Amtrak Has Reopened 3 Scenic Train Routes Across North America

If you’re searching for ways to escape the grid this summer, look no further! Amtrak is relaunching three enticing routes—two of which haven't run since the pandemic began, and one that hasn’t been regularly serviced since the 1940s.

Here are three breathtaking train journeys that Amtrak is bringing back along the East Coast, West Coast, and into Canada.

Adirondack Route from New York City to Montreal

After more than three years of suspension, Amtrak’s Adirondack service from New York City to Montreal resumed in April.

“Whether you’re enjoying the vibrancy of New York City, the culture of Montréal, or the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley and Lake Champlain region, the return of the Adirondack offers travelers a dependable, enjoyable, and eco-friendly way to journey,” stated Amtrak president Roger Harris. “We’re delighted to bring back one of the Northeast’s most cherished trains.” Amtrak collaborated with VIA Rail Canada to restore this route.

The Adirondack train departs daily from New York City’s Penn Station at 8:40 a.m. and reaches Montreal’s Gare Centrale at 8:15 p.m., taking almost 12 hours and stopping at 17 locations, including Albany-Rensselaer, Poughkeepsie, Saratoga Springs, and Schenectady. Heading south, it leaves Montreal at 11:10 a.m. and arrives back in New York at 10:15 p.m. One-way fares start at $70, and onboard amenities include Wi-Fi and a café car.

Berkshires Flyer from New York City to Pittsfield, Massachusetts

For the second summer, Amtrak is introducing a program that transports travelers from New York’s Penn-Moynihan Station to Pittsfield, Massachusetts, for a weekend escape.

“It’s a great option for those wanting to reach the Berkshires without the hassles of traffic or fuel costs,” said Jason Abrams, Amtrak’s senior public relations manager, to Dinogo. “Passengers can enjoy Wi-Fi and move about while taking in the scenic views from the comfort of the train.”

In comments made before the initial summer season pilot, Amtrak president and CEO Stephen Gardner noted that the new route provides “a more comfortable and convenient travel alternative that’s also more eco-friendly for those journeying between New York City and Berkshire County.”

The seasonal Berkshire Flyer train operates from May 26 to October 8, making six stops along the way, including popular tourist spots like Poughkeepsie, Hudson, and Albany. Each week, the train departs from New York City twice on Fridays: one at 11:20 a.m., arriving in Pittsfield at 4:30 p.m., and another at 3:15 p.m., reaching its final destination at 7:12 p.m. Ticket prices start at $58 and $45, respectively. Return journeys on Sundays include departures from Pittsfield at 3 p.m., arriving at 7:10 p.m., and another at 4:42 p.m., getting to New York City by 10:15 p.m., with tickets priced at $45 and $74, respectively.

Amtrak views this summer as a second pilot season, and if the route gains popularity, it may become a permanent fixture. Abrams mentioned to Dinogo that regular service from New York City to Pittsfield hasn’t existed since the 1940s.

Cascades route connecting Portland to Vancouver

In March, Amtrak launched direct daily services between Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Canada, marking the first time since the pandemic began. The Cascades Train makes stops at 12 locations, including Seattle, Edmonds, Everett, Stanwood, Mount Vernon, and Bellington in Washington State.

Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner stated, "By increasing staffing and equipment in the area, we can once again provide our customers with a direct link between Portland and Canada."

Covering nearly 200 miles, this route traces the Pacific coastline, offering continuous views of the Cascade and Olympic Mountains. The trip departs Portland at 3:05 p.m., arrives in Seattle at 7 p.m., and reaches Vancouver, BC, by 11 p.m. Heading south, the train leaves Vancouver at 6:35 a.m., stops in Seattle at 11 a.m., and gets to Portland by 2:55 p.m.