Most Beautiful Train Trips in the US: Your Practical Guide

If you love seeing a country from the window of a moving train, the United States has a handful of routes that feel like a movie set. You don’t need a fancy rail pass – just a sense of adventure and a few days to spare.

Why Choose a Train for Scenic Travel?

Trains let you relax, stretch your legs, and enjoy uninterrupted views that you’d miss from a car or plane. You can read, snack, or chat while the landscape rolls by. Plus, many routes offer onboard narration or audio guides that point out historic sites and natural wonders.

Top Scenic Routes to Put on Your List

1. Amtrak’s California Zephyr – The Zephyr runs from Chicago to San Francisco, threading through the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and the deserts of Utah. Highlights include the Eagle River Gorge, the historic town of Glenwood Springs, and the breathtaking 10‑mile stretch of the Sierra Nevada where the train hugs the cliffs.

2. Amtrak’s Coast Starlight – This Pacific‑west classic travels from Seattle to Los Angeles. You’ll glide past Olympic National Park, the Cascade Range, and the iconic Pacific coastline near Santa Barbara. The best seats are on the left side between Portland and San Francisco for ocean views.

3. Adirondack (New York to Montreal) – Though it ends in Canada, the Adirondack’s U.S. portion is pure gold. Lakes, forests, and the Hudson River dominate the scenery. Keep an eye out for the historic Fort Edward and the dramatic cliffs at the Ausable Chasm.

4. Amtrak’s Empire Builder – Starting in Chicago and ending in Seattle/Portland, this route cuts through the Great Plains, the Mississippi River Valley, and the dramatic cliffs of the Glacier National Park. The section through the North Dakota Badlands is especially photogenic.

5. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief – Chicago to Los Angeles offers a mix of desert dunes, the Rio Grande, and the high deserts of New Mexico. The train passes through the historic town of Winslow, Arizona – perfect for a quick photo stop.

All these routes offer sleeping cars, dining options, and large windows, so you can stay comfortable on longer trips.

When you book, check for “coach‑plus” seats with extra legroom, and consider the “view” or “sleeper” upgrades if you want a private cabin. Early‑bird discounts are common, especially for trips booked 30 days in advance.

Don’t forget to pack a light blanket, a reusable water bottle, and a good pair of headphones for the onboard commentary. Most trains provide free Wi‑Fi, but it can be spotty in remote areas, so download any travel guides or maps beforehand.

Whether you’re chasing mountain peaks, coastal sunsets, or wide‑open plains, America’s rail network has a route that matches your mood. Pick one, grab a ticket, and let the rails take you on a scenic adventure you’ll remember for years.