From Girdwood or Anchorage: Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad

If you’re after a taste of Alaska’s wilderness, this Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad tour offers just that—an immersive, balanced experience with plenty of stunning sights. For around $302 per person and lasting about 6 hours, this trip combines a scenic train ride, a river float, and up-close encounters with icebergs and glaciers. While it’s not the cheapest outing, the value lies in the access to remote landscapes and the expert guides who make it all come alive.

What we particularly like are two aspects: first, the combination of transportation modes—riding the Glacier Discovery Train to a wilderness area and floating down the Placer River—which means fewer logistics and more scenery. Second, the intimate size of the group, capped at 8 participants, ensures a personalized experience and plenty of opportunities for questions.

A possible consideration is the weather, as the trip includes rain ponchos and warm clothing suggestions. This is Alaska, after all, where a sudden shower isn’t unusual. And if you are looking for a super relaxing, slow-paced experience or have mobility concerns, this might not be suitable, since wheelchair access isn’t available.

This adventure suits travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, small-group intimacy, and a touch of adventure. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers who want to see Alaska’s glaciers without the hassle of arranging multiple activities themselves.

• Stunning scenery: Expect panoramic views of mountains, glaciers, and icebergs.
• Unique combination: Travel by train and float down a glacier-fed river.
• Accessible for all ages: Perfect for young children and seniors, with a max group size of 8.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed commentary.
• Weather considerations: Be prepared with warm clothing and waterproof gear.
• Limited wheelchair access: Not suitable for those with mobility challenges.

The Itinerary and Its Unique Charm

Starting from the Anchorage Historic Downtown Rail Depot, you’ll hop aboard the Glacier Discovery Train. This rail journey is itself a highlight—riding through Alaska’s backcountry, surrounded by towering mountains and icy peaks, it’s a quintessential Alaskan experience. The train arrives at the Girdwood station around 11 AM, and after a brief wait, you’ll deboard at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop around 1:55 PM for your float trip.

What makes this itinerary stand out is the seamless transition from train to river, offering a unique way to experience the wilderness with minimal fuss. The guides, including those praised for their friendliness and professionalism, will lead your small group onto a 7-mile river float along the Placer River, which is fed by the glacier itself. The float provides a close-up view of icebergs at Spencer Glacier Lake—an area renowned for its striking, floating ice formations, some of which resemble giant sculptures.

This part of the trip is as much about scenery as it is about peaceful float—expect calm waters, panoramic views, and plenty of chances to photograph or simply marvel at Alaska’s raw beauty. Many reviews highlight how stunning the vistas are, with one mentioning “stunning views until we reach our destination.”

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Scenic Train Ride

The Glacier Discovery Train isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the experience. The train’s large windows and open-air viewing areas allow you to soak in the panoramic mountain and glacier vistas in comfort. The guides often share stories about the area’s geology and history, adding context and depth to the visual feast. Several travelers mentioned their guides, like River, as “amazing,” which suggests that the stories and commentary really enhance the trip.

The Float: Up Close with Icebergs and Glaciers

Once you reach Spencer Glacier Lake, the real magic begins. You’ll disembark from the train and step onto your rubber boots and life vests, prepared for a gentle float on the pristine river. The floating experience is designed to be accessible and safe for all ages—from tiny children to seniors. It’s a relaxing experience but offers plenty of opportunities to see the glacial ice and floating icebergs up close.

One reviewer remarked, “More time around the ice would be a lot better IMO,” which suggests that if you love glaciers and icebergs, you might wish for a longer float. Yet, the proximity to ice and the personalized nature of small-group travel often makes the time feel well spent.

Practicalities and Comforts

The tour provides necessary gear—rubber boots, rain ponchos (if needed), and life vests—making it easy to focus on the scenery rather than worrying about weather. The group size of 8 ensures you’re not lost in the crowd, and the small group setting allows guides to tailor the experience.

You’ll want to bring a camera, warm clothing, gloves, and a hat—Alaska’s weather can shift quickly, and layers always help. Since baggage can be left on the train during the float, you won’t need to carry extra items on the boat. Waterproof bags are recommended if you want to keep your belongings dry.

The Experience of the Guides

Guides like River receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. We loved hearing that “the guides love sharing this area,” which makes a difference in how much you’ll enjoy the trip. Their stories and insights turn a scenic float into an educational adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Considerations and Limitations

While this tour offers spectacular views and easy access to remote wilderness, it’s not designed for wheelchair users. Also, the weather can be unpredictable—so proper clothing is essential, and the rain poncho might be your best friend. If you’re expecting more time around the glaciers or want a longer float, plan accordingly—this trip is about 6 hours from start to finish.

This adventure is ideal for anyone who appreciates outdoor beauty and prefers small groups. It appeals to families with children (as young as 1) and older travelers into their 90s, as the activities are gentle yet breathtaking. If you enjoy train journeys, nature photography, or glacier scenery, this is a wonderful way to see Alaska without the hassle of multiple bookings.

Those looking for a relaxing, scenic day trip that combines transport, adventure, and wildlife viewing will find this tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly suited to travelers who value authentic wilderness experiences and love sharing these moments with knowledgeable guides.

The Spencer Glacier Float & Railroad tour offers a solid value for those seeking a balanced mix of scenic train travel, glacier views, and gentle river float. It’s well-organized, small-group, and designed to maximize the natural beauty of Alaska with minimal fuss. The guides’ professionalism and passion elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

While weather considerations are a factor, the overall experience tends to deliver stunning vistas and memorable moments that stay with travelers long after the trip ends. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Alaskan explorer, this adventure provides a meaningful glimpse into the state’s icy core.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly, small-group tour that combines ease and awe-inspiring scenery, this trip is a smart choice. It’s especially good for those who want to see glaciers and icebergs up close without the need for strenuous hiking or specialized gear.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it is perfect for all ages, including very young children and seniors, thanks to its gentle float and small group size.

What should I bring? Bring a camera, warm clothing, gloves, a hat, and waterproof bags if you want to keep your belongings dry.

Can I leave my baggage on the train? Yes, personal baggage can be left on the train while you go on your float, but keep in mind the train and tour provider cannot guarantee the safety of your bags.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues? No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What is included in the price? The tour price includes train tickets, rubber boots, rain ponchos (if needed), and personal flotation devices.

How long does the trip last? Approximately 6 hours, with the train ride, float, and transfer times included.

What is the group size? Limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

Is the weather a concern? Weather can vary, so dressing in layers and bringing waterproof gear is recommended.

What are the main highlights of the trip? Expect scenic train vistas, close-up views of icebergs, and a peaceful float along a glacier-fed river.

How do guides enhance the experience? Guides share stories about Alaska’s glaciers and mountains, answer questions, and ensure safety, making the trip more engaging and informative.

This tour offers a wonderful mix of scenery, comfort, and authentic wilderness — a true highlight for anyone wanting a taste of Alaska’s icy wilderness without a strenuous hike or complicated logistics. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or solo adventurer, it’s a day filled with memorable sights and stories waiting to be told.

You can check availability for your dates here: