16 of the Most Scenic Rail Rides Across the US
There’s something magical about train travel. It’s not just a way to get from one point to another; it’s an experience. A train’s steady pace of wheels together with its rhythmic rail sound and unmatched outdoor window views will take you back to a romantic and simpler time. Train passengers experience breathtaking views that include mountain peaks and ocean views of America’s wide variety of landscapes.
Lots of travelers are attracted to the experience of rail journeys because such travels combine restful relaxation with nature sightseeing adventures. These rides provide panoramic vistas while stopping at charming locations. Let’s discover the beautiful train routes that exist across the Atlantic.
Coast Starlight – California to Washington
Amtrak operates Coast Starlight between Los Angeles and Seattle, which travelers consider the prettiest train journey in the United States. The route traces a scenic path across California’s hillscapes while traveling alongside the Pacific Ocean, then deep into dense forested landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through cities like San Francisco and Portland, but the real star of the show is nature’s masterpiece outside your window.
Empire Builder – Chicago to the Pacific Northwest
Move from intensively busy Chicago to the awe-inspiring mountain landscape of the Pacific Northwest. The Empire Builder takes you across the Great Plains, through the Badlands, and into the heart of Glacier National Park. This journey provides access to viewing various landscapes including plains and waterways, alongside mountain vistas and Big Sky Country terrain. This experience will leave you entirely speechless.
Grand Canyon Railway – Williams to Grand Canyon Village
What’s more iconic than visiting the Grand Canyon? Arriving there by train, of course. Anticipate an unforgettable ride with the Railway which connects Williams’ historic town to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Vintage railcars provide entertainment features alongside traditional railway service, while the main attraction of the canyon reveals itself when you step off the train.
California Zephyr – Chicago to San Francisco
The California Zephyr makes traveling through the national parks of America unique. Starting in Chicago, this route crosses the Midwest’s amber waves of grain before climbing into the Rockies and Sierra Nevada. Travelers go from viewing Colorado’s snowy mountain tops to riding through Nevada’s desert terrain, and San Francisco. By the end, you’ll have witnessed more scenery in two days than most people see in a lifetime.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – Colorado
Step back in time aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic steam train operates in Colorado’s rugged San Juan Mountains, along paths originally traveled by miners during centuries past. The train travels along cliffs and crosses bridges displaying surreal sights. It’s an experience that leaves you nostalgic for a time you never lived in.
Rocky Mountaineer – Colorado to Utah
The Rocky Mountaineer’s “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route is a new star on the scenic rail scene. The high-end rail journey connects Denver to Moab through extended panoramic windows and serves sophisticated meals to every passenger. Whether it’s your first train ride or your fiftieth, this one will have you taking photos like a tourist.
Alaska Railroad – Anchorage to Fairbanks
There’s no better way to experience the raw beauty of Alaska than aboard the Alaska Railroad. Travelers experience the major attractions of Denali National Park on this journey between Anchorage and Fairbanks. You could see moose and bears or catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. The dramatic landscape will make you lose track of your breathing.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad – Colorado to New Mexico
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad operates across New Mexico and Colorado territory while offering passengers a multisensory experience. This historical train takes passengers through challenging mountains while crossing elevated bridgework and open plains. Your trip will offer multiple views from wildflower-covered mountain meadows to snowy mountain peaks.
Cass Scenic Railroad – West Virginia
This Appalachian Mountain destination serves as a historical experience together with breathtaking mountain scenery. On its mountain route, the steam train takes passengers on a historical journey to reproduce the sensation of stepping into the past. The summit provides visitors with unlimited views of the surrounding landscape. In the Fall, the scenery is magical.
Amtrak’s Adirondack – New York to Montreal
The Adirondack route is a hidden gem that takes you from New York City to Montreal. This journey offers a little bit of everything: the Hudson River Valley, the Catskills, and the shimmering waters of Lake Champlain. This trip welcomes urban dwellers along with nature enthusiasts because it brings various attractions to suit all preferences. Plus, it’s just as beautiful in winter as it’s in summer.
White Pass & Yukon Route – Alaska
Engineers built the White Pass and Yukon Route network as a result of the Klondike Gold Rush. This route takes passengers through steep elevations and magical sky confrontations because of its impressive vintage points that combine mountain and glacial, canyon, and waterfall experiences. Travelers seeking adventure alongside serenity will find joy on this rail route because of its dynamic experience.
Napa Valley Wine Train – California
What’s better than sipping wine? The Napa Valley’s scenic view makes riding through California an improved experience while drinking wine. The Napa Valley Wine Train integrates opulence with recreational elements by presenting spectacular vineyard outlooks in addition to gourmet dining, premium wining, and dining. You can celebrate any occasion or relax by yourself on this ride which provides complete indulgence.
Mount Washington Cog Railway – New Hampshire
Among the world’s oldest mountain-climbing railways stands the Mount Washington Cog Railway, a symbol of human ingenuity. Steep slopes lead the train toward breathtaking New England vistas at its highest elevation. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Canada. This quick journey contains a collection of unforgettable memories.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – North Carolina
From its central location, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers incredible views of Appalachia’s landscape to visitors. The train moves through thick forests, beside rivers, and across bridges to generate a sense of constant exploration. Guests who get lucky may spot deer or black bears in their natural habitat.
Hudson Line – New York
Anyone seeking a short picturesque escape from the city should use the commuter Hudson Line for their travels. This train tracks the Hudson River where passengers view lighthouses and mansions while following the hills and valleys.
Amtrak’s Sunset Limited – New Orleans to Los Angeles
A cross-country adventure exists exclusively in the form of the Sunset Limited. The journey through this path leads you from Louisiana Bayous into Texas towns and across Arizona deserts until you reach California’s urban centers. The Sunset Limited presents viewers with America’s cultural diversity. By the time you arrive in Los Angeles, you’ll feel like you’ve seen the entire country from your seat.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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