Experience America’s Most Scenic Views by Train: 20 Destinations to Visit
There’s something magical about seeing the world from the window of a train.
The gentle rhythm of the tracks, the ever-changing landscapes, and the charm of old-fashioned travel make train rides an unforgettable way to explore.
Across the U.S., there are countless scenic train routes that showcase the beauty of the country, from towering mountains to sweeping coastlines.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing journey, these 20 U.S. destinations offer some of the best scenic train rides in the nation.
All aboard!
1. California Zephyr, Chicago to San Francisco
The California Zephyr is one of Amtrak’s most famous routes, stretching from the Midwest to the West Coast.
You’ll pass through the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and the Colorado River, all while soaking in stunning views.
This ride offers an unbeatable cross-country experience for train enthusiasts.
2. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, North Carolina
Wind your way through the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains on this historic route.
With vibrant fall foliage and picturesque rivers, it’s perfect for nature lovers.
The ride offers seasonal excursions, making each trip unique.
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3. Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona
Take a step back in time with this classic train ride to the Grand Canyon.
Starting in Williams, Arizona, the train offers breathtaking views of the desert and pine forests before reaching the canyon’s rim.
It’s a scenic journey with a stunning destination.
4. Empire Builder, Chicago to Seattle
The Empire Builder crosses the northern U.S., offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, Great Plains, and Cascade Range.
This long-distance route is ideal for those seeking an epic train adventure through America’s diverse landscapes.
It’s a bucket-list ride for train travelers.
5. Napa Valley Wine Train, California
For wine lovers, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a scenic and indulgent experience.
This luxury train ride takes you through California’s famous wine country, complete with vineyard views and gourmet meals.
It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and elegance.
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6. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado
Experience the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies aboard this historic narrow-gauge train.
The route follows the Animas River, offering jaw-dropping views of cliffs, forests, and mountains.
It’s a must for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
7. Alaska Railroad, Anchorage to Fairbanks
The Alaska Railroad offers a front-row seat to some of the wildest landscapes in the U.S.
Travel through untouched wilderness, past glaciers, rivers, and towering peaks.
This scenic ride is perfect for wildlife spotting, with chances to see bears, moose, and eagles.
8. Coast Starlight, Los Angeles to Seattle
The Coast Starlight is known for its stunning views of the Pacific coastline.
From rolling hills to sparkling ocean vistas, this route offers some of the most picturesque scenery in the country.
It’s the perfect way to experience the beauty of the West Coast by rail.
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9. Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire
Climb to the top of the highest peak in the Northeast aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway.
This steep and scenic ride offers panoramic views of the White Mountains.
It’s a thrilling and historic way to experience one of the U.S.’s most famous mountains.
10. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, Colorado and New Mexico
This narrow-gauge railway takes you on a journey through the remote beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
With deep gorges, towering peaks, and open meadows, it’s one of the most scenic rides in the West.
The train’s vintage charm adds to the experience.
11. Amtrak’s Adirondack, New York to Montreal
The Adirondack route offers some of the most scenic views in the Northeast, traveling from New York City to Montreal.
Along the way, you’ll pass the Hudson River, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondack Mountains.
It’s a peaceful ride through stunning, diverse landscapes.
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12. White Pass & Yukon Route, Alaska
This historic route, originally built during the Klondike Gold Rush, offers breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains.
The train climbs steeply, offering dramatic scenery at every turn.
It’s an adventurous ride through Alaska’s rugged wilderness.
13. Rocky Mountaineer, Colorado to Utah
Known for luxury and panoramic windows, the Rocky Mountaineer offers spectacular views of the Rockies.
The journey from Denver to Moab highlights stunning canyons, rivers, and red rock formations.
This ride combines comfort with jaw-dropping scenery.
14. Verde Canyon Railroad, Arizona
This scenic train ride takes you through Arizona’s red rock canyons, lush greenery, and towering cliffs.
The train follows the Verde River, offering stunning views of the Southwest’s natural beauty.
It’s a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful and scenic journey.
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15. Cass Scenic Railroad, West Virginia
Step back in time with this heritage railroad, which takes passengers through the Appalachian Mountains.
The steam-powered train climbs steep grades, offering panoramic views of the West Virginia wilderness.
It’s a charming and scenic ride for nature lovers and history buffs.
16. Empire Service, New York to Niagara Falls
The Empire Service offers stunning views of the Hudson River, rolling hills, and eventually, Niagara Falls.
This route provides a relaxing and scenic ride through upstate New York.
Arriving at the falls by train is a unique and unforgettable experience.
17. Amtrak’s Sunset Limited, New Orleans to Los Angeles
This route offers stunning views of the deserts, mountains, and coastlines of the southern U.S.
The Sunset Limited is ideal for those who want to experience the vast beauty of the American Southwest by rail.
From bayous to deserts, it’s a journey through diverse landscapes.
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18. Sierra Railroad, California
The Sierra Railroad offers scenic excursions through California’s Gold Country.
With rolling hills, historic bridges, and beautiful rivers, it’s a scenic ride with a nod to the state’s past.
This heritage railway brings California’s natural beauty and history to life.
19. Amtrak’s Cascades, Seattle to Portland
The Cascades route offers stunning views of the Pacific Northwest, from the shores of Puget Sound to the Cascade Mountains.
This scenic ride is perfect for those looking to experience the lush forests and waterways of the region.
It’s an easy and beautiful way to travel between Seattle and Portland.
20. Amtrak’s Cardinal, New York to Chicago
The Cardinal route takes passengers through the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.
From scenic river valleys to towering mountains, the views on this journey are simply breathtaking.
It’s a peaceful and scenic way to travel between the Midwest and the East Coast.
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