The Alaska Railroad
From the Gold Rush to the Tourist Train, the Alaskan Railway has shaped the Last Frontier. Learn how War, Gold Fever and Oil Exploration were all impacted by the railroad. Terrain as big and as rough as Alaska presents a number of challenges when building a railroad. From the Great Storm of 1907 to the Earthquake of 1964, the Alaskan Railway has survived countless natural disasters.
Alaska played a critical role during World War 2 - providing support for the Russia's battles against Germany and the United States in the struggle for dominance in the Pacific. The rail lines in Alaska also helped build the Alaskan Pipeline, moving tons of pipe from the sea ports to inland bases where it was delivered to every growing oil pipeline.
Today the Alaska Railway moves freight and passengers along miles of railways - from the coastal towns of Seward and Anchorage to the glory of Denali National Park and up to Fairbanks. The train provides a vital link to industry in Alaska.