10 Most Scenic Train Rides in the USA
What Train Routes Have the Most Amazing Views in the USA?
The most scenic train rides in the USA present a rich tapestry of captivating landscapes, historical routes, and unforgettable experiences. These routes represent some of the most stunning terrains in America, offering unique adventures for every travel enthusiast. From breathtaking mountain vistas and dramatic coastlines to lush forests and expansive deserts, these train rides showcase the diverse beauty of the country.
The train rides on our list feature glass-domed cars for panoramic views, vintage steam locomotives, dining options, and even onboard entertainment. Dive into the scenic splendor of the USA and discover the magic that awaits along the rails.
1. California Zephyr
Mesmerizing views of canyons, deserts, and snowy peaks
Good for: Photo, Adventure
California Zephyr offers a wonderful journey through diverse landscapes, making it one of the most scenic train rides in the USA. The train travels from Chicago to San Francisco, passing through the majestic Rocky Mountains and the serene Sierra Nevada. The entire route takes 51 hours and 20 minutes, and there are about 10 stops along the way, allowing you to explore various destinations.
As you sit back and relax, you can enjoy awe-inspiring views at every turn. Highlights include the spellbinding Ruby Canyon, the lush greenery of the Colorado River Valley, and the impressive Moffat Tunnel. Make sure to grab a seat in the Sightseer Lounge for the best vistas.
Phone: +1 800-872-7245
California Zephyr
2. Coast Starlight
Dazzling cliffs along the Pacific coast
Good for: Luxury, Couples, Photo
The 35-hour-long Coast Starlight offers one of the most picturesque train rides in the USA, stretching from Seattle to Los Angeles. This iconic route takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, the rolling hills of California wine country, and along the magnificent Pacific Ocean coastline. With stops in cities like Portland and San Francisco, it’s an excellent way to experience the West Coast’s diverse beauty.
Highlights of the journey include panoramic views from the observation car, the verdant forests of Oregon, and the striking cliffs of the Pacific coast. If you’re travelling with your someone special, book a private cabin to make it a truly romantic getaway and to fully enjoy the attractive backdrops.
Phone: +1 844-213-9216
Coast Starlight
3. Rockies To The Red Rocks
Unparalleled views from glass-domed coaches
Good for: Luxury, Couples, Photo
The Rockies To The Red Rocks train ride offers a fantastic 2-day journey from Denver to Moab, traveling by day with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The route passes through the dramatic canyons and rugged mountains of Colorado before reaching the vibrant red rock formations of Utah.
The train features luxurious oversized glass-domed windows, ideal for taking in the mighty views and spotting wildlife like pronghorns, deer, and eagles. Along the way, you’ll see the spectacular Ruby Canyon, the towering Book Cliffs, and the scenic Colorado River, just to name a few. For an extra touch of luxury, opt for the SilverLeaf Plus service for exclusive lounge access and gourmet meals.
Phone: +1 877-460-3200
Rockies To The Red Rocks
4. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
A nostalgic journey through mountain splendor on a vintage steam locomotive
Good for: History, Adventure, Photo
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a historic and picturesque journey through the craggy San Juan Mountains on a vintage steam locomotive. This scenic ride begins in the charming town of Durango, founded in 1880, and winds its way to the old mining town of Silverton, providing a glimpse of the Old West.
On this route, you can experience the thrill of crossing the awe-inspiring Highline, where the tracks cling to a sheer cliff, and marvel at the pristine wilderness along the way. Reserve a seat in the open-air gondola for unobstructed views and a truly immersive experience.
Phone: +1 888-872-4607
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
5. Grand Canyon Railway
Astonishing canyon and desert views from restored vintage railcars
Good for: History, Photo, Families
Grand Canyon Railway offers a nostalgic journey through Arizona’s sublime landscapes, taking you from the charismatic town of Williams to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This historic train ride is a unique way to experience the grandeur of one of the world’s natural wonders, onboard restored vintage railcars, complete with entertaining musicians and lively cowboy characters.
Ideal for family adventures, the ride takes 2 hours and 15 minutes, and you’ll have over 3 hours to explore the canyon before the train returns to Williams. Travel through sweeping prairies, high desert expanses, and dense pine forests before arriving at the Grand Canyon, where even more wondrous views await.
Phone: +1 800-843-8724
Grand Canyon Railway
6. Empire Builder
A journey through America’s heartland
Good for: History, Adventure, Photo
Embark on the Empire Builder, a long-distance journey across northern USA, taking you from Chicago to Seattle or Portland. This iconic 46-hour train ride weaves through sensational landscapes, including the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and Pacific Northwest. It’s a great way to experience the vast beauty of America while tracing the historic routes of early pioneers.
Marvel at the staggering vistas of Glacier National Park, the ethereal Cascade Mountains, and inviting small towns and historic sites that pepper the route. With so much to see, plan carefully which sights you want to see and how. For example, to see all of the Rocky Mountains in daylight, start your trip in Portland or Seattle and travel eastbound.
Phone: +1 800-872-7245
Empire Builder
7. Sunset Limited
Dramatic sunset hues against impressive southwestern landscapes
Good for: Photo, Adventure
Connecting New Orleans to Los Angeles, Sunset Limited offers a fascinating journey across the southern USA. This 48-hour train ride meanders through the lush bayous of Louisiana, the dry deserts of West Texas, the vibrant Mexican borderlands, and the majestic mountains of California.
Departing 3 times a week, Sunset Limited also connects to additional Amtrak trains like the Coast Starlight and Pacific Surfliner. Bearing the oldest continuously used train name in the country, introduced in 1894, this route lives up to its legacy. Expect dramatic and vibrant sunset hues against the outstanding southwestern landscapes.
Phone: +1 800-872-7245
Sunset Limited
8. Amtrak Cascades
Striking views of Cascade Mountains and Puget Sound
Good for: Photo, Couples
Amtrak Cascades offers an enchanting train journey through the Pacific Northwest, stretching from Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This picturesque 10-hour route showcases views of the Cascade Mountains, lush emerald forests, and the sparkling coastal landscapes. Highlights include famous landmarks such as Mount Rainier, the dramatic Columbia River Gorge, and quaint coastal towns bursting with appeal.
Between Portland and Tacoma, marvel at the imposing Mount St. Helens, an active volcano that adds a touch of drama to the journey. Undoubtedly, you’ll find the most enchanting segments around Puget Sound, where the train hugs the attractive shore so closely you’ll feel you could reach out and touch the glistening waters. Have your camera ready to snap some unique holiday photos.
Phone: +1 800-872-7245
Amtrak Cascades
9. Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic
Pristine wilderness and awe-inspiring landscapes
Good for: Photo, Adventure, Unusual
Operating from mid-May to mid-September, the Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic offers a thrilling journey through Alaska’s wilderness, running from Anchorage to Seward. This scenic ride is a thrill-seeker’s dream, taking just over 4 hours and showcasing unspoiled landscapes of the Kenai Peninsula, including the awesome Turnagain Arm and Chugach National Forest.
As the train winds south, you can catch glimpses of alpine meadows, rushing rivers, waterfalls, glaciers, and abundant wildlife like moose, Dall sheep, bears, and beluga whales. Both service classes on the train offer great views. Get the Gold Star service, with seating on the top floor and featuring a glass-domed ceiling, or the Adventure Class that offers tall windows with shared access to a glass dome.
Phone: +1 800-544-0552
Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic
10. Pacific Surfliner
Panoramic ocean vistas and lovely coastal towns
Good for: Photo, Couples
If you’re seeking a train ride with pretty ocean views, the Pacific Surfliner is the ultimate choice. This 9-hour journey hugs the iconic Southern California coastline, starting in San Diego and winding through Los Angeles and Santa Barbara before ending in San Luis Obispo. The route offers photogenic views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy beaches, and delightful coastal towns, ideal for a romantic coastal trip.
Highlights include the dramatic oceanfront stretches near Santa Barbara and picturesque surf towns. As the train travels next to the beaches, it gets so close that the sea spray collects on the car windows. Be sure to record a video clip of the panoramic ocean vistas for friends and family or Instagram.
Phone: +1 800-872-7245
Pacific Surfliner
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