Embarking on a train trip across America offers a unique and leisurely way to explore the diverse landscapes and beauty of the country.
From the comfort of a train, passengers can enjoy a variety of scenic views ranging from the rocky mountains to lush forests, and from bustling cities to serene coastal vistas.
These journeys provide a romantic and nostalgic experience, allowing travelers to witness the breathtaking scenery through panoramic windows or even glass-dome cars.
With routes spanning from the West Coast to Alaska and across the Great Smoky Mountains, there’s a wide array of picturesque experiences waiting to be discovered.
These trips, which can vary in length from short excursions to long-haul coast-to-coast journeys, offer a delightful escape from the ordinary, where one can fully immerse in the landscapes without the distraction of driving.
Best Train Trips
Rockies to the Red Rocks
Rockies to the Red Rocks
The Rockies to the Red Rocks train trip, offered by Rocky Mountaineer, presents a luxurious two-day journey from Denver to Moab.
This route is a scenic marvel, weaving through the heart of the Rocky Mountains and the captivating landscapes of the American Southwest.
A standout feature of this trip is the glass-dome train cars, providing passengers with unobstructed views of the spectacular surroundings.
The journey encompasses the raw beauty of rugged mountains, vast canyons, and dramatic red rock formations, making it a feast for the eyes and a photographer’s dream.
The Rockies to the Red Rocks trip operates seasonally, typically from August to October.
Coast Starlight
Coast Starlight
Embark on a classic West Coast adventure with the Coast Starlight train, stretching from Los Angeles to Seattle. This 1,377-mile journey is a treat for those who prefer a leisurely mode of travel with an abundance of scenic beauty.
The route covers iconic cities like Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Portland. The 36-hour trip allows passengers to relax and take in the stunning vistas without the hassle of driving.
The Coast Starlight is famed for its Sightseer Lounge Car, featuring panoramic windows that offer a captivating view of the diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to pristine coastlines.
The Grand Canyon Railway
The Grand Canyon Railway
The Grand Canyon Railway offers a unique and historic journey from Williams, Arizona, to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.
This two-hour and 15-minute train ride traverses through picturesque landscapes, including pine forests and prairies, providing opportunities to spot wildlife like pronghorn and bald eagles.
The historic train cars, some with glass-dome ceilings, add to the charm of the journey, offering panoramic views of the majestic Grand Canyon.
This trip not only provides an unforgettable scenic experience but also a glimpse into the rich history of railway travel in America.
The Empire Builder
The Empire Builder
The Empire Builder is a captivating train journey that takes travelers on an epic adventure from Chicago, Illinois, to Portland, Oregon.
Named after James J. Hill, the “Empire Builder” of the Great Northern Railway, this route covers approximately 2,200 miles of diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenery.
Passengers aboard the Empire Builder can expect to traverse the northern tier of the country, passing through states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana, and Idaho.
One of the highlights of this trip is the opportunity to witness a wide range of landscapes, from bustling cities to vast plains and rugged mountain ranges.
With its rich history and stunning vistas, the Empire Builder promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of America.
The Alaska Denali Star
The Alaska Denali Star
The Alaska Denali Star is a remarkable train journey that allows travelers to explore the stunning landscapes of Alaska. Starting in Anchorage and ending in Fairbanks, this train trip covers approximately 356 miles of Alaska’s pristine wilderness.
One of the standout features of the Denali Star is the opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of Denali National Park and Preserve.
Passengers can catch glimpses of North America’s highest peak, Denali, as the train winds its way through the park. The journey also offers views of majestic mountains, rolling tundra, and the meandering Alaska Range.
The train itself is designed for comfort and convenience, with dome cars that provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscapes.
It’s a fantastic way to experience the grandeur of Alaska’s natural wonders while enjoying the comfort of a train journey.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply seeking an adventure in the Last Frontier, the Alaska Denali Star promises an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a scenic train journey that offers passengers a unique perspective on the stunning landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Located in Bryson City, North Carolina, this railroad adventure takes visitors through the lush and picturesque terrain of western North Carolina.
What makes this journey special is the opportunity to soak in the beauty of the Smokies from the comfort of vintage train cars.
The route meanders through verdant forests, alongside rushing rivers, and past charming small towns.
Along the way, passengers can enjoy the sight of blooming wildflowers in the spring, vibrant foliage in the fall, and the timeless allure of the Smoky Mountains year-round.
The Mount Washington Cog Railway
The Mount Washington Cog Railway
The Mount Washington Cog Railway is a historic and unique train journey located in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire.
It’s renowned as the world’s first cog railway and has been in operation for over a century. This railway offers a thrilling ascent to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern United States.
Passengers aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway experience a steep and scenic climb through the White Mountains.
The journey is not only an engineering marvel but also a captivating adventure as the cog system allows the train to climb steep gradients, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.
The Napa Valley Wine Train
The Napa Valley Wine Train
The Napa Valley Wine Train offers a delightful and luxurious train journey through the picturesque Napa Valley in California.
This journey combines scenic beauty with gourmet dining, making it a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts and food lovers.
As you travel through the heart of Napa Valley’s vineyards, you can savor gourmet meals paired with exquisite wines.
The vintage Pullman rail cars provide an elegant and nostalgic ambiance, and the journey allows you to explore some of California’s finest wineries.
The Hawaiian Railway Society
The Hawaiian Railway Society
The Hawaiian Railway Society offers a unique train experience on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. This historical train journey allows passengers to step back in time and learn about the island’s railway history.
The train travels along Oahu’s scenic western coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Hawaiian landscape. It’s a delightful way to explore the island’s beauty and history.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a captivating train journey that takes passengers through the rugged and breathtaking landscapes of Colorado.
Starting in Durango, the train winds its way through the Animas River Canyon to the historic mining town of Silverton.
This journey offers a glimpse into the state’s mining history and showcases the stunning natural beauty of the San Juan Mountains.
Passengers can enjoy open-air gondola cars or enclosed coaches while taking in the views of mountains, forests, and rushing rivers. It’s a thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Final Thoughts
Train trips across America offer a unique and enchanting way to explore the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of this vast country. These journeys provide an immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with the natural wonders and rich history of the United States.
Whether it’s the luxurious comfort of the Rockies to the Red Rocks, the scenic grandeur of the Coast Starlight, the historical charm of the Grand Canyon Railway, or the adventure in Alaska’s wilderness, each train trip offers its own special allure.
These experiences are a reminder that the journey itself can be as memorable as the destination, making train travel an enticing choice for those seeking to discover the beauty of America.