1. Grand Canyon Railway (Williams, AZ to Grand Canyon Village)
This historic route has been running since 1901, taking visitors from the small Arizona town of Williams right to the edge of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. It’s a 65-mile ride that combines Old West nostalgia with unbeatable scenery, according to Monica Humphries from Business Insider. You’ll roll through high desert, ponderosa pine forests, and vast plateaus that build anticipation before you even see the canyon. They even have costumed train robbers and cowboys for a little theatrical flair.
This is more than just transportation—it’s a memorable part of the Grand Canyon experience itself. You can choose between coach and luxury dome seating, and onboard attendants share fun facts and stories during the ride. The train helps cut down on car traffic to the canyon, making it a more sustainable way to visit. Plus, watching the canyon appear on the horizon from a vintage railcar is something you won’t forget.
2. Amtrak’s Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle/Portland)
The Empire Builder traces the path of Lewis and Clark, taking passengers from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest on one of Amtrak’s most scenic long-distance routes. The journey passes through the Mississippi River valley, the snowy peaks of Glacier National Park, and the sprawling plains of North Dakota. It splits near Spokane, sending some cars to Portland and others to Seattle, so you can tailor your destination. This route offers an impressive mix of farmland, forest, and mountain drama, according to Ray Dubicki from The Urbanist.
The scenery is especially jaw-dropping around Glacier National Park, where the train hugs cliff edges and winds through narrow mountain passes. Wildlife sightings aren’t uncommon—watch for elk or eagles as you climb into Big Sky Country. The Empire Builder also doubles as a practical way to cross the northern U.S. without flying. It’s a favorite for both train buffs and nature lovers, and sleeper cars make the overnight leg surprisingly cozy.
3. Amtrak’s California Zephyr (Chicago to Emeryville, CA)
The California Zephyr is often called one of the most beautiful train trips in North America—and for good reason. It travels over 2,400 miles through the heart of the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada, offering jaw-dropping views from the comfort of your seat. Passengers pass through seven states, crossing the Mississippi River, scaling the Continental Divide, and gliding through red rock canyons in Colorado. It’s like a slow-moving epic road trip, but without the need to drive, according to Marta Giaccone from The New York Times.
The train features a glass-domed Sightseer Lounge car that’s perfect for scenic photography or just soaking it all in with a cup of coffee. Whether you’re watching snow blanket the peaks in winter or catching a summer sunset in Utah, every season brings something different. Stops in Denver, Salt Lake City, and Reno give riders access to charming cities and adventure hubs. If you’re in no rush and want to fall in love with America’s landscape, this ride delivers big time.
4. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Colorado)
This narrow gauge steam train has been operating since 1882, originally built to haul silver and gold from the San Juan Mountains. Today, it runs purely for the experience—and what an experience it is. The train chugs along the edge of dramatic cliffs and deep gorges, with the Animas River far below and towering peaks above. It’s the kind of ride that feels plucked straight from a movie set.
The route between Durango and Silverton is only about 45 miles, but it packs in more scenic punch than routes triple the length. The train uses authentic vintage steam locomotives, and the open-air gondola cars are perfect for taking in the fresh mountain air. It’s especially stunning in autumn when golden aspens light up the hillsides. If you want something short, sweet, and full of wild beauty, this is your train.
5. Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic (Anchorage to Seward)
If you want to see the raw, untamed side of Alaska, the Coastal Classic is the way to go, according to Alaska Shore Excursions. This day trip takes you from Anchorage down to the coastal town of Seward, passing glaciers, waterfalls, and possibly even moose or bears along the way. The route hugs Turnagain Arm, with views of the Chugach Mountains and tidewater flats that shimmer in the morning light. It’s the kind of ride that makes you feel like you’re in a National Geographic special.
This isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s an immersive wilderness experience. Passengers often spot beluga whales from the train, and panoramic windows ensure you don’t miss a moment. Once in Seward, many connect with glacier cruises or the Kenai Fjords National Park. Whether you’re a cruise passenger or an independent traveler, this route is a scenic treasure.
6. Amtrak’s Adirondack (New York City to Montreal)
The Adirondack takes you from the buzz of Manhattan to the sophistication of Montreal, passing through the Hudson Valley and the Adirondack Mountains along the way, Jordan Parker Erb from Business Insider explains. The ride is especially stunning in the fall when the leaves burst into reds, oranges, and golds. You’ll trace the western edge of Lake Champlain and pass by small, storybook towns. It’s a peaceful ride with lots of eye candy.
It takes about 10 hours, so there’s plenty of time to relax and watch the scenery evolve. Amtrak even slows the train near especially scenic areas to give riders a better view. The border crossing into Canada adds a little adventure to the journey. It’s a lovely, slower-paced alternative to flying between the two cities, especially if you’re a fan of landscapes and lakes.
7. Cass Scenic Railroad (West Virginia)
This is a steam-powered throwback that feels like a time machine to America’s logging past. Located in West Virginia’s remote mountains, the Cass Scenic Railroad climbs to Bald Knob, the third-highest point in the state. The route features steep grades, switchbacks, and dense forest, with vintage Shay locomotives doing all the heavy pulling. It’s rugged, loud, and full of character.
What makes this ride special is its authenticity—you’re riding the same kind of train that once hauled lumber through these hills. Open cars offer a raw, up-close view of the forest, and the scent of wood smoke lingers in the air. There’s even a company town with preserved worker housing and a museum for a full immersion into the 1900s lifestyle. It’s not just scenic—it’s historic.
8. Mount Washington Cog Railway (New Hampshire)
The Cog Railway climbs Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeastern U.S., on a track that’s been in use since 1869. It was the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, and it still operates with a mix of steam and biodiesel engines today. The track ascends at grades as steep as 37%, making it a thrilling and truly unique ride. The views from the top—on a clear day—stretch all the way to Canada.
The trip is short (about three hours round trip), but it packs a punch in terms of elevation gain and mountain scenery. The weather on Mount Washington is famously wild, so each ride feels like a mini alpine expedition. At the summit, there’s a weather observatory and visitor center where you can feel the wind speeds that made the mountain legendary. This is a quirky, daring experience you can’t get just anywhere.
9. White Pass & Yukon Route (Skagway, Alaska to Fraser, BC)
Originally built during the Klondike Gold Rush, this narrow gauge railway offers one of the most dramatic mountain train rides in North America. Departing from Skagway, Alaska, it climbs nearly 3,000 feet in just 20 miles, with hairpin turns, tunnels, and cliff-hugging tracks. The vintage train cars and narrated ride make the history feel alive. It’s often part of Alaska cruise excursions, but independent travelers can book it too.
The scenery is all craggy peaks, alpine meadows, and waterfalls pouring down steep rock faces. You’ll pass the original trail used by gold-seekers, and maybe spot mountain goats or bears along the way. It’s like stepping into a rugged frontier, with all the adventure but none of the hardship. For a taste of the Gold Rush spirit—with views to match—this ride is pure gold.
10. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (Colorado to New Mexico)
This heritage railway winds through the high desert and mountain passes between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico. It covers 64 miles of remote beauty, crossing the 10,015-foot Cumbres Pass and following the Toltec Gorge. The steam-powered train travels over trestle bridges and past old water towers, with nothing but open sky and wild terrain all around. It’s a step back into the Old West.
The ride takes nearly an entire day, but it’s one that train enthusiasts and photographers dream about. There’s even a lunch stop at a rustic station along the route to stretch your legs and fuel up. With both enclosed and open-air cars, you can choose your level of comfort—or go back and forth. It’s less about the destination and all about the journey.
11. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)
The Southwest Chief offers a cross-country trip through the vastness of the American Southwest. From the flat plains of Kansas to the red rock mesas of New Mexico and Arizona, this train reveals just how diverse the American landscape can be. The route follows parts of historic Route 66 and the old Santa Fe Trail. You’ll pass through dramatic desert sunsets and ancient lava beds.
This train is popular for its comfort, with sleeping cars and a full dining car for longer journeys. The stops include Albuquerque, Flagstaff, and even Williams—the gateway to the Grand Canyon. It’s a great option for those who want a relaxing, no-stress way to see a huge swath of the country. With two nights onboard, there’s plenty of time to just lean back and let the desert drift by.
12. Napa Valley Wine Train (Napa, CA)
This luxurious ride combines fine dining and vintage railcars with the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley. The Wine Train travels about 36 miles round trip from downtown Napa to St. Helena and back, offering gourmet meals and local wines along the way. It’s housed in beautifully restored 20th-century Pullman cars, making it feel like a journey back in time. You’re not here for speed—you’re here to savor everything.
Along the route, you’ll see world-renowned vineyards and maybe even spot hot air balloons drifting overhead in the morning. Special events like wine pairings, murder mystery nights, and holiday rides make the experience extra fun. It’s perfect for couples, celebrations, or just a classy day out. If you love trains and wine, it really doesn’t get better than this.
