A trip by train in the USA allows travelers to meet and greet the towering mountain ranges and vast deserts, great forests, and dramatic coastlines of the country. Train tours across America plus comfort, plus history, plus scenic beauty—allowing the traveler to derive joy from the journey as much as from the destination.Between the majestic Rocky Mountains and the dramatic Southwest and scenic Northwest coasts lie the routes of America’s premier trains-a journey through the country’s most scenic regions. We have ranked 10 best train tours of the USA exhibiting the country’s natural splendor and heritage.
1. Amtrak California Zephyr
The California Zephyr on Amtrak is considered as one of the scenic long-distance routes of the United States. With almost 2,438 miles to cover, it extends from Chicago, Illinois, to Emeryville, California, outside San Francisco, through seven states amazingly providing views of the Rocky Mountains, canyons of the Colorado River, Sierra Nevada, huge bases, and deserts.
Duration:
- Around 51-53 hours (two days plus).
Best Times to Travel:
- Spring-Fall (for the open view of mountain passes).
- Winter-snowy views especially in the Sierra Nevada.
Also read: Top 20 Most Scenic Train Journeys in the World
2. Amtrak Coast Starlight
The Amtrak Coast Starlight offers an unforgettable and quintessential American rail journey in the country, running from Seattle, Washington to Los Angeles, California. Stretching across a distance of roughly 1,377 miles along the West Coast, the route presents travelers with the splendors of the Pacific Ocean, Cascade Mountains, alpine forests, vineyards, and the beautiful golden coast of California. Also-called as the Coast Starlight by locals, the itinerary is the epitome of luxury, comfort, and breathtaking views, making it a favored route among both Americans and international travelers.
Duration:
- 35 hrs.
Best Time to Visit:
- Late Spring – Early Fall- usually clear sky(with the best coastal views).
- Winter: The best view of snow-capped peaks in the north!
3. Grand Canyon Railway
A historic and nostalgic trip by the Grand Canyon Railway takes families from Williams, Arizona, to the iconic South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This 65-mile-long historic track has been in operation since 1901; through it, one sees the beauty of high desert country touching woodlands of pines and rough canyon terrain. Accordingly, the train is not just to transport anyone but also to immerse passengers in an Old West experience, complete with vintage locomotives, live entertainment, and impeccable views.
Duration:
- Around 2 Hours 15 Minutes (One Way)
Best Time to Travel:
- Spring and Fall– Comfortable weather with lesser crowds.
- Winter– Magical snowy rides and the very special experience of Polar Express during the holidays.
Also read: Top 10 Best Road Trips in the U.S. | Scenic & Iconic Driving Routes
4. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been selected as a historic and thrilling steam trip through the heart of the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. This 45-mile track was launched in 1882 and follows a route from the town of Durango to the mining town, anchored in time, of Silverton, bringing with it the grandeur of the alpine landscapes in association with it.Taking this narrow gauge train is akin to stepping back in time, where history graces the landscapes of wild places and fine mountain views.
Duration:
- One Way: Approx. 3.5 hours
- Round Trip: Approx. 8 hours (including a break in Silverton)
Best Time to Travel:
- Summer (June–August): Lush greenery and blooming wildflowers.
- Fall (Late September–October): Beautiful autumn colors.
- Winter : Crisp routes with snowy views and holiday train rides.
5. Amtrak Empire Builder
Arguably considered a legend of cross-country travel, the Amtrak Empire Builder has been running through the northern United States since time immemorial, offering passengers first-class views of the most expansive and beautiful scenery America has to offer.This approximately 2,200-mile journey spans around 46 hours between Chicago, Illinois, and Seattle, Washington (or Portland, Oregon, through a split route), showcasing the Great Plains, Mississippi River, Rocky Mountains, and Glacier National Park along the way. Truly a grand and charming way to relish the vast American West.
Duration:
- Chicago to Seattle/Portland: Approx. 46–48 hours
Best Time to Travel:
- Summer – A clear sky allows you to look at great beauty.
- Fall – Vivid colors of the plains and forests.
- Winter – Snowy landscapes for miles and miles, especially in Montana.
Also read: Top 10 Powerful Scenes From Wednesday Addams | Iconic Moments
6. White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad
Enjoy a breathtaking straplike ride through history with the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad starting from Skagway, Alaska, heading through the wild and mountainous terrains of British Columbia and the Yukon.The road, built originally in 1898 during the Klondike Gold Rush, climbs nearly 3,000 feet over 20 miles with magnificent views of glaciers, waterfalls, gorges, and snow-capped peaks. It is one of the main tourist attractions in Alaska, serving cruise passengers.
Duration:
- White Pass Summit Journey: around 2.5 to 3 hours (round trip)
- Longer Bennett and Carcross excursions: all-day outings (seasonal)
Best Time to Travel:
- May to September (only summer operations due to snow)
- June and July—Best sighting time with wildflowers
- August to Early September—Best for fall colors
7. Amtrak Adirondack
The Amtrak Adirondack is a scheduled railway that runs between New York and Montreal, Canada, and is arguably the most gorgeous railway route in the Northeastern United States. With the train running for almost 381 miles and spending from 10 to 11 hours in locomotion, it goes through the verdant Hudson River Valley, Adirondack Mountain ranges, and the Lake Champlain areas. The Adirondack has always been a favorite amongst photographers, leaf-peepers, and foreign tourists because of the slow tempo of the train and the majestic views of nature, particularly in autumn.
Duration:
- Around 10 to 11.5 hours (depending on border crossing and stops)
Best Time to Travel:
- Fall (late September to October) – Peak foliage season; incredibly vibrant colors.
- Spring and Summer – Green forests, clear lake views, and moderate weather.
- Winter – Snowy landscapes and cozy views, but border delays may increase.
Also read: Top 10 Amusement Parks in New York for Families & Thrill-Seekers
8. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad traverses 64 miles of stunning terrain between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico. A heritage steam engine dating back to the 1880s, it ascends Cumbres Pass, continues along Toltec Gorge, and presents alpine meadows, forests, and canyons-the epitome of beauty since the days of coal-fired locomotives and original wooden trestles.
Duration:
- Full expedition: 6½- 8 hours with one-hour lunch stop at Osier station .
- Half-day trips: 4 to 5 hours to and from Osier .
- Express and special trains: From 2 to 5 hours, depending on service (e.g., geology, dinner-themed rides) .
Best Time to Travel:
- Runs late May through late October, with peak periods during summer wildflower bloom and fall aspen colors.
9. Amtrak Southwest Chief
The Southwest Chief operates its majestic scenic long-distance route daily between Chicago and Los Angeles, covering 2,265 miles in roughly 43 hours. It transits through seven states, offering views of the scenic plains, deserts, pueblos, canyons, and mountains, with Raton Pass and the Painted Desert as prominent spots. The mixture of scenic beauty and historical charm makes it one of the more famed Amtrak runs.
Best time to travel:
- Late September to mid-October is an ideal blend of cool, comfortable weather and colorful landscape with little crowd.
Also read: Top 10 Offbeat Places to Explore in Chicago
10. Mount Washington Cog Railway
World-famous as the first mountain railway, Mount Washington Cog Railway rises an altitude of 3 miles from Marshfield Base Station (2,700 ft) to the summit of Mount Washington, New Hampshire, standing at 6,288 ft, the highest peak in New England. Opened in 1869, this work-of-art from the 19th century uses historic steam locomotives alongside newly built biodiesel engines, negotiating steep grades averaging 25% (maxing near 37%).
Duration
- Round trip takes 3 hours (steam: 60 min up, biodiesel: 45 min) with a 1-hour layover at the summit.
Best time to travel:
- Runs all year round: Winter trips go to Waumbek (4,000 ft) or Skyline (5,500 ft) due to summit closure between November and April.
Coast to coast, these exalting panoramas of the American landscape provide splendid panoramas for rail journeys, which are rewarding and scenic alike. Whether it is to brave the rugged peaks of the Rockies, run along the edge of the Pacific, or ply through the colorful fall foliage of the Northeast, these train tours bring forth America’s diverse geography and historical fabrics in a travel experience unlike any other. Each route offers transport not just through space but through a moving window to the heritage, culture, and natural beauty of the country. So from a first-time rider to even a seasoned railfan, these top 10 train tours can guarantee your life experiences, where the actual travel turns out to be just as satisfying as the destination.
