transportation. This is particularly crucial during the peak travel season when demand can outstrip supply.
If you choose to drive, remember to check the schedule of the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel. This tunnel, the only land route to Whittier, operates on a strict timetable to accommodate both vehicular and rail traffic. Familiarizing yourself with the tunnel times can help avoid unnecessary delays during your trip.
Additionally, don’t forget to budget for the tunnel toll fee. The toll for a regular vehicle is typically around $13, and this fee helps maintain and operate the tunnel. Knowing these costs and schedules ahead of time will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your Alaskan adventure.
For those who appreciate nature and wildlife, incorporating stops like the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center and Portage Glacier adds significant value to your trip, enriching the travel experience with educational and memorable moments.
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