Incredible Train Excursions Traversing America's Miles
Embark on an unforgettable journey as we explore some of the most spectacular train trips across the United States. These journeys offer a unique blend of scenic beauty, historical charm, and the opportunity to witness some of the country's most iconic landmarks.
First on our list is the **Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad** in West Virginia. This three-hour trip from Romney to the Trough offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the surrounding countryside. Known for its historic charm, this railroad is also famous for the potential sightings of bald eagles soaring above[1].
Next, we travel to Colorado for the **Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad**. This nine-hour round trip takes passengers through the stunning San Juan Mountains, providing awe-inspiring mountain views[3].
In Arizona, the **Grand Canyon Railway** offers a scenic journey into the Grand Canyon from Williams. With various service levels available, this trip promises an unforgettable experience[3].
For those seeking longer journeys, the **California Zephyr** and the **Empire Builder** are not to be missed. The California Zephyr, a famous train journey often ranking among the best in the world, travels from Chicago to San Francisco in approximately 51 hours[2]. This journey offers opportunities for exploring iconic cities like San Francisco and weekend getaways in Northern California, such as Tuolumne County.
The Empire Builder, on the other hand, is a 46-hour journey from Chicago to Seattle or Portland, offering stunning views of the Midwest and Pacific Northwest, including the Rocky Mountains and Glacier National Park[2].
The Coast Starlight, Amtrak's most popular route, runs from Los Angeles to Seattle. This 36-hour journey provides scenic ocean and mountain views along the West Coast from California to Washington[4].
For those seeking a coast-to-coast adventure, the journey spans approximately 73 hours and involves two trains. The Amtrak Crescent is a 30-hour train ride from New York City's Penn Station to New Orleans, passing through thirteen states[5]. The Coast Starlight then continues the journey northward.
Lastly, the Denali Star route on The Alaska Railroad is a must-do for those visiting Alaska. This route runs from Anchorage to Fairbanks, offering spectacular mountain views, particularly in Denali National Park, one of the most spectacular mountain views in Alaska[6]. The Denali Star route includes crossing the Hurricane Gulch Bridge and views of Mount Denali, the tallest peak in the USA[6].
Please note that British citizens visiting the USA for a holiday do not need to apply for a visa, but can apply for an ESTA instead[7].
These top train trips in the United States offer a mix of scenic and long-distance journeys, each providing a unique and memorable experience. Whether you're seeking breathtaking mountain views, the vastness of the plains, or the beauty of the coastline, these train trips promise an unforgettable adventure.
[1] https://potomaceagle.info/ [2] https://www.amtrak.com/the-california-zephyr [3] https://www.grandcanyonrailway.com/ [4] https://www.amtrak.com/coast-starlight [5] https://www.amtrak.com/the-crescent [6] https://www.alaskarailroad.com/ [7] https://uk.usembassy.gov/visas-immigration/visa-bulletin/2021/visa-bulletin-for-june-2021/
- Exploring the United States can be an adventurous lifestyle choice, and travel via trains offers a unique blend of travel, adventure, and cultural experiences.
- Sightseeing trains like the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad in West Virginia provide travelers with the chance to experience stunning landscapes and potentially see bald eagles soaring above.
- For car-maintenance enthusiasts, considering electric vehicles could make a captivating part of an adventure-travel itinerary, as electric car charging stations are becoming increasingly accessible across the country.
- Budget-travelers can still enjoy the beauty of United States train travel by opting for less expensive routes like the Coast Starlight, Amtrak's most popular route, which runs from Los Angeles to Seattle.
- The Denali Star route on The Alaska Railroad merges adventure-travel, cultural-travel, and scenic beauty, with stops in Anchorage, Fairbanks, and spectacular mountain views in Denali National Park.
