13 Unforgettable Rail Trips That You Can Take In America

There’s no better way to explore the United States and take in the breathtaking landscapes and rich history than by rail. Rail travel is about the journey, not just the destination. Relishing the scenes unfolding while traveling at a reasonable pace is a soothing experience.

America’s railroads travel through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery from towering mountains to shimmering coasts. There’s also nostalgia and comfort in the rhythmic clatter of the tracks, and the camaraderie of other people on board.

Empire Builder: The Pacific Northwest From Chicago

One of those legendary routes is Chicago to Seattle and Portland, traveling through the Great Plains, the Rocky Mountains, and Glacier National Park. A history buff’s delight—following part of the path cut by explorers Lewis and Clark. The highlight? Seeing Montana’s wide open spaces with the sun rising.

Rocky Mountaineer: Colorful Colorado

The Rocky Mountaineer’s U.S. route is still quite new, it has become a hit for its luxury and scenery. One runs between Denver and Moab with jaw-dropping views of Ruby Canyon, and the Colorado river, and you can look out to the towering red rock formations.

California Zephyr: A Transcontinental Adventure

The California Zephyr is the ticket for rail travel if you’ve ever dreamed of crossing the country by rail. It starts in Chicago and ends in San Francisco, and it takes you through the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Utah deserts. According to VisitGrandCounty.com, the Colorado Rockies seen from the Zephyr’s route have some of the clearest night skies in the U.S.—ideal for stargazing.

Grand Canyon Railway: A Step Back In Time

From Williams, Arizona, the Grand Canyon Railway transports passengers on a scenic, historic trip to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The restored carriages of this vintage train are equipped with live entertainment. The National Park Service says that by using the route, the number of car trips into the Grand Canyon is cut back by about 50,000 a year according to TravelandLeisure.com, making it an ecofriendly choice for the adventurer.

Coast Starlight: California Dreams

Amtrak’s Coast Starlight is one of the most scenic train journeys in the United States, from Los Angeles to Seattle. Views of the Pacific Ocean, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains can be enjoyed on the trip. As you cross the rugged Oregon coastline watch for orcas and seals. This route is a feast for the senses, whether you’re sipping wine in the observation car, or snapping photos of Mount Shasta.

Denali Star: Alaska’s Crown Jewel

For any wilderness junkies out there, Alaska’s Denali Star is hard to beat. The route runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks, with a stop near Denali National Park. This is where passengers can see moose, caribou, and even grizzly bears.

Southwest Chief: A Taste Of The Old West

The Southwest Chief runs from Chicago to Los Angeles through Kansas’ rolling prairies, New Mexico’s desert mesas, and Arizona’s dramatic canyons. The route traverses trails that cowboys and outlaws journeyed through across the West to give passengers a taste of America’s Wild West. Have your camera ready for the red rocks in Sedona.

Amtrak Adirondack: A New York State Gem

The Adirondack route between New York City and Montreal is along the best of the Hudson Valley, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondack Mountains. This journey is most popular in fall when the fiery foliage makes what would otherwise be a bleak stretch of land on the map into a painter’s palette.

The Vermonter: New England Bliss

The Vermonter, which travels between Washington, D.C., and St. Albans, Vermont, is Amtrak’s showcase for the best New England has to offer. In winter, the route is especially popular, and the snow on the landscape transforms the journey into a perfect postcard experience.

Amtrak Cascades: Pacific Northwest Wonders

The Amtrak Cascades runs from Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, British Columbia, through the Pacific Northwest. Nature lovers will love this trip, which sees lush forests, sparkling rivers, and Mount Rainier. The trains are designed to adapt to the curves of the region and use tilting technology.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: A Narrow-Gauge Adventure

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, straddling the border of Colorado and New Mexico, is a trip back through time. This narrow gauge train climbs steep grades and crosses high-altitude trestles built in 1880. The route has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places for its rustic charm.

White Pass & Yukon Route: Gold Rush History

Located in Alaska, this train was built during the Klondike Gold Rush and offers spectacular views of waterfalls, glaciers, and gorges. Passengers are treated to hairpin curves and breathtaking climbs that showcase the ingenuity of its original builders. The route’s rugged terrain and historic charm make it a must-see for history and nature enthusiasts alike

The Sunset Limited: Gulf Coast Splendor

The Sunset Limited is the Southernmost train in America and runs from New Orleans to Los Angeles. The Bayou, the deserts of West Texas, and the dramatic Colorado River are among its highlights. Passengers often describe this route as lush green Louisiana to arid Southwest beauty.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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