An Alaska Railroad train travels through snow-covered Interior Alaska. The Aurora Winter Train runs weekends between Anchorage and Fairbanks from mid-September to mid-May, offering rare flagstop service along roadless stretches of wilderness where passengers can board or disembark just by waving the train down. Photo courtesy Alaska Railroad
By Gina Hill | Alaska Headline Living | December 2025
The Alaska Railroad has cancelled Aurora Winter Train service for January 3–4, 2026, citing extreme winter temperatures between Denali National Park and Fairbanks that make safe operation impossible.
The Aurora Winter Train, which normally runs weekends between Anchorage and Fairbanks with stops including Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali, will not operate on Saturday or Sunday due to severe cold across Interior Alaska.
To keep essential access open for residents in remote Flagstop areas, the railroad will still run the Hurricane Turn Train on Saturday, January 3. This service allows people returning from cabins and other off-grid locations to get back into town. The Hurricane Turn is one of the last flagstop rail services in North America and a vital lifeline for communities without road access.
Alaska Railroad officials emphasized that passenger safety is the top priority, noting that extreme cold can affect both equipment reliability and traveler comfort. Passengers are encouraged to check AlaskaRailroad.com. and the railroad’s social media channels for updates and refund or rebooking options.
