What is the #1 Luxury Train Journey in the USA?

When someone asks about the #1 scenic drive in the USA, they’re usually thinking of roads like Pacific Coast Highway. But if we’re talking about train journeys, the answer is different. The US doesn’t have luxury trains like Europe’s Orient Express. Instead, Amtrak’s routes offer incredible scenery. The California Zephyr is the standout. Let’s break down why this route is considered the best.

Why 'Scenic Drive' Is a Misleading Term for Train Journeys

First, let’s clear up a common confusion. A scenic drive refers to road trips where you drive yourself through beautiful landscapes. But trains are a completely different experience. They’re not drives-they’re rail journeys. So when we talk about the best train route in the US, we’re not talking about a drive at all. The California Zephyr is often called the most scenic train journey in the country. Let’s see why.

The California Zephyr Route: From Chicago to San Francisco

The California Zephyr runs 2,438 miles between Chicago and San Francisco. It takes about 51 hours. Along the way, it passes through Rocky Mountains, a major mountain range in North America, the Sierra Nevada, a mountain range in California, and the Colorado River, a major river in the southwestern US. The train climbs to over 9,000 feet in the Rockies, offering panoramic views.

How It Compares to Other Amtrak Routes

Why the California Zephyr Isn't Luxury-But Still the Best

Amtrak doesn’t offer luxury train services like those in Europe. There are no private cabins with butlers or fine dining like the Orient Express. However, the California Zephyr’s First Class service includes meals and comfortable seats. The real luxury here is the scenery itself. You don’t need fancy amenities when you’re watching snow-capped peaks and canyons pass by outside your window. In fact, many travelers say the natural beauty outweighs any lack of luxury.

Planning Your California Zephyr Trip

• Book early: Amtrak’s First Class seats sell out fast, especially for the scenic sections.
• Best time to travel: Spring and fall offer the best weather. Winter brings snow in the Rockies, which is stunning but can delay trains.
• Choose the right car: The Sightseer Lounge has floor-to-ceiling windows for optimal views. Book a seat there if possible.
• Bring a camera: The views are incredible. You’ll want to capture every moment.

Common Misconceptions

Some people think the Grand Canyon Railway, a tourist train in Arizona is more scenic. But it’s a short 65-mile ride from Williams to the Grand Canyon. It’s great for a day trip but doesn’t compare to the California Zephyr’s multi-day journey. Similarly, the Pacific Surfliner, running from San Diego to San Luis Obispo offers coastal views but lacks the mountainous drama of the Zephyr.

What Makes This Journey Unique?

Unlike European luxury trains, the California Zephyr is all about the journey itself. You’ll see the Colorado River carving through red-rock canyons, watch the Sierra Nevada mountains turn golden at sunset, and pass through the Rocky Mountains where eagles soar alongside the tracks. No other US train route combines such diverse landscapes in one trip.