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The Most Scenic Train Rides Across the America

Steve Jennifer
Updated: Feb 16, 2024

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Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with America's finest train rides! Glide through breathtaking landscapes, from majestic mountains to peaceful lakes, all while lounging in the comfort of your train seat. These celebrated routes are not just about the views—they come with fantastic amenities to make your journey as pleasant as the destinations themselves. Whether you're after a short escape or a lengthy voyage across states, there's a train tour perfectly suited to showcase the stunning beauty of America's scenery. Jump on board and let the rails guide you to some of the most awe-inspiring sights the country has to offer. It's more than a trip it's a unique way to witness the wonders of the U.S.

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01. Cascade Canyon Express

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The Cascade Canyon Express offers a journey through Colorado's stunning landscapes, departing from Durango. This train ride provides panoramic views of the Animas River and the expansive San Juan National Forest. Ideal for nature lovers, the route showcases the vibrant ecosystems and diverse colors of the region. It stands out as a premier choice for those seeking scenic train rides across the United States, offering a memorable adventure through Colorado's natural splendor.

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02. Pacific Surfliner

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The Pacific Surfliner route, stretching from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, presents a unique opportunity to witness California's coastal beauty. This train journey offers views of the Pacific Ocean and stops in both small coastal towns and major cities like Los Angeles. The blend of serene beachscapes and urban vistas provides a comprehensive view of California's diverse landscapes, making it a must-see for travelers interested in exploring the state's coastline.

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03. Empire Builder

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Setting out on the Empire Builder train carries passengers from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, crossing through historical paths and wide-ranging views of America's expansive landscapes. The trip showcases sights of the Mississippi River, the Rocky Mountains, and the Great Plains. This path is renowned for its historical importance and the stunning scenery it provides, serving as a tribute to the natural splendor and historical wealth of the United States.

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04. California Zephyr

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The California Zephyr is renowned for its stunning journey from Chicago to San Francisco, crossing the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada. Passengers are treated to views of canyons, deserts, and valleys, offering a visual feast of America's diverse geography. This train ride is considered one of the most beautiful in North America, showcasing the unparalleled beauty of the American landscape.

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05. Capitol Limited

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Connecting Washington, D.C., to Chicago, the Capitol Limited offers a scenic route through the Potomac Valley, the Allegheny Mountains, and urban centers like Pittsburgh and Cleveland. This journey provides a mix of natural landscapes and urban environments, offering a unique perspective on American life and the beauty of its diverse regions.

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06. Sunset Limited

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The Sunset Limited's historic route from New Orleans to Los Angeles takes passengers through Louisiana's bayous, Texas's deserts, and Arizona's mountains. This train ride offers a deep dive into the American landscape's soul, showcasing its varied ecosystems and cultural richness. It's a journey that captures the essence of the American spirit and the diversity of its landscapes.

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07. City of New Orleans

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Riding the City of New Orleans from Chicago to the heart of the Mississippi Delta offers a cultural journey through the American South. This route highlights the region's historic sites, vibrant music scenes, and lush landscapes, connecting the urban north with the soulful south. It's a journey that celebrates the cultural and natural beauty of the Mississippi Delta and its significant impact on American culture.

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08. Texas Eagle

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The Texas Eagle journey from Chicago to San Antonio spans the American Midwest and Southwest, offering views of Missouri's hills and Texas's vast plains. This route provides insights into America's heartland, showcasing its history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a comprehensive journey through the diverse landscapes and historical sites that define the American Midwest and Southwest.

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09. Adirondack

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The Adirondack train from New York City to Montreal offers stunning views of the Hudson Valley and Adirondack Mountains, especially captivating during the autumn season. This journey is a celebration of the Northeast's natural beauty, showcasing the vibrant colors and serene landscapes that define the region. It's a route that highlights the natural splendor of the Hudson Valley and the Adirondacks, making it a favorite for those seeking scenic beauty.

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10. Auto Train

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Unique for allowing passengers to travel with their vehicles, the Auto Train from Lorton, Virginia, to Sanford, Florida, offers views of the East Coast's diverse landscapes. This journey combines convenience with scenic beauty, providing a unique way to experience the rural and urban landscapes of the East Coast. It's a convenient and scenic option for travelers heading south.

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11. Heartland Flyer

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The Heartland Flyer's journey from Oklahoma City to Fort Worth passes through the core of cowboy country, displaying the prairies and vast expanses of the American Southwest. This trip provides a view into the area's history and natural allure, honoring the essence of the American West and its emblematic landscapes.

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12. Maple Leaf

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Crossing the U.S.-Canada border, the Maple Leaf from New York City to Toronto offers views of Niagara Falls, combining urban landscapes with natural wonders. This cross-border journey highlights the beauty of North America, offering a unique experience that showcases the majesty of Niagara Falls and the urban diversity of the regions it connects.

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