I’ve always believed that some of the best travel memories happen when you stop rushing toward the destination and start enjoying the journey itself. That is exactly what I love about traveling by train.

Instead of staring at a highway or worrying about airport lines, you can settle into your seat, watch mountains and rivers pass by, and simply let America unfold outside your window.

From the dramatic Rockies to the Pacific coastline and the forests of the Northeast, the USA has some truly unforgettable rail journeys.

If you’re dreaming of a slower, more scenic way to explore the country, these are 10 train journeys I would put at the top of my list.

Why Take a Scenic Train Journey in the USA?

A scenic train trip gives you something that flying simply can’t: time to enjoy the landscape.

You aren’t worrying about driving around unfamiliar roads, constantly checking directions, or trying to find somewhere to park. Instead, you can sit back with a coffee, read a book, take photographs, chat with fellow travelers, or simply watch the scenery change.

Long-distance trains are especially wonderful because the landscape can transform dramatically during one trip. You might begin surrounded by skyscrapers and end the day watching mountains, deserts, forests, rivers, or farmland.

Another advantage is that many major American train routes connect interesting cities and outdoor destinations.

Amtrak’s long-distance network includes routes such as the California Zephyr, Coast Starlight, Empire Builder and Southwest Chief, making it possible to build an entire vacation around rail travel.

1. California Zephyr — Chicago to San Francisco Bay Area

Best for: Mountains, rivers, dramatic landscapes and an iconic cross-country experience

If I had to choose just one American train journey for someone who wants spectacular scenery, the California Zephyr would be very high on my list.

This legendary route travels between the Chicago area and Emeryville in the San Francisco Bay Area, passing through cities and landscapes including Denver, Glenwood Springs, Salt Lake City and Reno.

Amtrak describes it as one of its most scenic routes, and it’s easy to understand why.

The journey crosses some of the most beautiful landscapes in the American West.

What makes the California Zephyr special?

The scenery changes constantly.

You’ll see the wide-open landscapes of the Midwest before reaching the dramatic Rocky Mountains. The train then continues through Colorado, Utah and Nevada before reaching California and the Sierra Nevada.

One of my favorite things about this route is that it doesn’t feel like you’re simply traveling between two cities. The landscape itself becomes part of the vacation.

You’ll pass:

• Rocky Mountain scenery
• Colorado canyons
• Rivers and mountain valleys
• Utah’s Great Salt Lake region
• Nevada desert landscapes
• Sierra Nevada scenery
• California’s dramatic mountain country

The route also passes through Glenwood Springs, Colorado, which makes an excellent stop if you want to turn your train ride into a longer vacation.

How long does it take?

This is a long-distance journey, so don’t think of it as a quick transportation option. Think of it as the experience itself.

For the best experience, consider booking a sleeper if your budget allows. Coach is perfectly possible, but having a private sleeping space can make an overnight journey much more comfortable.

My tip

Try to travel during daylight through the most scenic sections.

Check the schedule carefully before booking because sunrise and sunset can dramatically affect what you’ll see from your window.

And don’t spend the whole trip looking at your phone. Put it away occasionally and enjoy the view.

2. Coast Starlight — Los Angeles to Seattle

Best for: Pacific coastline, mountains, forests and West Coast cities

The Coast Starlight is another train journey I would recommend to anyone who loves combining scenery with city breaks.

The route connects Los Angeles and Seattle, passing through California and Oregon before reaching Washington. Amtrak highlights it as one of America’s most scenic train journeys, particularly because of its combination of Pacific coastline, mountains and forests.

What will you see?

Depending on the direction you’re traveling, you’ll experience:

• Southern California beaches
• Santa Barbara
• Central California
• Northern California forests
• Mount Shasta
• Oregon landscapes
• Cascade Mountain scenery
• Portland
• Seattle

One particularly beautiful section is along the California coast between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo. Parts of this route offer views of the coastline that aren’t easily accessible from public roads.

Why I love this journey

It gives you a little bit of everything.

You can spend time in Los Angeles, enjoy California’s coastline, explore Portland and finish your trip in Seattle.

That makes the Coast Starlight perfect for travelers who don’t want their entire vacation to be about sitting on a train.

Best time to ride

Spring through fall can be wonderful for scenery, although every season has something different to offer.

Summer generally gives you longer daylight hours, which can be helpful for sightseeing.

Travel tip

If you’re serious about enjoying the scenery, spend some time in the observation/lounge areas when available rather than staying in your seat for the entire journey.

3. Empire Builder — Chicago to Seattle or Portland

Best for: Glacier National Park, mountains, wilderness and northern landscapes

If your idea of the perfect train adventure involves wide-open wilderness and dramatic mountain scenery, the Empire Builder deserves a place on your list.

The route travels between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, with the train splitting at Spokane so travelers can continue toward either Seattle or Portland.

The journey crosses the northern part of the United States and follows portions of the historic Lewis and Clark Trail.

Highlights along the route

Some of the most memorable scenery includes:

• Mississippi River landscapes
• North Dakota plains
• Montana’s Big Sky country
• Glacier National Park
• Cascade Mountain scenery
• Columbia River Gorge
• Pacific Northwest forests

Glacier National Park is one of the biggest reasons I would choose this journey.

Amtrak specifically highlights the park as a major attraction along the Empire Builder route, with opportunities for hiking, biking and enjoying spectacular mountain scenery.

Where should you stop?

If you have time, consider spending a few days around Glacier National Park rather than simply passing through.

You could make your rail journey part of a larger outdoor adventure.

Seattle and Portland are also fantastic destinations at either end of the route.

Best for fall

This route can be particularly beautiful during autumn when portions of the northern landscape take on golden and red tones.

However, winter brings an entirely different atmosphere, with snowy landscapes creating a magical experience.

4. Southwest Chief — Chicago to Los Angeles

Best for: Desert scenery, Southwestern landscapes and classic American railroad travel

The Southwest Chief is perfect if you want to see a very different side of America.

Instead of the forests and mountains associated with some northern routes, this journey takes you across the heart of the country and through the Southwest.

The route connects Chicago and Los Angeles and travels through eight states.

What makes it special?

The landscape changes dramatically throughout the journey.

You’ll move from the Midwest toward the Great Plains before reaching the colorful landscapes of the American Southwest.

Depending on your itinerary, highlights include areas around:

• Kansas City
• Albuquerque
• Santa Fe region
• Flagstaff
• Arizona
• Los Angeles

Amtrak specifically recommends keeping your camera ready for the spectacular sunsets and expansive western landscapes along this route.

Make a longer trip from it

One of my favorite ways to approach a journey like this would be to plan several stops rather than simply going from Chicago to Los Angeles.

For example:

Chicago → Kansas City → Albuquerque → Flagstaff → Los Angeles

You can then experience several completely different regions in one vacation.

Travel tip

If you’re particularly interested in Southwestern scenery, research your stops before booking your ticket.

Some destinations are better suited for a multi-day stay than a quick stop between trains.

5. Adirondack — New York City to Montreal

Best for: Fall foliage, lakes, charming towns and Northeast scenery

For a completely different atmosphere, head to the Adirondack.

This route connects New York City with Montreal and travels through the Hudson Valley and Lake Champlain region before reaching Canada. Amtrak highlights the Lake Champlain area for its outdoor recreation, historic sites and beautiful scenery.

Why take this train?

The Northeast is often overlooked when people talk about scenic American rail journeys because the West has such dramatic mountains.

But the Adirondack offers something different: beautiful lakes, rolling countryside, historic communities and autumn foliage.

And honestly, I think this route would be especially lovely for a fall trip.

Imagine leaving New York City in the morning and gradually watching the urban landscape give way to quieter towns, forests and lakes.

Things to see

Along the way, you can explore areas around:

• Hudson Valley
• Saratoga Springs
• Lake Champlain
• Plattsburgh
• Montreal

The Lake Champlain region is particularly appealing if you enjoy hiking, paddling and birdwatching.

Important travel note

Because this journey crosses the U.S.–Canada border, make sure your travel documents are valid and check the current entry requirements before traveling.

Best season

Fall is my first choice.

The changing leaves can turn this already beautiful journey into something truly memorable.

6. Amtrak Cascades — Seattle to Portland and Vancouver

Best for: Pacific Northwest scenery, city breaks and shorter rail adventures

Not every great train journey has to take several days.

The Amtrak Cascades is a wonderful option if you’re looking for a shorter scenic trip through the Pacific Northwest.

The route serves cities including Vancouver, Seattle, Tacoma and Portland.

Why I recommend it

It’s ideal for travelers who want the romance of train travel without committing to a multi-day cross-country journey.

You can build a simple Pacific Northwest itinerary around it:

Vancouver → Seattle → Portland

Spend a few days in each city and travel between them by train.

Highlights

You’ll find:

• Puget Sound
• Cascade Mountain views
• Pacific Northwest forests
• Seattle
• Tacoma
• Portland
• Vancouver

Seattle gives you waterfront views and city attractions, while Portland is known for parks, gardens and easy access to outdoor adventures.

Perfect for a weekend trip

If you only have a few days, this is one of the routes I would consider.

It doesn’t require the same amount of planning as a cross-country sleeping-car journey, but you still get to experience scenic rail travel.

7. Cardinal — New York City to Chicago

Best for: Appalachian scenery, historic towns and fall travel

The Cardinal is one of those routes that deserves more attention.

It connects New York and Chicago while traveling through parts of the Appalachian region and cities including Washington, Charlottesville, Cincinnati and Indianapolis.

What makes it scenic?

The route offers a beautiful contrast between cities and countryside.

You’ll move from the busy Northeast into rolling hills and Appalachian landscapes.

Charlottesville is one of the most interesting stops, especially for travelers who enjoy history, architecture and food.

Amtrak highlights the Blue Ridge Mountains and nearby historic attractions including Monticello, Montpelier and Highland.

My favorite time to consider it

Autumn.

The Appalachian scenery can be gorgeous when the leaves change, making this an excellent choice for a fall rail adventure.

A good itinerary

Consider turning the train ride into a multi-city vacation:

New York → Washington, D.C. → Charlottesville → Cincinnati → Chicago

You don’t have to visit every stop. Pick two or three that interest you and give yourself enough time to explore.

8. Sunset Limited — New Orleans to Los Angeles

Best for: Southern landscapes, deserts, Texas and a cross-country adventure

The Sunset Limited takes you across the southern United States between New Orleans and Los Angeles.

It’s one of the most distinctive long-distance rail journeys because of the variety of landscapes and cultures along the way.

The route passes through areas including Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. Current Amtrak timetable information shows the service operating three days per week in each direction.

Highlights

Some interesting stops and regions include:

• New Orleans
• Houston
• San Antonio
• Alpine
• El Paso
• Tucson
• Yuma
• Palm Springs
• Los Angeles

The scenery becomes increasingly desert-like as you move west.

You’ll see an entirely different side of the United States compared with routes through the Rockies or Pacific Northwest.

Palm Springs

If you’re interested in architecture, design and California’s desert lifestyle, consider adding time in Palm Springs.

Amtrak highlights the area’s mid-century modern architecture, desert atmosphere and access to attractions such as Joshua Tree National Park.

Important tip

Because this is a long-distance journey with limited weekly departures, plan your dates carefully.

Don’t assume there will be another train the following day. Check the current timetable before building connecting travel around it.

9. Grand Canyon Railway — Williams to Grand Canyon

Best for: Families, first-time train travelers and the Grand Canyon

If you want a scenic rail experience without spending several days on a train, the Grand Canyon Railway is a wonderful choice.

The railway connects Williams, Arizona, with Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim. The National Park Service confirms that the railway provides train service between Williams and Grand Canyon Village.

Why it’s special

Instead of driving to the Grand Canyon, you can make the journey part of the adventure.

The train experience adds a sense of occasion to visiting one of America’s most famous natural landmarks.

How to plan it

A simple itinerary could look like:

Williams → Grand Canyon South Rim → explore the park → return to Williams

You can also spend several nights at the Grand Canyon if you want a slower trip.

Important thing to know

This railway serves the South Rim.

The North Rim is not accessible by train, and the National Park Service notes that the North Rim can only be reached by road.

Best time to go

Spring and fall are particularly appealing because temperatures can be more comfortable than during the hottest part of summer.

Winter can also be beautiful, especially if you’re hoping to see the canyon with snow.

Always check the current railway schedule before planning your trip because operations and departure times can vary.

10. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad — Colorado

Best for: Mountains, historic trains and an old-fashioned railroad experience

If you’re looking for a train journey that feels like stepping into another era, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one I wouldn’t skip.

This historic railroad runs between Durango and Silverton in southwestern Colorado and has been operating between the two towns since 1882.

The train travels through spectacular mountain scenery beside the Animas River and into the San Juan Mountains.

What makes this journey unforgettable?

The railway travels through wilderness that isn’t accessible by highway.

The route includes:

• Animas River
• San Juan National Forest
• Mountain peaks
• Historic mining areas
• Deep canyon scenery
• Wildlife habitat

The official railroad notes that the summer journey to Silverton covers approximately 45.4 miles each way and includes views of the Animas River, historic mining camps and mountains reaching more than 14,000 feet.

How long is the trip?

The Silverton experience is essentially a full-day adventure. The current summer experience includes approximately 3½ hours of train travel each way and time to explore Silverton.

During other seasons, the route can change. The railroad’s current information indicates that winter trips operate to Cascade Canyon rather than Silverton.

Best time to visit

Summer and early fall are fantastic for mountain scenery.

Fall is especially tempting if you want to see Colorado’s famous golden aspens.

How to Choose the Best U.S. Train Journey for You

With so many beautiful routes, choosing just one can be difficult.

Here’s how I would narrow it down.

Choose the California Zephyr if…

You want dramatic mountains, long-distance travel and one of America’s most iconic rail routes.

Choose the Coast Starlight if…

You dream of Pacific Ocean views, California beaches and Pacific Northwest cities.

Choose the Empire Builder if…

You love wilderness, mountains and Glacier National Park.

Choose the Southwest Chief if…

You want deserts, Southwestern landscapes and classic American scenery.

Choose the Adirondack if…

You love lakes, charming towns and autumn foliage.

Choose Amtrak Cascades if…

You want a shorter trip between beautiful Pacific Northwest cities.

Choose the Cardinal if…

You want Appalachian scenery and historic destinations.

Choose the Sunset Limited if…

You want to experience the southern United States and desert Southwest.

Choose Grand Canyon Railway if…

You want a shorter scenic experience combined with one of America’s most famous national parks.

Choose Durango & Silverton if…

You love historic trains and dramatic mountain scenery.

Best Time of Year for a Scenic Train Journey

One of the best things about train travel is that every season offers something different.

Spring

Spring can bring:

• Fresh green landscapes
• Wildflowers
• Waterfalls
• Snow-capped mountains
• Pleasant temperatures

It’s a great time for the Pacific Northwest and parts of the West.

Summer

Summer is popular because of the longer daylight hours.

It’s particularly good for:

• Mountain routes
• National park trips
• Colorado
• Pacific Northwest
• Alaska connections from other destinations

However, popular routes can be busy, so booking ahead is wise.

Fall

Fall would be my personal favorite.

The Adirondack, Cardinal and Durango & Silverton routes can be especially appealing during foliage season.

The combination of golden forests and train travel feels incredibly cozy.

Winter

Winter can create beautiful snowy scenery, particularly in the northern and mountainous regions.

However, winter weather can also affect transportation, so give yourself flexibility and check conditions before traveling.

What to Pack for a U.S. Train Journey

One of the easiest mistakes to make is packing as though you’re flying.

A train gives you more flexibility, but you still want to stay organized.

My rail-trip essentials include:

A comfortable sweater:
Train temperatures can vary, so layers are your best friend.

Travel pillow:
Especially useful for overnight journeys.

Portable charger:
You’ll want your phone available for photographs, entertainment and travel information.

Refillable water bottle:
Staying hydrated is important during long journeys.

Small day bag:
Keep essentials close rather than repeatedly opening your larger luggage.

Headphones:
Perfect for listening to music or watching something quietly.

Book or Kindle:
Train journeys are one of my favorite times to read.

Snacks:
Even when food is available onboard, having a few favorite snacks can be convenient.

Camera:
You will definitely want it when the scenery gets beautiful.

Tips for Getting the Best Views

This is probably the part I would pay the most attention to.

1. Don’t sit in your seat the entire time

When the train has a lounge or observation area, take advantage of it.

You may get a completely different perspective from another part of the train.

2. Travel during daylight

If scenery is your priority, compare the timetable with sunrise and sunset before booking.

Some sections of a long-distance trip may occur overnight.

3. Keep your camera nearby

Don’t bury your camera at the bottom of your suitcase.

Keep it within easy reach.

4. Don’t obsess over one side of the train

Scenery can appear on either side.

Moving around when possible can help you enjoy more of the journey.

5. Give yourself extra time for connections

This is especially important on long-distance rail trips.

Train schedules can be affected by conditions outside the passenger railroad’s control. Amtrak itself publishes information about freight-related delays, and recent performance data shows that long-distance routes can experience significant variation in on-time performance.

For that reason, I wouldn’t schedule an important flight immediately after arriving on a long-distance train.

Should You Book a Sleeper or Coach?

For shorter journeys, coach can be perfectly comfortable.

But if you’re taking an overnight long-distance trip, a sleeping accommodation can make the experience much more relaxing.

Amtrak offers different seating and sleeping options depending on the route, so check the specific train you’re booking rather than assuming every train has the same setup.

Coach

Best for:

• Shorter trips
• Budget travelers
• Daytime journeys
• Travelers who don’t mind sleeping in their seat

Roomette or sleeping accommodation

Best for:

• Overnight journeys
• Couples or travelers wanting more privacy
• Long-distance adventures
• People who want a more comfortable sleeping arrangement

If you’re traveling for the experience rather than simply trying to get somewhere cheaply, I think upgrading can be worth considering for a long overnight journey.

How to Turn a Train Ride Into a Full Vacation

One of my favorite things about rail travel is that you don’t have to treat the train as simply transportation.

Make the journey part of your itinerary.

For example:

California adventure

Chicago → Denver → Glenwood Springs → Salt Lake City → California

Spend several days at selected stops instead of rushing through.

Pacific Northwest adventure

Los Angeles → Santa Barbara → San Luis Obispo → Portland → Seattle

This is especially appealing if you love beaches, food, city breaks and nature.

Colorado adventure

Durango → Silverton → Colorado mountain towns

Add hiking, scenic drives or a relaxing mountain stay.

Grand Canyon adventure

Williams → Grand Canyon → several nights at the South Rim → Williams

This gives you enough time to enjoy the park rather than treating the railway as a quick attraction.

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Is Train Travel in America Worth It?

Absolutely — especially if you approach it differently from air travel.

If your only goal is to reach your destination as quickly as possible, flying will often be faster.

But that’s not really the point of a scenic rail journey.

The magic is in watching the landscape slowly change.

It’s waking up and realizing you’re surrounded by mountains.

It’s seeing a river appear beside your window.

It’s having breakfast while the landscape moves past you.

It’s stepping off the train somewhere completely different from where you started.

And perhaps most importantly, it’s giving yourself permission to slow down.

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Final Thoughts

After looking at these 10 rail journeys, I think the hardest part isn’t deciding whether to take a train — it’s deciding which route to take first.

The California Zephyr is perfect for dramatic mountain scenery, the Coast Starlight is made for ocean lovers, the Empire Builder is ideal for wilderness, and the Adirondack is beautiful for a cozy fall escape. Meanwhile, the Grand Canyon Railway and Durango & Silverton offer shorter journeys that can easily become highlights of a larger vacation.

Whatever route you choose, don’t rush it.

Bring your favorite snacks, dress comfortably, keep your camera nearby and leave some time to simply sit by the window.

Because sometimes the most beautiful part of a vacation isn’t where you end up.

It’s everything you see along the way.