Louise Masin Sattler

Experience the Denali Star: Scenic Alaska Railroad Adventure

Published on July 10, 2025July 10, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

All aboard! The Alaska Railroad’s Denali Star awaits! Next month hubby, friends, and I will embark on an exhilarating adventure from Anchorage to Fairbanks with an overnight stay at Denali! We’re eager to explore the breathtaking landscapes, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse ourselves in the rich culture of the state that has earned its nickname as the “Last Frontier”.

As a lucky guest of the Alaska Railroad, I’m thrilled to document this unforgettable multi-day trip. With video (live and recorded), photos, and stories, as told by residents and fellow travelers, I’ll be sharing it all with you! History buffs can check out the timeline of the Alaska Railroad here.

The Alaska Railroad has several routes, onboard seating options, and dining choices. Details can be found here, along with instructions on how to book a ticket, information about excursions, and additional important details.

Two passengers enjoying the scenic view from inside an Alaska Railroad train, pointing towards the mountainous landscape and green meadows outside.

A bar attendant serves drinks to two passengers inside an Alaska Railroad train car, with scenic views visible through large windows.

I’d like to introduce you to an integral person at the Alaska Railroad, Robin Moore, their Marketing Communications Manager. We had a great conversation about riding the rails, including accessibility, and how a tourist to Alaska can make a trip on the Alaska Railroad an epic experience!

A woman and a girl smile and lean against the railing of a train while enjoying the scenic view of lush greenery outside.

Louise: Hi Robin! Thank you for offering us general information and details about the Alaska Railroad. Let’s start with a description of this railway.

Robin: The Alaska Railroad connects many of Alaska’s most popular destinations: Anchorage, Seward, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks. Our tracks span almost 500 miles across this great land, traveling along dramatic coastlines, pristine river valleys, expansive alpine forests, and traversing the Chugach Mountains and Alaska Range.

At the Alaska Railroad, we believe the journey should be just as spectacular as the destination.

Louise: The ALASKA RAILROAD is very popular in the summer months, however, please tell our readers about the off-peak experience of travelling on these trains.

Robin: The Alaska Railroad operates year-round with the Aurora Winter Train running from mid-September to early May. The Aurora Winter Train operates weekends between Anchorage and Fairbanks, with northbound travel on Saturdays and southbound travel on Sundays, plus select midweek departures in February through the beginning of April.

The winter offers a quieter, snow-covered landscape. You can enjoy panoramic views from a warm, comfortable railcar with large windows and onboard dining. The journey from Anchorage to Fairbanks is 12 hours, which can be done in a day, or passengers can opt to stay and experience different destinations along the way including Wasilla and Talkeetna.

Louise: Which is your most popular route?

Robin: Our flagship train (and most well-known) is the Denali Star Train, traveling from Anchorage to Fairbanks, with stops in Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Denali National Park (then vice versa). The Coastal Classic Train (Anchorage to Seward) is on the rise in popularity and National Geographic Traveler ranked it their Top Ten Train Ride in North America.

Read the National Geographic Traveler’s comments regarding the Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic Train.

Map of the Alaska Railroad route, highlighting key destinations including Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali, and Fairbanks. — The Alaska Railroad offers several scenic trail journeys, including the Coastal Classic Train from Anchorage to Seward, which takes in the glaciers and waterfalls of the Kenai Peninsula.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY C.W. SUTPHIN, ALASKA RAILROAD

Louise: If you could give some advice for people about to embark on the ALASKA RAILROAD what would it be? (e.g. arrive early, bring comfortable shoes, pack rain gear for excursions, book excursions well in advance, order your meals ahead of time, etc.)

Robin: Pack layers, and a camera, and to enjoy the journey or experience. The Alaska Railroad is about the experience, the journey being just as spectacular as the destination. We want you to slow down, relax, and be present in the moment. Take the time to do that.

Louise: Is there anything a person with mobility issues, such as a wheelchair, should inform the ALASKA RAILROAD before their trip?

Robin: The Alaska Railroad has wheelchair lifts at all major depots, any communication and heads-up are always appreciated. Accessibility on other connecting modes of transport can vary, please check with the reservation agent for details.

Louise: Are there excursions that would be user-friendly for someone with a mobility issue?

Robin: Travelers with mobility challenges will find several accessible tour options throughout Alaska. Jeep, bus, and city tours are generally user-friendly and available in key destinations such as Seward, Anchorage, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, and Fairbanks.

Museums and cultural centers across the state also offer enriching, accessible experiences.

Robin’s list of recommended stops along the Alaska Railroad routes included these places:

The Anchorage Museum (Anchorage)
Alaska Native Heritage Center (Anchorage)
Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum (Fairbanks)
Pioneer Park (Fairbanks)
The Ice Museum (Fairbanks)

Robin also mentioned the following tour options, but please note travelers are advised to do their due diligence regarding accessibility and to communicate with the individual tour/excursion operators:

ATV TOURS: Some ATV tours are ADA accessible; however, guests with mobility limitations should contact the tour operators in advance to discuss transportation logistics.

LOCAL CRUISES: Most boat and wildlife cruises accommodate wheelchairs; however, a few may require navigating a short set of stairs to board.

VISIT A GLACIER: Spencer Glacier float trip is ADA accessible, but the shuttle bus to the launch point is not. Advance planning and coordination are necessary to make this excursion possible.

Readers who would like to learn more about the plethora of “things to do while visiting Alaska” are encouraged to visit TRAVEL ALASKA here.

Louise: Is there anything on the railroads for children with special needs – such as a sensory area?

Robin: There is not, however, we have worked with several partners and organizations to meet their needs as best as we can. Communication and planning are key factors in this.

Louise: Please, share about accommodations for infants and young children.

Robin: Infants under two can ride on their parents’ lap or may have their own seat if guardian deems necessary. That seat needs to be reserved when tickets are purchased.

Louise. Your media program- such as what I am doing – Is it important for outreach?

Robin: Yes, it is very important and one of key elements of our public relations program. Media outreach – both nationally and locally – plays a vital role in how we share our story, connect with target audience, and promote our brand. What you’re doing directly supports those efforts and helps us reach broader and more engaged audiences.

One reader had me ask an important question – “Does Santa ride the train to the North Pole?”

Robin responded: “Santa does ride the train but not necessarily going to the North Pole. Every year we have the Holiday Train event, it is an event family-friendly train and Santa does make an appearance and see all the kids and families on the train.

Person standing in front of the Alaska Railroad train, smiling and with arms raised in excitement, wearing sunglasses and a hoodie.man — Robin Moore, Alaska Railroad Marketing Communications Manager

And this interview wouldn’t be complete without learning more about Robin.

Louise: Robin, please tell us about yourself, the number of years you have been…

Robin is a born and raised Alaskan. She left the state for a short period of time to attend college and travel, but felt the pull back to this amazing part of the world over 13 years ago. “I truly love this state and think it is so unique!”, commented Robin.

She has been working with the Alaska Railroad for two years and in the tourism industry for almost a decade. And, I just had to ask- “When you are ready to leave the 49th state on vacation – where do you like to travel?

Her response – HAWAII!

*Lastly..**. an invitation*

Invitation graphic for an Instagram event featuring details about sharing interviews, photos, and videos from the Denali Star route on the Alaska Railroad.

high mounds of red rocks in a desert setting

Top Tips for Visiting Valley of Fire State Park

Published on June 26, 2025August 21, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

The Valley of Fire is a gorgeous state park about one hour north of Las Vegas. It is a wonderful place for all to visit and a welcome escape from the frenzy of Las Vegas. Plus, now more than ever families need to unplug and unwind by enjoying time outdoors!

Here are a few tips for visiting the Valley of Fire:

1. Start your visit at the Visitor’s Center. There is a great overview of the park, bathroom facilities, and a small store with supplies for visitors, including campers and those setting out to hike. The center is accessible for people in wheelchairs. Some of the parks have the ACTION TRACKCHAIR for people to access rough terrain with a mobility chair specifically designed for rough roads and mountainous areas.
2. Dress with closed-toe shoes if you plan on venturing past the visitor center of the parking lot. There is sand, some bugs (it is nature!) and rocks.
3. Bring water. There are no vending machines once you drive past the visitor’s center.
4. Bring sunscreen and bug repellent, as well.
5. Bring a camera – you will want to snap photos of this amazing vista!
6. Bring hand sanitizer as there are bathrooms, but not all have water for washing your hands
7. Most of all – make a plan! You can spend a few hours or all day at the Valley of Fire! To help with your planning check out their website before you venture out. Remember that this park is not free, nor does it accept the National Park Pass. The Valley of Fire Website

Enjoy the photos I snapped from my April 2025 visit to this wonderful state park:

The Valley of Fire Tourist Center's Store Offerings

Valley of Fire Resources

About the Valley of Fire

Accessibility at the Valley of Fire-Introducing the Action Trackchair at some Nevada State Parks

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This information was accurate when posted. Please do your due diligence to check on the park being open, costs, etc.

Best Summer Vacation Spots for Families with Special Needs – Accessible Tourism

Published on June 21, 2025August 24, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

It is summertime, which signals that millions of people will be driving, flying, cruising, or taking trains to destinations far from the comfort of their homes. For families, summer vacation can be thrilling and enjoyable, or it can feel overwhelming and stressful. Additionally, some families must plan with extra precautions and consideration, particularly those with members who have special needs, including autism.

I asked several experts and parents with special needs children where they would go (and how) to take a break from their day-to-day lives. These were the most popular responses:

AMUSEMENT PARKS

It was no surprise that Disney parks took the top spot for families who need accessibility services. Disney has been a platinum standard and offers a multitude of services. Their accessibility services for guests with disabilities website page – offers a plethora of information. There are dropdown categories for people with mobility challenges, neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc.), deafness, blindness/low vision, and how they welcome people with service animals. Each ” disability” category opens up to a comprehensive outline of what to expect, how to receive special services (such as an interpreter), and even an organizational planner and recommendation downloadable document.

If you don’t want to visit “The Mouse” and all his friends – then there are plenty more activities for families to enjoy around the globe!

Morgan’s Wonderland located in San Antonio, Texas, also was cited by several contributors, including financial coach, Randy Murrie. Known to be an “ultra-accessible” theme park, Morgan’s Wonderland offers this video and YouTube and a wonderful mission statement on their website:
“Morgan’s Wonderland is just like any other theme park except for a culture and environment that assures 100 percent enjoyment by every person entering the Welcome Center. Unfortunately, countless children and adults with special needs do not have access to facilities that enable them to enjoy outdoor recreation fully. Morgan’s Wonderland is changing that every day.“

Travel expert, Mariana Montes from Vibe Adventures has expertise in helping families. As a travel expert, writer, and a local tour guide for Vibe Adventure she specialized in spotlighting inclusive and accessible guided adventures. She has helped families with neurodivergent children to plan and enjoy successful vacations in Mexico. Montes commented, “Playa del Carmen has miles of family-friendly beaches, and its many resorts have facilities and features for families with special needs. Puerto Vallarta is another great option with a welcoming community and attractions that are stress-free and easy, including sensory-sensitive tours. The town of Todos Santos in Baja California Sur also wins praises for its welcoming feel, slower pace, and cultural options for families looking for a quieter atmosphere.“

A serene coastal landscape featuring rocky shores and calm blue waters, with distant cliffs and a boat navigating in the background. — CABO SAN LUCAS – Photo credit: Louise Sattler

Don’t overlook these theme parks and information to help you navigate them from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards – IBCCES!

LEGOLAND® has earned the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to become a Certified Autism Center across Theme Parks, Water Park, and two on-site hotels. These parks are interactive, engaging, and fun for the whole family!

Marissa Sabrina, a mom to a child on the autism spectrum and the creative director for LeadLearnLeap, contributed to my query with two thumbs up for LEGOLAND, Florida. She commented, “Our favorite destination so far has been LEGOLAND Florida. They have a Hero Pass that accommodates kids with sensory and social challenges, letting you skip long lines, their staff is beautifully trained. Everything felt low-pressure and flexible—ideal for him.” She also suggested the organization Autism Double Checked for resources to help expand understanding within the tourism industry and prepare children on the spectrum for a vacation.

Curious about the IBCCES ACCESSIBILITY CARD (IAC)? Their Information can be found here with the website describing this card as follows: “The IAC is for anyone who is requesting accommodations – including but not limited to individuals who are autistic, use a wheelchair, are blind/low vision, deaf/hard of hearing, have mobility support needs, are accompanied by a service animal, have sensory sensitivities, cognitive disabilities, or have other needs and concerns.”

Other theme parks to consider:

SEA WORLD– their website is comprehensive with information, including about food allergens.

CEDAR POINT offers a plethora of services, including a quiet room, braille, and website information to help people with physical, sensory, and cognitive challenges.

Knott’s Berry Farm®, SIX FLAGS®, and HURRICANE HARBORS all belong to a consortium of adventure parks and adhere to the same standards and protocols CEDAR POINT in Sandusky, Ohio.

A view of a roller coaster at an amusement park with bright blue skies and crowd below. — Photo: Louise Sattler

Ramp for wheelchair access to the train at Knott's Berry Farm, featuring a wooden railing and accompanying staff. — Photo: Louise Sattler

HERSHEY PARK– this theme park wins my award for the BEST SMELLING venue! Hints of chocolate and other scents travel through the air like a cloud of yumminess! This park offers a comprehensive description of its rides and accessibility.

And, Hershey Park’s size chart for their rides is ADORABLE! Are you a Twizzler? HERSHEY BAR?

A colorful height chart for amusement rides at a theme park featuring various candy brands like Jolly Rancher, Twizzlers, and Reese's, indicating height requirements for different attractions.

NATIONAL PARKS, RV and CAMPING LIFE

A panoramic view of the Grand Canyon, showcasing its deep valleys and rugged cliffs under a cloudy sky. — Stunning view of the Grand Canyon showcasing its vastness and natural beauty, ideal for families seeking adventure in national parks.

DID YOU KNOW…

The United States National Park Service (NPS) has provided detailed information about their ACCESS PASS on their website. While I adore traveling abroad, I am equally captivated by the stunning beauty found in our national parks. The NPS has curated a wealth of resources for those looking to visit and ensure a memorable experience.

“The Access Pass is a free lifetime pass available to US citizens or permanent residents of the United States that have been medically determined to have a permanent disability (does not have to be a 100% disability). The Access Pass provides benefits at federal lands managed by six agencies, including free entrance to parks managed by the National Park Service that charge an entrance fee.” ( I pray this is a program that is not cut given recent funding issues.)

And what about camping and traveling by an RV?

I am not much of a camper and have had limited experience with staying in an RV. But, I do see the value and benefits that both can provide for families who want to immerse themselves in nature and explore the “great outdoors”! I chronicled my RV experience on this blog.

Moreover, several parents noted that campgrounds provide an excellent alternative to theme parks and distant destinations. Some suggested renting an RV, while others prefer campgrounds where they can pitch tents or rent a cabin. Glamping is also an appealing option for those seeking the comforts of home amid a forest! The KOA website offers a variety of choices for RV and “traditional campers.” Additionally, this organization provides a 12 TIPS GUIDE for CAMPING with KIDS WITH DISABILITIES.

CRUISES

Cruising as an option for families to travel was mentioned by several query responders including Michelle, a mom who has several family members with autism.

Michelle shared the following about her cruising experience: “We’ve cruised on Royal Caribbean twice. The second time we cruised, we realized they had early boarding for special needs. Several in our family have autism and the onboarding usually causes a very uncomfortable, if not miserable, first day on board. Plus it can take a day or two to adjust back to our normal.

After submitting the special needs form, we were given information on how to do the early onboarding. They brought us to the front of the line and processed us immediately with almost no waiting. It started our vacation on the right foot with no wonkiness from our family.

Unfortunately, no one told us how to disembark and we ended up in a very long line to go home. Nonetheless, we were pleased with the service as it was the first time we had experienced any kind of extra assistance for special needs. We travel every summer and have never been offered this.”

Royal Caribbean does offer this information on its website regarding their accessibility protocols.

Autism of the Seas was mentioned by several as a company that helps with organizing vacations for adults and families living with Autism, Down Syndrome, and other related disabilities. Their interactive travel booklet spotlights all the perks of traveling on these well-appointed ships with a heart!

Steve Schwab, CEO of Casago. He elaborated by adding, “There is a great organization called “Autism on the Seas” that creates cruise services for families – adults and children alike – with members that have special needs. They provide accommodations such as special meal services, staff who have speciality training, autism-friendly activities, better mobility accommodations, and more. It is definitely worth looking into these cruises, as there are tons of options, too.”

What are your thoughts?

I believe that we can learn from each other. The power of the special needs community is enormous! So, go ahead and comment below with your favorite places to explore that offer accessible tourism options.

Coming soon- “must-have” travel items!

ANNOUNCING a NEW TRAVEL SERIES – TRAVELING DIFFERENTLY (and Gentler)!

Published on May 26, 2025August 24, 2025 by LouiseSattlerLeave a comment

Did the title make you a little curious about what I have coming soon? I hope so! Starting this month, I will be writing a series of articles (with the hope to one day make the culmination into a book) called TRAVELING DIFFERENTLY. This will be for any person who has unique needs or interests.

Each “edition” will be chocked with fun facts, information, and recommendations-including tips for people with mobility challenges, autism, deafness, blindness, etc. Also, people of “mature age” may wish to travel differently. Many of my “mature aged friends” don’t want to sprint through their vacations as if they are running a marathon – but stroll leisurely through the streets with a cappuccino in their hand! I for one, am prefer traveling “gentler” as I enjoy wandering about as I sample the culture and cuisine of a new locale.

Let’s Discover The World!

My mantra for 2025 and 2026 is to discover dozens of destinations across Europe and the United States. My goal is to look at each new place through several “lenses”. Which airlines, hotels, or attractions are accessible? Would northern Italy be easy to traverse if you have a wheelchair? Does the Sagrada Familia Museum of Barcelona offer tours that use captioning devices for the deaf? Is there a park or special sensory center near Dubrovnik, Croatia that would offer an opportunity for a child on the autism spectrum to enjoy? Is the Pantheon too rigorous a climb for someone not used to hiking? Can you tour Denali National Park without hiking? It is questions like these (and much more)- that I hope to answer.

And, since I am a “lifelong educator and student”, I will be chronicling my findings with video, photography, and via many social channels – including this website.

PENN STATE HERE WE COME!

A scenic view of the Penn State area with rolling green hills and a small town in the distance, overlaid with the text 'WE ARE PENN STATE'.

It has been more than 7 years since we ventured to the land of the “Nittany Lions”. I have such fond memories of State College and Penn State and I can’t wait to walk the majestic mall and check out brunch at the CORNER ROOM.

MY QUEST FOR THE ORIGINAL RUBEN SANDWICH and to ANSWER the QUESTION- IS IT THE BEST?!

I am going to just leave the where, what, and how as a secret for a bit longer…stay tuned!

DISCOVERING the 49th STATE by RAIL

The Alaska Railroad.

This summer, I will be traveling from Anchorage to Fairbanks, sharing the beauty of the 49th state all captured from the ALASKA RAILROAD. I am very excited to be a media guest on the flagship train of the Alaska Railroad- the Denali Star. During this 12-hour journey that spans from north to Fairbanks, we will be stopping in Wasilla, Talkeetna, and the Denali National Park. This is one of my beautiful and popular train excursions in the world!

I can’t wait to view the magic of Alaska through their HUGE windows!

The prices are very reasonable with the Adventure Class fare of $285 for adults and $143 for children. Passengers who opt for the upgraded Goldstar Service receive a full complement of meals and a cushier seat in a car that has 180 degrees of windows. Fares are $532 for adults /$303 for children. This route has limited availability as it runs from May 14 – September 18, 2025.

Booking your trip is easy! Simply click here> ALASKA RAILROAD (Please let them know that you read about the Alaska Railroad on LouiseSattler.com – thanks!)

FINDING A FOUR-LEAF CLOVER in IRELAND!

Graphic featuring the word 'IRELAND' with green and orange colors, set against a background of lush green clovers.

To the isle of green we go! Hubby is very excited to taste Jameson Whiskey in the place where it is made. Again, check back here for details and content dedicated to Ireland. If you have recommendations of what we MUST see while in the Dublin area – use the comment section to give me some tips!

DISCOVERING SOUTHERN EUROPE: SPAIN, ITALY, CROATIA, and GREECE

Readers should expect a series of articles from this very comprehensive and lengthy trip I have planned to Europe. And, between now and then I probably should binge-watch GAME OF THRONES.

Coming in 2026…

Discovering Route 66. The Wild. The Wacky! The Quirky!

In the United States, there is a road that is quite famous maybe even infamous – partly due to it being one of the original national highways spanning over 2400 miles from Santa Monica, California to Chicago, Illinois. Known as the “Main Street of America” there are dozens of national parks within 30 or less miles from the route. The Route 66 Roadtrip website is super comprehensive and breaks down the “must see” by region. So much to see!