When you think of traveling across America, road trips and quick flights usually come to mind. But there is a much better, more peaceful way to see the country: train travel. best train routes in america. Riding the rails allows you to sit back, relax, and look out the window as some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes pass you by.
From deep red rock canyons and snow-capped mountains to rugged ocean coastlines, the United States has some of the most spectacular rail journeys on earth. best train routes in america.
If you are looking for an unforgettable adventure, here are the 10 best train routes in America that you need to add to your travel bucket list.
1. The California Zephyr (Amtrak)
- Route: Chicago, Illinois to San Francisco (Emeryville), California
- Time: Around 51 hours (one way)
Widely considered one of the most beautiful train rides in North America, the California Zephyr is a legendary cross-country route. Starting in the Midwest, this train cuts through the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and winds through the stunning Sierra Nevada mountains in California. You will get panoramic views of canyons, rivers, and rugged cliffs that cars simply cannot reach.
2. The Coast Starlight (Amtrak)
- Route: Seattle, Washington to Los Angeles, California
- Time: Around 35–36 hours
The Coast Starlight links the major cities of the West Coast and offers a front-row seat to the Pacific Ocean. The most dramatic part of the trip happens in Southern California, where the train tracks run directly alongside long stretches of beautiful, untouched beaches. Make sure to spend time in the Sightseer Lounge car to enjoy the floor-to-ceiling mountain and ocean views.
3. The Empire Builder (Amtrak)
- Route: Chicago, Illinois to Seattle, Washington or Portland, Oregon
- Time: Around 46 hours
Following the historic paths of famous explorers Lewis and Clark, the Empire Builder takes you through the wild northern part of the United States. This route is a dream come true for nature lovers, as it travels straight through the edge of Glacier National Park in Montana, offering views of massive pine forests, vast plains, and snow-dusted peaks.
4. The Grand Canyon Railway
- Route: Williams, Arizona to the Grand Canyon South Rim
- Time: Just over 2 hours (one way)
If you want to experience the true spirit of the Old West, this historic, vintage train ride is perfect. Instead of dealing with heavy tourist traffic and crowded parking lots at the Grand Canyon, you can board this train and enjoy live cowboy entertainment, vintage passenger cars, and beautiful desert pine forests along the way.
5. Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic
- Route: Anchorage to Seward, Alaska
- Time: Around 4 hours (one way)
Alaska is home to some of the last untamed wilderness in America, and the Coastal Classic is the best way to see it safely and comfortably. The train twists past steep mountain drops, massive active glaciers, dramatic coastal fjords, and lush valleys. Keep your eyes glued to the windows, as passengers frequently spot wild moose, bears, and eagles.
6. The Southwest Chief (Amtrak)
- Route: Chicago, Illinois to Los Angeles, California
- Time: Around 40 hours
Nicknamed the “Train of the Stars” because old Hollywood celebrities used to ride it, the Southwest Chief takes you on an adventure through the beautiful American Southwest. This journey is filled with warm, earthy colors as you cross the vast red rock canyons, golden deserts, and unique native landscapes of New Mexico and Arizona.
7. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Route: Durango to Silverton, Colorado
- Time: Around 3.5 hours (one way)
This is not a long-distance commuter train; it is a living history lesson. Operating continuously on the same tracks since 1882, this authentic steam-powered locomotive travels through the steep canyons and towering alpine peaks of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains. The train hugs narrow mountain ledges and follows the rushing Animas River, giving you an absolute thrill.
8. The Adirondack (Amtrak)
- Route: New York City to Montreal, Canada
- Time: Around 10 hours
If you love fall colors and historic charm, the Adirondack route is unbeatable. Departing from the bustling streets of Manhattan, the train travels north through the peaceful wine country of the Hudson Valley and passes along Lake Champlain. Taking this trip during autumn provides a jaw-dropping look at America’s famous orange, red, and yellow fall foliage.
9. Rocky Mountaineer: Rockies to the Red Rocks
- Route: Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah
- Time: 2 days (with an overnight hotel stay)
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train service famous for its all-glass dome cars, which give you a completely unobstructed view of the sky and surroundings. This specific route connects the high peaks of Denver with the bright red sandstone arches of Moab, Utah. Because this is a luxury sightseeing train, it only travels during the day so you do not miss a single mile of beautiful scenery.
10. The Cascade (Amtrak)
- Route: Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, British Columbia (via Seattle)
- Time: Around 10 hours (full route)
For a journey filled with misty forests, rushing rivers, and chic Pacific Northwest vibes, the Amtrak Cascades is the clear winner. The train moves smoothly between historic mountain ranges and the waters of the Puget Sound, making it a highly relaxing and incredibly scenic escape from highway traffic.
Quick Tips for Your Scenic Train Journey
To make sure your train trip is as smooth and comfortable as possible, keep these beginner tips in mind:
- Book a Roomette for Long Trips: If your journey takes more than 24 hours, paying extra for a private sleeping room is highly worth it because all your meals are included for free.
- Pack Your Camera and Chargers: You will be taking tons of photos. Luckily, almost all modern trains feature personal power outlets at your seat.
- Visit the Lounge Car Early: The lounge cars with panoramic windows operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Go there early to grab a good seat before the best views begin.
Final Thoughts
Traveling by train reminds us that getting to your destination can be just as fun as the stay itself. Whether you want to witness the massive peaks of the Rocky Mountains or watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean, these ten American train routes offer a magical window into the true beauty of the country.