Denali Star

Discover the Alaskan wilderness by rail with a ride on the Denali Star, which transports passengers from Anchorage to the gates of Denali National Park for sweeping views of the route's namesake, North America's highest peak.

The Denali Star, which is only offered in the summer, is a 12-hour, 356-mile journey (starting at $187 per person, one-way) that passes hundreds of feet over Hurricane Gulch, travels through Healy Canyon, crosses the Knik River, and features mountain vistas. In the summer, the Alaska Railroad offers a well-liked coastal route.

The Aurora Winter Train travels through the backcountry from mid-September to mid-May for those looking to see the northern lights. From Anchorage to Fairbanks, one-way shoulder season fares start at $218 per person.

Country: The United States