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This 13-day Train Trip Will Take You to 5 National Parks Across the U.S.

See the American West in style.

Vacations by Rail invites you to take the slow route to see a few of America's most beautiful national parks .

The vacation company is well-known for its delightful trips by train across the globe, but one of its most popular journeys is its 13-day trip through the American West to visit five stellar national parks along the way.

The trip begins at Chicago's Union Station, where guests will board Amtrak's Empire Builder train and settle into their accommodations. They'll take the overnight train to the first official stop at Glacier National Park. Guests will have time to explore the park, hike through its awe-inspiring terrain, and see its 25 glaciers, hundreds of lakes, and flowing waterfalls. And in the mid-morning, guests will take a vintage open-air Red Jammer bus for a tour of the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road while they cross the Continental Divide.

From there, the journey continues to Yellowstone National Park. At the park, guests will get the chance to tour its famed attractions, including Upper and Lower Falls, Hayden Valley, Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pots, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

The trip next takes guests to Grand Teton National Park for a float along the Snake River. On the water, guests can view the glorious Teton mountain range and maybe even spot a few bison, elk, and moose along the way.

The trip concludes with a visit to Utah to see both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, where guests can enjoy the gorgeous natural arches, red rocks, and incredible, vibrantly colorful sunsets.

The trip includes all rail travel, hotel accommodations for 12 nights (including four nights at Glacier Park Lodge or Grouse Mountain Lodge and two nights inside Yellowstone National Park), excursions and national park entrance fees, and all meals on board the train when guests upgrade to private sleeping accommodations.

The 13-day trip begins at $5,695 per person (double occupancy). There are still a few spots left for the June departure, but for more flexibility, check out its 2024 calendar , which includes departures June through September.

America's National Parks by Train: Rocky Mountains, Arches & Zion

4.8 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

Explore some of the United States' most awe-inspiring landscapes.

Towering mountains, otherworldly rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic train rides await on this journey through the American West. Begin your exploration in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, where you'll walk along scenic trails and spot wildlife up close. Then, travel by train over rugged mountain terrain to Utah, where you'll explore the dramatic natural landscapes and Native American history of Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, and Zion national parks. Round out your tour with an overnight in bright, bustling Las Vegas.

Your tour package includes

• 9 nights in handpicked hotels
• 9 breakfasts
• 2 dinners with beer or wine
• 1 beer tasting

Included highlights

• Craft beer tasting
• Rocky Mountain National Park
• A ride on the Rocky Mountaineer
• Continental Divide crossing
• Moab Petroglyphs

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Welcome to Colorado! Transfer to your hotel in the Rocky Mountain National Park region. Then, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner and beer tasting at a local brewery.

Set out to explore the wonders of Rocky Mountain National Park.

• Drive along the Trail Ridge Road, which soars to 12,000 feet in elevation  (weather-dependent).
• Stop to take photos and several short trail walks.
• Look out for wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and bears.
• Enjoy free time in the college city of Boulder, known for its culinary scene, breweries, and vibrant downtown.

Spend a full free day exploring the Rocky Mountain National Park region, or add an excursion.

Top of the Rockies: Pikes Peak Cog Railway

From $115 per person

This morning, board the Rocky Mountaineer train at Denver’s Union Station for a scenic ride through the Rockies to Glenwood Springs.

• Admire canyons, towering mountain peaks, and reservoirs on your day-long journey.
• Cross over the Continental Divide as you pass through Moffat Tunnel.
• Enjoy an included lunch aboard the train.

Please note: Learn more about the benefits of upgrading to SilverLeaf Plus on the Rocky Mountaineer in our FAQ.

Continue your scenic journey on the Rocky Mountaineer.

• Make your way to Utah, crossing through desert canyons, basins, plateaus, and mesas of western Colorado and Utah.
• Spot Mt. Garfield, a dramatic natural formation within the Book Cliffs mountain range, from the train.

Arrive in Moab, then enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant before heading out on a sightseeing tour.

• Explore some of Moab’s beautiful rock art and petroglyphs, which date back as far as 3500 B.C.
• Learn about the history of regional Native American tribes from your local guide.

Enjoy a free evening in Moab or add an excursion.

Red Rocks Sunset Hummer Safari

From $165 per person

This morning, gaze at the red rock sculptures carved by nature as you explore Arches National Park, home to more than 2,000 arches, spires, domes, pinnacles, and fins.

Please note: The order of activities may vary based on season.

Enjoy a free afternoon in Moab or add an excursion.

Colorado River Raft Trip

From $119 per person

Make your way through scenic southwestern Utah to tour Bryce Canyon National Park by bus and on foot.

• Take in up-close views of the distinctive pink limestone and sandstone formations.
• See the awe-inspiring arches, bridges, and pinnacles known as hoodoos.

Then, continue on to your hotel near Zion National Park and enjoy a free evening.

Take a tour of Zion National Park, which is located at the intersection of the Great Basin, the Colorado Plateaus, and the Mojave Desert.

• View the yellow- and orange-hued rocks during an open-air tram ride.
• Hear commentary on the surrounding landscape from a local guide.

Stop in Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada’s first state park, before continuing on to Las Vegas to celebrate your trip at a farewell dinner.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home, or continue on to Grand Canyon National Park.

Depart from Las Vegas and make your way to the Hoover Dam, an iconic American landmark that separates the states of Nevada and Arizona. Meet up with a local guide for a tour and learn about the dam’s fascinating construction and history.

Continue on to Grand Canyon National Park and get settled at your hotel.

Set out to explore the Grand Canyon, one of the most-visited national parks in the U.S.

• Join your Tour Director for a walk along the South Rim.
• Walk through a ponderosa pine forest and admire panoramic views of the sandstone landscape from a plateau at the end of the trail.

Enjoy free time to hike other trails, explore the various museums and shops along the rim, or add an excursion.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride

From $259 per person

Explore the Southwest landscapes of Arizona as you make your way toward Phoenix.

• Visit Sedona, a city known for its festive art scene, and enjoy free time to shop, eat, and explore its many galleries.
• Make photo stops at the majestic rock formations surrounding Sedona, including Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, and Courthouse Butte.
• Stop at Montezuma Castle National Monument to view cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans, an ancient culture with ties to the Hopi and Yavapai tribe.

Celebrate your trip with your group at tonight’s farewell dinner.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.8 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

This tour covers 3 states, 4 National Parks, 1 State Park. Lots of great optional activities. Full days packed with lots to experience. The National parks are this country's best treasure. Each park is unique and special because it offers a diverse opportunity in scenery and wildlife. Much to cover ...

The America's National Parks by Train tour was a wonderful experience. The beauty of Bryce, Arches, Zion, and Rocky Mountain National Parks is beyond description. The tour director, Nancy, was great in every way. She made sure everyone was comfortable; she was very knowledgeable about the places ...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This relaxing hotel is located in Longmont within the Rocky Mountains National Park area. Guests enjoy the indoor pool, fitness center, and bicycle re...

This peaceful hotel is located in downtown Glenwood Springs. Guests enjoy the indoor pool, stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and fitness center. ...

This unique hotel is located just minutes away from Arches National Park in Moab. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restauran...

This rustic, lodge-style hotel is located in Springdale, Utah next to Zion National Park. Guests enjoy a fitness center, pool, and laundry facilities....

This massive hotel is located right off of the Las Vegas Strip. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, multiple restaurants, and convenient location. Nearby y...

This comfortable hotel is located just 15 minutes from the Grand Canyon National Park entrance. Guests enjoy the indoor swimming pool, a full breakfas...

This comfortable hotel is located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Nearby you’ll fi...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• Travelers will enjoy a two-day ride aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train from Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah. SilverLeaf service is included as part of your tour package, but you can choose to upgrade to SilverLeaf Plus service for an additional cost. This upgrade must be purchased at least 90 days prior to departure.
• SilverLeaf Plus includes all the benefits of the exceptional SilverLeaf Service, plus exclusive access to the newly renovated lounge car. Featuring signature cocktails, the lounge car offers additional space indoors to relax and soak in the scenery as it passes you by, as well as a small outdoor viewing area.
• Passengers in SilverLeaf Plus enjoy an elevated dining experience with an additional course during select meals, and premium alcoholic beverages.
• Tips for porterage, meals, and other services provided aboard the Rocky Mountaineer are included in the tour price. Travelers are responsible for tipping Tour Directors, bus drivers, and local guides at the end of their tour.
• U.S. citizens need valid government-issued identification for air travel within the United States. If you plan to use a state-issued ID or driver’s license on or after May 7, 2025, it will need to meet Real ID requirements. Real ID compliant versions of these IDs will have either a yellow or black star, white star inside a yellow or black circle, or a white star inside a bear in the top righthand corner. Please visit dhs.gov for more information.
• In order to enter the United States, Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code RAM.
• You will walk for at least 2 hours daily across mostly flat terrain, including paved trails and dirt paths, with some hills. Some activities will take place at high altitudes.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
• You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times.
• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Denver, Colorado and depart from Las Vegas, Nevada (or Phoenix, Arizona on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
• A two-day ride on the Rocky Mountaineer train from Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah is included in the price of your tour.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• Be sure to check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and personal travel requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov .
• Please be aware that you will be traveling to altitudes as high as 14,000 feet above sea level. These high altitudes can sometimes cause breathing difficulties for travelers who have heart problems or respiratory ailments. If you suffer from any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor regarding any potential health risks.
• During the summer months, take proper care with sun exposure and heat.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
• The western region of the United States is known for barbecue, especially in the plains and mountain states like Colorado where the cowboy tradition lives on. Try a bison burger or a steak for a true local dining experience.
• The cuisine of the American southwest combines influences from Spanish colonial settlers, Mexican staples, and Native American tradition. Expect dishes spiced with chile peppers, like enchiladas, tacos, and chili con carne.
• All of North America operates on 110-120 volts and uses Type A or B plugs with two flat pins or two flat pins and one round pin, respectively.
• The majority of the hotels on this tour will have air conditioning.
• Some of the hotels on this tour will provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances, but these amenities cannot be guaranteed for hotels in more remote locations.
• Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Colorado, Utah, and Nevada (plus Arizona on the tour extension) are on Mountain Time (MT), which is two hours behind Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York City, it’s 10am on tour.
• You will use the U.S. dollar on this tour.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your purchases for fraudulent charges.
• Many banks and businesses now primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in USD.
• We recommend tipping $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• Tips for porterage, meals, and other services provided aboard the Rocky Mountaineer are included in the tour price.
• If applicable, we also recommend $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on your tour.
• Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
• Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
• Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.

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"A trip through the US National Parks is an unforgettable experience. You'll come face to face with nature's finest and leave with a deep appreciation for our wonderful planet."

Travel Director

Grand Canyon National Park

One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the UNESCO-listed Grand Canyon National Park is a phenomenal feat of nature. You’ll walk the rim and learn from your Local Specialist how it formed over the past 40 million years. From sunrise to sunset, the Grand Canyon is truly mesmerising.

Mesa Verde National Park

Located in Colorado, this UNESCO-listed national park is filled with centuries-old history. You’ll drive the Mesa Top Loop Road past archaeological sites and lookouts, and see the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people, that are chiselled out of the sandstone canyon walls.

Arches National Park

We’ll take you on a journey through the spectacular sandstone arches of Arches National Park. There are more than 2,000 natural arches carved by the wind, including the long Landscape Arch. You can hike to the viewpoint of the iconic Delicate Arch and discover other formations such as Balanced Rock, soaring over the desert.

Yellowstone National Park

Discover the geothermal wonderland of Yellowstone National Park, one of the world’s oldest national parks. We’ll show you the steaming hot springs, alpine forests and rivers, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, mud paint pots, and the remarkable shooting waters of Old Faithful. Keep your eyes peeled for animals like bears, bison, elk and wolves.

Yosemite National Park

Wander in the shadows of Yosemite’s giant sequoia trees, as our Local Specialists reveal the ancient history of these incredible forests. You’ll see the Cathedral Rocks, the plunging Bridal Veil Falls, and the cliffs of El Capitan. We’ll also explore Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows, before taking a special tour of the Yosemite Valley floor.

Our top 5 things to do in US National Parks

When you visit US National Parks with Trafalgar, we’ll show you the top national parks in the country, from the giant Grand Canyon to the ancient trees of Yosemite.

Buffalo wings

Found across the country, buffalo wings are one of the most beloved dishes in the United States. An unbreaded chicken wing is deep-fried and coated in a vinegar cayenne hot sauce with melted butter. They’re best served hot and dipped in blue cheese or ranch dressing.

Cheesesteak

Hailing from Philadelphia, the cheesesteak is now a classic American dish found across the country. It’s a sandwich made from thin slices of beefsteak and melted cheese, stuffed in a long hoagie roll, and it’s a delicious meal after a long day of hiking through national parks.

Also known as the ‘Yankee pot roast’, this is a braised beef dish made from slow cooking a piece of beef with gravy and vegetables such as potatoes, onions and carrots. The cooking method produces a soft, succulent meat drenched in rich gravy, for a warm and hearty meal.

Best food in US National Parks

Exploring the trails of the national parks works up an appetite, and we’ll show you the best places to taste all the famous dishes of the United States.

What to pack for US National Parks

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

Hiking shoes

The National Parks of the US are filled with hiking trails, and you’ll need a sturdy pair of shoes to explore these spectacular landscapes.

Versatile clothing

From sun-drenched canyons to snowy peaks, the weather changes throughout the national parks. Come prepared for all climates with layered and versatile clothing.

Reusable water bottle

National parks are pristine protected areas, and whatever you take in, you must take out. Bring a reusable water bottle to avoid adding to waste with disposable plastic bottles.

A book to collect stamps

You can collect unique stamps at the ranger stations of each national park. Bring a notebook to keep them in, as a special memento of your journey.

The national parks are filled with incredible animals like bears and bison, and a pair of binoculars will help you spot wildlife safely from a distance.

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America's National Parks with Rocky Mountaineer

• Chicago >
• Santa Fe >
• Grand Canyon >
• Flagstaff >

Begin your adventure by exploring Denver and venture out to the picture-perfect Rocky Mountain National Park. Travel on the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer from Denver to Moab - your base for exploring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Sit back and relax on the train with everchanging scenery including snowcapped mountains, canyons, and wildlife. Once you arrive in Moab, the thousands of sandstone arches at Arches National Park are a must see, and Canyonlands National Park provides a wealth of scenery, from vast mesas to soaring rock columns, and even examples of Native American cave painting. Continue west traveling on Amtrak’s California Zephyr route to Salt Lake City. Venture to Yellowstone National Park and take in all the beauty of this geological treasure from its geysers to its hot springs and more.

Reservations: 1-800-268-7252

For pricing and availability from your Amtrak Station:

Highlights:

• Sightseeing tour of Rocky Mountain National Park
• Sightseeing tour of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
• Sightseeing tour of Yellowstone National Park

PACKAGE ALSO INCLUDES:

• Rocky Mountaineer from Denver to Moab in SilverLeaf class
• One-way Amtrak® in Coach accommodations from Green River to Salt Lake City on California Zephyr®
• One-way transfer from Moab to Green River
• Roundtrip transfers from Salt Lake City to West Yellowstone
• 10 nights’ hotel accommodations
• 3 meals (2 breakfasts, 1 lunch)

Call us to customize this vacation!

Other Packages Available:

Disclaimer:

Package prices are per person, double occupancy, tax included. Prices do not include rail from your hometown. Please call for pricing. Package prices are subject to change without notice, and all reservations are based upon availability at the time of booking. Amtrak travel is for Coach accommodations unless otherwise noted. Upgrades to Roomette or Bedroom accommodations on board Amtrak are available. Call for pricing. Other restrictions may apply. Activities referenced in the itinerary during free time are for suggested purposes only and are not included. Seasonal activity (if applicable): During the off-season, some tours may not be available. In this case, a similar tour will be substituted. Passports (if applicable): Passports are required when crossing the Canadian border. Amtrak and Amtrak Vacations are registered service marks of the National Railroad Passenger Corporation.

DAY 1              YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS IN DENVER

Welcome to the Denver, also known as the “Mile High City.” This scenic metropolis is located 5,280 feet above sea level and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. After you check into your hotel, you’ll have lots of free time to start exploring all Denver has to offer. There is much to see and do, like Red Rocks Park, the Denver Art Museum, Denver Zoo and more. (Overnight in Denver)

DAY 2              DENVER

Experience the majestic splendor of the Rockies on an exhilarating full-day tour of Rocky Mountain National Park. This gorgeous site, often celebrated for its abundance of animals and spectacular views of the Rockies, is one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, so don't forget your camera! On your return journey, you'll get a chance to enjoy several photo opportunities and a break for refreshments. (Overnight in Denver)

DAY 3              ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM DENVER TO GLENWOOD SPRINGS

Today travel to Denver Union Station and board the famous Rocky Mountaineer itself. Settle into the luxurious accommodations and relax onboard soaking in the spectacular scenery as you travel through the snowcapped Rocky Mountains making your way to Glenwood Springs. (Overnight in Glenwood Springs) B, L

DAY 4              ROCKY MOUNTAINEER FROM GLENWOOD SPRINGS TO MOAB

Depart Glenwood Springs this morning and enjoy the passing mountain scenery as you enjoy breakfast onboard. Pass through Ruby Canyon and take in the stunning red rock formations along the cliffs. Arrive in Moab around noon with an afternoon to being exploring this quaint downtown nestled between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. (Overnight in Moab) B

DAY 5              ARCHES AND CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARKS

Today you’ll have a full-day tour of two spectacular national parks: Arches and Canyonlands. Arches National Park is a geological treasure featuring 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the world-famous Delicate Arch. The park’s rich colors, textures, and landforms highlight the extraordinary balanced rocks, fins, and pinnacles. Canyonlands National Park offers a stunning landscape filled with countless canyons, mesas, and buttes, carved by the mighty Green and Colorado rivers. Experience the park from the astounding Island in the Sky, a scenic drive that follows the rim of the mesa and offers amazing views. (Overnight in Moab)

DAY 6              MOAB Enjoy a free day exploring Moab! Take a stroll through downtown or if you feel adventurous enjoy a hike through the red rocks or explore a local park. (Overnight in Moab)

DAY 7              SALT LAKE CITY Your transfer will take you from your hotel to the Amtrak station where you will board your train to Salt Lake City. When you arrive, check into your hotel and settle in for the night. (Overnight in Salt Lake City)

DAY 8              YELLOWSTONE Today, your included transfer service that will take you to West Yellowstone. Yellowstone is widely held to be the first national park in the world and is home to the most impressive geothermal features in North America. The sights here are simply stunning and will not disappoint. After you arrive in the early evening, you can settle into your hotel for a good night's sleep. You have a full day of sightseeing ahead of you tomorrow! (Overnight in West Yellowstone)

DAY 9              YELLOWSTONE America's first national park is yours to explore today! Your tour picks you up for a journey through Yellowstone. Along the way, your guide will provide some amazing insights into the park, its history, and of course, its abundant wildlife. Famous spots such as Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Hayden Valley, and Yellowstone Lake are all part of the experience. There is no place on earth like Yellowstone National Park. (Overnight in West Yellowstone)

DAY 10                        SALT LAKE CITY

Today, you'll take your included transfer from West Yellowstone back to Salt Lake City. Spend the evening exploring the city and enjoying your final night of vacation! (Overnight in Salt Lake City)

DAY 11             YOUR JOURNEY ENDS IN SALT LAKE CITY

Legend for meals: B - Breakfast, BR - Brunch, L - Lunch, D - Dinner

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National Parks Tours by Train | Escorted National Parks

National Parks tours by train will have you exploring Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Yosemite and Zion National Parks in a way no other method of transportation could ever provide... Although, America's National Parks by themselves draw a lot of attention whether you're walking, hiking, climbing or driving, National Parks railroad tours adds a fantastic element to the experience.

There are different trains for every destination, for instance in Alaska there are three trains that cover Alaska and even some of the same places like Denali National Park... There's Alaska Railroad, Wilderness Express and McKinley Explorer. There's Grand Luxe Rail Journeys, formerly Oreient Express. Amtrak Vacations is another company with many itineraries throughout the National Parks.

Seriously, National Parks rail tours through the national parks are incomparible to anything else. Taking a motor-coach from park to park is one thing, but taking a train is quite another experience. National Parks railroad tours take you into the wilderness, which means more nature and more wildlife to see.

Here are just some of the trains that operate throughout the national parks:

• Grand Canyon Railway > Grand Canyon
• The Empire Builder > Glacier National Park
• The Logger > Yosemite's South Gate
• The Denali Star > Anchorage to Fairbanks
• Alaska's Coastal Classic > Kenai Fjords National Park

Colorado Rockies (9 Days, Standard)

CODE: CV-282-S-9 OPERATOR: Collette Tours Popularity: 10 -->

Colorados Historic Trains 2024

CODE: MFT-436 OPERATOR: Mayflower Tours Popularity: 0 -->

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Take Amtrak to these 10 incredible US national parks

Apr 4, 2022 • 12 min read

The Pacific Surfliner travels along the coastline in Del Mar, California © Amtrak

More than a century ago, when the first US national parks were formed, most visitors didn't arrive by car or in RVs, but on trains. Automobiles were still prohibitively expensive, and there were no interstate highways then – most existing thoroughfares would have made for a rough road trip anyways.

While cars have eventually become king, there's magic and grandeur in arriving at a national park the old-fashioned way, ensconced in a railway car. No matter what kind of scenery you’re craving, from snow-capped mountains to raging rivers, there are several Amtrak train route options to choose from.

If you want to take an Amtrak train journey to a national park in 2022, here are 10 routes to consider. 

Ask LP: How can I explore the US by Amtrak?

Get to Yellowstone National Park on the California Zephyr

Route: Chicago to San Francisco

Is there an Amtrak route through Yellowstone National Park ? If you've ever wondered if you can get to this incredible park by rail, we have great news — you can take the California Zephyr , which goes from Chicago to San Francisco , and vice versa, to get to Yellowstone National Park. While onboard, you’ll see everything from farmland and barns that look like they’re out of a movie to mountainous terrain. If you’re looking for geysers, in addition to the renowned Old Faithful , you’ll have your choice of about 500. In fact, Yellowstone is home to approximately half of the world’s geysers. You’ll also find plenty of thermal hot springs, not to mention an endless variety of wildlife, from elk to grizzly and black bears to the nation’s oldest herd of bison.

Getting to the park:  You can take the Blue Line from Salt Lake City Central train station to the Salt Lake City airport, where you can pick up the Salt Lake Express north to West Yellowstone. Alternatively, take the Blue Line north to another city on the Salt Lake Express route, like gorgeous Ogden, Utah, before transferring and heading on to the park.

I'm a Yellowstone guide — here's what you need to know if you plan on visiting in 2022

Reach Glacier National Park on the Empire Builder

Route: Chicago to Portland/Seattle

The Empire Builder will provide you with authentic scenery of the American West while heading through the northern United States – it follows several parts of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail from the early 1800s, as well as takes you into Montana’s Big Sky country . No matter where you climb aboard the Empire Builder, you’ll want to get off at Montana’s East Glacier station, which is on the periphery of Glacier National Park . Once there, you can explore an endless number of hiking trails — more than 700 miles’ worth — as well as more than 130 lakes, all while taking in the glacier-carved valleys.

Getting to the park: The East Side Shuttle goes from the Glacier Park Lodge to St Mary Village, where you can catch the National Park Service Shuttle on the Going-to-the-Sun Road . Or you may want to join a historic Red Bus Tour to make your way around the park and its famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Fun fact: Several of the buses are restored originals from the 1930s.

These Glacier National Park hikes will make you want to get your backpack

Reach Crater Lake National Park aboard the Coast Starlight

Route: Los Angeles to Seattle

When you take the Coast Starlight north from Los Angeles toward Seattle , not only will you see picture-perfect coastal views and snow-capped mountains, but it’ll also take you to Crater Lake National Park . If you’re looking for an authentic Pacific Northwest experience, you’ll find it here. On more than 183,000 acres, there’s plenty to explore: you can camp, hike or chase waterfalls. Or, you can just admire the deep turquoise Crater Lake itself, which was formed from a collapsed volcano and is the deepest lake in the US at 1949ft and one of the deepest in the world.

Getting to the park: Get off the train at the Klamath Falls stop, amidst the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon. Then there is a shuttle bus connection to take you to the park.

A complete guide to Crater Lake National Park (including whether you can swim)

Visit Olympic National Park via the Empire Builder or Coast Starlight

Route:  Empire Builder (Chicago to Portland/Seattle) or Coast Starlight (Los Angeles to Seattle)

As far as getting to Olympic National Park , it depends on what train route you prefer — land or ocean views — and where you’ll be coming from. The Empire Builder will take you into the heart of the American West whereas the Coast Starlight will take you north from Los Angeles toward Seattle . At the park itself, which is almost a million acres, there’s a surplus of nature to take in, from the sky-high trees of Hoh Rain Forest to Hurricane Ridge — hiking or skiing, anyone? — to Lake Crescent , the perfect place to hike, then camp for a night (or two). Of course, don’t forget to check out Mt. Olympus , a must for climbers.

Getting to the park:  From Seattle's King Street train station, you can take the Dungeness Bus Line to Sequim or Port Angeles, where you’ll find the Clallam Transit System ’s bus line that goes to several popular Olympic National Park destinations along the northern part of Hwy 101.

The best hikes in Olympic National Park offer sea stacks, waterfalls and ancient petroglyphs

Travel to Yosemite National Park on the  San Joaquins

Route:  Bakersfield to Sacramento/Oakland

The Amtrak train you need to get to Yosemite National Park is the San Joaquins , which connects the San Francisco area , Sacramento , Fresno and Bakersfield. And if you’re like me and can’t get enough Amtrak, you can first take another train route, like the Coast Starlight, before connecting to the San Joaquins. From the train, you’ll see all kinds of scenery, from fruit and nut trees in the early spring to orchards, vineyards and perhaps some of the Sierra Nevada itself, depending on the visibility. As you do so, you can sip on a regional wine or craft beer.

In no time, you’ll reach Yosemite. While the park may be known for its larger-than-life rock formations, including Half Dome , El Capitan and Cathedral Rocks, it’s also home to a countless number of waterfalls. At 2425ft, Yosemite Falls is one of the most renowned, as well as one of the world’s tallest. Between looking up at the waterfalls to looking down at the Merced River, no matter which way you look, there’s something incredible to see.

Getting to the park: Whether you get on the route in a place like Sacramento, Oakland or Emeryville, you’ll get off at the Merced, CA, station, and then transfer to an Amtrak bus via the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS). This will take you to Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance. Another option is getting off the train at Fresno and taking a YARTS bus to the South Entrance of the park . When you buy your Amtrak ticket to Yosemite, the shuttle bus and park admission are included. It’ll be such an efficient process that you won’t miss not having driven, waiting in long lines for parking, then trying to find a parking spot.

11 of the most stunning waterfalls to see at Yosemite National Park and how to see them

Get to Grand Canyon National Park on the Southwest Chief 

Route: Chicago to Los Angeles 

The Southwest Chief , which goes from Chicago to Los Angeles, and vice versa, will take you past a variety of landscapes, from nostalgic farmland to the Mighty Mississippi. Depending on the season, you could see leaves changing color or snow sprinkling the trees. But you’re about to behold an even bigger sight — the 277-mile long, 18-mile wide Grand Canyon National Park . Once there, the only problem will be deciding what to see. If you want expansive canyon views, as well as one of the Colorado River , Lipan Point is a favorite among many visitors. Or you can check out the renowned Desert View Watchtower . Standing at 70ft, it’s on the canyon’s South Rim and an ideal place to take in the larger-than-life ambience.

Getting to the park: In Arizona , get off at the Flagstaff Station and catch the Groome Shuttle bus. That will take you to Williams, where the Grand Canyon Railway will take you to the South Rim.

11 Amtrak routes with the most breathtaking views

Reach Rocky Mountain National Park on the California Zephyr

Amtrak’s California Zephyr runs from Chicago to San Francisco (or from San Francisco to Chicago) and makes for a good way to get to Rocky Mountain National Park . But first, while aboard the train, you’ll see incredible scenery, from Midwest plains and charming small towns, with even smaller train depots, to the mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada — depending on which way you’re traveling from. Off the train, you’ll then have your pick of what to see and do at the Rockies, from camping and skiing to mountain biking and hiking — in case you’re curious, there are more than 300 miles’ worth of trails. You can also see how many types of wildlife you can spot, including bighorn sheep, deer and elk, as well as a countless number of birds.

Getting to the park: When you get off the train at Denver’s Union Station , you can catch the Estes Park Shuttle to the little mountain town at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. From there,  Rocky Mountain visitor shuttles go to famous sites such as Bear Lake.

How to conquer the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Reach Channel Islands National Park aboard the Pacific Surfliner

Route: San Diego to San Luis Obispo

The Pacific Surfliner is the perfect train route to take if you’re looking for a scenic journey along the coast — you’ll see palm trees swaying in the breeze one moment and surfers braving the waves the next. Plus, the train will pass plenty of idyllic small towns and vineyards, too, depending on where you get abroad. If you’re a cyclist or surfer, you can even bring your bike or surfboard along, then use them on the periphery of Channel Islands National Park — bikes are not allowed on the islands themselves. Since the park is made up of islands, many visitors spend time in and on the water, whale watching, kayaking in sea caves or snorkeling around the area — or both.

Getting to the park: You can depart the train in Ventura or Oxnard to reach the Channel Islands. Then, to get to the islands themselves, you’ll take a boat through Island Packers .

How to spend a perfect weekend in San Diego

Visit Harpers Ferry National Park on the Capitol Limited

Route: Chicago to Washington, DC

The Capitol Limited will take you from Chicago to Washington, DC, where you’ll pass various landmarks, such as the Potomac Valley and the Allegheny Mountains. You can also bring along your bike , which could come in handy once you reach the streets of Harpers Ferry National Park . Once there, where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, you’ll find a charming community with rich history. You may recall that Harpers Ferry is where John Brown’s 1859 raid on the First Federal Arsenal took place. Whether you want to check out exhibits and museums, hiking trails or water activities — such as fishing, kayaking or swimming — there’s a wide array of things to do. Or, you can explore one of the battlefields that has been preserved.

Getting to the park: Get off at the Harpers Ferry station in West Virginia – you'll be less than a ten-minute walk from the park information center and John Brown's Fort .

Top 12 parks in Chicago

Reach Jean Lafitte National Park on Amtrak's Sunset Limited

Route: Los Angeles to New Orleans

If you’re a fan of desert scenery straight out of a painting, you’ll find it on the Sunset Limited , which goes from Los Angeles to New Orleans . First, you’ll see plenty of California mountains along this southernmost Amtrak route as you head East. As you slide into the south, it's hard not to feel the vibe whether it’s a deep purple and orange sunset or a person on horseback you spy outside the window.  

Once at Jean Lafitte National Park , which is just 17 miles from New Orleans, you’ll find Louisiana’s wetlands, with all the swamp, bayous and alligators you can handle. Plus, you’ll spot animals, reptiles and amphibians you may not usually see, including nine-banded armadillos, tree frogs and water snakes. And if you’re into birdwatching , this is the place: be on the lookout for over 200 species of birds, everything from herons to painted buntings to barred owls.

Getting to the park:  From the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, taking a taxi or using a rideshare service is the easiest way to get to the park , depending on what section(s) of it you’d like to visit – it should be a 20-30 minute drive.

Can I get to Zion National Park on an Amtrak train? 

Unfortunately, there is no direct route on an Amtrak train through Zion National Park . The closest Amtrak station is on the Southwest Chief route which stops in Flagstaff, Arizona. From there, the drive is about four hours. 

Making waves: the American Southwest’s best river trips

Does Amtrak go to Sequoia National Park?

No, there is no Amtrak that connects to Sequoia National Park . The closest Amtrak stations are in Hanford, California (about an hour drive away) and Fresno (about 1:30 drive away). 

You may also like: 10 of the world's most amazing train journeys The best one-day itineraries for 5 US national parks Europe’s top 10 scenic train journeys for 2022

This article was first published July 2020 and updated April 2022

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THE EASIEST WAY TO VISIT GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, NEW RIVER GORGE NATIONAL PARK, THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS, AND MORE

April 22, 2024 | 3 min read.

Amtrak is known for providing riders with a glimpse of some of America's most beautiful landscapes, such as the coasts and mountains visible from its reportedly most scenic line—the Coast Starlight —which travels along the Pacific coast. However, Amtrak is more than just a way to see America's flyover country en route to big cities. Its trains can also transport you into the heart of America's National Parks . These Amtrak stations are your direct link to hiking, wildlife spotting, and the great outdoors.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Amtrak's Empire Builder train route between Chicago and Seattle/Portland includes stops inside Montana's Glacier National Park . Riders have several station options, including Whitefish , an unstaffed station called West Glacier , and East Glacier Park Station , which is serviced seasonally from mid-spring until mid-fall.

Depending on where you alight from the train, you can walk directly to nearby accommodations or catch a hotel shuttle. The website Amtrak Guide lists the Whitefish station as the best station overall, citing its proximity to rental cars and accommodations, some of which offer shuttle services.

If you want to avoid renting a car, your best option is to time your trip for when the East Glacier Park Station is open. From there, you can walk a short distance to the Glacier Park Lodge or take a shuttle. Tour options into the park are available directly from the lodge.

NEW RIVER GORGE NATIONAL PARK On the other side of the country, Amtrak's Cardinal train route between Chicago and New York includes stops inside West Virginia's New River Gorge National Park . 3 unstaffed stations— Hinton , Thurmond , and Prince —offer riders access to this park.

If you don't want an extended stay, these stations can be easily used for a day trip . Whether you're a local or visitor to Charleston, West Virginia, you could catch the morning train east to Hinton, West Virginia, arriving just before lunch. After a day of exploring, you could ride the evening train back west right after dinner, giving you nearly six hours to explore the Downtown Historic Area .

HARPERS FERRY NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK As Amtrak's Capital Limited line from Chicago nears its terminus in Washington, D.C., it passes through Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.

The train stops at a historic wood-frame depot designed in the 1890s . The depot is part of Harpers Ferry National Historic Park , along with various museums covering the Civil War. Once visitors have had their fill of history, 20 miles of hiking trails beckon.

The most popular outdoor spot has to be the Point. The Point marks the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. From here, visitors can see the Potomac cutting its way through the Blue Ridge Mountains and three states—West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland.

INDIAN DUNES NATIONAL PARK Michigan City Station in Indiana is just two miles from Indian Dunes National Park . This stop is on Amtrak's Michigan Services line , just outside Chicago.

Arriving in Indiana, visitors can head to fifteen miles of sandy beach along the southern shore of Lake Michigan or get right to hiking the dunes and the surrounding 50 miles of trails.

The most popular hike is the 3 Dune Challenge , which takes you over three dunes and up 553 vertical feet. Get information on this trek and the general area at the visitor center.

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8 Amtrak Cross-Country Trips To Travel Coast To Coast By Train

• Amtrak offers scenic train routes that allow travelers to explore the natural landscape without having to drive.
• Each Amtrak route offers a unique cross-country experience, with stops in iconic cities and national parks.
• Prices listed are for the train ticket only, additional fees and accommodations are required for stops at national parks and city destinations.

The US is one of the largest countries in the world by square acres, and every single inch is worth exploring. As a result, trying to see all the wonders of America can quickly get overwhelming, particularly if one is also trying to keep their eyes on the road.

Amtrak is one of the most popular ways for travelers to experience a US road trip vacation without having to take control of the wheel themselves. There are a number of scenic Amtrak train routes , perfect for those just looking to take in the natural landscape without having to drive or navigate. For those looking for a more extensive outing, booking one of Amtrak’s cross-country trains can be a great alternative to taking any of the incredible cross-country road trip routes in a personal vehicle.

Whether looking for a big-city adventure or hoping to jump between the best national parks in the US, these cross-country Amtrak train routes promise plenty of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and unexpected surprises for their passengers.

The prices listed with each entry are only for the train tickets themselves. Stops like national parks will include additional entrance fees. Additionally, overnights at city destinations will require travelers to book a hotel for their time there.

Related: Everything Confirmed So Far About Amtrak's New High-Speed Scenic Airo Routes

Great American Majestic Landscapes

6 stops: new york to san francisco.

Starting and ending at some of the most famous cities in the United States, the Great American Majestic Landscapes cross-country Amtrak trip is a trek through some of the most iconic regions of the country.

Starting in “The Big Apple” for two days before enjoying a day in the Amtrak, the first official stop on this cross-country rail trail is the Windy City of Chicago. The trip gives guests two days to hop on/hop off, enjoying a day’s walk in Chicago’s Botanic Garden , The Art Institute of Chicago , or any of the myriad of free things to do in Chicago .

Of course, Chicago is only the first of the adventures on this cross-country Amtrak route. Moving west, the train stops in Denver, Colorado. Amtrak allots a day for both the Mile-High city itself and nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.

Heading to the West Coast, Amtrak stops in San Francisco for a day before adding a scenic day in Sonoma and Napa Valley’s wine countries. After touring the vineyards and sampling the whites and reds, the Great American Majestic Landscapes cross-country Amtrak trail ends in beautiful coastal San Francisco.

About The Great American Majestic Landscapes Trip

• Cost: from $2,999/person
• Trip Time: 12 days
• Trip Outline: New York City, NY → Chicago, IL → Denver, CO → Denver, CO → Rocky Mountain National Park, CO → San Francisco, CA → Napa Valley, CA → San Francisco, CA

Grand Rail Experience

5 stops: los angeles to washington dc to los angeles.

With a country as scenic as the US, sometimes doing the cross-country trek once just isn’t enough. Fortunately, cross-country Amtrak routes like the Grand Rail Experience go from coast to coast not just once, but twice.

Starting in Southern California, the eastward part of this cross-country rail trail stays along the southern portion of the country, stopping in New Orleans, Louisiana for two days. This leaves ample time to enjoy the best restaurants in New Orleans , as well as the variety of museums and historical landmarks that can be found throughout this cultural hub.

Hopping back on the train for another overnight stay, the Grand Rail Experience moves north to the East Coast hub and US capital, Washington DC. There are a number of budget-friendly ways to enjoy Washington DC while stopping in this city, including going to the Smithsonian National Zoo and various national monuments, which is fortunate, as this is only the halfway point of this double cross-country adventure.

Heading back towards the West Coast, this cross-country Amtrak train ride takes two days in Chicago, Illinois before reaching the coast, this time in Seattle, Washington. Unique among even Amtrak trails, this route ends back where it began, with the final night being an overnight trek back to Los Angeles in California.

About The Grand Rail Experience

• Cost: from $3,049/person
• Trip Time: 14 days
• Trip Outline: Los Angeles, CA → New Orleans, LA → Washington DC → Chicago, IL → Seattle, WA → Los Angeles, CA

Related: 10 Scenic Train Trips To Take From Los Angeles

Grand National Parks Loop

9 stops: washington dc to san francisco to washington dc.

National parks are some of the most popular outdoor destinations in the US. When taking one of the many amazing US national park road trips isn’t an option, hopping on the cross-country Grand National Parks Loop may be the perfect solution.

There are several variations of the National Park loops, offering longer and shorter versions of the same basic route. Regardless of time, however, there is no doubt that this cross-country train ride is the trip of a lifetime.

Starting in Washington DC, travelers will visit Yellowstone National Park on their way to the West Coast, and Yosemite National Park and Grand Canyon National Park on their return to DC.

If time in three of the most scenic national parks in the country wasn’t enough, additional stops in Chicago, Illinois, Salt Lake City, Utah, San Francisco and Los Angeles, California, and Williams, Arizona, ensure that there will be plenty of time to enjoy both natural wonders and thriving big cities on this two-week trip.

About The Grand National Parks Loop

• Cost: from $5,199/person
• Trip Time: 15 days
• Trip Outline: Washington DC → Chicago, IL → Salt Lake City, UT → Yellowstone National Park → San Francisco, CA → Yosemite National Park → Los Angeles, CA → Grand Canyon National Park → Williams, AZ → Washington DC

Want a different take on this cross-country train ride? Amtrak offers a similar national park loop that starts in New York City and goes north instead of south, swapping Grand Canyon National Park for Glacier National Park. The Grand National Parks with Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Park Roundtrip from New York City lasts 17 days and starts at $6,949 a person.

Scenic America By Rail

5 stops: new york to los angeles.

One of the reasons travelers are so drawn to Amtrak train excursions is the opportunity to let someone else take the wheel and simply enjoy the scenery. Cutting a diagonal path through the US, the cross-country Scenic America by Rail Amtrak trip takes full advantage of the natural beauty of the areas right along the tracks.

As beautiful as the sights are from the window, there are still enough stops on this cross-country Amtrak ride to enjoy some time on foot. Perhaps the biggest scenic standout of this train ride is Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.

With two days to explore this internationally famous natural wonder, passengers can take advantage of various vista points, hop on one of the many beginner-friendly hiking trails in the Grand Canyon , or try their hand at one of the more intensive canyon hikes.

About The Scenic America By Rail Route

• Cost: from $3,549/person
• Trip Time: 13 days
• Trip Outline: New York City, NY → Chicago, IL → Williams, AZ → Grand Canyon National Park, AZ → Los Angeles, CA

West Coast To East Coast Rail Experience

4 stops: san francisco to washington dc.

Just because these scenic American trains are cross-country Amtrak train routes doesn’t mean there isn’t still time to explore the coastline itself. In fact, the simple West Coast to East Coast Rail experience is a cross-country train ride that recognizes the beauty of its starting point.

Starting in San Francisco, the first two days of this train ride don’t involve any overnight travel. Instead, hop-on/hop-off tours of San Francisco, Muir Woods, and Sausalito fill the agenda, giving plenty of time to stretch those legs before the longer train journeys begin.

Before heading for the East Coast, this train ride takes a sharp northward turn, heading for Seattle, a popular long-distance Amtrak hub. Here, travelers can walk the streets, visit museums, and take advantage of the many free things to do in Seattle before strapping in for a two-day Amtrak ride toward Chicago.

As a true cross-country train ride, this Amtrak route has one more overnight as it takes passengers from Chicago to Washington DC, where they can explore monuments, visit museums, and enjoy a night in one of the many unique boutique Washington DC hotels before making their way back home.

About The West Coast to East Coast Rail Experience

• Cost: from $1,799/person
• Trip Time: 10 days
• Trip Outline: San Francisco, CA → Seattle, WA → Chicago, IL → Washington DC

Coast To Coast: Southern Rails

4 stops: washington dc to los angeles.

When planning a driving route across the US, most travelers find themselves looking for the most direct way to get from point to point. One of the main advantages of opting for an Amtrak cross-country train ride instead is that passengers can opt for a more winding, scenic route to their destination, without having to worry about the map.

In the spirit of scenic detours, the Southern Rails cross-country Amtrak train ride heads from Washington DC to Los Angeles by way of the southern border. Dropping all the way down to New Orleans, travelers will have three full days to explore this colorful corner of the Deep South.

Having wandered one of the best American cities for museums , this Amtrak route sticks tight to the southern line, stopping in San Antonio, Texas for an additional three days. That means exploring the best local barbeque joints, strolling down the historic main streets, and relaxing in one of the oldest public parks in the US before heading back on the train for a scenic journey through red rock country on the way to Los Angeles.

About The Coast To Coast: Southern Rails Route

• Cost: from $2,949/person
• Trip Outline: Washington DC → New Orleans, LA → San Antonio, TX → Los Angeles, CA

Related: Los Angeles To New York City: How Much This 17-Day Train Journey Through The South Will Cost

America Coast To Coast

5 stops: los angeles to boston.

The West Coast and East Coast of the United States are two completely different experiences, both culturally and visually. For those who truly want to experience these two unique destinations in one trip, the America Coast to Coast cross-country Amtrak train ride spends plenty of time at both.

Starting in Los Angeles, California, this cross-country train ride spends a total of three days along the West Coast, both in LA and in San Francisco, before heading eastward. Traveling through the scenic Rocky Mountain and Midwest regions, this train ride takes a one-day stop in Chicago, Illinois before continuing on its coast-to-coast adventure.

Unlike many cross-country train rides, this Amtrak route does not stop in New York City. Instead, the journey simply stops for a day before continuing on to a second East Coast destination, Boston, Massachusetts. Here, on the last stop of the vacation, guests can wander some of the many beautiful streets in Boston , take in one-of-a-kind museums, and revel in the historical landmarks of this unique city.

About The America Coast To Coast Route

• Cost: from $2,799/person
• Trip Outline: Los Angeles, CA → San Francisco, CA → Chicago, IL → New York City, New York → Boston, Massachusetts

The All-American

6 stops: chicago, illinois loop to new york city and los angeles.

It can be hard to narrow down the biggest “can’t-miss” stops in a country as large as the United States, but Amtrak has managed to create the All-American tour, which runs through a number of the top tourist destinations in the US in one two-week escapade. While the All-American Amtrak route is a cross-country adventure, this train ride neither starts nor ends at the coast. Instead, this train route forms a loop around Chicago, Illinois, before moving east to New York City.

New York is just the first of the big-city stops on this cross-country train ride. From here, things move south to New Orleans, before finally turning west for the other coastline. After a night on the train, visitors arrive in Los Angeles, California. While there is no time saved to explore LA itself, the scenic train ride through the Southwestern states, full of cacti, red rock formations, and unusual wildlife, is sure to mesmerize even the most restless of guests.

Despite having visited both coasts at this point, the cross-country adventure is still going strong. Additional stops in San Francisco, Denver, and Rocky Mountain National Park round out the A-list itinerary before dropping passengers off back at the starting point in Chicago.

About The All-American Route

• Cost: from $4,299/person
• Trip Outline: Chicago, IL → New York City, NY → New Orleans, LA → Los Angeles, CA → San Francisco, CA → Denver, CO → Rocky Mountain National Park, CO → Chicago, IL

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What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer

Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024.

By Lauren Matison

In 2023, the seashores, lakeshores, battlefields, historic sites, monuments and more that make up the National Park Service had 325.5 million visits , an increase of 4 percent from the year before.

The National Park Service director, Charles F. Sams III, praised the surge of interest in “learning our shared American story throughout the hidden gems of the National Parks System.”

Expecting an even greater turnout in 2024, the Park Service and Recreation.gov , the booking platform for federal land reservations, have implemented new measures to streamline the park experience, manage overcrowding and safeguard the environment.

More parks are requiring reservations

To better avoid congested trails, packed parking lots and overflowing trash cans, additional parks are joining Rocky Mountain , Arches and Glacier National Parks this year in requiring day-use permits, timed entries and other reservations for travelers who wish to visit, particularly during peak hours, holidays and the parks’ high seasons. Yosemite National Park is reinstating a timed-entry system it instituted in 2020, but paused in 2022.

Many park enthusiasts expressed mixed feelings about the reservation policies, with some lamenting a lack of first-come, first-served campsites while others find comfort in knowing they have a confirmed booking. As nearly 75 percent of visitors each year descend on national parks from May to October (and often on weekends), park officials stand by the system.

“In some parks, the level of demand is exceeding the capacity for which infrastructure was designed or is outpacing the National Park Service’s ability to sustainably support visitation,” said Kathy Kupper, a public affairs specialist for the service. “This trend is resulting in the need to explore new strategies to protect natural and cultural resources and provide opportunities for safe and meaningful visitor experiences.”

It can be confusing.

New to implementing timed-entry reservations for vehicles is Mount Rainier National Park , in Washington, for its popular Paradise and Sunrise Corridors during certain times in the summer season. Reservations cost $2, are valid for one day and must be purchased along with the park ticket, but do not apply for visitors with wilderness permits or camping or lodge reservations. Similar vehicle reservations are now required for certain periods for viewing the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii , and driving the Cadillac Summit Road in Maine’s Acadia National Park .

Visitors wishing to hike Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park must obtain a day-use ticket between March 1 and Nov. 30, and in Zion National Park, in Utah, hikers wishing to visit Angels Landing , the dramatic 1,488-foot-tall rock formation, also need to purchase a permit. Fees range from $1 to $6, in addition to the parks’ entrance fees.

As each destination is managed differently, check the park’s webpage for the type of reservation required. Although most bookings can be made through Recreation.gov, some sites, such as Muir Woods National Monument, use a different system.

New features on Recreation.gov

In 2023, Recreation.gov reported that more than 4 million camping reservations and 2 million timed-entry reservations were booked online, and 1.5 million permits were issued. Some 2.9 million new users signed up for the site. With its expanding user base, the booking platform has added 58 reservable national park locations — including 17 campgrounds — such as Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Bluff Hike In Camping in South Carolina’s Congaree National Park.

Recreation.gov has also improved an alerts feature, piloted in July 2023, that can notify users through email or mobile push notifications when a sold-out campsite becomes available. After Recreation.gov notifies you of availability, you must book the campsite yourself online — and quickly, as you’ll be shown how many other people (possibly hundreds) have received the same alert.

While its customer support center and mobile app are still only available in English, Recreation.gov recently introduced a Spanish language translation option. The Park Service partners with Latino Conservation Week , which hosts nationwide hikes and events on environmental education and in-park stewardship, and will celebrate its 10th year in September.

A limit to the annual America the Beautiful pass

The 2024 America the Beautiful pass no longer allows two owners. The annual interagency pass, which costs $80 and covers the entrance fees for more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (of which roughly 100 do not charge for admission year-round), is now marked by a single signature line on the back of the card. The pass owner must show I.D. and be present with any accompanying travelers wishing to access the park with the pass. (Annual passes issued in 2023 will still be valid until their expiration date.) The pass covers all passengers in a vehicle — up to four adults, and children under 16 are admitted free — or up to four cyclists riding together. Active military or veterans and people with permanent disabilities are eligible for a free lifetime pass; 4th grade students may receive a free annual pass; and senior citizens may purchase a $20 annual pass or pay $80 for a lifetime pass.

At the parks, more accessible features, E.V. chargers and new lodging

To better protect against global warming, the Park Service is putting more than $65 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and Great American Outdoors Act into climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration.

Using $15.9 million budgeted for zero-emission vehicle deployment, charging capacity and infrastructure, the Park Service is prioritizing a reduction in carbon emissions, said Mr. Sams, by installing new electric-vehicle charging stations and running electric buses.

An interactive online locator tool created in 2023 shows E.V. charging stations throughout 27 national parks and the type of chargers available. In addition to the tool, every national park page displays alerts on road closures, parking lot capacities, construction work and other incidents.

Mr. Sams also said the Park Service is investing $1.3 billion from the Great American Outdoors Act to improve accessibility features, ranging from a new A.D.A.-compliant visitor center at Morristown National Historic Park in New Jersey to new beach wheelchairs at Sleeping Bear Dunes , Channel Islands and Virgin Islands National Parks . Each destination’s website has an accessibility tab to help visitors plan their trip, and Recreation.gov now has a search filter on its homepage to make it easier to locate accessible accommodations.

New lodging options now available across the country include the Flamingo Lodge , which opened inside Everglades National Park last fall with 24 guest rooms built from repurposed shipping containers. In March, along the southeastern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cataloochee Ranch reopened with 11 renovated cabins and a new restaurant. This spring, the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites will welcome its first guests in Rapid City, S.D., the closest major town to Badlands National Park , and opening in May in Idaho is the Yellowstone Peaks Hotel , a 30-minute-drive from Yellowstone National Park. This fall, California-bound travelers planning a visit to General Sherman, the largest known tree on Earth, might book at AutoCamp Sequoia , just outside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park .

Also in California: Those who don’t score a highly coveted (and contentious) spot at the newly reopened High Sierra Camps in Yosemite could book Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa, which offers more affordable rates, hiking trails and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Reservations for its first season are available beginning May 1.

Celebrating milestones and a new free entrance day

On the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, visitors can pay tribute to African American heritage at over 100 parks , including the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail . This year also marks 100 years since Indigenous people were recognized as United States citizens. Although many parks have Indigenous programming , Mr. Sams, who is the first Native American to serve as N.P.S. director , suggested visiting Hopewell Cultural Historical Park in Ohio and Whitman Mission Historic National Historic Site in Washington, where he recently brought his daughter.

“In order to celebrate the diversity that makes our country great, we must share the complete story of America, which includes both the successes and challenges encountered on the way to form a more perfect union,” Mr. Sams said.

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the National Park Service’s newest free entrance day . Visitors can also take advantage of free admission on April 20, the first day of National Park Week; Aug. 4, the four-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act ; Sept. 28 on National Public Lands Day ; and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the Flamingo Lodge. It is inside Everglades National Park, not outside the park.

How we handle corrections

See which popular national parks are requiring reservations for summer 2024

Every year, it seems that more national parks are requiring timed-entry reservations . Sometimes, it’s just to drive into a park . Other times it’s for specific, sought-after activities .

This summer is no different, with Mount Rainier and Yosemite joining the mix. The requirements add an extra step and expense for travelers, but they’re not meant to be a hurdle.

“The timed-entry system reservation system is not to limit visitation but to spread it out more equitably throughout the day,” Mount Rainier National Park ranger Terry Wildly told USA TODAY in February.

In the past, she said, visitors had to wait up to three hours just to enter the popular park, and some caused lasting damage to meadows when venturing off the trail to avoid crowds. 

As Mount Rainier rolls out reservations this summer, here’s what other park visitors should know.

How many national parks have timed entry?

Only a fraction of America’s 63 national parks require timed-entry reservations or permits for particularly popular experiences. In most cases, they’re only for certain portions of the park during the busiest times of day. 

◾ Acadia National Park will require timed-entry reservations for vehicle access to Cadillac Summit Road from May 24 through Oct. 22. There are two types of reservations, Sunrise and Daytime, with varying restrictions. Each reservation costs $6 per vehicle and may only be purchased online, not in the park. A separate $35 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Arches National Park requires timed-entry reservations for all vehicles entering the park between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. through Oct. 31. Timed-entry tickets cost $2. A separate vehicle entry fee of $30 is also required.

◾ Glacier National Park will require timed-entry reservations for vehicles accessing North Fork and Going-to-the-Sun Road from the West Entrance between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May 24 through Sept. 8. Reservations will not be required for vehicles entering Going-to-the-Sun Road from the St. Mary Entrance nor will they be required for Two Medicine, like they were last year. However, they will still be required for Many Glacier between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m from July 1 through Sept. 8. Each type of reservation costs $2. A separate $35 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Haleakalā National Park requires reservations year-round for visitors who want to watch sunrise from the summit. Summit sunrise reservations cost $1 and are required for every vehicle entering the park between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. A separate $30 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Mount Rainier Natonal Park , for the first time, will require timed-entry reservations for two of its most popular areas: Paradise Corridor from May 24 through Sept. 2 and Sunrise Corridor between July 3 and Sept. 2. Reservations will only be needed between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Each type of reservation will cost $2. A separate $30 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Rocky Mountain National Park will require timed-entry reservations to access most roads between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 14. Visitors who also want to access the park’s busy Bear Lake Road will need a specific type of reservation, Timed Entry+, between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 20. Timed Entry+ covers all park roads. Both types of reservations cost $2.

◾ Shenandoah National Park requires day-use tickets to hike Old Rag Mountain through Nov. 30. Tickets cost $2 per person and can be reserved 30 to 5 days in advance. The day-use tickets are separate from the park’s $30 vehicle entry fee .

◾ Yosemite National Park now requires reservations for vehicles entering the park between 5 a.m. and 4 p.m. on certain days. Through June 30 and between Aug. 17 and Oct. 27, they’ll only be required on weekends and holidays. But they’ll be required every day from July 1 through Aug. 16. Peak hour reservations cost $2, on top of the $35 vehicle entry fee for the park.

◾ Zion National Park is continuing to pilot its permit system for its popular Angels Landing hiking trail. Permits can be obtained through a seasonal lottery or daily lottery on Recreation.gov. Lottery registrations costs $6 for up to 6 people for each lottery. Permits cost $3 per person. That’s on top of the $35 vehicle entry fee for the park.

When can I make park reservations?

Dates vary by park, but all national parks book reservations through Recreation.gov .

The great outdoors next door: Hot to find hiking, camping, more near you

Which national parks in Utah require reservations?

Of Utah’s “ Mighty 5 ” national parks, only Arches requires reservations for park entry.

Do you need reservations to get into Zion National Park?

No. Reservations are not required to enter Zion, just permits to hike Angels Landing.

Can I get into RMNP without a timed entry?

Yes. Rocky Mountain National Park’s timed-entry requirements don’t begin until May 24. Even after that, reservations will only be required during peak hours.

Are reservations required for Yellowstone?

No. Yellowstone does not require timed-entry reservations. However, permits are required for specific recreational activities , such as backcountry camping and boating.

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An insider’s guide to Denali National Park and Preserve

Denali is reflected in a small pond just east of Wonder Lake in Denali National Park. (Bob Hallinen / ADN archive)

Denali National Park and Preserve is named for the nation’s mightiest mountain, but the 6-million-acre park encompasses so much more. Denali has options for every type of visitor. Whether you’re an avid backpacker looking to forge new trails or a relaxed traveler content to watch for animals on a tour, you’re sure to experience jaw-dropping scenery.

Getting there

Located roughly four hours north of Anchorage and two hours south of Fairbanks on the George Parks Highway, it’s an easy drive to the heart of the state — after all, there’s only one road entrance to the park.

If you don’t have your own wheels, here’s how to get there:

Bus: One option is Alaska/Yukon Trails, a passenger van company that can transport up to 16 passengers. They run from Anchorage to Talkeetna to Denali to Fairbanks and the same route in reverse. Expect to leave town early for either departure and to get in around lunchtime. For a ride in a deluxe motorcoach, one option is The Park Connection, where travelers can either book tickets from Anchorage or Seward. Another is the Alaska Shuttle, which runs between Anchorage and Fairbanks, allowing passengers to get out at any point along the journey and rejoin via a later bus.

A tour bus motors down the park road in Denali National Park. (Bob Hallinen / ADN archive)

Train: Taking the train (the Alaska Railroad turns 101 this season) adds about three hours of travel time to your journey, but it goes through wilderness only accessible on the track. Plus, there’s a dining and bar car, knowledgeable guides and dome cars with sweeping views of the mountains and valleys along the way. The train makes a stop on the nearly 1,000-foot-long railroad bridge over an enormous gorge known as Hurricane Gulch. On a clear day, you can see Denali from there. (A more economical option both in terms of funds and time is taking the rails one way and a motorcoach back. Bonus: You’ll see even more of the state.) Check out alaskarailroad.com for more information on riding the train.

Getting around

The National Park Service maintains the only road leading into the park. It’s a 92-mile, mostly gravel route running parallel to the Alaska Range to what was once the mining community of Kantishna. Normally, from late May to early September, visitors can drive the first 12.5 miles of the road to Savage River with just their park pass.

To go farther than the dozen-ish miles allowed to personal vehicles, travelers have to be on foot, bike or riding on one of the school-bus-style shuttles. You can hop on a cheaper, more flexible bus tour that allows you to get off and on and explore on your own, or you can take a narrated bus tour with a driver who crafts an itinerary for you. There are also courtesy buses that serve the portion of the park road that is publicly drivable, which includes stops at the sled dog kennel and Visitors Center.

For summer 2024, the road will only be open to Mile 43 due to rock slides (the road is expected to remain closed through summer 2026). Be sure to check the National Park Service site for updates.

‘Will the mountain be out?’: Where to see Denali

Rising 20,310 feet, Denali can be seen from parts of Anchorage to Fairbanks on a clear day. But clear days can be hard to come by. National Park Service rangers stress to visitors that the mammoth mountain is out only one of every three days (a rule that isn’t hard and fast — it could be out for days at a time and then hidden for a month straight).

Even with its great height, the mountain isn’t visible from the park entrance, the surrounding campgrounds or nearby hotels. Miles 9 and 11 are your first chances of spotting it, the latter spot having a pullout and interpretive waysides with information about the cliff. There are many other spots along the road that allow for peeks of the peak. While the most iconic view of Denali is at Reflection Pond, near Mile 85, the road to that view is closed in 2024, unless you’re staying at one of the fly-in-only accommodations in Kantishna.

A grizzly bear digs for roots while its cub rests on a gravel bar in the Teklanika River in Denali National Park and Preserve. (Bob Hallinen / ADN archive)

For sure open in 2024

Sled dog kennel: Denali is the only national park in the U.S. where rangers do winter patrols via dog sled. But during the few precious months when there isn’t snow on the ground, the dogs have different duties: educating tourists, posing for pictures and getting belly rubs. Their kennel is free to visit, and their handlers are available to chat about what goes into making a sled dog. (Bonus: There’s usually a litter of puppies there training to become full-fledged sled dogs.)

Denali National Park Visitors Center: If you come in by train, the visitors center will be one of the first buildings you see. It’s the main information center in the park, with exhibits on the park’s history and the animals you might see in the boreal forest outside its doors. There are also various ranger-led activities and hikes that launch from there.

Adventure sports and flightseeing: Various operators tout all manners of escape from their storefronts on Glitter Gulch, a half-mile stretch of road near the park entrance. Activities range from ATV rides and ziplining near the park to rafting down the Nenana River or flightseeing around the mountain. Shop around to find an itinerary that matches your interest and budget.

Wonder Lake: This is where Ansel Adams’ famous photograph of the mountain was taken. When Denali isn’t shrouded in clouds, its image is mirrored in the water below, making Wonder Lake a favorite spot for photographers. However, because it’s located at Mile 85 of the Denali Park Road, it’s only accessible to those staying in Kantishna this season.

A caribou grazes along the Park Road near Wonder Lake in Denali National Park and Preserve. (NPS Photo/Emily Mesner)

Reopening after 2026

The National Park Service has announced that the road will remain closed at Mile 43 through the 2026 season. If you’re planning ahead for a later summer, however, you can add Eielson Visitor Center to your list. Located at Mile 66, you can reach the Eielson Visitor Center by shuttle. On a clear day, the views of Denali are stunning. Three maintained trails spider out from the center, though hikers are welcome to go off path. Inside the center is also a small art gallery with works depicting the wilderness of Denali.

Due to the Park Road closure, Eielson Visitor Center will be closed at least through 2026. Be sure to check with the National Park Service for updates on when the Visitor Center will reopen.

Where to stay

There are four campgrounds in Denali National Park that will be accessible in 2024: Riley Creek (at the park entrance), Savage River (13 miles in), Sanctuary River (23 miles) and Teklanika River (29 miles).

The sites have anywhere from seven to 53 tent-only campsites, with the exception of Riley Creek, which has 150 sites suitable for camping and RVs. Considering how few campsites there are in the park, we highly recommended you make a reservation ahead of time. For more information, go to reservedenali.com .

There are also many hotel, cabin, B&B and hostel options for visitors to Denali National Park. Many are clustered just outside the park entrance, a few are found at the end of the park road and more are located in neighboring towns.

While remote, the accommodations at the end of the park road in Kantishna are far from roughing it. Places like Denali Backcountry Lodge, Kantishna Roadhouse and Camp Denali may be 92 miles into the national park, but they don’t skimp on creature comforts like running water, electricity, heat and private bathrooms (granted, there’s no Wi-Fi or cell reception). Generally much spendier than the options at the park entrance, these lodges are usually all-inclusive. During the 2024 season, these accommodations are fly-in only.

Outside the park, your options vary widely. Crow’s Nest is made up of terraced rows of cozy cabins tucked up on a hillside, offering exponentially better views of Mount Healy the higher you go, and Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge is one of the biggest lodging options with high-end amenities, including an espresso bar, a dinner theater and laundry services. More lodging options can be found at denalichamber.com .

Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly reported that the Denali Park Road and the Eielson Visitor Center will reopen in summer 2026. According to the National Park Service, the Visitor Center and Park Road at Mile 43 are expected to remain closed through summer 2026.

CPKC steam train to set off from Calgary on first-of-its-kind transcontinental trek

Steam locomotive Empress 2816's Canada-U.S.-Mexico journey will begin with a public event at CPKC's Ogden Railyard in Calgary on April 24.

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History will be made by a historic locomotive when the first steam-powered passenger train to traverse Canada, the U.S. and Mexico in a single trip departs from Calgary next week.

The Final Spike Steam Tour is celebrating Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd.’s US$31-billion acquisition of Kansas City Southern in a friendly merger, becoming Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC).

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Leading the journey will be newly restored steam locomotive Empress 2816, which was built for Canadian Pacific’s passenger and fast freight services by Montreal Locomotive Works in 1930 and operated until 1960. The original cost to build the 4-6-4 Hudson-type steam locomotive was $116,555.

“It’s really the most beautiful steam locomotive on rails,” said CPKC corporate historian Adam Meeks.

Although it’s not the largest or most powerful locomotive by North American standards, Meeks said, “The esthetics of it, and the elegance of it, are unmatched.”

Capable of a whopping 3,800 horsepower and reaching speeds of up to 145 km/h, Meeks estimates the locomotive ran about 12.9 million kilometres before it was retired.

These days, Meeks said they will travel 80 to 100 km/h due to the age of some of the equipment the locomotive pulls.

Terry Cunha, a representative from CPKC, said the tour is also a way of celebrating the steam locomotive and history of rail.

“There’s been a lot of anticipation by members of the community, enthusiasts, to see this locomotive come out, and we’re really excited that it’s finally here,” he said.

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Restoration of Empress 2816 took two years of intensive labour, requiring expertise from current and past CPKC employees, said Cunha.

Meeks helped with the restoration process, along with Jonathan Morris and Justin Tracy. The three are on the crew of about a dozen taking the more than 12,000-kilometre trip to Mexico.

“There’s nothing easy on a steam locomotive, everything’s heavy duty, tough work,” said Morris.

Meeks said there’s some incredible technology they’ve added to the locomotive that was not required in 1930. “We’ve had to figure out a way to dovetail nearly 100-year-old steam era technology with modern operating requirements.”

The Empress was previously restored in the late 1990s, becoming part of CPKC’s corporate steam program from around 2001 to 2012. The locomotive was originally run on coal, then oil after its first restoration, and now it burns biodiesel.

“We’re excited, this is a big, big trip. It’s really something that’s never been done before,” said Morris.

“There’s two years’ worth of blood, sweat and tears into this, so we are all looking forward to just hitting the road.”

Sitting in the cab of the Empress prepped for a demonstration at CPKC’s Ogden rail yard Thursday, Tracy said there’s nothing like controlling the locomotive.

“The inputs you put into it — you turn a valve, you pull a lever — that has a direct impact on how this engine runs. There is nothing between you and the machine.

“Some people will say it’s almost like an extension of your arm,” said Tracy.

The transcontinental trip will begin with a public event at the Ogden rail yard in Calgary on April 24 at 3 p.m. and depart Calgary two days later, making a total of 11 stops across the CPKC network.

For those hoping to catch a glimpse of the Empress as it leaves the city, it departs at 9 a.m. on April 26, heading east from the Ogden yard.

The stops throughout April and into June will be: Moose Jaw, Sask.; Minot, N.D.; St. Paul, Minn.; Franklin Park, Ill.; Davenport, Iowa; Kansas City, Mo.; Shreveport, La.; Laredo, Texas; Monterrey, Mexico; and Mexico City on the final day, June 4.

Although the train won’t carry any passengers, each stop will have a public event where community members will have the opportunity to see Empress 2816 up close and learn more about it and CPKC’s history.

“For those individuals that are big train fans, it’s just being able to see a 100-year-old steam locomotive back in operation,” Cunha said.

A map will be available online for people to track the locomotive during the journey .

— With files from Chris Varcoe and Postmedia

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15 people injured when tram collides with guardrail at Universal Studios theme park near Los Angeles

FILE - The Universal Studios Hollywood officially reopens to the public at 25% capacity with COVID-19 protocols in place in Los Angeles, on April 16, 2021. A tram accident at Universal Studios in Los Angeles injured multiple people Saturday night, April 20, 2024, authorities and the company said. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, File)

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UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. (AP) — More than a dozen people suffered mostly minor injuries when a tram used for tours crashed into a railing at Universal Studios Hollywood near Los Angeles, authorities and the company said.

Los Angeles County Fire Department units responded shortly after 9 p.m. Saturday to the theme park in Universal City, about 10 miles (16 kilometers) northwest of downtown LA, the agency said in a social media post.

The California Highway Patrol said that while the tram was negotiating a turn, its last car collided with a metal guardrail, “causing it to tilt and eject multiple passengers.”

The fire department said 15 people were taken to hospitals with minor injuries. The highway patrol’s statement on Sunday said some of the injuries were moderate, but didn’t specify a number.

Universal Studios Hollywood said in a statement Sunday afternoon that tours have resumed with a modified route.

“Our thoughts continue to be with the guests who were involved, and we are thankful that based on agency reports, the injuries sustained were minor. We are working closely with public agencies, including the California Highway Patrol, as we continue our review of the incident and safety remains a top priority,” the statement said.

The highway patrol, which is leading the investigation, said alcohol and drugs were not considered a factor.

The tram circuit, called the World-Famous Studio Tour, offers a glimpse behind the scenes of Universal movies including “Jaws” and Jordan Peele’s “Nope.” The theme park will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the tour starting Friday.