These 18 Train Rides Across America Visit The Prettiest Landscapes

Ferris Bueller said it best: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” This unexpected nugget of wisdom from a high schooler really captures what our Bucket List articles try to do; that is, show you some of the most incredible places across the country that are just waiting to be explored and enjoyed. And in terms of stopping and looking around, well, there’s perhaps no better way to do that than aboard one of these epic train rides across America. There’s something inherently charming and magical about a train ride; sitting back while the world passes by, feeling the solid wood booths beneath you, with the chug of the locomotive and passenger chatter humming in the background. The following 18 train rides show off some of America’s most sweeping and scenic landscapes, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences you’ll never forget.

Alaska Railroad - Alaska

Alaska Railroad/Facebook There’s no better (and warmer!) way to explore the Last Frontier than aboard the Alaska Railroad. Stationed in Anchorage, the Alaska Railroad hails from 1903, and has been leading adventurers through some of the state’s most breathtaking natural areas in the 100+ years since. After just one ride on this spectacular trip, you’ll fully understand why National Geographic Traveler ranked it among their “Top 10 Train Rides in North America.” Soak in views of the Turnagain Arm and Chugach National Forest as you head south from Anchorage to Seward on one of the absolute best day trips in Alaska. Anchorage Depot, 411 W 1st Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, USA

Empire Builder - Washington to Illinois

Amtrak/Facebook Experience the rugged splendor America like never before aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder train. Traveling daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest and following major portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail, the Empire Builder takes passengers on their very own American adventure. The 2,206-mile route ventures through the country’s most majestic wilderness and stunning landscapes, following the footsteps of early pioneers. Underrepresented places like North Dakota, Montana, and Idaho get star treatment along this route, giving passengers newfound appreciation for these often-overlooked states. This 46-hour excursion is one of the most epic American adventures you’ll ever have. 1301 W 11th St, Vancouver, WA 98660, USA

Mount Hood Railroad - Oregon

Mt Hood Railroad/Facebook When you live in a place like Oregon that’s surrounded by natural beauty, it can be easy to lose sight of just how extraordinary this part of the country really is. Sometimes we all need a reminder to stop and smell the roses – or, in Oregon, the cherry blossoms. And the Mount Hood Railroad is the perfect place to do just that. This charming passenger train is a big dose of nostalgia; an experience that will send you back to a simpler time. And while the train itself is utterly delightful, it’s the scenery on these excursions that you’ll remember most. During the spring, when the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, the scenery surrounding majestic Mount Hood is awash in enchanting white and pink blooms. But any time of the year, the Mount Hood Railroad offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country, and is the perfect way to relish the resplendence the PNW. Mount Hood Railroad, 110 Railroad Street, Hood River, OR 97031, USA

Coast Starlight - California to Seattle

Amtrak/Facebook Widely regarded as one of the most spectacular train routes in the country, Amtrak’s Coast Starlight links the greatest cities on the West Coast, from Los Angeles all the way to Seattle. The scenery along the Coast Starlight route is unsurpassed; along the 35-hour ride, you’ll see the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, old-growth forests in California and Oregon, and long stretches of pristine Pacific Ocean shoreline. Winsome dining and sleeping cars only add to the charm of this epic trip. The Coast Starlight is a dazzling tour de force of the West Coast; a must for anyone looking for a scenic adventure. 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Roaring Camp Railroads - California

Roaring Camp Railroads/Facebook For the most spectacular views of Northern California, look no further than Roaring Camp Railroads. This historic line offers two train rides through California’s most wondrous treasure: its towering redwood groves. One of the rides, the Redwood Forest Steam Train, takes passengers over trestles beneath a towering redwood canopy, winding along the narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. The train’s steam engines date back to 1890 and are considered some of the oldest that are still providing passenger service in America, making this a one-in-a-lifetime adventure you must experience. 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018, USA

Napa Valley Wine Train - California

Napa Valley Wine Train/Facebook There’s nowhere more beautiful than California’s Napa Valley; a fertile oasis growing some of the best grapes in the world. Home to over 400 wineries, Napa Valley is world-renowned for its wines and spectacular natural scenery. Oenophiles and aesthetes alike must take the Napa Valley Wine Train, which offers excursions into the idyllic California countryside. This is both a wonderful and responsible way to see Napa Valley, as you’ll pass through Oak Knoll, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, and St. Helena. Of course, local wines are served during the three-hour ride, making for a perfect pairing of vino and gorgeous NorCal scenery. 1275 McKinstry St, Napa, CA 94559, USA

Grand Canyon Railway - Arizona

Grand Canyon Railway Arizona’s Grand Canyon is one of the country’s crown jewels, and visiting this national treasure is a bucket list item for many. While there are numerous ways to explore this natural wonder, none is more unique nor enchanting than the Grand Canyon Railway. Traveling between Williams, Arizona, to the majestic Grand Canyon daily, the historic Grand Canyon Railway is a classic adventure with broad appeal. Passengers can choose between six different classes of train service, ranging from the original, circa-1923 Pullman cars to the Luxury Parlor complete with a private bar and adjoining rear platform. But really, it’s not about what’s inside the train cars; it’s about the breathtaking scenery outside. And trust us – the scenery here truly is extraordinary! Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA

Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway - Colorado

Pikes Peak Cog Railway/Facebook Since 1891, The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway has taken millions of people on an unforgettable trip to the highest point of the southern Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. At 14,115 feet, this summit is a favorite for seasoned hikers; however, for most, it’s quite literally out of reach. Luckily, there’s the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. This nine-mile journey takes passengers to the top of Pikes Peak, traveling along Ruxton Creek, past Minnehaha, and through Deer Park along the way. It’s an immensely scenic adventure offering million-dollar views of some of the prettiest landscape in the country. For awhile, the future of this railway hung in the balance; however, in May 2021, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway reopened in a dazzling comeback following much-needed repairs and restoration. 515 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, USA

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - Colorado

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad/Facebook Named one of the most scenic train rides in the world, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a bucket-list adventure in the American West. This coal-fired steam locomotive journeys past some of the most incredible areas in Colorado, through the stark wilderness and majestic canyons of the San Juan National Forest. What makes this excursion so special is that it makes Colorado’s most immense and impressive natural wonders accessible for anyone – not just avid outdoor adventurers and enthusiasts. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, USA

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad - New Mexico and Colorado

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad/Facebook The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers a 64-mile, round-trip journey from Chama in northern New Mexico to Antonito in Colorado. The locomotive that you’ll board is a powerhouse that ascends up into the mountains with grace and ease. Cruising through the Rocky Mountains, passengers aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad are in for a real scenic treat. An open-air gondola allows for an immersive experience aboard this historic train, letting passengers catch cool Colorado breezes while gazing upon the stunning naturescape of the Southwest. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, 500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520, USA

Branson Scenic Railway - Missouri

Branson Scenic Railway Missouri is home to many beautiful places and natural wonders, and a train ride really is the best way to slow down and soak up the views. Happily, you can discover Missouri’s stunning Ozarks with a relaxing train ride on the Branson Scenic Railway. Take a seat under the glass dome roof, enjoy a meal, and take pleasure in the beautiful scenery aboard the Branson Scenic Railway. On this railroad, passengers will embark on a 40-mile trip into the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, and it’s a memorable experience you won’t soon forget. Branson Scenic Railway, 206 E Main St, Branson, MO 65616, USA

Arkansas Missouri Railroad - Arkansas

Arkansas Missouri Railroad/Facebook Arkansas is filled with beautiful hikes as well as scenic drives, but there’s another way to take in the sights of the Natural State, and that’s aboard a train. The Arkansas-Missouri Railroad offers gorgeous train rides through one of the prettiest parts of the country. Each of the railroad excursions will treat you to breathtaking views all year-round; but during the autumn, when the leaves begin to change, you will be rendered speechless by the captivating Arkansas Ozarks. This is the absolute best way to experience the splendor of one of America’s most resplendent regions. Arkansas & Missouri Railroad, 306 E Emma Ave, Springdale, AR 72764, USA

Crescent Train - Louisiana to New York

Amtrak/Facebook Amtrak’s Crescent Train is a 30-hour expedition that takes passengers from the Big Apple to the Big Easy. This ride spans 1,300 immaculate miles and passes through more states than any other Amtrak route. Venturing deep into the American South, the train rolls through iconic Mid-Atlantic cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., before venturing into the heart of the South with places like Greenville, Atlanta, and Birmingham. New Orleans is the perfect end point for this route; a grand finale of jazz clubs, Cajun restaurants, and indelible, exuberant culture. 1001 Loyola Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA

Great Smoky Mountains Railway - North Carolina

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad/Facebook In North Carolina, taking the scenic route is always the best option. Between the Tar Heel State’s picturesque mountains, rolling hills and valleys, and babbling streams and rivers, the only way to really enjoy the views is to go the old-fashioned route, and take a train. Based in Bryson City, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates several different excursions throughout remote and scenic sections of the resplendent range. While the railroad’s rides are all spectacular, you’ll definitely want to book your tickets for the Nantahala Excursion. For four and a half hours, you’ll ride along the beautiful Nantahala River, hear Appalachian tales, and venture across some of the country’s most magnificent mountain scenery. This is another ride to add to your fall list, as the cooler temps bring a color and depth to the Smoky Mountains that’s positively perfect. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad - Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Ohio’s only national park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the Midwest’s most dazzling hidden gems. Hilly and lush, full of rivers and valleys, it’s a pristine place that you’ll simply want to savor slowly – and the National Scenic Park Ride aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is the perfect way to do just that. Along this scenic three-and-a-half-hour train ride, you’ll journey straight through the Cuyahoga River Valley, along the eponymous river and past gorgeous wetlands (yes – Ohio has wetlands!). This excursion offers an unrivaled experience of one of the country’s finest and overlooked national parks that’s sure to give passengers a newfound appreciation for the Midwest. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Rd, Independence, OH 44131, USA

Cass Scenic Railroad - West Virginia

Cass Scenic Railroad/Facebook Way up in the mountains of West Virginia lies Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, a place where visitors can take a step back in time aboard a restored, steam-powered locomotive. Originally built to transport logs to a West Virginia lumber mill, Cass Scenic Railroad has been transformed into one of the most scenic, historic, and interesting passenger trains in the country. Trips depart from the town of Cass and take visitors to Whittaker Station (a two-hour ride) or all the way to Bald Knob (a four-and-a-half hour adventure). We’re partial to the Bald Knob excursion; featuring a unique ecosystem that’s more similar to what you might expect to find in Canada than West Virginia, Bald Knob rises high above all but one of West Virginia’s myriad mountain peaks. The train climbs an impressive 2,290 feet from the Cass Depot to the top of Bald Knob, for a breathtaking adventure that’s absolutely fitting for America the Beautiful. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, 12363 Cass Rd, Cass, WV 24927, USA

Mount Washington Cog Railway - New Hampshire

Mount Washington Cog Railway/Facebook One of the most notable features in the Northeast is New Hampshire’s stately Mount Washington. Standing at 6,288 feet, it’s the tallest peak in the Northeast and also one of the most beautiful. And while you can summit this beautiful mountain by hiking or even driving, there’s a truly unique way to experience Mount Washington that belongs on your bucket list, and that’s the eponymous Mount Washington Cog Railway. This railroad has a rich history; the first cog-driven train made the climb on July 3, 1869, and has been taking adventurous passengers to this peak ever since. The three-hour ride ascends slowly into the clouds, boasting jaw-dropping panoramas with each foot climbed. In fact, the Mount Washington Cog Railway is a National Historic Engineering Landmark, and it’s really a piece of history you must experience. The Mount Washington Cog Railway, 3168 Base Station Rd, Mount Washington, NH 03589, USA

Aclea Train - The U.S. East Coast, including Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington D.C.

Amtrak/Facebook Amtrak’s seven-hour Acela Train is an epic tour of the East Coast, venturing from Boston all the way to Washington D.C. Along the way, you’ll stop and experience the culture of the Eastern Seaboard; you can enjoy fresh clam chowder in Boston, learn about U.S. history in D.C., or go museum hopping in Philly. Not only will the views outside dazzle and delight, but Amtrak’s Acela cars are newly renovated to be the height of modern luxury. If it’s epic views and luxurious comfort you’re seeking, the Acela Train will deliver in spades.

Sometimes the journey really is just as important as the destination. Such is the case for passengers who step aboard these superlative trains. Climb aboard and get ready for one of these epic train rides across America the Beautiful. For more stunning scenic adventures in the U.S., these 25 charming small towns are some of the best and brightest, offering visitors beauty, history, and experiences that will undoubtedly further your love for our great country.

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The OIYS Visitor Center

Train rides across America May 25, 2022 Sarah M. What are some other bucket-list worthy train rides across America? There’s something so inherently charming about a train ride: the opportunity to sit back and relax aboard a historic locomotive, surrounded by some of the most marvelous landscapes in the country. After you’ve tackled the above 18 train rides across America, you’ll want to out these three award-winning locomotives in Colorado. Compiled by the folks at 10Best, in 2020, they named the best ride in America as the gorgeous Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, noting that as “One of the most authentic steam-operated railroads in existence, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs for 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, passing through the San Juan Mountains and the scenic Conejos Valley along the way.” In addition to the fabulous Cumbres & Toltec, named the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad at #5 and the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway at #9, though we happen to think the latter excursion definitely ranks higher than that! For some swoon-worthy rides in the Mid-Atlantic, look no further than North Carolina, where taking the ‘scenic route’ is always the best option. Between North Carolina’s picturesque mountains, rolling hills and valleys, and babbling streams and rivers, the best way to enjoy the views is to go the old-fashioned route — and take a train. No matter the season, these five scenic train rides in North Carolina will leave you in awe of the unparalleled beauty of the Tar Heel State. Spoiler alert: our favorite train ride in NC is the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, which you’ll find listed above. But in addition to this scenic adventure, we also love the Triangle Train excursion offered by New Hope Valley Railway. Just 30 minutes outside of Raleigh, you can have an authentic historic experience aboard this open-air train. The New Hope Valley Railway offers excursion rides on vintage equipment at the North Carolina Railway Museum. It’s one of the best train trips in North Carolina. The railway also hosts seasonal events like Halloween and Santa Trains. After your ride, be sure to stop by the North Carolina Railway Museum for more locomotive-themed fun!

Alaska Railroad/Facebook

There’s no better (and warmer!) way to explore the Last Frontier than aboard the Alaska Railroad. Stationed in Anchorage, the Alaska Railroad hails from 1903, and has been leading adventurers through some of the state’s most breathtaking natural areas in the 100+ years since. After just one ride on this spectacular trip, you’ll fully understand why National Geographic Traveler ranked it among their “Top 10 Train Rides in North America.” Soak in views of the Turnagain Arm and Chugach National Forest as you head south from Anchorage to Seward on one of the absolute best day trips in Alaska.

Anchorage Depot, 411 W 1st Ave, Anchorage, AK 99501, USA

Amtrak/Facebook

Experience the rugged splendor America like never before aboard Amtrak’s Empire Builder train. Traveling daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest and following major portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail, the Empire Builder takes passengers on their very own American adventure. The 2,206-mile route ventures through the country’s most majestic wilderness and stunning landscapes, following the footsteps of early pioneers. Underrepresented places like North Dakota, Montana, and Idaho get star treatment along this route, giving passengers newfound appreciation for these often-overlooked states. This 46-hour excursion is one of the most epic American adventures you’ll ever have.

1301 W 11th St, Vancouver, WA 98660, USA

Mt Hood Railroad/Facebook

When you live in a place like Oregon that’s surrounded by natural beauty, it can be easy to lose sight of just how extraordinary this part of the country really is. Sometimes we all need a reminder to stop and smell the roses – or, in Oregon, the cherry blossoms. And the Mount Hood Railroad is the perfect place to do just that. This charming passenger train is a big dose of nostalgia; an experience that will send you back to a simpler time. And while the train itself is utterly delightful, it’s the scenery on these excursions that you’ll remember most. During the spring, when the cherry blossoms begin to bloom, the scenery surrounding majestic Mount Hood is awash in enchanting white and pink blooms. But any time of the year, the Mount Hood Railroad offers some of the most breathtaking views in the country, and is the perfect way to relish the resplendence the PNW.

Mount Hood Railroad, 110 Railroad Street, Hood River, OR 97031, USA

Widely regarded as one of the most spectacular train routes in the country, Amtrak’s Coast Starlight links the greatest cities on the West Coast, from Los Angeles all the way to Seattle. The scenery along the Coast Starlight route is unsurpassed; along the 35-hour ride, you’ll see the snow-covered peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta, old-growth forests in California and Oregon, and long stretches of pristine Pacific Ocean shoreline. Winsome dining and sleeping cars only add to the charm of this epic trip. The Coast Starlight is a dazzling tour de force of the West Coast; a must for anyone looking for a scenic adventure.

800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, USA

Roaring Camp Railroads/Facebook

For the most spectacular views of Northern California, look no further than Roaring Camp Railroads. This historic line offers two train rides through California’s most wondrous treasure: its towering redwood groves. One of the rides, the Redwood Forest Steam Train, takes passengers over trestles beneath a towering redwood canopy, winding along the narrow-gauge grade to the summit of Bear Mountain. The train’s steam engines date back to 1890 and are considered some of the oldest that are still providing passenger service in America, making this a one-in-a-lifetime adventure you must experience.

5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, CA 95018, USA

Napa Valley Wine Train/Facebook

There’s nowhere more beautiful than California’s Napa Valley; a fertile oasis growing some of the best grapes in the world. Home to over 400 wineries, Napa Valley is world-renowned for its wines and spectacular natural scenery. Oenophiles and aesthetes alike must take the Napa Valley Wine Train, which offers excursions into the idyllic California countryside. This is both a wonderful and responsible way to see Napa Valley, as you’ll pass through Oak Knoll, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, and St. Helena. Of course, local wines are served during the three-hour ride, making for a perfect pairing of vino and gorgeous NorCal scenery.

1275 McKinstry St, Napa, CA 94559, USA

Grand Canyon Railway

Arizona’s Grand Canyon is one of the country’s crown jewels, and visiting this national treasure is a bucket list item for many. While there are numerous ways to explore this natural wonder, none is more unique nor enchanting than the Grand Canyon Railway. Traveling between Williams, Arizona, to the majestic Grand Canyon daily, the historic Grand Canyon Railway is a classic adventure with broad appeal. Passengers can choose between six different classes of train service, ranging from the original, circa-1923 Pullman cars to the Luxury Parlor complete with a private bar and adjoining rear platform. But really, it’s not about what’s inside the train cars; it’s about the breathtaking scenery outside. And trust us – the scenery here truly is extraordinary!

Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023, USA

Pikes Peak Cog Railway/Facebook

Since 1891, The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway has taken millions of people on an unforgettable trip to the highest point of the southern Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. At 14,115 feet, this summit is a favorite for seasoned hikers; however, for most, it’s quite literally out of reach. Luckily, there’s the Pikes Peak Cog Railway. This nine-mile journey takes passengers to the top of Pikes Peak, traveling along Ruxton Creek, past Minnehaha, and through Deer Park along the way. It’s an immensely scenic adventure offering million-dollar views of some of the prettiest landscape in the country. For awhile, the future of this railway hung in the balance; however, in May 2021, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway reopened in a dazzling comeback following much-needed repairs and restoration.

515 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, USA

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad/Facebook

Named one of the most scenic train rides in the world, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a bucket-list adventure in the American West. This coal-fired steam locomotive journeys past some of the most incredible areas in Colorado, through the stark wilderness and majestic canyons of the San Juan National Forest. What makes this excursion so special is that it makes Colorado’s most immense and impressive natural wonders accessible for anyone – not just avid outdoor adventurers and enthusiasts.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, USA

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad/Facebook

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers a 64-mile, round-trip journey from Chama in northern New Mexico to Antonito in Colorado. The locomotive that you’ll board is a powerhouse that ascends up into the mountains with grace and ease. Cruising through the Rocky Mountains, passengers aboard the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad are in for a real scenic treat. An open-air gondola allows for an immersive experience aboard this historic train, letting passengers catch cool Colorado breezes while gazing upon the stunning naturescape of the Southwest.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, 500 Terrace Ave, Chama, NM 87520, USA

Branson Scenic Railway

Missouri is home to many beautiful places and natural wonders, and a train ride really is the best way to slow down and soak up the views. Happily, you can discover Missouri’s stunning Ozarks with a relaxing train ride on the Branson Scenic Railway. Take a seat under the glass dome roof, enjoy a meal, and take pleasure in the beautiful scenery aboard the Branson Scenic Railway. On this railroad, passengers will embark on a 40-mile trip into the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, and it’s a memorable experience you won’t soon forget.

Branson Scenic Railway, 206 E Main St, Branson, MO 65616, USA

Arkansas Missouri Railroad/Facebook

Arkansas is filled with beautiful hikes as well as scenic drives, but there’s another way to take in the sights of the Natural State, and that’s aboard a train. The Arkansas-Missouri Railroad offers gorgeous train rides through one of the prettiest parts of the country. Each of the railroad excursions will treat you to breathtaking views all year-round; but during the autumn, when the leaves begin to change, you will be rendered speechless by the captivating Arkansas Ozarks. This is the absolute best way to experience the splendor of one of America’s most resplendent regions.

Arkansas & Missouri Railroad, 306 E Emma Ave, Springdale, AR 72764, USA

Amtrak’s Crescent Train is a 30-hour expedition that takes passengers from the Big Apple to the Big Easy. This ride spans 1,300 immaculate miles and passes through more states than any other Amtrak route. Venturing deep into the American South, the train rolls through iconic Mid-Atlantic cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington D.C., before venturing into the heart of the South with places like Greenville, Atlanta, and Birmingham. New Orleans is the perfect end point for this route; a grand finale of jazz clubs, Cajun restaurants, and indelible, exuberant culture.

1001 Loyola Ave, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad/Facebook

In North Carolina, taking the scenic route is always the best option. Between the Tar Heel State’s picturesque mountains, rolling hills and valleys, and babbling streams and rivers, the only way to really enjoy the views is to go the old-fashioned route, and take a train. Based in Bryson City, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates several different excursions throughout remote and scenic sections of the resplendent range. While the railroad’s rides are all spectacular, you’ll definitely want to book your tickets for the Nantahala Excursion. For four and a half hours, you’ll ride along the beautiful Nantahala River, hear Appalachian tales, and venture across some of the country’s most magnificent mountain scenery. This is another ride to add to your fall list, as the cooler temps bring a color and depth to the Smoky Mountains that’s positively perfect.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Ohio’s only national park, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the Midwest’s most dazzling hidden gems. Hilly and lush, full of rivers and valleys, it’s a pristine place that you’ll simply want to savor slowly – and the National Scenic Park Ride aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is the perfect way to do just that. Along this scenic three-and-a-half-hour train ride, you’ll journey straight through the Cuyahoga River Valley, along the eponymous river and past gorgeous wetlands (yes – Ohio has wetlands!). This excursion offers an unrivaled experience of one of the country’s finest and overlooked national parks that’s sure to give passengers a newfound appreciation for the Midwest.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad Rockside Station, 7900 Old Rockside Rd, Independence, OH 44131, USA

Cass Scenic Railroad/Facebook

Way up in the mountains of West Virginia lies Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, a place where visitors can take a step back in time aboard a restored, steam-powered locomotive. Originally built to transport logs to a West Virginia lumber mill, Cass Scenic Railroad has been transformed into one of the most scenic, historic, and interesting passenger trains in the country. Trips depart from the town of Cass and take visitors to Whittaker Station (a two-hour ride) or all the way to Bald Knob (a four-and-a-half hour adventure). We’re partial to the Bald Knob excursion; featuring a unique ecosystem that’s more similar to what you might expect to find in Canada than West Virginia, Bald Knob rises high above all but one of West Virginia’s myriad mountain peaks. The train climbs an impressive 2,290 feet from the Cass Depot to the top of Bald Knob, for a breathtaking adventure that’s absolutely fitting for America the Beautiful.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, 12363 Cass Rd, Cass, WV 24927, USA

Mount Washington Cog Railway/Facebook

One of the most notable features in the Northeast is New Hampshire’s stately Mount Washington. Standing at 6,288 feet, it’s the tallest peak in the Northeast and also one of the most beautiful. And while you can summit this beautiful mountain by hiking or even driving, there’s a truly unique way to experience Mount Washington that belongs on your bucket list, and that’s the eponymous Mount Washington Cog Railway. This railroad has a rich history; the first cog-driven train made the climb on July 3, 1869, and has been taking adventurous passengers to this peak ever since. The three-hour ride ascends slowly into the clouds, boasting jaw-dropping panoramas with each foot climbed. In fact, the Mount Washington Cog Railway is a National Historic Engineering Landmark, and it’s really a piece of history you must experience.

The Mount Washington Cog Railway, 3168 Base Station Rd, Mount Washington, NH 03589, USA

Amtrak’s seven-hour Acela Train is an epic tour of the East Coast, venturing from Boston all the way to Washington D.C. Along the way, you’ll stop and experience the culture of the Eastern Seaboard; you can enjoy fresh clam chowder in Boston, learn about U.S. history in D.C., or go museum hopping in Philly. Not only will the views outside dazzle and delight, but Amtrak’s Acela cars are newly renovated to be the height of modern luxury. If it’s epic views and luxurious comfort you’re seeking, the Acela Train will deliver in spades.

For more stunning scenic adventures in the U.S., these 25 charming small towns are some of the best and brightest, offering visitors beauty, history, and experiences that will undoubtedly further your love for our great country.

The OIYS Visitor Center

Train rides across America

May 25, 2022

Sarah M.

What are some other bucket-list worthy train rides across America? There’s something so inherently charming about a train ride: the opportunity to sit back and relax aboard a historic locomotive, surrounded by some of the most marvelous landscapes in the country. After you’ve tackled the above 18 train rides across America, you’ll want to out these three award-winning locomotives in Colorado. Compiled by the folks at 10Best, in 2020, they named the best ride in America as the gorgeous Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, noting that as “One of the most authentic steam-operated railroads in existence, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs for 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, passing through the San Juan Mountains and the scenic Conejos Valley along the way.” In addition to the fabulous Cumbres & Toltec, named the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad at #5 and the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway at #9, though we happen to think the latter excursion definitely ranks higher than that! For some swoon-worthy rides in the Mid-Atlantic, look no further than North Carolina, where taking the ‘scenic route’ is always the best option. Between North Carolina’s picturesque mountains, rolling hills and valleys, and babbling streams and rivers, the best way to enjoy the views is to go the old-fashioned route — and take a train. No matter the season, these five scenic train rides in North Carolina will leave you in awe of the unparalleled beauty of the Tar Heel State. Spoiler alert: our favorite train ride in NC is the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, which you’ll find listed above. But in addition to this scenic adventure, we also love the Triangle Train excursion offered by New Hope Valley Railway. Just 30 minutes outside of Raleigh, you can have an authentic historic experience aboard this open-air train. The New Hope Valley Railway offers excursion rides on vintage equipment at the North Carolina Railway Museum. It’s one of the best train trips in North Carolina. The railway also hosts seasonal events like Halloween and Santa Trains. After your ride, be sure to stop by the North Carolina Railway Museum for more locomotive-themed fun!

The OIYS Visitor Center

There’s something so inherently charming about a train ride: the opportunity to sit back and relax aboard a historic locomotive, surrounded by some of the most marvelous landscapes in the country. After you’ve tackled the above 18 train rides across America, you’ll want to out these three award-winning locomotives in Colorado. Compiled by the folks at 10Best, in 2020, they named the best ride in America as the gorgeous Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, noting that as “One of the most authentic steam-operated railroads in existence, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs for 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, passing through the San Juan Mountains and the scenic Conejos Valley along the way.” In addition to the fabulous Cumbres & Toltec, named the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad at #5 and the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway at #9, though we happen to think the latter excursion definitely ranks higher than that!

For some swoon-worthy rides in the Mid-Atlantic, look no further than North Carolina, where taking the ‘scenic route’ is always the best option. Between North Carolina’s picturesque mountains, rolling hills and valleys, and babbling streams and rivers, the best way to enjoy the views is to go the old-fashioned route — and take a train. No matter the season, these five scenic train rides in North Carolina will leave you in awe of the unparalleled beauty of the Tar Heel State. Spoiler alert: our favorite train ride in NC is the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, which you’ll find listed above. But in addition to this scenic adventure, we also love the Triangle Train excursion offered by New Hope Valley Railway. Just 30 minutes outside of Raleigh, you can have an authentic historic experience aboard this open-air train. The New Hope Valley Railway offers excursion rides on vintage equipment at the North Carolina Railway Museum. It’s one of the best train trips in North Carolina. The railway also hosts seasonal events like Halloween and Santa Trains. After your ride, be sure to stop by the North Carolina Railway Museum for more locomotive-themed fun!