15 Scenic Train Rides Across America Worth Every Mile
Not all unforgettable journeys happen at 30,000 feet. Some glide through alpine passes, desert plateaus, and thick forests—moving slowly enough to truly take it all in. Here are 15 memorable train rides across America that show the best way to see the country might just be one mile of track at a time.
California Zephyr, Amtrak
Arguably Amtrak’s most scenic route, the California Zephyr, spans 2,400 miles between Chicago and Emeryville, California. It crosses the Rockies and Sierra Nevadas, offering views of Glenwood Canyon, the Colorado River, and Donner Lake. The trip takes roughly 52 hours. Observation lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows make this ride a favorite among rail photographers.
Coast Starlight, Amtrak
The Coast Starlight links Los Angeles and Seattle in a 35-hour journey renowned for its stunning ocean views. Highlights include Big Sur’s coastline and Puget Sound. The train travels daily, covering 1,377 miles with stops in major cities like Portland and Sacramento. Portions of the track follow the cliffs of California’s Pacific shore.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, Colorado/New Mexico
This heritage railway climbs over 10,000 feet through the Rockies on the Colorado–New Mexico border. Built in 1880, the 64-mile line uses vintage steam locomotives and wooden coaches. The ride includes tunnels, trestle bridges, and the dramatic Toltec Gorge, and is one of the highest and longest narrow-gauge railroads in the U.S.
Adirondack, Amtrak
Autumn is the best time to board this train, especially for foliage views. Traveling between New York City and Montreal, the Adirondack route offers a 10-hour journey through the scenic Hudson Valley and Adirondack Mountains. The train also skirts Lake Champlain before crossing into Canada. U.S. Customs checks are done onboard just before the international border.
Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona
This historic route runs 65 miles from Williams to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Originally built in 1901, it features restored vintage coaches and steam engines on select days. Cowboys stage mock train robberies en route, and the journey ends at the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, a little distance from the Grand Canyon.
Empire Builder, Amtrak
The Empire Builder travels across the northern U.S., connecting Chicago with Seattle or Portland. Along the way, it winds through Glacier National Park and the wide-open landscapes of North Dakota and Montana. The full trip takes about 46 hours and follows a historic path once explored by Lewis and Clark and early pioneers.
Southwest Chief, Amtrak
The Southwest Chief spans over 2,200 miles and connects Chicago and Los Angeles across the high plains and desert Southwest. Passengers witness dramatic terrain changes, from Kansas farmland to the red rock canyons of New Mexico. The line follows parts of the old Santa Fe Trail and Route 66, with brief stops at Albuquerque and Flagstaff.
Mount Washington Cog Railway, New Hampshire
As America’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, this 1869 marvel ascends Mount Washington’s steep slopes. Running on coal-fired and biodiesel locomotives, the trip climbs over 3,500 feet in under 3 miles, with grades as steep as 37%. Views at the 6,288-foot summit extend into five states on clear days.
Cascades, Amtrak
The Cascades route operates in the Pacific Northwest and connects Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia. Riders enjoy views of Puget Sound, the Columbia River, and Mount Rainier. Unique Talgo trains feature tilting technology for smoother curves. Bicycle racks and local food options make it a favorite among regional travelers.
White Pass & Yukon Route, Alaska
This narrow-gauge railway was originally built during the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898 and climbs from Skagway, Alaska, into Canada’s Yukon Territory. The route ascends nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles as wooden trestles and tunnels pierce steep cliffs. Cruise passengers often book this ride for its hair-raising switchbacks and frontier history.
Vermonter, Amtrak
Running from Washington, D.C. to St. Albans, Vermont, the Vermonter weaves through New England’s historic towns and lush valleys. Stops include towns like Hartford, Springfield, and Montpelier. In winter, ski resorts like Okemo and Killington are popular destinations for skiers. A unique highlight is its path through the Connecticut River Valley.
Napa Valley Wine Train, California
This luxury heritage train runs 36 miles through the heart of California wine country. Departing from downtown Napa, it features gourmet dining and curated wine tastings onboard. Restored 20th-century Pullman cars offer a vintage ambiance. The route passes dozens of vineyards, with packages that include winery tours and overnight stays.
Texas Eagle, Amtrak
Stretching over 1,300 miles, the Texas Eagle links Chicago to San Antonio, with some trips continuing to Los Angeles via the Sunset Limited. Major cities on the route include St. Louis and Dallas. It is one of Amtrak’s longest daily routes and features panoramic views of the Southwest deserts, rivers, and rolling prairies.
Auto Train, Amtrak
America’s only vehicle-carrying passenger train runs nonstop between Lorton, Virginia, and Sanford, Florida. Covering 855 miles in about 17 hours, it allows travelers to bring their cars, motorcycles, or small trailers. The train includes private sleeping accommodations and lounges. Auto Train is especially popular with snowbirds heading south for winter.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado
Launched in 1882, this train winds through Colorado’s rugged San Juan Mountains and hugs cliff edges above the Animas River. It runs between Durango and the old mining town of Silverton on a historic narrow-gauge track. Trains travel at just 18 mph, letting passengers savor every breathtaking switchback.
