The Most Stunning Train Journeys in North America

The rhythmic sound of the tracks, the hiss of steam, conductors in their uniforms—what’s not to love about traveling by train?

In a world where everything moves at lightning speed, embracing a slower mode of travel can be a refreshing and enjoyable experience.

Whether it’s a quick getaway or an epic cross-country adventure, these unforgettable train journeys across North America will take you on a nostalgic ride through history.

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

With lush evergreen forests, dramatic canyons, and rugged mountain peaks, a trip to the Rocky Mountains is an obvious choice.

Taking the journey aboard a coal-powered steam engine? Even better.

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, a National Historic Landmark, offers a journey back in time to the 1880s.

Along the 64-mile route, you’ll visit remote corners of Colorado and New Mexico that cars simply can’t reach.

With a top speed of just 12 mph, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the vibrant wildflowers and stunning canyon views without them blurring by.

The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway

There’s a reason Katharine Lee Bates wrote “America the Beautiful” at the summit of Colorado’s Pikes Peak: the view from 14,115 feet above sea level is absolutely breathtaking.

Expect snow-capped cliffs, sweeping alpine views, and the striking Garden of the Gods, a surreal collection of rock formations that look straight out of a Dr. Seuss book.

As the highest railroad in the Northern Hemisphere and one of only two cog railways in the U.S., a visit to the summit is a must. Be sure to stop by the visitor center for a taste of their famous high-altitude doughnuts, produced by a robotic machine that churns out 700 every hour.

For bragging rights, tackle the 14,115-foot climb yourself. You can always take the train back down afterward. Afterward, unwind at the Broadmoor’s Cloud Camp with a relaxing hot tub session and s’mores. Continue the adventure the next day with hiking, archery, and stargazing activities.

Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel

Not keen on hiking from rim to rim or navigating the wild waters of the Colorado River?

The Grand Canyon Railway offers a more relaxed yet equally thrilling way to experience the rugged beauty of the Wild West.

Since 1901, notable figures such as Theodore Roosevelt, Clark Gable, and Bill Gates have traveled aboard the Grand Canyon Railway to admire the breathtaking views of Grand Canyon National Park.

Even the train stations themselves are national historic landmarks, adding to the charm of the journey.

Boarding the train in Williams, Arizona, you’ll find yourself at the South Rim’s Historic Village a few hours later, with ample time to explore the wonders of the canyon.

Via Rail Canada

As you speed through the stunning Canadian Shield, prairies, and the towering Rocky Mountains, keep an eye out for wildlife such as grizzly bears, mountain goats, bison, and coyotes on this popular route from Toronto to Vancouver.

For over 60 years, travelers have been choosing Via Rail’s The Canadian, proving it’s a journey that never fails to impress.

The chefs change the menu daily, and the Canadian beer and wine tasting adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the journey.

Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to Red Rocks

The oversized windows on the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to Red Rocks route provide the perfect view for soaking in the spectacular landscape.

This two-day luxury excursion takes passengers through stunning canyons with towering, rugged rock walls.

The route between Glenwood Springs, Colorado, and Moab, Utah, is filled with sweeping mountain views, desert cliffs, and dramatic rock formations.

You might spot wildlife like deer, pronghorns, and eagles along the way, but one thing is guaranteed: The gourmet meals served by executive chefs are as breathtaking as the scenery.

Denali Star Train

Hop aboard the Denali Star Train operated by Alaska Railroad and journey to the iconic Denali National Park & Preserve.

On a clear day, the highlight of the trip is the majestic Denali, North America’s tallest peak, making the journey truly worth it.

The GoldStar Service is an upgrade worth considering, offering incredible views through its glass-domed windows.

In addition to Denali, other scenic stops along the route include Wasilla, Talkeetna, and Fairbanks.

Alternatively, you can take the Hurricane Turn, which operates both summer and winter routes. It’s one of the last remaining trains in the U.S. that still offers flagstop service – just wave to get on or off wherever you like.

Cascades

Glacier bays and rainforests. Check. Waterfalls and volcanoes. Check.

The Pacific Northwest is full of wonders. In just 11 hours, you’ll travel from Vancouver, B.C., to Eugene, Oregon aboard the Amtrak Cascades train.

Watch seaplanes touch down in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour. In Seattle, be sure to check out the Experience Music Project Museum.

In Tacoma, you can marvel at the glass blowers in action at the Museum of Glass.

Upon reaching Portland, head straight to the world’s largest bookstore, where prices can vary throughout the year.

Coast Starlight

On the Coast Starlight, you’ll journey from LA to Seattle, passing through iconic stops like Santa Barbara, the San Francisco Bay Area, Sacramento, and Portland.

At San Luis Obispo, take a detour with a local sommelier and driver to explore one of the area’s 30 wineries.

At the San Luis Obispo stop, you can opt for a wine-tasting adventure, with 30 local wineries to choose from.

In Chico, California, enjoy some of the best craft beers, then prepare to snap a photo when you reach Crater Lake, where you’ll travel through the stunning Cascades at 5,000 feet.

Other must-see sights include Mt. Shasta, Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainier, and endless stretches of the Pacific coastline. Ticket prices fluctuate depending on the season.

California Zephyr

If you’ve got over two full days to spare – 51 hours and 20 minutes, to be exact – Amtrak’s California Zephyr route from Emeryville, California, to Chicago offers a scenic journey through the Sierra Nevada and the Rockies.

When you stop in Truckee, California, take a hike through the breathtaking Tahoe National Forest.

In Salt Lake City, Utah, make sure to leave some time to try bobsledding at Olympic Park. Prices change depending on the travel dates.