15 Train Journeys That Travel Through America’s Most Breathtaking Scenery
There’s something undeniably magical about exploring America’s vast terrains by rail. Unlike the rush of highways or the altitude of air travel, train rides offer a slow, immersive journey through the country’s most dramatic landforms. They’re moving experiences that showcase the US’s raw beauty and geological wonders. Here are 15 train journeys that carve through America’s finest scenery.
California Zephyr (Chicago To Emeryville, California)
The California Zephyr, operated by Amtrak, spans roughly 2,438 miles and is considered one of the most beautiful long-distance train rides in the U.S. It travels through the Rocky Mountains and across the Great Plains. From its floor-to-ceiling windows, passengers can see the Colorado River, Glenwood Canyon, and Donner Pass.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (Bryson City, North Carolina)
The most popular ride on this railroad is the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, a 44-mile round trip that takes around four and a half hours. Riders can view stunning forests and historic trestle bridges. The railroad operates restored vintage locomotives and offers both open-air and climate-controlled seating.
Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic (Anchorage To Seward, Alaska)
This seasonal summer route covers 114 miles between Anchorage and the coastal town of Seward. It takes about 4.5 hours one way and showcases jaw-dropping views of glaciers and the Turnagain Arm. Dome cars provide unobstructed views of snow-capped peaks and waterfalls.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango To Silverton, Colorado)
Established in 1882 and built to transport silver and gold ore, the 45-mile ride between Durango and Silverton follows the Animas River and traverses deep canyons and mountainous terrain. It takes approximately 3.5 hours each way and features dramatic views of the San Juan National Forest.
Empire Builder (Chicago To Pacific Northwest)
Amtrak’s Empire Builder travels about 2,200 miles from Chicago to Seattle or Portland, depending on the route split. The railroad offers a comprehensive view of America’s varied geography, including the rolling farmland of the Midwest. This route is especially popular in the summer for views of the northern plains and Glacier National Park.
Mount Washington Cog Railway (Mount Washington, New Hampshire)
Launched in 1869, the Mount Washington Cog Railway was the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway. Trains ascend the steep slopes of Mount Washington, the highest in the Northeastern U.S., at grades up to 37.4%. The trip is short—just under 3 miles—but the incline and scenery make it unforgettable.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (Antonito, Colorado To Chama, New Mexico)
What sets this railway apart is its status as the highest and longest narrow-gauge railroad in the U.S., climbing to over 10,000 feet at Cumbres Pass. As a living museum, it possesses vintage steam locomotives and preserved 19th-century railcars. Riders experience dramatic cliffs and high mountain meadows.
White Pass & Yukon Route (Skagway, Alaska To Carcross, Yukon)
First established during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1898, this narrow-gauge railway is a remarkable engineering feat. It clings to cliffs and spirals up 2,885 feet in just 20 miles. The journey includes steep grades, cliff-hugging turns, and wooden trestle bridges that defy logic. You can still see abandoned camps and rusting mining equipment.
Grand Canyon Railway (Williams To Grand Canyon Village, Arizona)
The Grand Canyon Railway offers the only regularly scheduled passenger service to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Beyond the beautiful destination, it promises an immersive Old West experience, including staged train robberies. The scenery also includes high desert and pine forests, gradually rising to the canyon rim at 6,800 feet.
Cass Scenic Railroad (Cass, West Virginia)
Originally built in 1901 to haul lumber, Cass Scenic Railroad now transports visitors up Cheat Mountain using original Shay locomotives. These geared steam engines are peculiar in that they were designed to handle incredibly steep grades and sharp curves. The route climbs nearly 2,300 feet from Cass to Bald Knob.
Verde Canyon Railroad (Clarkdale To Perkinsville, Arizona)
What makes the Verde Canyon Railroad special is its access to the red rock canyons and remote wilderness of the Verde Valley. The route hugs the cliffs of a rugged canyon carved by the Verde River. Passengers can see towering rock formations, Sinagua ruins, and nesting bald eagles.
Amtrak Adirondack (New York City To Montreal, Canada)
Often ranked among the world’s most beautiful train journeys, the Adirondack route winds along the Hudson River, passing through the lush forests and serene lakes of Upstate New York. The landscape changes from city to wilderness, particularly between Albany and Montreal, where the route hugs Lake Champlain and the stunning Adirondack Mountains.
Skunk Train (Willits To Northspur Or Fort Bragg, California)
Operating since 1885, the Skunk Train is a slice of California’s logging history. The name “Skunk” comes from the pungent gasoline fumes of the original motorcars. Every journey winds through tunnels, over trestles, and into deep canyons. It’s one of the few rides where the train seems swallowed by the forest.
Rocky Mountaineer (Denver To Moab)
Traveling through the heart of the Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer offers breathtaking views of towering peaks, deep canyons, and rugged wilderness. Passengers experience beautiful topography, including the Colorado River, as they glide through pristine terrain. The journey captures the dramatic beauty of the Rockies, creating an unforgettable experience.
Glacier National Park Train (East Glacier To West Glacier)
Take the Glacier National Park Train for an unforgettable ride through America’s breathtaking scenery. The route is through alpine meadows and rugged mountain terrain, offering jaw-dropping views of glaciers and wildlife. It’s an immersive experience that showcases the grandeur of Montana’s wilderness and pristine beauty.
