From snowcapped mountains and dramatic canyons to coastal cliffs and charming mountain towns, discover some of America's most unforgettable journeys by rail.
There is something wonderfully nostalgic about traveling by train.
Maybe, it's…
the gentle rhythm of the wheels on the tracks
the enormous windows framing scenery that seems to belong in a movie
the freedom to sip your coffee while someone else handles the driving
OR…perhaps…the realization that, for once, getting there is actually part of the vacation.
Think about it.
Most of us travel with a destination in mind. We hurry through airports, navigate unfamiliar highways, watch the GPS and count down the miles until we arrive.
Train travel offers something entirely different.
The mountains unfold instead of rushing past.
Rivers wind alongside you.
Small towns appear around unexpected bends.
Forests give way to wide-open valleys, and the scenery becomes more spectacular with every passing mile.
And the best part?
You can actually enjoy the view…
No steering wheel
No traffic
No arguing with the navigation system about why it just rerouted you through a residential neighborhood.
Just you, the landscape, and the pleasure of going somewhere wonderful.
Across the United States, scenic rail journeys offer experiences ranging from luxurious overnight adventures to historic steam trains climbing through the mountains. Some are spectacular day trips. Others deserve several days of your vacation.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a multigenerational family adventure, a photography excursion or a memorable addition to your travel bucket list, these ten American train rides are worth exploring.
California Zephyr | Chicago to San Francisco Bay Area
If you have ever dreamed of seeing the American West unfold outside your window, the California Zephyr deserves a prominent place on your bucket list.
This legendary Amtrak route travels between Chicago and Emeryville, near San Francisco, crossing the plains, climbing through the Rocky Mountains and continuing through the dramatic landscapes of Utah, Nevada and the Sierra Nevada.
The scenery changes so dramatically that it almost feels like traveling through several different countries.
One morning, you may be looking across the wide-open plains. Later, you're winding alongside the Colorado River, with towering canyon walls rising on either side. Eventually, the landscape transitions into rugged mountain passes and the spectacular terrain of the Sierra Nevada.
One of the most memorable stretches passes through Colorado's Glenwood Canyon, where the train follows the river through scenery that feels impossibly close.
Unlike a road trip, you can spend the entire time looking out the window.
What makes it special: This is one of America's great long-distance rail journeys, offering an extraordinary variety of landscapes in a single trip.
Make a vacation of it: Consider stopping in Denver, Glenwood Springs or Salt Lake City along the way. Glenwood Springs is especially appealing for travelers who love mountain scenery, natural hot springs and charming downtowns.
Better Travel Tip: Consider booking a roomette or bedroom for the overnight journey. You'll have a private space and access to sleeper accommodations and included meals under Amtrak's current sleeper policies. Ask about the route's Sightseer Lounge and scenic daylight segments before booking.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad | Durango, Colorado
Some train rides are scenic.
Others make you feel as though you've stepped directly into an old Western movie.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad belongs firmly in the second category.
This historic railroad winds through southwestern Colorado's San Juan Mountains, following portions of the Animas River through rugged wilderness, towering cliffs and dense forests.
The locomotives and vintage passenger cars create an atmosphere that feels wonderfully removed from modern life.
As the train moves deeper into the mountains, you'll encounter landscapes that would be difficult (or impossible) to appreciate from an ordinary highway.
When the leaves begin changing in autumn?
The combination of golden aspens, evergreens, mountain peaks and historic railcars is simply spectacular.
What makes it special: Historic narrow-gauge railroading through extraordinary mountain wilderness.
Make a vacation of it: Spend a few days in Durango, explore the shops and restaurants, and consider visiting Mesa Verde National Park or other nearby attractions.
Better Travel Tip: Check the exact excursion before booking. Some trips travel to Silverton, while shorter seasonal excursions turn around earlier. The experience, duration and available seating classes vary.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Coast Starlight | Seattle to Los Angeles
Imagine waking up to mountain scenery, enjoying coffee while forests roll past and eventually watching the Pacific Ocean appear outside your window.
That's the magic of Amtrak's Coast Starlight.
Connecting Seattle and Los Angeles, this route travels through some of the West Coast's most beautiful landscapes.
Along the way, passengers may enjoy views of the Cascade Range, Oregon forests, agricultural valleys and stretches of California's dramatic coastline.
The coastal section near Santa Barbara is particularly memorable, with the Pacific Ocean appearing close enough to make you forget you're traveling by rail rather than sailing along the shore.
It's a journey that offers the best of both worlds: majestic mountain landscapes and coastal beauty.
What makes it special: The contrast between forests, mountains, valleys and the Pacific coastline.
Make a vacation of it: Combine the journey with time in Seattle, Portland, Santa Barbara or Los Angeles. You could even turn the trip into a longer West Coast adventure.
Better Travel Tip: Check the scheduled daylight portions of the route. Train schedules and delays can affect which scenic sections you'll experience in daylight, so consider traveling in the direction that best fits the views you want.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Grand Canyon Railway | Williams to Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
There are plenty of ways to visit the Grand Canyon.
Arriving by historic train adds a wonderful sense of occasion.
The Grand Canyon Railway departs from Williams, Arizona, and travels through northern Arizona's high-desert and forest landscapes before reaching the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
Along the way, the experience may include onboard entertainment, Western-themed touches and the charming atmosphere of vintage rail travel.
Then, comes the grand finale.
You step off the train and find yourself within walking distance of one of the world's most extraordinary natural wonders.
It's an especially enjoyable way to introduce children or grandchildren to the Grand Canyon.
What makes it special: A historic train experience combined with one of America's most iconic national parks.
Make a vacation of it: Stay overnight in Williams or at the Grand Canyon, explore the South Rim viewpoints and allow time for sunrise or sunset.
Better Travel Tip: Reserve early during popular vacation periods and understand how much time your itinerary allows at the canyon. National park admission is generally separate from the train fare.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad | Skagway, Alaska
If your idea of a spectacular train ride includes dramatic mountain cliffs, waterfalls, deep valleys and a little Gold Rush history, Alaska has something extraordinary waiting for you.
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad climbs from the historic town of Skagway into rugged mountain scenery along a route originally built during the Klondike Gold Rush.
The engineering alone is remarkable.
Tracks cling to steep mountainsides. The train passes through tunnels and over historic rail structures, with sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness.
At times, the scenery feels almost too dramatic to be real.
It's easy to imagine the determination required to construct a railroad through this terrain more than a century ago.
What makes it special: Extraordinary mountain scenery combined with one of North America's most fascinating Gold Rush stories.
Make a vacation of it: The railroad is a popular excursion for Alaska cruise passengers, but it also fits beautifully into a longer independent Alaska adventure.
Better Travel Tip: Excursions differ in length, route and border-crossing requirements. If your selected trip enters Canada, confirm passport and entry-document requirements before traveling.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad | New Mexico and Colorado
If you love the idea of a classic steam train climbing through the mountains, this may be your dream excursion.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad crosses the Colorado–New Mexico border repeatedly as it winds through the southern Rocky Mountains.
The route climbs to Cumbres Pass, approximately 10,015 feet above sea level, and travels through mountain meadows, forests, canyons and wide-open landscapes.
The railroad is a National Historic Landmark, and its historic equipment and mountain route make the journey feel like a trip into another era.
In autumn, golden aspens transform portions of the landscape into an extraordinary display of color.
The sight of a steam locomotive traveling through those mountains?
That's the sort of thing that makes you understand why people become lifelong railroad enthusiasts.
What makes it special: Historic steam railroading, high-altitude mountain scenery and spectacular fall foliage.
Make a vacation of it: Explore Chama, New Mexico, and the surrounding mountain communities. Consider combining the journey with time in northern New Mexico or southwestern Colorado.
Better Travel Tip: Book autumn departures well in advance. Confirm whether your chosen itinerary is a full-length journey, a shorter excursion or a trip with a motorcoach connection.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Empire Builder | Chicago to Seattle or Portland
Some landscapes make you feel small in the most wonderful way.
Montana is particularly good at that.
Amtrak's Empire Builder travels across the northern United States, connecting Chicago with the Pacific Northwest and passing through landscapes associated with America's great westward journeys.
The route includes vast plains, river valleys and spectacular mountain scenery near Glacier National Park.
One of its most memorable sections follows the southern edge of Glacier National Park, where rugged mountains rise above forests and river valleys.
In summer, the landscape can feel impossibly green.
In autumn, golden foliage creates an entirely different atmosphere.
When snow begins dusting the mountains, the views become especially dramatic.
The route divides at Spokane, with branches serving Seattle and Portland.
What makes it special: Big-sky scenery, northern mountain landscapes and access to Glacier National Park.
Make a vacation of it: Consider a stop near Glacier National Park, then continue toward Seattle or Portland.
Better Travel Tip: The most scenic sections are particularly sensitive to daylight and seasonal schedules. Check the timetable carefully so your mountain-viewing plans don't happen entirely after sunset.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic | Anchorage to Seward, Alaska
If Alaska is on your travel bucket list, consider making the train ride part of the adventure.
The Coastal Classic travels from Anchorage to Seward through some of the state's most spectacular landscapes.
The journey begins along Turnagain Arm, where mountains rise dramatically beside the water.
Then the train travels into the wilderness of the Kenai Peninsula, passing forests, valleys, waterfalls and distant glaciers before arriving in Seward on Resurrection Bay.
It's the kind of scenery that makes you want to keep your camera ready.
Don't spend the entire ride looking through a screen.
Some views deserve to be experienced without trying to photograph them.
The Alaska Railroad describes the Coastal Classic as especially well suited to day trips from Anchorage, with seasonal service and an opportunity to spend several hours in Seward before returning.
What makes it special: Coastal mountains, glaciers, waterfalls and the possibility of spotting Alaskan wildlife.
Make a vacation of it: Spend time in Seward, explore Kenai Fjords National Park or add a wildlife-viewing boat excursion.
Better Travel Tip: Consider the GoldStar service option if panoramic views and upgraded onboard amenities are important to you. Book early for popular summer dates.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Mount Washington Cog Railway | Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
New England knows how to put on a spectacular autumn show.
The Mount Washington Cog Railway gives you an unforgettable vantage point.
Operating since 1869, this historic mountain railway climbs toward the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States.
Unlike conventional trains, the railway uses a specialized cog-and-rack system to climb steep mountain grades.
The experience begins in forested terrain and progresses into increasingly rugged alpine scenery.
On a clear day, the views can stretch across the surrounding White Mountains.
In autumn, the colorful forests below make the journey especially beautiful.
Mount Washington is also famous for extreme and rapidly changing weather, so a sunny morning at the base does not guarantee sunshine at the summit.
The railway operates different seasonal services, including winter excursions that do not necessarily reach the summit.
What makes it special: Historic railway engineering, steep mountain grades and remarkable New England scenery.
Make a vacation of it: Explore the White Mountains, visit charming New Hampshire towns and plan a scenic fall foliage road trip.
Better Travel Tip: Dress in layers…even during warmer months. Temperatures and wind conditions can be dramatically different near the summit. Confirm the destination of your specific excursion.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Pacific Surfliner | Southern California
Not every spectacular train adventure requires sleeping overnight in a moving vehicle.
Sometimes, all you need is a comfortable seat, a beautiful coastline and a few hours to enjoy the scenery.
The Pacific Surfliner offers exactly that.
Traveling along Southern California's coast, the route connects destinations including San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.
Certain stretches offer wonderful ocean views, particularly near San Clemente and along the coast around Santa Barbara.
Imagine passing palm trees, beaches, surf breaks and seaside neighborhoods while relaxing with a coffee.
No parking.
No coastal traffic.
No searching for an exit.
Just a wonderfully relaxed way to experience Southern California.
The Pacific Surfliner is one of Amtrak's established scenic California routes.
What makes it special: Pacific Ocean views, coastal communities and an easy introduction to scenic train travel.
Make a vacation of it: Plan a weekend in Santa Barbara, explore San Diego or create a coastal itinerary with overnight stops.
Better Travel Tip: For the best ocean views, consider a seat on the ocean-facing side of the train when available. Coastal track conditions and service patterns can change, so verify the route before departure.
>> PLAN YOUR TRIP <<
Which Scenic Train Ride Is Right for You?
If you're dreaming of…
An epic cross-country adventure » Consider…California Zephyr
If you're dreaming of…
Historic steam trains and mountains » Consider…Durango & Silverton
If you're dreaming of…
Mountains and ocean scenery » Consider…Coast Starlight
If you're dreaming of…
A national park family adventure » Consider…Grand Canyon Railway
If you're dreaming of…
Dramatic mountain engineering » Consider…White Pass & Yukon Route
If you're dreaming of…
Spectacular fall foliage » Consider…Cumbres & Toltec
If you're dreaming of…
Glacier National Park and wide-open scenery » Consider…Empire Builder
If you're dreaming of…
Glaciers and Alaskan wilderness » Consider…Coastal Classic
If you're dreaming of…
New England mountain views » Consider…Mount Washington Cog Railway
If you're dreaming of…
A relaxing coastal getaway » Consider…Pacific Surfliner
15 Inspirational Tips: Planning an Unforgettable Train Adventure
Now that we've filled your travel bucket list with mountains, canyons, coastlines and historic railroads, let's talk about making the actual journey just as wonderful as the photographs.
Scenic train travel rewards a slightly different approach to vacation planning.
Choose the scenery before choosing the destination.
Start by asking yourself what you most want to see.
Snowcapped mountains?
The Pacific Ocean?
Fall foliage?
Glaciers?
Red-rock canyons?
Then, choose the train that delivers that experience.
This is one vacation where the landscape should help determine the itinerary.
Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons.
Summer is popular for good reason, but spring and fall can be spectacular.
Autumn brings brilliant foliage to Colorado and New England.
Spring can mean greener valleys, flowing waterfalls and fewer crowds on some routes.
Always confirm seasonal operations before planning around a particular time of year.
Pay attention to daylight hours.
This may be the most overlooked scenic train travel tip.
A spectacular route loses some of its magic if your favorite mountain pass happens at midnight.
Research the direction of travel, scheduled arrival times and seasonal daylight before choosing your departure.
Remember that delays can change the viewing schedule.
Upgrade strategically.
You don't necessarily need the most expensive accommodation for every train journey.
For a three-hour excursion, a comfortable coach seat may be perfect.
For a two-night cross-country trip, however, a private roomette or bedroom could make an enormous difference.
Compare comfort, privacy, meals and sleeping arrangements before deciding.
Make the train ride the centerpiece of a longer vacation.
This is where train travel becomes especially exciting.
Instead of booking a scenic railroad as a quick side activity, build an entire getaway around it.
Ride the Durango & Silverton, then explore southwestern Colorado.
Take the Grand Canyon Railway and spend the night near the South Rim.
Ride the Coastal Classic and add a Kenai Fjords excursion.
Suddenly, the train becomes the beginning of a much bigger adventure.
Pack lighter than you think you need to.
Train compartments and seating areas aren't always designed for oversized luggage.
Bring a manageable suitcase and a smaller personal bag containing the essentials you'll want during the ride.
Keep medications, important documents, chargers, glasses and valuables with you.
Dress for comfort, and changing temperatures.
Think comfortable layers rather than complicated outfits.
A light sweater is useful even during summer, especially in air-conditioned passenger cars.
For mountain railroads, outdoor viewing areas or open-air coaches, bring appropriate weather protection.
Comfortable shoes are essential.
Bring a small train-day essentials kit.
A few thoughtful items can make the experience significantly more enjoyable:
Refillable water bottle and favorite snacks
Phone charger and power bank
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Light jacket or sweater
Camera or binoculars
Headphones, downloaded music or an audiobook
Motion-sickness supplies if needed
Small notebook or travel journal
Put the camera down occasionally.
Yes, you'll want photographs.
Don't spend the entire journey watching the scenery through your phone.
Take a few great pictures, then give yourself permission to simply enjoy the view.
Some of the most memorable travel moments never become photographs.
Consider a train trip with your parents or grandparents.
Scenic train travel can be a wonderful multigenerational experience.
Unlike some outdoor adventures, certain train journeys allow travelers to enjoy spectacular scenery without extensive hiking.
However, accessibility varies considerably between modern Amtrak trains and historic railroads. Ask about boarding assistance, steps, restrooms, seating, wheelchair accommodations and the amount of walking required.
Plan your meals around the experience.
Long-distance trains may offer dining services, while shorter excursions may have limited refreshments.
Some heritage railroads offer special dining experiences.
Research your particular service, pack appropriate snacks and make dining part of the enjoyment.
There's something especially satisfying about enjoying a leisurely meal while beautiful scenery passes outside the window.
Build flexibility into your schedule.
Trains can experience delays.
Weather can affect mountain railroads.
Seasonal schedules can change.
Avoid arranging an important flight or nonrefundable activity immediately after a long-distance train arrival.
A little flexibility protects the relaxed atmosphere you're hoping to enjoy.
Choose your seat thoughtfully.
For some routes, one side of the train offers particularly beautiful views during certain sections.
On others, scenery appears on both sides.
Research the route and ask whether seat selection is available.
If your train has an observation lounge, take advantage of it.
Turn the journey into a special occasion.
A scenic train ride can be a wonderful way to celebrate:
An anniversary
A milestone birthday
Retirement
A graduation
A family reunion
A long-awaited couples' getaway
You could even surprise someone with a train adventure as a gift.
Instead of giving another object, you're giving an experience…and perhaps a story they'll tell for years.
Slow down enough to enjoy the journey.
This is the most important tip of all.
Don't turn a scenic train adventure into another tightly scheduled vacation where you're constantly checking the clock.
Read a book.
Watch the scenery.
Talk to your traveling companion.
Enjoy your coffee.
Notice the small towns.
Watch the light change across the mountains.
Remember that sometimes the most luxurious thing about traveling is having absolutely nowhere else you need to be.
A Different Kind of Travel Bucket List
We spend so much of our lives trying to get somewhere:
To the next meeting
The next appointment
The next airport
The next destination
Scenic train travel offers a wonderful reminder that some of life's best experiences happen along the way.
Maybe, your dream trip involves watching the Rocky Mountains unfold from the California Zephyr.
Maybe, it's sipping coffee as the Pacific Ocean appears outside your window.
Maybe, it's hearing the whistle of a steam locomotive echo through a Colorado canyon.
Or perhaps it's simply sitting beside someone you love, watching a beautiful landscape roll past and realizing that neither of you has to drive.
Whatever your travel style, America's scenic railroads offer a remarkable opportunity to see the country from a different perspective.
You may discover that the most memorable part of the vacation is the journey itself.
Better FAQ’s
What is the most scenic train ride in the United States?
The California Zephyr is frequently recognized among America's most scenic long-distance train routes, particularly for its journey through the Rocky Mountains, Colorado canyons and Sierra Nevada.
What is the best scenic train ride for families?
The Grand Canyon Railway is a strong family choice because it combines historic train travel with a visit to Grand Canyon National Park. Shorter heritage railroad excursions are also appealing for children.
What are the best scenic train rides for fall foliage?
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Mount Washington Cog Railway are particularly appealing during autumn, when surrounding forests can display spectacular seasonal colors.
Are scenic train rides expensive?
Costs vary widely. Short regional Amtrak journeys may be relatively affordable, while private sleeper accommodations, premium observation cars and specialized historic rail excursions can cost considerably more. Compare current fares directly with operators.
Can you take a scenic train ride without traveling overnight?
Absolutely. The Grand Canyon Railway, Mount Washington Cog Railway, Alaska Coastal Classic and many historic railroads offer excursions that can fit into a single day.
Are scenic train rides good for seniors?
Many can be, especially routes offering comfortable seating, accessible boarding and onboard amenities. Historic railroads vary considerably, so confirm accessibility and mobility requirements before booking.
Wherever Life Takes You, Make It a Better Tripp
At A Better Tripp Moving & Storage, we appreciate the excitement that comes with discovering new places.
Whether you're exploring the country on vacation, relocating for a new opportunity, moving closer to family or beginning a new chapter somewhere entirely different, every journey carries the possibility of something wonderful.
When that journey involves moving your home or business, we're here to help make the transition easier.
From local Houston moves to long-distance relocations across the country, A Better Tripp Moving & Storage helps you focus on the possibilities ahead while our team handles the details of getting you there.
Planning a move? Explore A Better Tripp Moving & Storage and request a moving quote.
Travel planning note: Routes, schedules, seasonal operations, train equipment, border requirements, accessibility and amenities may change. Verify current information with the railroad operator before booking.
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