Mesmerizing Train Routes in the United States

1. California Zephyr

The California Zephyr is often called one of the most beautiful train journeys in North America. This route, run by Amtrak, goes from Chicago to Emeryville, California, near San Francisco. The journey is over 2,400 miles and takes about 51 hours. It passes through seven states: Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, and California.

The highlights of this journey include the majestic Rocky Mountains, the breathtaking Sierra Nevada, and the expansive Great Plains. Passengers can see dramatic changes in scenery, from city landscapes to remote wilderness. The trip through the Rockies, with its towering peaks and deep gorges, is particularly stunning, especially as the train winds through the Moffat Tunnel and the Colorado River canyons.

2. Empire Builder

Another iconic route is the Empire Builder, which stretches from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, ending in Seattle and Portland. This journey covers about 2,200 miles and takes about 46 hours. The route follows parts of the Lewis and Clark Trail, offering a historical dimension to the scenic beauty.

Travelers on the Empire Builder can marvel at the vast expanse of the northern plains, the dense forests of Minnesota and Wisconsin, and the towering Cascade Range. One of the most spectacular segments is the passage through Glacier National Park in Montana, where passengers are treated to views of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife.

3. Coast Starlight

The Coast Starlight route, running from Seattle to Los Angeles, is known for its stunning coastal scenery. Covering about 1,377 miles, the journey takes about 35 hours. The route hugs the Pacific coastline, offering panoramic views of the ocean, beaches, and cliffs.

Highlights of the Coast Starlight include the Cascade Mountains, the lush Willamette Valley, and the dramatic Santa Lucia Mountains. The section of the journey between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo is particularly noteworthy, with the train running right along the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Sunset views over the ocean are simply unforgettable.

4. Sunset Limited

The Sunset Limited is the oldest named train in the United States, with a history dating back to 1894. This route travels from New Orleans to Los Angeles, covering about 1,995 miles and taking around 48 hours. The journey crosses the southern states of Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, offering a taste of the American Southwest.

Passengers on the Sunset Limited can enjoy the vibrant landscapes of the Sonoran Desert, the Rio Grande Valley, and the rugged mountains of West Texas. The route also provides glimpses of historic missions, expansive ranches, and charming small towns. The sunset over the desert is a highlight of this journey, casting a warm glow over the arid landscape.

5. Adirondack

For those looking to explore the northeastern United States, the Adirondack route from New York City to Montreal is a perfect choice. This 381-mile journey takes about 10 hours and offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. The train travels along the Hudson River Valley, providing stunning views of the river, the Catskill Mountains, and the Adirondack Mountains.

In the fall, the Adirondack route becomes even more enchanting as the foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. The journey through the Adirondack Park is particularly scenic, with pristine lakes, dense forests, and rolling hills. As the train approaches Montreal, passengers can enjoy views of the St. Lawrence River and the city skyline.

6. Southwest Chief

The Southwest Chief route from Chicago to Los Angeles is another mesmerizing journey, spanning about 2,265 miles and taking about 40 hours. This route traverses the heart of the American West, offering a diverse range of landscapes, from the fertile plains of Illinois and Kansas to the arid deserts of New Mexico and Arizona.

One of the most scenic portions of the Southwest Chief is the passage through the Raton Pass in the Rocky Mountains. The train climbs steep grades and navigates sharp curves, offering spectacular views of rugged canyons and lush valleys. Another highlight is the passage through the desert landscapes of New Mexico, with its striking red rock formations and wide-open spaces.

7. Crescent

The Crescent route, running from New York City to New Orleans, covers about 1,377 miles and takes about 30 hours. This journey offers a rich tapestry of cultural and natural sights as it travels through the southeastern United States. Passengers can experience the bustling cities of the Northeast, the lush landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains, and the vibrant culture of the Deep South.

The journey through the Shenandoah Valley is particularly beautiful, with its rolling hills, picturesque farms, and historic towns. As the train continues south, it passes through the dense pine forests and swamps of Alabama and Mississippi. The final leg of the journey takes passengers along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain before arriving in the lively city of New Orleans.