In the United States, there are over 30 train routes with over 500 destinations within 46 states. Some of these trains cover over 1,000 miles in one trip. While some of these routes are only for freight shipments, others are for train journey enthusiasts who love scenic routes through the country. Known for their stunning views and unique experiences, here are the top 10 train Routes in the U.S.
California Zephyr (Amtrak)
Route – Starting in Chicago, Illinois, making its way through Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and ending the journey in Emeryville, California.
Details – One of the most Scenic routes, California Zephyr, ran by Amtrak, covers over 2,400 miles in about 51 hours. Perfect for the amount of photography, relaxation, and adventure over the length of the trip, this route is famous for taking passengers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes, such as the Great Plains of Nebraska and the Colorado River Canyons of Denver and Grand Junction, making this journey an epic cross-country train trip.
Empire Builder (Amtrak)
Route – Leaving Chicago, Illinois, traveling through Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Montana and arriving between Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon.
Details – Known to be one of Amtrak’s most famous long-distance train routes, the Empire Builder is a 2,200-mile journey that will be unforgettable. Experience the Great Plains of the Midwest and travel through the U.S’s longest train tunnel – the Cascade Tunnel. Summer and Fall are the best times to ride this train, you get to make memories you will never forget while getting to see these stunning views.
Coast Starlight (Amtrak)
Route – Running between Seattle, Washington down the coast to Los Angeles, California.
Details – The Coast Starlight, with its Pacific Ocean views, towering mountains, and lush forests, this 35-hour train ride travels through Washington, Oregon, and much of California. Between San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara, hugging the coastlines gives travelers many beautiful views of the bright blue ocean. Through Oregon and Northern California, you travel through snow-capped peaks and dense forests.
Southwest Chief (Amtrak)
Route – Starting in Chicago, Illinois, passing through Missouri, Kansas, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and ending the trip in Los Angeles, California.
Details – Traveling over 2,200 miles in about 40 hours, the Southwest Chief is one of Amtrak’s historic and scenic train routes. Taking passengers through Arizona and New Mexico’s red rock country, the Sante Fe Railway and the Old West Trails, and even stopping in Flagstaff, Arizona to enjoy the Grand Canyon Railway as a unique side trip.
Sunset Limited (Amtrak)
Route – Running between New Orleans, Louisiana, making its way through Texas, Arizona, and ending the journey in Los Angeles, California.
Details – An awe-inspiring journey through bayous, deserts, mountains, and historic Southwestern towns, making the Sunset Limited a diverse and scenic train ride. Being roughly 2,000 miles, in about 48 hours, you get to experience the lush swamps of the Mississippi River, to wide-open desert views of the Texas and Arizona deserts, through the rugged Southwest. This train is perfect for anyone who loves southern history and a touch of adventure.
The Adirondack (Amtrak)
Route – Traveling from New York, New York to Montreal, Canada
Details – If you love stunning views, charming towns, and peaceful train rides, then the Adirondack is for you. Hugging the Hudson River, you get to enjoy riverfront views, along with seeing one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the Northeast. Running through all times of the year, each season gives you a different experience. Fall with breathtaking colors of the fall foliage season, Spring and Summer with the green forests, and winter with the snow-covered mountains, giving a cozy and holiday-seasoned atmosphere.
The Crescent (Amtrak)
Route – Running from New York, New York, all the way to New Orleans, Louisiana.
Details – Offering a scenic journey through the Southern U.S., the Crescent provides passengers with a unique glimpse of the diverse landscapes in under 1,400 miles. With a great blend of urban stops, such as Washington, D.C. and Birmingham, Alabama, and beautiful landscapes and countrysides, like the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains, this train ride is perfect for those looking for the perfect amount of historic stops and Southern Charm.
The Rocky Mountaineer (Luxury)
Routes – First Passage to the West; Vancouver, BC to Banff, AB (Canada), Journey Through the Clouds; Vancouver, BC to Jasper, AB (Canada), Coast to Coast; Seattle, Washington to Vancouver, BC, and lastly Rockies to the Red Rocks; Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah
Details – The Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train journey taking passengers to some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in North America, is a perfect way to experience a world-renowned luxury train that offers many scenic and jaw-dropping views. Depending on the route the journey can take 2 to 3 days. With exclusive routes and luxury services, this train is for those looking to travel in style while getting to explore the beauty of the Rockies
To book any of these unique train routes, such as the Rocky Mountaineer or the Empire Builder, reach out through our “Contact” page. For more inquiries about similar train rides, you can email us at “quoterequest@utahluxurytours.com” or call us at (435) 940-4212.
You can also check out our “blog” page for other tours you might be interested in touring too!
