Train travel in the United States offers a unique way to experience the country’s beauty, from towering mountains to sprawling coastlines. Scenic rail journeys provide a slower, more immersive adventure compared to flying or driving. With comfortable seating, panoramic windows, and historic routes, these trains connect passengers to breathtaking landscapes that showcase America’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Whether winding through the Rockies, hugging the Pacific coast, or crossing deserts, these train trips combine relaxation with unforgettable views, making them some of the best travel experiences across the country.
1. California Zephyr
The California Zephyr, operated by Amtrak, is often considered the most scenic train ride in the United States. Running between Chicago and Emeryville, California, it covers over 2,400 miles and offers views of the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and Colorado River. Passengers can experience dramatic mountain passes, lush valleys, and desert landscapes during the two-day journey. With Superliner observation cars, travelers enjoy panoramic views of America’s diverse geography. According to Amtrak, this route captures some of the most iconic scenery in the nation, making it a bucket-list journey for train enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.
2. Coast Starlight
The Coast Starlight runs between Seattle and Los Angeles, providing travelers with one of the most breathtaking coastal rides in America. Covering 1,377 miles, it showcases the Pacific Ocean, Cascade Range, and lush forests of the Pacific Northwest. Highlights include dramatic cliffs, surf-lined beaches, and towering peaks. Amtrak notes that the train’s observation lounge and large windows make it ideal for sightseeing. With daily service, travelers experience both urban hubs and natural wonders, making it one of the most popular long-distance trains in the country. Its blend of scenery and comfort makes it unforgettable.
3. Empire Builder
The Empire Builder stretches from Chicago to Seattle and Portland, offering a remarkable journey across the northern United States. The train travels through the Mississippi River Valley, the Great Plains, and the Rocky Mountains, providing a mix of historic and natural landmarks. Glacier National Park is a highlight, with sweeping mountain vistas and glacial valleys visible from the train. Operated by Amtrak, the route covers approximately 2,200 miles and takes around 46 hours to complete. According to the National Park Service, this train provides one of the best ways to experience Glacier’s remote beauty.
4. Southwest Chief
The Southwest Chief runs between Chicago and Los Angeles, covering 2,265 miles across the heart of the American Southwest. The journey takes travelers through deserts, mountains, and canyons, including the red rock formations of New Mexico and Arizona. The train also passes historic Route 66 towns and Native American lands, offering a cultural perspective alongside its natural beauty. Amtrak highlights the spacious observation cars, where passengers can enjoy sweeping views of the open landscapes. The route blends history, culture, and dramatic scenery, making it a memorable choice for those exploring the Southwest.
5. Adirondack
The Adirondack, running between New York City and Montreal, is famous for its stunning views of the Hudson River Valley and the Adirondack Mountains. Particularly popular in autumn, when foliage transforms the landscape, this journey is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers. The 10-hour trip covers 381 miles and offers passengers glimpses of Lake Champlain and historic towns along the way. Operated by Amtrak, the route is consistently ranked among the most scenic in North America. According to New York State’s official tourism site, the train is one of the best ways to enjoy fall colors.
6. Cascades
Amtrak Cascades connects Eugene, Oregon, with Vancouver, British Columbia, traveling through some of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful landscapes. Passengers experience views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier, and the Columbia River Gorge. The service covers 467 miles and is known for its comfortable Talgo trains that provide large windows for sightseeing. The route is especially scenic near Seattle, where the train hugs the Puget Sound shoreline, offering oceanfront views. According to the Washington State Department of Transportation, the Cascades service is among the most heavily used regional routes, combining convenience with unmatched beauty.
7. Grand Canyon Railway
The Grand Canyon Railway takes passengers from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Operating since 1901, this historic train covers 65 miles and provides a nostalgic way to visit one of America’s greatest natural wonders. Along the route, travelers see high desert plains, ponderosa pine forests, and canyon scenery. The National Park Service notes that the railway plays a vital role in reducing car traffic to the canyon, helping protect the environment. This short but stunning ride is both a scenic adventure and a journey into history.
8. Mount Washington Cog Railway
The Mount Washington Cog Railway in New Hampshire is a unique scenic train that climbs the highest peak in the Northeastern United States. First built in 1869, it was the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway and remains an engineering marvel. The three-mile trip offers sweeping views of the White Mountains and surrounding valleys. According to the Mount Washington Observatory, weather on the summit can be extreme, making the journey both exciting and unpredictable. The combination of historic charm, engineering significance, and unmatched mountain scenery makes this ride one of the most remarkable train experiences.
9. Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic
The Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic runs between Anchorage and Seward, offering one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Travelers see glaciers, fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife along the Kenai Peninsula. The journey covers 114 miles and takes about four and a half hours each way. According to the Alaska Railroad, passengers often spot bald eagles, moose, and even whales from the train. The panoramic windows and dome cars enhance the experience, making it a top choice for those seeking to explore Alaska’s rugged beauty by rail.
10. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Colorado offers a historic and scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains. Originally built in 1882 to haul silver and gold, it now carries passengers on a 45-mile ride between Durango and Silverton. The steam-powered train follows the Animas River, passing cliffs, forests, and rugged peaks. According to the National Register of Historic Places, the railway is a designated National Historic Landmark. The combination of preserved history, authentic steam locomotives, and breathtaking mountain views makes this one of the most iconic rail experiences in the United States.