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The best train rides in the USA for seriously gorgeous views

It’s all about the journey on the best train rides in the USA, featuring mind-blowingly scenic routes

Of course, a road trip through America is one of the best ways to see the magnificent views on offer across the country, but from time to time it's just nice to take a break from being behind the wheel. Instead, how about taking one of the best train rides in the USA? Gently saunter across the country, leaving you free to contemplate life, ponder the meaning of existence or just spend a few hours thinking about nothing and staring out of the window.

Riding on a train can be a romantic, nostalgic, and best of all leisurely way to see the country. Even a commuter train between major cities can be a step up from a drive, but these scenic train rides are more than that. Geared towards long-haul trips from coast to coast, or specifically designed for enjoying the scenery, these train routes will let you take in all the glorious views.

Looking for a west coast adventure? Take the Coast Starlight from Los Angeles to Seattle . Heading to Alaska ? Catch all the highlights on the Denali Star’s 350-mile trek from Fairbanks to Anchorage. The Grand Canyon Railway and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will take you from quaint towns to national parks . There are even some shorter jaunts, like the Mt. Washington Cog Railway or the Hawaiian Railway that will give you a small taste of scenic train travel.

So hop aboard, enjoy the views, and take as many pics as you want without having to keep your hands on the wheel.

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Best train rides in the USA

1.  Rockies to the Red Rocks

Denver, co to moab, ut.

The first US offering from luxury Canadian company Rocky Mountaineer, the new 'Rockies to the Red Rocks' trip takes passengers on a two-day ride from Denver to Moab—passing through stunning Rocky Mountains and southwest scenery along the way. Best of all? Passengers will witness all that gorgeous nature from the train's glass-dome top! That's right, we're talking about unobstructed views of some of the most gorgeous scenery in the USA. The 2023 season will kick off in August and will run through October.

Discover the  best things to do in Denver

2.  Coast Starlight

Los angeles, ca to seattle, wa.

Put a spin on the classic left-coast road trip by traveling by train instead. The advantages? Zero wrong-turn fights and way more photo-ops. The 1,377-mile Coast Starlight route hits the best of the West: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland and more. On the 36-hour trip, bounce from your seat to the dining car and the 'sightseer lounge car' where all the seats face the panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Discover the best things to do in Seattle  

3.  The Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, az to the grand canyon, az.

Sure you may have been to the Grand Canyon already, but have you ever admired Grand Canyon country by train? On The Grand Canyon Railway, you’ll depart from Williams, Arizona, and roll through pine forests and prairies, spotting pronghorn and bald eagles, before arriving two hours and 15 minutes later at the epic South Rim. All of the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway have fascinating former lives, and some have glass-dome ceilings for unstoppable panoramas. 

Discover the best things to do in Arizona

4.  The Empire Builder

Chicago, il to portland, or.

There is only one word to describe this journey: epic. The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, mirroring much of Lewis and Clark’s original expedition. It passes through a greatest-hits list of must-see sites, from the urban (St. Cloud and Minneapolis) to the great outdoors (big-sky country and Glacier National Park ). The trip totals 46 hours, which warrants booking at least a roomette with seats that convert to beds, so you can fully stretch out once you’ve gotten your fill of landscapes under the moonlight. 

Discover the best things to do in Portland 

5.  The Alaska Denali Star

Anchorage, ak to fairbanks, ak.

This 350-mile stretch through the heart of Alaska highlights the state's beautiful, rugged wilderness. Between the birch forests, rushing rivers, caribou- and bear-spotting, views of Mt. McKinley and a stint through Denali National Park, there’s a reason this is the Alaska Railroad’s flagship sojourn. If you can swing it, splurge on a GoldStar upgrade and take in the spectacular scenery from an open-air viewing car, with absolutely nothing between you and the wild. 

Discover the best things to do in Alaska 

6.  The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson city, nc.

It may be pint-size, but Bryson City, the departure point for this rail-riding adventure, is rich with local gems like barbecue joints, a soda fountain and a brewery. Various routes originate here, but the four-and-a-half-hour Nantahala Gorge excursion is a scenery-serving star, snaking along the forested Nantahala River and crossing the Fontana Lake by bridge. Foliage lovers take note: The leaves here are breathtaking during the fall.

Discover the best things to do in North Carolina 

7.  The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton woods, nh.

Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington , depositing its passengers at the 6,288ft peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working museum of sorts (the track dates to 1852), the Cog has the elevated feel of a gondola, only you’re in a sturdy little train. At the top, take in the sweeping views—of Canada and the Atlantic on a clear day. 

Discover the best thing to do in New Hampshire

8.  The Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa valley, ca.

On this California Wine Country track, you can get intoxicated by the scenery alone: picture-perfect wineries and hills carpeted in lush rows of vines. But you’ll have a little help, what with all the vino you’ll be sipping alongside your onboard multicourse meal—both lunch and dinner are options. The roving restaurant is made up of a collection of vintage Pullman railcars complete with mahogany panels and brass hardware. So go ahead and soak it all up—you’re not behind the wheel, after all.

Discover the best  things to do in Napa

9.  The Hawaiian Railway Society

Train travel takes a turn for the tropical on this 90-minute jaunt across Oahu in an old sugar-cane hauler traveling at the lickety-split speed of 15 miles an hour. The ride shows you a rarely-seen version of Hawaii, filled with old sisal plantations and ghost towns. Time your trip for the second Sunday of the month and you can book a seat in the elegant 1900 parlor car that was the personal ride of Oahu Railway & Land Co. founder Mr. Dillingham. It's worth noting, however, that reservations are now required to ride the train. 

Discover the best things to do in Oahu

10.  Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, co to silverton, co.

One of the most scenic ways to experience one of the most scenic states; a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad isn’t merely photo fodder, but a full immersion into the wild, wild west. The train has been rolling between Durango and Silverton since 1882, when it was tasked with transporting silver and gold out of the San Juan Mountains. The 45.4-mile route runs in both directions along the Animas River, crisscrossing it five times, and passing by old stagecoach trails and long-deserted mining camps as it winds between 14,000ft high peaks.

Discover the best things to do in Colorado

11.  The Ethan Allen Express

New york city, ny to burlington, vt.

While the destination is a major draw, getting there is half the fun on this five-and-a-half-hour journey from New York City to Vermont. You’ll cruise through the postcard-perfect towns of New York’s Hudson Valley; hit Saratoga Springs, as famous for its horse races as its hot springs and snake around Vermont’s fittingly named Green Mountains before landing in charming little-big city Rutland, with its historic downtown and one helluva farmers' market.

Discover the best things to do in Vermont

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The Most Scenic Train Rides Across the US

By Hannah Towey and Tyler Moss

This past June, I took a nine-hour train ride from Santa Barbara to San Francisco on board the Amtrak Coast Starlight, considered one of the country’s most scenic rail routes. The views proved so absorbing that I never actually made it to my assigned seat—sitting instead in the communal observation car for the entirety of the ride.

From the car’s glass-dome windows, California’s rugged coastline and golden hills revealed themselves to me. America’s West Coast fluctuated between the breathtaking and the dire—from endless ocean and cliff-top mansions to drought-ridden fields and cottages sinking between collapsed roofs. Peering out at the vast spectrum of life unfold before me, I enjoyed that slightly detached “from above” perspective rail travel affords you; through the journey, I observed both heartwarming humanity (lone fishermen and packs of surfers, a young girl wearing a pink tutu playing in a creek, an old man collecting driftwood at a campsite) as well as breathtaking nature (a flock of pelicans, meadows of yellow wildflowers, rolling sets of whitecap waves).

As the sun set on the second half of my journey, fellow passengers in the observation car formed an impromptu band complete with an acoustic guitar and mandolin. Word slowly spread and travelers trickled in from other parts of the train to take turns singing songs from cultures around the world.

While it would've been more efficient to fly between the two Californian cities, the meditative romance of slow-paced train travel lends truth to the cliché that the journey is just as important as the destination. And in a country as diverse as this one, there’s truly no better way to witness its beauty—and complexity—than by train.

With over a dozen long distance Amtrak routes and even more private rail operators in states like Alaska and Hawaii, the challenge then becomes picking which train trips to take. Here, we’ve selected 13 of the most scenic train rides in the US that are worth booking for the views alone.

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Amtrak Adirondack

While the Northeast is more known for its commuter trains than sightseeing, Amtrak’s Adirondack route is a lovely exception. Relaunched in spring 2023 following its closure during the pandemic, the route runs from New York City to Montreal . Departing from the new Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station, the 10-hour train travels along the Hudson River up until Albany, then passes through Saratoga Springs and the dazzling Lake Champlain before arriving in Canada. Take this route in the fall during peak foliage season to watch New England’s changing autumnal colors glide by your window.

Tickets from $$62

Amtrak Empire Builder

Traveling along major portions of the Lewis and Clark trail, the Empire Builder is a true American West train adventure. The 46-hour train departs daily from Chicago and traverses through Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Montana, before concluding in either Seattle or Portland . From views of the Mississippi River and North Dakota plains to the stunning scenery of Glacier National Park in Montana, this less-frequented route promises a rich variety of views without the crowds. Monisha Rajesh, author of Around the World in 80 Trains and Condé Nast Traveler contributor , suggests taking this route during peak summer or deep mid-winter.

Tickets from $56

Amtrak Coast Starlight

The Coast Starlight departs daily between Los Angeles and Seattle, a 35-hour journey that stops in some of the West Coast’s greatest cities, including Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, and Portland. The southern half features long stretches of the Pacific Ocean shoreline before veering inland to the golden valleys of the state’s agricultural heart, up to the magestic snow-covered peaks of the Cascade mountains . Yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds—consider this train a sampler of America’s diverse natural landscape, all in one. For the best views, grab a seat in the first-come, first-serve observation lounge.

Tickets from $98

Grand Canyon Railway

Gaze upon the grandeur of one of the world’s natural wonders— Grand Canyon National Park aboard the Grand Canyon Railway . Departing from Williams, Arizona, 30-some miles west of Flagstaff, this train weaves past forests of ponderosa pine and parts of the Sonoran Desert into the heart of canyon country, where you’ll spend the day exploring before boarding a return trip—just in time for sunset .

Tickets from $70

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

Hawaiian Railway Society

While leaf-peeping rail expeditions tend to draw the most media attention, tropical climates with oceanside views can be at least equally as enjoyable. The Ewa Train, located 20-miles west of Honolulu , provides just such an experience along a two hour round-trip tour. The ride pairs history—live narration about Oahu's old sugar plantations and the ghost town of Gilbert—with breathtaking vistas from Kahe Point, and even includes a pit-stop for ice cream so you can beat the heat. 

Tickets from $18

The Rocky Mountaineer

The nearly all-glass cabins allow guests full view of the mountainous landscapes of Western Canada and the red rock wonders of Colorado and Southern Utah aboard this luxurious train. One itinerary takes passengers from Denver to Moab, Utah , where guests can take in the views in style with a cocktail in hand.

Tickets from $1,599

Amtrak California Zephyr

Though the California Zephyr runs from Chicago to San Francisco in a little more than 51 hours, it’s indisputably the western portion of the route—through Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and northern California—that deserves your attention. Snake through the Rocky Mountains, past the photogenic canyons of Colorado’s Western Slope, and enjoy an entire half-day trek through Sierra Nevada, complete with views of Donner Lake and the Truckee River.

Tickets from $141

Cass Scenic Railroad

Built in 1901 to transport lumber through the mountains of West Virginia, the Cass Scenic Railroad helps to preserve the look and feel of America’s locomotive legacy. Pick from two available routes, including a four-and-a-half-hour round-trip jaunt up to Bald Knob—the highest summit of Back Allegheny Mountain at 4,842 feet.

Tickets from $81

Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic

The largest and most wild state in America offers its own photo-worthy railroad adventure: The Coastal Classic, a four-hour excursion from Anchorage heads south around the Turnagain Arm waterway. The train route weaves into the backwoods of the Kenai Peninsula, through which attentive passengers will spot natural wonders like waterfalls and glaciers before arriving at the port city of Seward, on Resurrection Bay.

Tickets from $96

Amtrak Cascades

Spanning the Northwest from Portland to Vancouver, the Cascades parallels the titular mountain range during this eight-hour adventure. The route crosses the majestic Columbia River, provides views of Mount St. Helens, and hugs the shore of picturesque Puget Sound as it passes through Seattle .

Tickets from $72

Napa Valley Wine Train

You don’t have to be a wine connoisseur to appreciate the natural beauty of northern Napa Valley’s agricultural corridor. Originally built by a local millionaire, California Gold Rush baron Samuel Brannan in 1865 to transport Napa visitors to a spa resort in Calistoga, the Napa Valley Wine Train today gives travelers a chance to sip local vintages from a luxurious railcar while passing vaunted vineyards on a three-hour round-trip journey.

Tickets vary based on package .

Amtrak Southwest Chief

From the rolling farmlands of Illinois, across the Mississippi River, to the red mesas of New Mexico, and into the Mojave Desert, the Southwest Chief traverses more than 2,000 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles . Travelers wary of a full 40-hour venture can take just a partial piece of the route, but don’t miss the most scenic stretch, which spans Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and southern California, including the Ratón Pass—a National Historic Landmark along the Santa Fe Trail.

Tickets from $146

Cape Cod Central Railroad

Only available from May through October, the Cape Cod Excursion train provides passengers with a whirlwind sightseeing tour of the Cape’s natural attractions, including the charming Cape Cod Canal. The two hour round-trip ride immerses travelers in distinctive New England landscapes, through cranberry bogs and salt marshes, past sand dunes and woodlands. En route, guests can listen to on-board narration that points out important landmarks.

Tickets from $29.99

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• Idaho Scenic Train Rides

Idaho Scenic Train Rides (2024): A Complete Guide

Last revised: December 13, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

Idaho may only rank as the 11th largest in terms of total land area and 39th in total population.  However, the Gem State enjoys a diverse railroad heritage, ranging from flat deserts in the south to mountainous operations in the Northern Panhandle. 

Today, there are nearly a dozen railroads still in service there.  They include Class I's Union Pacific and BNSF Railway as well as short lines:

• Boise Valley Railroad
• Bountiful Grain & Craig Mountain Railroad
• Eastern Idaho Railroad
• Great Northwest Railroad
• Idaho, Northern & Pacific
• Montana Rail Lin
• Pend Oreille Valley Railroad
• Palouse River & Coulee City Railroad
• St. Maries River Railroad
• Washington & Idaho Railway

These companies remain an important aspect of the state's economy, handling a wide range of products from agricultural and minerals to petrochemicals and wood products (timber, logs, finished products, etc.). 

Unfortunately, Idaho's history with the iron horse is not well represented as few museums can be found there. Until 2016 one could enjoy a train ride targeted as a tourist attraction but this has since closed.

State Rail History

According to an in-depth analysis  Trains Magazine  published in its January, 2007 issue entitled, " Great Railroading: State-By-State ," Idaho's introduction to trains began with the Utah Northern Railroad's (UN) chartering on August 23, 1871. 

In his book, " American Narrow Gauge Railroads ," author and historian Dr. George Hilton points out its purpose was to reach gold mines located near Butte and other points in Montana Territory's southwestern region. 

A project of the Mormons, it was designed to bring funding into the church while also spreading its influence north of Utah.   Led by John W. Young, William B. Preston, and George W. Thatcher the UN was engineered as a 3-foot, narrow-gauge system to reduce construction costs. 

Interestingly, they also chose the alignment due to the nearby Denver & Rio Grande's perceived success although this endeavor had only gotten underway itself. 

Track construction began from Willard, Utah, south of Brigham City, on March 25, 1872 and proceeded northward. 

The effort was very slow but rails finally penetrated Idaho at the small community of Franklin on May 2, 1874.  This event marked the first time a railroad served the state

The financial Panic of 1873, though, proved its undoing.  While additional grading was completed no more tracklaying was carried out and construction stalled.  Between 1875 and 1878, mogul Jay Gould acquired control, leading to Union Pacific's takeover. 

It was subsequently reincorporated as the Utah & Northern Railway (U&N) during April, 1878.  Work was soon underway once more and rails reached Butte, Montana Territory by December, 21, 1881. 

After another year the line was completed to Garrison in November, 1882, a location which became a future interchange point with the Northern Pacific. 

Since Union Pacific had no interest in narrow-gauge operations, the entire property was converted over the years:

• The Butte-Garrison was partially sold to NP and became the Montana Union Railway on August 1, 1886 (it was converted to the standard-gauge of 4 feet, 8 1/2 inches almost immediately).
• The Pocatello-Butte segment (264 miles) was converted July 25, 1887; and finally the Pocatello-Ogden segment was finished on October 1, 1890.  

Altogether, the U&N, which became part of UP's Oregon Short Line subsidiary, proved a successful venture.

While UP controlled virtually all rail service to the south, the Northern Panhandle was quite different.  This rugged region served as the crossing point for three transcontinental corridors; the first was Northern Pacific. 

After several starts and stops, financial setbacks, and delays track construction passed through Idaho during 1883 and a formal "Golden Spike" ceremony, marking the lines completion from Duluth/Superior, Wisconsin to Tacoma, Washington, was held at Gold Creek, Montana on September 8th that year. 

Following the NP was James J. Hill's Great Northern Railway.  It began as the St. Paul & Pacific Railroad (StP&P).  Eventually, the so-called "Empire Builder" gained full control of this enterprise and set out westward. 

It reached Great Falls, Montana in 1888, became the Great Northern Railway a year later, and was completed to the Puget Sound in 1893. 

The last and most interesting endeavor was undertaken by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul; long known as a Midwestern "granger" system (handling primarily agricultural products), officials elected to reach the Pacific Northwest in 1905. 

Crews worked from both ends and the so-called "Pacific Extension" was finished by 1909.  It was subsequently renamed as the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific, better known as the Milwaukee Road . 

Between Harlowton, Montana and Avery, Idaho, (near the Montana border) the railroad was electrified to improve efficiency (it also electrified a western component between Othello, Washington and the Puget Sound). 

Unfortunately, the Milwaukee would leave the West for a variety of reasons in 1980.

• Canyon County Historical Museum/Nampa Train Depot Museum

Located in Nampa (along 12th Avenue and Front Street) this museum, which highlights the region's local history, is housed inside the historic Union Pacific depot, a beautiful brick and stone building constructed between 1902-1903.   

It was later donated to the current organization, which officially dedicated the museum on July 3, 1976.  It is operated by the Canyon County Historical Society, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. 

They state their mission is:

" ...to help investigate and preserve for future generations any kind of historical records, documents, sites, buildings, articles and artifacts, pertaining to Canyon County and to promote interest and concern for Canyon County history.

To bring together those people interested in this history and promote better understanding of our state and nation, plus a better appreciation of our American heritage. " 

They are open Thursday - Saturday each week.  Admission is free.

• Northern Pacific Depot Railroad Museum

This museum is located within Northern Pacific’s attractive brick depot in Wallace, Idaho that was completed in 1901.

The Wallace depot was styled in the chateau design and was actually constructed of brick shipped all of the way from China.

Finished around the turn of the century it played host to passenger trains for years and after services ended was placed on the National Register of Historic Places while still owned by then Burlington Northern. 

It houses a small collection of artifacts related to the local area and other railroads which operated there. Perhaps what the museum is most well known for its annual "Depot Days" event, which generally celebrates transportation, highlighted by a car show. 

For anyone interested in classic/appealing cars you may want to plan a trip to the event! Also, if you are interested in biking and/or the Milwaukee Road, very close by is part of the former Pacific Extension turned into a rail/trail known as the Route of the Hiawatha .

Thunder Mountain Line ( Closed)

Soon after the Idaho, Northern & Pacific took over the Union Pacific’s Oregon Short Line Division in 1993 the railroad began operating its " Thunder Mountain Line " in 1998 as a tourist attraction.

The railroad traveled roughly 60 miles north from Montour, following the Payette River to Cascade next to beautiful Lake Cascade.  

There were three different trips offered including the Horseshoe Bend Route (Horseshoe Bend to Banks), Montour Route (Montour to Horseshoe Bend), and the Cabarton Route (Smiths Ferry to Cascade).

Unfortunately, sagging patronage resulted in the service's suspension in 2016 and there are currently no plans to see it resumed anytime in the foreseeable future.

• Thunder Mountain Line (Closed)

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives. 

It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website. 

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

© Copyright 2007-2024 American-Rails.com. All written content, photos, and videos copyright American-Rails.com (unless otherwise noted).

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Embark on an Incredible Journey Through the San Juan Mountains

For a truly unforgettable step back in time, enjoy a leisurely trip to yesteryear riding 3 1/2 hours each way on this train while spending a nearly 2 hour layover in the historic mining town of Silverton to enjoy the sights, shopping, food, and libations that Silverton offers. We’ve been in continuous operation running trains on this 45-mile branch of the original Denver & Rio Grande Railway since 1882. Much of the scenery remains unchanged since those historic days. There’s no cell service or Wi-Fi throughout the Animas Canyon so you’ll be unplugged from the modern world. Soak in the views, listen as the steam whistle echoes through the canyon, hear the vintage locomotive work to pull the train up the grades. If you long to unwind and enjoy Colorado nature at its finest, this is the trip for you.

More About This Excursion

Departing from the Durango Depot, this unforgettable trip takes you up into the Rocky Mountains with views of the San Juan National Forest as you travel alongside the beautiful Animas River on your way to the historic mining town of Silverton.

There will be up to two steam departures depending on the date.  The Silverton Steam Train departs daily at 9:00AM 5/4/24-10/26/24 and 9:45 AM 8/30/24-10/12/24.

Diesel Excursions run 5/21/24-10/12/24. The Silverton Diesel Train departs at 8:15AM daily.

On all of these train excursions, you will experience the iconic Horseshoe Curve, High Bridge and all of the Animas River Gorge including all of the spectacular views from the High Line. These trains include a concession car with a variety of snacks and drinks available for purchase. Click here to see the concession menu.   Skyway Tour   (bus/train or train/bus) service options are coming soon for the 2024 Silverton summer season excursions.

There will be two bus departures available daily beginning May 21, 2024 running through October 12, 2024.

The first deluxe motor coach departs Durango at 9:30am and arrives at Silverton at 11:00am. It then departs from Silverton at 2:45pm and arrives in Durango at 4:15pm.

The second deluxe motor coach departs from Durango at 10:15am and arrives in Silverton at 11:45am. It departs from Silverton at 2:45pm and arrives in Durango at 4:15pm.

The bus/train service costs $29 (plus 8% historic preservation fee) per person and is added to the roundtrip or one-way train price. 

The bus service is available 7 days a week May 21 through October 12th. (no bus service on May 25) With one way ticket purchase, the passenger is responsible for transportation and is not included with one way fare.

View all Skyway Tour Options

2024 booking information.

Schedule and Departure/Arrival Times The Silverton Steam Train Is Available:

May 4 – October 26th, 2024 departing Durango 9:00AM, arriving Silverton 12:30PM, departing Silverton 2:45PM, arriving Durango 6:15PM  August 30-October 12  departing Durango 9:45AM, arriving Silverton 1:15PM, departing Silverton 3:15PM, arriving Durango 6:45PM.

2024 Silverton Steam Train Fares* Pricing reflects either round-trip or one-way excursions.

2024 Silverton Diesel Train Fares

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15 Stunningly Scenic Train Rides You Can Take Around the World

Posted: June 22, 2023 | Last updated: June 22, 2023

Train travel evokes a sense of wonder and nostalgia often unmatched by other forms of modern transportation. 

On a train ride, you simply sit back and enjoy the landscapes as they roll by. It’s a step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life because the experience receives your full attention. You don’t typically choose to ride a train because it’s the most convenient or affordable option (in many cases it’s not), but because you want a unique and memorable experience.

If you want to enjoy one of these 15 scenic train rides, it will likely take some planning, especially finding ways to boost your income to pay for an upcoming trip. After the list of epic rail journeys, we’ve shared a list of money moves you can make in preparation for future train travel.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Inca Rail First Class – Machu Picchu, Peru

The Inca Rail First Class train isn’t the only way to make it to Machu Picchu, Peru, but it’s one of the best. Large, comfortable seats and massive windows help you relax and enjoy the ride from the town of Ollantaytambo to the town of Aguas Calientes, at the base of Machu Picchu.

Of course, to even get to this point of your journey, you’ve likely already passed through the ancient Incan capital of Cusco and the beautiful Sacred Valley region. This train ride helps to build the anticipation even more as one of the final steps before seeing Machu Picchu for yourself. Heading into the Andean jungle while following the Urubamba River is a great precursor to the big event up in the mountains.

In addition, Inca Rail First Class passengers are provided with meal service and drinks during the nearly two-hour train ride.

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Adirondack Scenic Railroad – New York, United States

Upstate New York is an ideal destination for immersing yourself in beautiful foliage and visiting quaint towns and villages seemingly untouched by time. The Adirondack Mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a train ride along the Adirondack Scenic Railroad.

Choose from one-way or round-trip itineraries between Utica and Thendara (Old Forge) and enjoy train travel through lush forests and over multiple rivers and streams. A one-way journey takes about 2 1/2 hours, whereas a round trip takes about 4 1/2 hours. Be sure to include time in your itinerary to visit and explore the Old Forge area if you want a true upstate New York experience.

California Zephyr – United States

If cross-country train trips are your thing, add the California Zephyr ride to your bucket list. This train journey, operated by Amtrak, runs from Chicago, Illinois, to Emeryville (San Francisco), California, and takes more than 50 hours to complete.

The itinerary also includes stops along the way in Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada. It’s possible to create a customized itinerary for part of the journey, like jumping on in Denver, Colorado, and getting off in Reno, Nevada.

Many of the scenic highlights include mountain ranges like the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevadas. Near the end of your journey you’ll also be able to see the San Pablo Bay and Carquinez Strait.

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Pacific Surfliner – California, United States

The Pacific Surfliner, also operated by Amtrak, offers a stunning train journey along 351 miles of California’s Pacific coastline from San Luis Obispo to San Diego. Take your time to enjoy views of pristine beaches and rolling green hills from the comfort of your reclining seat.

Potential stops to visit along the way include Grover Beach, Santa Barbara, Oxnard, Los Angeles, and Anaheim. Each destination has its own range of activities and highlights. The beach is located just two blocks from the Santa Barbara rail station or you could head to the Channel Islands National Park from Oxnard.

Sri Lanka Railways – Sri Lanka

If you’ve seen photos of passengers hanging out of a blue train surrounded by dense, green foliage, you’ve likely seen the Sri Lanka Railways journey from Kandy to Ella in Sri Lanka. Although it may not be recommended to hang from objects moving at high speeds, you wouldn’t want to miss the views on this train ride between the central city of Kandy and the small southern town of Ella.

The ride takes about seven hours and offers views of tea plantations, green hills, bridges, and villages. It’s recommended not to book first-class tickets for your itinerary, as you won’t have the experience of mingling with the locals and having open windows.

The Jacobite – Scotland, United Kingdom

The Jacobite steam train is run by West Coast Railways, an independent train operating company based out of Lancashire, England. This train ride takes you on an 84-mile round-trip journey between Fort William and Mallaig in the Scottish Highlands.

The Scottish Highlands are a global destination known for their impressive natural beauty, including striking lochs and windswept hills. However, The Jacobite train in particular is famous for its starring role as The Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.

For the full magical experience, book a first class “HP” compartment carriage for your own private compartment with a large viewing window. This will help you take in the sights, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express – Europe

The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, operated by Belmond, offers modern luxury travelers the opportunity to experience a journey reminiscent of famous train rides of the past. This train can take you through many popular European cities, though it depends on which booking you select. London, England, to Venice, Italy, is a classic route, but you may prefer Paris, France, to Venice or Paris to Verona, Italy.

Whichever route you select, you’ll enjoy panoramic scenes of lush vineyards and mountain landscapes as you travel through Western Europe. You’ll pay more for this luxury experience, but getting to take in the scenery from your own private cabin might be well worth the cost.

Snowdon Mountain Railway – Wales, United Kingdom

For a shorter train journey with unbelievable views, consider a ride with Snowdon Mountain Railway in Wales. A small diesel carriage takes passengers nearly the whole way up to the summit of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.

The journey takes about 45 minutes and ends at Clogwyn Station, where you can take time to enjoy the views of Snowdonia National Park. The park is within driving distance of Liverpool, so it could provide a welcome escape from the city if you’re interested.

Northern Explorer – New Zealand

The longest-running passenger service in New Zealand is ready to give you a taste of everything the North Island has to offer. For a full-day journey, take the Northern Explorer train from Auckland to Wellington, with seven stops in between. Of course, if you’re coming from the South Island, you’d take the train in the opposite direction from Wellington to Auckland.

Highlights on your trip may include spending time in both cities and taking in the unique views of New Zealand. Gaze out across the rocky Kapiti Coast, admire the white cliffs above the Rangitikei River, and marvel at the Ruapehu active volcano in the distance. If you have the time, be sure to make a few stops.

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Korail V-Train – South Korea

South Korea’s Korail offers a variety of train routes for traversing different parts of the country while enjoying the scenery along the way. The V-Train follows a route through different valleys in a mountainous region of the country between Buncheon and Cheoram.

Three observatory cabins provide ample space to enjoy the passing scenery and there’s a mini cafe if you need refreshments. The V-Train runs at a slower pace than typical transporter trains so you can take your time with sightseeing.

Pro tip: Purchasing your overseas flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses with a travel credit card that offers generous rewards could help you cover the costs of a trip halfway around the world. 

Mount Fuji Shinkansen – Japan

Japan’s Shinkansen, or bullet train, is an experience in itself with a top speed of nearly 200 mph. But the journey becomes more special when you include sights along the way, such as Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain and an active volcano.

If you’re traveling by train between Tokyo and Kyoto, consider your seating selection so you get the best view of Mount Fuji as you speed by. You want to be on the right side of the train car if you’re coming from Tokyo and the left side if you’re coming from Kyoto. Of course, it’s best to hope for a clear day so the massive mountain is visible.

Bernina Express – Switzerland

Do you dream of viewing and crossing the incredible Alps landscape from the comfort of a train car? If so, consider the Bernina Express, by the Swiss Rhaetian Railway company, to bring your dreams to life. The train journey begins in Chur, Switzerland, and ends in Tirano, Italy.

Along the way you’ll cross 196 bridges and pass through 55 tunnels, all while enjoying pristine alpine landscapes and panoramic views. Highlights include multiple viaducts, views of glaciers, and passing the highest point of the journey at 2,253 meters (about 7,400 feet) above sea level. The full journey takes about four hours.

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Bergen Railway – Norway

If you’re exploring the Scandinavian lands of Norway, take the opportunity to travel from Bergen to Oslo by train on the Bergen Railway. This train ride takes about seven hours, has 22 stops, and passes through 180 tunnels. In addition, you’ll see plenty of amazing scenery, including potential views of forests, lakes, mountains, fjords, rivers, and waterfalls.

For an additional boost of pleasant views, get off the train at the Myrdal stop and take another train to Flåm. This side adventure has been called one of the top 10 train journeys in Europe, as well as the best train journey in the world.

Rocky Mountaineer – Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer is a Canadian company that offers three rail journeys in Canada and now offers one U.S. rail journey as well. The most popular route is from Vancouver to Banff/Lake Louise. This ride takes you through the Spiral Tunnels, next to mountains, and past stunning lakes.

If you want to break up the trip, book a package deal that includes overnight stays along the way. This can help you enjoy the journey more by spending time in the beautiful provinces of British Columbia and Alberta.

Rovos Rail – South Africa

African safaris aren’t limited to lodges and vehicles with four-wheel drive. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can opt for a scenic train ride with Rovos Rail in South Africa instead. You’ll have different itineraries to choose from, but the Cape Town to Pretoria option is likely one of the most epic.

This ride is an 11-day journey that includes an ostrich farm visit, a boat cruise, multiple game drives, city tours, and more. In addition, your private sleeper coach makes it easy to enjoy the South African landscapes as you pass by, including the beaches, lakes, and rolling hills of the famous Garden Route.

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How to save money on train travel

Train travel can often be expensive, especially if you have to factor in flying to another country and then booking your train tickets. Fortunately, you have options to reduce your train travel costs, including using credit cards.

Here are a few tips to help you save money on train travel:

• Use credit cards. Many of the best travel credit cards offer rewards for travel purchases, which often includes train tickets. Using the right credit card for booking train travel could net you valuable rewards you can use for future travel redemptions such as flights or hotel stays. In addition, if you’re taking a flight or staying in a hotel as part of your train journey, having a credit card with specific perks or benefits can be helpful. Airport lounge access or complimentary elite status at a hotel or could help you save money on parts of your itinerary or simply have a more enjoyable adventure.
• Earn points. Using specific credit cards to book train tickets, like an Amtrak credit card , can help you earn points and reduce overall travel costs. If you want to save up for a train trip, though, many of the best cash back credit cards offer better rewards on everyday purchases. You also have the option to earn points from partnerships with train companies. For example, Amtrak partners with hotel, retail, and car rental companies to provide everyday ways to earn points you can put toward future train tickets.
• Skip the flight. If you’re already planning to travel to another country or city and have an open itinerary, consider taking a train instead of a flight if geography allows. This will put the money you save from not flying straight into an enjoyable train journey.
• Pack supplies. The train’s concession or restaurant area can be tempting, but you’ll likely save money if you bring your own food and drinks. Be sure to check ahead of time what the restrictions are for food and beverages on any train ride, as some companies may not allow you to bring your own.

Bottom line

If you’re putting together travel plans, remember to include train travel as an option. Not every train ride will be the same, but it could be a fun opportunity to switch up your typical routine and have a new experience. You’re especially likely to have a memorable trip if you include one of the exciting rail journeys mentioned above.

Keep in mind, train travel doesn’t have to be financially overwhelming if you’re prepared for what to expect. It may be less expensive to travel by train in certain countries, but you have to get to those countries first. It may make sense to pick up a side hustle or two to boost your bank account  and help pay for an upcoming trip. Also, earning points or miles now to cover your flight and hotel expenses could leave more room in your budget for the train rides you want to take.

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• #Luxury travel
• #Unusual Moscow
• #Jewish Heritage
• #Russian traditions

Train stations in Moscow

Moscow is not only the capital of Russiabut also a center for education, politics, culture, transport, and economy. It hasa lot of history and attracts many tourists per year. The most common transportis the train and in the city, you will find nine different train stations. Thenames of them come from routes they are serving.

Address: 3 Komsomolskaya Sq.

It is the oldest train station in Moscowand located near the metro station Komsomolskaya. The trains from here go to North-WesternRussia, including St.Petersburg, Novgorod, Petrozavodsk, Murmansk, Finland andEstonia. The railway station got constructed by the architect KonstantinThron in the design of the Moskovsky train station in Saint Petersburg. It hadbeen built from 1844 to 1851. It has already had several names and wasrenovated in 1950 and 1972. It is notable that the amount of passengers isconstantly increasing.

Yaroslavlsky Train Station

Address: 5 Komsomolskaya Sq.

The train station is located near theLeningradsky train station at the matro station Komsomolskaya. TheTrans-Siberian route passes also this train station and trains from here leaveto Golden Ring, North-Eastern Russia, the Russian Far East, Mongolia and China.From all the nine train stations in Moscow, this one has the highest number ofpassengers.

Kazansky Train Station

Address: 2 Komsomolskaya Sq.

The train station is also located next tothe metro station Komsomolskaya. The trains leave to Kazan, Tatarstan, Urals,Central Asia and South of Russia. Times of construction of this modern trainstation was between 1913 and 1940 designed by the architect Alexey Shchusev.The train station in its design looks like the Söyembikä Tower in Kazan.

Belorussky Train Station

Address: 7 Tverskaya Zastava Sq.

The trains from here leave to Belorus,Kaliningrad (Russia), Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, the CzechRepublic. The architect Ivan Strukov constructed it and it was opened in1870 but renovated from 1910-1912. It is connected to the airport and alsotakes some local routes to the suburb of Moscow.

Kievsky Train Station

Address: 2 Kievskogo Vokzala Sq.

The train station is situated near themetro station Kievskaya and takes routes to the Ukraine and SoutheasternEurope. It was designed by  Ivan Rerberg and Vladimir Shukhov in1914-1918. It is the only train station in the city from which you can directlylook at the Moscow river.

Kursky Train Station

Address: 29 Zemlyanoi Val St.

The train station takes routes to Vladimir,Nizhny Novgorod, Oryol, Perm, Southern Russia, Caucasus, Eastern Ukraine,Crimea. Metro stations next to it are Kurskaya and Chkalovskaya. The firstconstruction has been made by N.P. Orlov in 1896 and it has been reconstructedby G.I. Voloshinov in 1972.

Paveletsky Train Station

Address: 1 Paveletskaya Sq.

The train station takes routes for longdistances to Almaty, Voronezh, Baku, Luhansk, Saratov, Donetsk, Tambov,Lipetsk, Volgograd, Yelets and Astrakhan. It has a connection to the Domodedovoairport. It is a very old train station first constructed by A. Krasovskiy in1900 and reconstructed by A.Gurkov, S.Kuznetsova and A.Vorontsov in 1987. Thenew construction is much bigger and has a high volume of traffic.

Rizhsky Train Station

Address: 79/3 Rizhskaya Sq.

It is situated next to the metro station Rizhskayaand takes routes to Baltic countries. It opened in 1901, designed by S. Brzhozovskywho was also involved in the construction of the Vitebsky station in SaintPetersburg. As well, the station has had already a lot of different names. Thetrain station received its current name in 1946. It is a very modern one and isalso mentioned in the Moscow Railway Museum.

Savyolovsky Train Station

Address: Savyolovskogo Vokzala Sq.

The train station takes routes to northern Moscow but also to long-distance destinations: Kostroma, Cherepovets, Vologda (Russia). There is also a connection to the airport Sheremetyevo. The nearest metro station is Savyolovskaya. The times of construction were between 1897 and 1902 and is named after a village that is located along the route. On occasion to its 90th anniversary, it had been reconstructed.

• Trains between Moscow and Saint Petersburg read

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Russia-Ukraine war latest: 'Damage' to nuclear reactor revealed in images after 'three direct hits'

Donald Trump will press Ukraine to give up territory if he is re-elected as US president, according to a US media report. Meanwhile, our question form is open again to submit a question for our military analysts.

Monday 8 April 2024 18:26, UK

• The big picture : What's happening with the war as we enter a new week?
• Trump would press Ukraine to give up territory if re-elected - report
• Three 'direct hits' at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant
• Image shows 'damage' on roof of nuclear reactor

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Our comments box is open once again for you to submit a question on the Ukraine war for Sky News military analysts or correspondents.

We'll pick the best one to answer each week.

We are pausing our coverage - thank you for reading.

The main developments today have been:

• Russia has claimed Ukraine launched a drone attack against the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station, and provided images;
• Ukraine has denied any involvement;
• The IAEA said there were three "direct hits";
• Sergei Lavrov, Russia's foreign minister, has arrived in China for talks on topics including Ukraine;
• Donald Trump will press Ukraine to give up territory if he is re-elected as US president, according to a US media report;
• Ukraine must "win this war" and if it loses, "we all lose", Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron and his French counterpart have warned.

We will be back with more updates from the war in Ukraine tomorrow.

These pictures show people working at a Ukrainian thermal power plant that was damaged in a recent Russian missile strike.

The second picture down shows a collection of destroyed pressure gauges.

The location is undisclosed.

Russia has asked Kazakhstan to prepare to supply 100,000 tonnes of gasoline.

It is said to be because of shortages exacerbated by Ukrainian drone attacks, three industry sources told Reuters.

One of those sources said a deal had been agreed.

Neither the Russian nor Kazakhstani energy ministries replied to requests for comment.

Drone attacks reportedly stopped 14% of Russian primary oil refining capacity by the end of March.

Belarus has already agreed to help Russia with gasoline supply, Reuters said.

The authorities have said the domestic situation is stable and stockpiles are sufficient.

Russia is normally a net exporter of fuel.

Russia has hit up to 80 percent of Ukraine's conventional power plants and half its hydroelectric ones, Ukrainian energy minister German Galushchenko has said.

Recent attacks have been the heaviest since the war began, Mr Galushchenko added, according to the AFP news agency.

Moscow is believed to have launched almost daily strikes on Ukraine's power grid since late last month.

Kharkiv, Ukraine's second city, has suffered blackouts.

"Up to 80% of thermal generation was attacked," Mr Galushchenko told journalists in Kyiv.

"More than half of hydro generation and a large number of substations." 

It is the "largest attack on Ukraine's energy sector" since the conflict started in February 2022, the minister said.

Mr Galushchenko said the "scale and impact of these attacks is much greater" than earlier ones.

The country's largest nuclear power station, in Zaporizhzhia, was seized by Russian troops not long after they invaded. 

As we have been reporting, Russia is claiming Ukraine attacked the plant with drones - something Kyiv denies. 

As we have been reporting today, there were three "direct hits" at the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station in southern Ukraine after an apparent drone attack, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has said.

The first of these images is said to show damage on the top of reactor six. 

It is a still taken from a video provided by the Press Service of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant.

Russia has been in control of the plant since the early days of its invasion of Ukraine.

The second image, below, is said to show the remains of a Ukrainian drone that was shot down over the power station.

Ukraine has denied any involvement. 

Whoever is to blame, Rafael Grossi, head of the IAEA, has described the development as a "major escalation of the nuclear safety and security dangers" facing the plant.

More from Zaporizhzhia, and at least six people have been injured in a Russian missile attack on an industrial facility in the southern Ukrainian city, local authorities said.

Regional governor Ivan Fedorov did not say what sort of facility it was in a message on Telegram.

On Friday, an unidentified industrial facility there was struck in another Russian missile strike, killing four people.

Residential buildings were damaged too.

It is unclear whether Monday's strike was against the same site.

A Ukrainian drone fell on to the roof of a nuclear reactor at the Zaporizhzhia power station in southern Ukraine, Russia has claimed.

"Today, a kamikaze drone was shot down over the plant," the Russian-controlled plant said.

"It fell on the roof of unit six," it added, below a picture of reactor six, which it said had been shut down.

Russian forces took control of the plant in 2022 shortly after their invasion of Ukraine.

Ukraine has denied any involvement in a drone attack.

Earlier, Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), said there had been three "direct hits" on the plant.

One casualty was reported and "damage at unit six has not compromised nuclear safety", the IAEA said.

Mr Grossi said: "This is a major escalation of the nuclear safety and security dangers facing the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. 

"Such reckless attacks significantly increase the risk of a major nuclear accident and must cease immediately. 

"Attacking a nuclear power plant is an absolute no go."

US Treasury secretary Janet Yellen says she had "difficult conversations" about Ukraine on a four-day visit to China.

America is concerned that Chinese companies are supporting Russia in its military invasion of its neighbour.

Ms Yellen warned that any banks which facilitate the sale of military or dual-use goods to Russia could face US sanctions. 

"I stressed that companies, including those in the PRC [People's Republic of China], must not provide material support for Russia's war and that they will face significant consequences if they do," she said.

Asked about her warning, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the US should "not smear or attack the normal state-to-state relations between China and Russia and should not harm the legitimate rights and interests of China and Chinese enterprises". 

Ms Yellen, who formerly chaired the US Federal Reserve, met the governor of China's central bank, Pan Gongsheng, on Monday. 

Ukraine must "win this war" and if it loses, "we all lose", the foreign secretary and his French counterpart have warned.

Lord Cameron and Stephane Sejourne also said: "The costs of failing to support Ukraine now will be far greater than the costs of repelling Putin."

Writing a joint article in The Daily Telegraph, they said: "We must do more to ensure we defeat Russia. 

"The world is watching - and will judge us if we fail."

They added: "Britain and France are proud of the support we have provided to Ukraine, from unprecedented sanctions to co-ordinated deliveries of the first long-range missile systems, Scalp and Storm Shadow. 

"Just last month, the first Ukrainian pilots graduated from training with the Royal Air Force to start training with the Armée de l'air et de l'espace, as part of a programme to build up Ukraine's ability to fly modern F-16 fighter jets."

They went on: "Together, France and Britain will reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine at the European Political Community Summit, to be held at Blenheim Palace in July.  

"We will also ensure a productive Nato summit in Washington this summer."

Lord Cameron is visiting Washington this week, where he is expected to urge US politicians to approve a new package of aid for Ukraine.

These pictures show firefighters working at the site of a Russian air strike in Kharkiv.

Three people were wounded in the northeastern region of Ukraine, according to regional governor Oleh Syniehubov. 

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