ARRC Coastal Classic Train Page 11

June 27 to 30, 2004

Once across the Placer River bridge, the train speeds along a tangent stretch. The crossing is where the Glacier Discovery delivers rafters to float on Spencer Lake among the icebergs shown on the preceeding page.

The train eventually passes Portage and then joins the Turnagain Arm of the Cook Inlet of the Pacific Ocean.

Below left is the area that has been realigned to help avoid avalanche related track closures. The rock just above the waterline has been placed rock by rock to produce a uniform slope called rock rip-rap slope. Below right shows some construction to realign the Seward Highway. Over the years, the railroad has dumped hundreds of thousands of tons of rock to protect the track along the Turnagain Arm.

The new track features concrete ties and continuous welded rail sometimes called ribbon rail. Below right shows some of the avalanche chutes.

Below left, the concrete ties end and wooden ties begin. Concrete ties have a longer useful life. In some areas of the United States, wooden ties last 7 years and concrete ties 50 years. The Alaska Railroad even used steel ties at one time!

Our friends, the Dall sheep were out again at their favorite spot.

Once in Anchorage proper, we had to stop for a red signal. The Glacier Discovery was still at the downtown depot and we proceeded when it was moved to the yard for servicing and layover for the next day. After a few minutes, we got to go. When we arrived at the depot, I saw my friend Steve Culver. We got together and chatted for the next several days on his days off.

The Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic train from Anchorage to Seward is a rewarding four hour ride. It can be done round trip in one day. Over the years, I have learned to love the town of Seward known for its coastal locale and great fishing. The scenery in the 112 miles it travels is through the most beautiful portion of Alaska. There are many beautiful places in Alaska, but the Kenai Peninsula tops on my list.

Would you like to ride the Alaska Railroad? Of course you must and will call 1-800-544-0552 or if in Anchorage, 265-2494. The Alaska Railroad Official Website

Finally I would like to thank the crew of the Coastal Classic, Conductor Harry Ross, Brakeman Duane Frank and Engineer Herf Kieth. Special thanks to Susie Kiger, Manager, Sales & Marketing and Steve Silverstein, VP of Markets, Sales and Service. See all of you in 2005!

Other links for Seward:

Mrs. Clock's Bed & Breakfast has been retired.

Semaka Charters

J-Dock Fish Company, located at the top of "J" dock at the Seward small boat harbor, (907)224-7272

Richard Elgenson RailNews Network Page

John's Alaska Railroad Web Page

Email me: Richard@TrainWeb.com

Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic Train