The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel is the only road link between Whittier and the rest of the road system. At roughly 2.5 miles, it is North America's longest highway tunnel — and it shares a single lane with the Alaska Railroad.
Timed traffic
Vehicle traffic runs on a published schedule alternating direction roughly every 30 minutes. Arrive early for your window; missing a slot can delay tours and cruise transfers significantly during peak summer days.
Rail sharing
When trains pass, vehicle windows pause. Spencer Glacier and Glacier Discovery train guests experience the tunnel from the rail side — a memorable approach to Whittier that many cruise extensions include.
Travel tips
- ✓Check the current schedule before self-driving from Anchorage.
- ✓Tunnel fees apply; tour operators often include coordination in packages.
- ✓Allow extra buffer on embarkation days with luggage and rental returns.
Cruise passenger advice
Most shore excursions handle tunnel timing for you. If you book independently, confirm whether pickup is inside Whittier or at the tunnel portal on the Portage side. Cruise lines sometimes bus guests through the tunnel on turn-around days — follow ship instructions rather than assuming public schedules.
