steam train trips october 2023

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Westward Bound Tour

Union Pacific's legendary Big Boy No. 4014 , the world’s largest operating steam locomotive built to conquer mountains, will make 19 whistle-stops in five states this summer during its 2024 Westward Bound Tour from Wyoming to California. In addition, this mighty steam locomotive will be on public display for two days each in Roseville, California, July 12-13, and Ogden, Utah, July 20-21.

Big Boy will leave its home base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, on June 30, traveling across Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, California and Idaho during July. Display days in Roseville and Ogden offer an up-close look at the 1.1-million-pound marvel along with the "Experience the Union Pacific" rail car, a captivating walk-through exhibition that provides a unique glimpse into the rich history of railroading.

During the tour, the Union Pacific Museum will host a special, sold-out passenger trip from Roseville to Sparks, Nevada. The unique experience is the annual gala fundraiser for the nonprofit organization and provides a rare opportunity to travel on this historic heritage equipment. More information on this sold-out excursion is available at www.UPtraintix.org . 

Westward Bound Tour Schedule

Come see Big Boy No. 4014 at the listed public whistle-stop locations, as well as during display hours in Roseville, California and Ogden, Utah.  Please be aware there is no public access to the Big Boy outside these listed stops.

Note: All schedule times and locations are subject to change. Please check back periodically for updates.

You can also view the route on our interactive Steam Location Tracking map.

Key Definitions 

On Display Admission to display days are free (no tickets required), though parking at surrounding parking facilities may involve a charge. These are the best times to see the Big Boy.

Viewing Only Locations where fans can safely view the Big Boy. In some cases, the Big Boy will be displayed behind a fence or other perimeter. 

Passenger Excursion  Opportunities to ride are rare, but when they are available as a fundraiser for charitable groups, they are listed on this schedule. Any passenger excursion tickets are sold by outside entities -- not Union Pacific -- and are not available on the day of the excursion.

Overnight Stops Locations where the Big Boy stops overnight are closed to the public due to safety and security reasons, unless otherwise noted on the schedule. Non-employees who access these locations without permission will be treated as trespassers.

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Heartland of America Tour

Big Boy No. 4014 will depart on the "Heartland of America Tour" on Thursday, Aug. 29 from Cheyenne, Wyoming, and travel across nine additional states: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. The eight-week tour concludes in late October. No. 4014 will be on display in the following locations:  

• Sunday, Sept. 8: Rochelle, Illinois (Chicago metro area)
• Sunday, Oct. 6: Houston, Texas
• Thursday/Friday, Oct. 10-11: Fort Worth, Texas

Additional route details with additional whistle stops, display locations and times will be shared closer to the tour. In all, Big Boy No. 4014 will visit 14 states in 2024, including five states during this summer's "Westward Bound" tour from Wyoming to California.

Union Pacific Steam Club

To be notified when news about Union Pacific's legendary steam program becomes available, join the Official Union Pacific Steam Club at http://UP.com/SteamClub !  Steam club members always get notified first when news about Union Pacific's steam program is released!

Future Schedules

Last fall, we had anticipated including Boise, Idaho, and Portland, Oregon on the Westward Bound tour. As planning continued, we determined that the network capacity on our northern corridor could not accommodate Big Boy No. 4014 along with anticipated demand on a single track. Our goal is to share the Big Boy with as many rail fans as possible across our network, and we look forward to seeing everyone track side – 25 feet back this summer and fall.

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611 Steam Excursions In Virginia

Wednesday, August 8, 2023

August 2, 2023 — The Virginia Museum of Transportation, Inc. (VMT) and the Virginia Scenic Railway (VSR) are excited to jointly announce that the Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 steam passenger locomotive will be operating a series of specially scheduled passenger excursions later this fall within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The sleek and powerful Class J locomotives, designed and built in Roanoke by the Norfolk & Western Railway, were widely hailed as the finest steam passenger locomotives in the world. The 1950 Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 is the sole surviving member of fourteen Class J locomotives produced and is owned and operated by VMT as a traveling exhibit, showcasing the legacy and craftmanship of Virginia’s railroad workers.

The 611 will remain in Roanoke for preparation and maintenance and its annual Federal Railway Administration inspections. Following that work, public excursions behind 611 on the VSR track will begin.

The VSR is delighted to host these 611 excursions, which will be operating twice daily as the Shenandoah Valley Limited throughout October and November 2023. Upon boarding the train in Goshen, Virginia, guests will travel eastward through the fall foliage of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, into the rolling hills of the Shenandoah Valley where the train will pause without disembarking, to be joined by a pair of diesel locomotives for the return trip back to Goshen.

We are delighted to help make this run possible,” says Steve Powell, President of the Virginia Scenic Railway. “We love trains and railroad history, and we look forward to partnering with the Virginia Museum of Transportation to host the legendary 611 and bring the steam engine roaring to life in the Shenandoah Valley. This is one of the prettiest routes around, and we are excited to share it.”

Tickets will be available for purchase by the general public in mid-August via Virginia Scenic Railway’s website (virginiascenicrailway.com). Seating options will include Coach, Premium Coach, First Class, and Dome Classes, ranging from $99.00 to $249.00 per seat. Sign up on VSR’s or VMT’s (vmt.org) website to be among the first to know when tickets are available.

“We are excited for the opportunity to partner with Virginia Scenic Railway. These excursions will have a major tourism impact on the region and showcase Virginia’s Rail Heritage to visitors near and far.” said Mendy Flynn, Executive Director of the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

611’s Excursion Schedule

The Shenandoah Valley Limited will depart at 9:00 AM and 2:30 PM on the following dates:

• October 6 – 8
• October 13 – 15
• October 20 – 22
• October 27 – 2 9
• November 3 – 5

For more information about the Shenandoah Valley Limited, please contact Mendy Flynn or Steve Powell.

About the Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 The Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 is owned and operated by the Virginia Museum of Transportation, Inc. Built in Norfolk & Western’s Roanoke Shops on May 29, 1950, the locomotive operated in passenger revenue service from 1950-1959. Designated by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) as a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, it is the sole survivor of the fourteen Class J locomotives built by Norfolk & Western. From 1982 to 1994, the locomotive was operated in excursion service and later placed on display at the Virginia Museum of Transportation where it remained in storage until 2015 when it underwent an extensive restoration. Following the restoration, VMT has continued to operate 611 as a traveling exhibit.

About the Virginia Museum of Transportation The Virginia Museum of Transportation, Inc. is the Commonwealth of Virginia’s official transportation museum. It houses the largest collection of locomotives in the Mid-Atlantic region including the famed N&W Class J 611 and the N&W Class A 1218. It’s also home to model trains, a complete automotive gallery with vehicles from the 1900’s to present, and aviation exhibits including a Jupiter Rocket.

About the Virginia Scenic Railway Operated by the Buckingham Branch Railroad (the largest short-line railroad in Virginia with four divisions and 280 miles of track), the Virginia Scenic Railway offers the state’s only regularly scheduled sightseeing excursion service.

Get Your Ticket To Ride

Aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway, you’ll get a front-row seat to some of Virginia’s prettiest views, including the legendary Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Depending on the excursion you choose, you’ll roar through tunnels, speed over bridges, race past scenic fields and forests, and climb over mountains.

Emergencies related to train tracks or crossings: 866-244-4529

© 2024 Virginia Scenic Railway | Owned and Operated By Buckingham Branch Railroad

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Steam Train Trips, Tours and Rides

Day Trips Including A Steam Engine

Picture: Paul Nicholson

Steam Train Trips, Tours and Rides 2023/2024

While we do not run or book any steam train trips or rides, we try and identify in the below list the majority of steam train day trips and tours operating on the rail network for 2023 and 2024. Note that parts of the journey may be intentionally pulled by a diesel or electric locomotive.

Please check / confirm on the promoters website for cancellations and steam traction / other changes to these trips, particularly with the upcoming strikes.

The Pick Up Area section indicates the rough area of pick ups. See promoters website for exact details

During hot dry periods it is possible steam engines may be replaced by diesel or electric locomotives

While we do not run or book any steam train trips or rides, we try and identify in the below list the majority of steam train day trips and tours operating on the rail network for 2023. Note that parts of the journey may be intentionally pulled by a diesel or electric locomotive.

"All Trips" selected - click other options to filter

The Scarborough Spa Express Event

The scarborough spa express, thu 27th june 2024, pick ups between :, carnforth & york.

Engines Involved: Steam

The Golden Age of Travel by Steam Event

The golden age of travel by steam, london victoria, the cheshireman event, the cheshireman, sat 29th june 2024, rail touring company, london euston & nuneaton, the shakesphere express event, the shakesphere express, sun 30th june 2024, vintage trains, worcester shrub hill & droitwich spa, the dalesman event, the dalesman, tue 2nd july 2024, chester & preston.

Engines Involved: Steam / Other

Settle & Carlisle Fellsman Event

Settle & carlisle fellsman, wed 3rd july 2024, saphos trains, blackpool north & clitheroe, the north wales coast express event, the north wales coast express, sat 6th july 2024, london euston & crewe.

Engines Involved: Steam / Electric

English Riveria Express Event

English riveria express, northampton & watford junction.

Engines Involved: Steam / Diesel or Electric

The White Rose To York & Scarborough Event

The white rose to york & scarborough, birmingham new street & york, the waverley event, the waverley, sun 7th july 2024, york & skipton, the end of southern steam event, the end of southern steam, tue 9th july 2024, london victoria & basingstoke.

Engines Involved: Steam / Diesel

Thu 11th July 2024

The golden hind event, the golden hind, milton keynes central & maidenhead, the white rose event, the white rose, sat 13th july 2024, london kings cross & peterborough, the cumbrian mountain express event, the cumbrian mountain express, crewe & preston, sun 14th july 2024, liverpool lime street & chester, leicester & coleshill parkway, pendle dalesman event, pendle dalesman, tue 16th july 2024, lancaster & clitheroe, thu 18th july 2024, the west somerset steam express event, the west somerset steam express, sat 20th july 2024, london paddington & newbury, bedford & reading, sun 21st july 2024, birmingham snow hill & stratford upon avon, tue 23rd july 2024, the dorset coast express event, the dorset coast express, wed 24th july 2024, settle & carlisle steam special event, settle & carlisle steam special, sat 27th july 2024, northern belle, coventry & crewe, the royal duchy event, the royal duchy, sun 28th july 2024, bristol temple meads & exeter st davids, wed 31st july 2024, thu 1st august 2024, sat 3rd august 2024, london euston & preston, wolverhampton & bristol temple meads, sun 4th august 2024, tue 6th august 2024, the kentish belle event, the kentish belle, wed 7th august 2024, london victoria & bromley south, thu 8th august 2024, sat 10th august 2024, high wycombe & bristol temple meads, leeds & manchester victoria, sun 11th august 2024, thu 15th august 2024, sat 17th august 2024, poole & westbury, lincoln & wakefield, sun 18th august 2024, sat 24th august 2024, the cotswold venturer event, the cotswold venturer, london victoria & didcot, slough & westbury, sun 25th august 2024, wed 28th august 2024, thu 29th august 2024, the lakelander event, the lakelander, sat 31st august 2024, hereford & preston, hull & wakefield, sun 1st september 2024, tue 3rd september 2024, wed 4th september 2024, welsh marches express event, welsh marches express, bournmouth & bristol temple meads, thu 5th september 2024, the stratford flyer event, the stratford flyer, sat 7th september 2024, norwich & peterborough, sun 8th september 2024, the swanage belle event, the swanage belle, wed 11th september 2024, crewe & clitheroe, thu 12th september 2024, sat 14th september 2024, liverpool lime street & preston, tue 17th september 2024, thu 19th september 2024, the cumbrian coast express event, the cumbrian coast express, sat 21st september 2024, the coast to coast express event, the coast to coast express, liverpool lime street & sheffield, the golden arrow event, the golden arrow, birmingham international & watford junction, telford & chester, wed 25th september 2024, shrewsbury & bristol temple meads, thu 26th september 2024, the atlantic coast express event, the atlantic coast express, sat 28th september 2024, london waterloo & basingstoke, wed 2nd october 2024, peterborough & potters bar, thu 3rd october 2024, sat 5th october 2024, norwich & shenfield, wed 9th october 2024, worcester shrub hill & bristol temple meads, sat 19th october 2024, coventry & chester, sun 20th october 2024, sat 26th october 2024, nottingham & sheffield.

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Magical journeys.

Magical journeys await! Whatever your heart desires, we have a carefully crafted journey and route that's destined to ignite your imagination. Each route is a gateway to a world of wonder, promising unique experiences, scenic beauty, and cherished memories.

REFINE JOURNEYS

The Garden of England Lunchtime Tour

Sunset Steam Express

Haywards Heath & Three Bridges to Oxford

London to Exeter

Southend to Chester

London & Chiltern Hills to Bath

London to Goodwood Revival & Chichester

Sussex Coast Tour

London to York Christmas Market

London to Bath Christmas Market

Southend to Bath Christmas Market

East Anglia to Chester Christmas Market

• The Jacobite
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• Scarborough Spa Express
• Lune Rivers Trust

2024 Season - At present we do not have any seats available to book. We are monitoring this on a daily basis and will update this page should we have any availability.

Please stay tuned for updates on our news page regarding when bookings will fully reopen.

2024 Season

Fort william to mallaig return,     please see the important announcement regarding the jacobite service, morning service:.

Running from Thursday 28th March to Friday 25th October 2024 (seven days per week)

Afternoon Service:

Running from Monday 6th May to Friday 27th September 2024 (seven days per week)  (some of the afternoon trips have been cancelled, please see the news article: by clicking here for details)

Described as the greatest railway journey in the world, this 84 mile round trip takes you past a list of impressive extremes. Starting near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, it visits Britain's most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig; passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain, Loch Morar and the shortest river in Britain, River Morar, finally arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis!

The train stops en route to Mallaig at the village of Glenfinnan (see below and subject to time permitting). Beyond Glenfinnan are the beautiful villages of Lochailort, Arisaig, Morar and Mallaig. You may alight at Arisaig by request to the guard. From here, on a clear summer's day, you can see the "Small Isles" of Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and the southern tip of Skye. The train continues on from here passing Morar and the silvery beaches used in the films "Highlander" and "Local Hero".

MALLAIG IS OUR DESTINATION

But as the travelling is as much a part of the experience as the arrival we hope you enjoy this spectacular railway journey, regarded as one of the greatest in the world.

FORT WILLIAM

Fort William, the largest town in the Highlands and situated at the southern end of the Great Glen, lies in the shadow of Ben Nevis, Britains highest mountain. This area is a fine location to use as a base to discover the West Highlands.

We cross the 21-arched Glenfinnan viaduct (a location made famous in the Harry Potter films) which overlooks Loch Shiel and the Jacobite monument. The train may pause on the viaduct, time permitting, to allow you to take in the magnificent view. Subject to time permitting, we will stop at Glenfinnan station. Once stopped in Glenfinnan there will be time to stretch your legs and, if you wish, visit the West Highland Railway Museum located in the restored station building. The Jacobite may also stop at Arisaig by request to the guard.

The village of Arisaig (the Safe Place) is centred on the sheltered shore of Loch nan Ceall (Loch of the Cells). From this very tranquil village it is possible to take the boat, The Sheerwater to the Small Isles (until mid September). The local Highland Games takes place here annually on the last Wednesday in July at Traigh Farm.

The end of the line, Mallaig was founded during the 1840s when the owner of the North Morar Estate, Lord Lovat, divided up the farm on the coast here into a series of parcels of land and encouraged his tenants living around Loch Morar and Loch Nevis to resettle in what became Mallaig and establish a fishing village. Today Mallaig is a busy fishing port and ferry terminal with services to Skye, the Small Isles and to the Knoydart Peninsula to visit Inverie and the most remote pub on mainland Britain, The Old Forge. In addition, you can board MV Western Isles for a scenic Wildlife Cruise. Arriving in Mallaig we have over an hour and a half to enjoy a walk round and take in the atmosphere: there are shops, bars, restaurants and plenty of fish and chips to be enjoyed during the lunchtime stopover.

Trains Rides Are the Best Way to See Fall Foliage. Try One of These 13 Trips.

This autumn, take in striking fall colors from alaska to the alps on these scenic train trips in the united states and abroad..

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Peak fall foliage season will be here before you know it in the United States and beyond. Instead of going on the same drive you do every year, consider ditching the car to take in the changing scenery from the comfort of a train. Here are 13 of our favorite fall foliage train rides to try for a new perspective on leaf peeping .

Take New Hampshire’s Conway Scenic Railroad through the Crawford Notch pass in the White Mountains this fall.

Photo by Shutterstock

1. Conway Scenic Railroad Mountaineer

• Route: North Conway to Fabyan, New Hampshire
• Book now: conwayscenic.com
• Round-trip duration: 5.5 hours

On the Conway Scenic Railroad Mountaineer’s 1950s-era streamlined passenger cars, you’ll pass through some of New Hampshire’s most scenic landscapes, including the famed Crawford Notch pass of the White Mountains that lights up in a riot of red, yellow, and orange foliage from September to mid-October every year. During that same time, the railroad extends its regular Crawford trip one station farther to Fabyan, making it a 5.5-hour round-trip journey. For about $100 more per ticket, you can reserve premium seats in upper dome cars to maximize your views.

The historic Mount Washington Cog Railway celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2019.

2. Mount Washington Cog Railway

• Route: Marshfield Base Station to Mount Washington Summit, New Hampshire
• Book now: thecog.com
• Round-trip duration: 3 hours

Ride the rails to the top of Mount Washington on this three-hour round-trip excursion that’s been an attraction in New Hampshire’s White Mountains since 1869. The railway still operates two vintage steam locomotives, but it has introduced seven biodiesel locomotives along the route in an effort to reduce emissions. Visit by mid-October to see the fall colors at their peak.

On Vacations By Rail’s nine-day New England in the Fall tour, you can pair a ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway along with trips on the Conway Scenic Railroad and Amtrak’s Downeaster.

Can’t wait to get your fall foliage fix? Head to Alaska.

Photo by Michael Gerenday

3. Alaska Railroad Denali Star Train

• Route: Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska
• Book now: alaskarailroad.com
• Round-trip duration: 24 hours

AFAR associate editor Bailey Berg describes the beauty of seeing Alaska’s fall foliage by train: “the blue of the fast-moving Chulitna River, the red of the shrubs along its banks, the yellow of the lower-level birch trees, and the emerald of the deciduous trees higher up the embankment. And in all directions, sweeping views of the grayish-purple Alaska Range, each peak blanketed by termination dust.”

The foliage changes early in Alaska, peaking in late August and the first few weeks of September each year. Besides seeing a variety of red, orange, and yellow leaves through the dome car windows on the 12-hour ride that runs from May through September, you can also catch a view of Denali and the northern lights in Fairbanks if the weather is clear.

The vintage steam train takes you through the spectacular foliage of western North Carolina.

Courtesy of Vacations by Rail

4. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s Tuckasegee Steam Train

• Route: Bryson City to Dillsboro, North Carolina
• Book now: gsmr.com
• Round-trip duration: 4 hours

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates several excursions throughout the year. Its Tuckasegee River Excursion on a vintage steam train is the most scenic in the fall. On the four-hour round-trip journey, you’ll get to take in the river valley views from the train’s panoramic windows and have a chance to explore shops and restaurants in the small town of Dillsboro during a 90-minute layover. For peak fall foliage, book one of the steam train excursions that leave at 12 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays in October.

Looking for something more than a day trip? The steam train is part of Vacations By Rail’s nine-day Smoky Mountain Rail Adventure that takes travelers from Nashville to Asheville with additional stops for rides on the Tennessee Valley Railroad’s Summerville Steam Special and the Incline Railway on Chattanooga’s Lookout Mountain.

National parks aren’t just for hiking—you can enjoy them by train too.

5. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

• Route: Peninsula to Akron, Ohio
• Book now: cvsr.com
• Round-trip duration: 2 hours

You can take this scenic train ride throughout the summer, but go in October to see the sugar maples and dogwood trees turn various shades of red, orange, and yellow on a 2-hour round-trip ride through Cuyahoga Valley National Park . Trains depart from Wednesday to Sunday at 11:10 a.m. and 1:40 p.m. from the Peninsula Depot Station in Peninsula, Ohio, and at 10:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. from the Akron Northside Station. Seats in upper dome observation cars are available to book for just $5 more than a first-class ticket—go ahead and splurge.

Southern Colorado is known for its abundant aspen trees, which turn yellow each fall.

Photo by Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

6. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad

• Route: Antonito, Colorado, to Chama, New Mexico
• Book now: cumbrestoltec.com
• Round-trip duration: 8 hours

Through October 21, 2023, this narrow-gauge steam train makes excursions every day except Monday between two small towns located right on the Colorado–New Mexico border. The ticket price includes lunch at the midway point in Osier, Colorado, plus access to the open-air gondola car for better photo opps of the aspen trees that turn bright yellow in autumn.

The Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad makes its way through the colorful Susquehanna River Valley.

Photo by Jim Gale

7. Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad

• Route: Milford to Cooperstown, New York
• Book now: lrhs.com
• Round-trip duration: Around 2 hours

The Cooperstown and Charlotte Valley Railroad’s fall foliage excursions are scheduled for October 1, 7, 8, 14, and 15, 2023. The vintage train will depart at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on those dates for a two-hour round-trip ride through the Susquehanna River Valley, filled with red, orange, and yellow trees. All rides begin and end at the Milford Depot, about a 15-minute drive south of the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is an easy day trip from both Chattanooga and Atlanta.

Courtesy of Blue Ridge Scenic Railway/Facebook

8. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

• Route: Blue Ridge, Georgia, to Copperhill, Tennessee
• Book now: brscenic.com
• Round-trip duration: 2 or 4 hours

Between September 21 and November 6, 2023, take in the season’s colors on this scenic four-hour round-trip excursion along the Toccoa River in the Chattahoochee National Forest. You can book tickets for a seat in an enclosed climate-controlled train car or enjoy the mild autumn weather from an open-air train car. Trains depart daily at 3 p.m., except on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Travelers can book either a two-hour or four-hour ride. While the former is a quick trip that focuses on downtown Blue Ridge, the four-hour trip includes visits to the small towns of McCaysville and Copperhill.

Skip the plane and take the scenic route to Montreal this fall.

Courtesy of Amtrak

9. Amtrak Adirondack

• Route: New York City to Montreal, Canada
• Book now: amtrak.com
• Round-trip duration: About 20 hours

Typically, you can take the Amtrak Adirondack from New York’s Penn Station through the Hudson Valley and up into the train’s namesake Adirondack Mountains before traveling along the shores of Lake Champlain and arriving in Montreal 10 hours later. In 2023, the train resumed complete service for the first time since 2020 and departs from Penn Station at 8:41 a.m.

The scenery around this Canadian railway is at its best in fall.

10. Agawa Canyon Tour Train

• Route: Sault Ste. Marie to Agawa Canyon, Canada
• Book now: agawatrain.com
• Round-trip duration: About 10 hours

This scenic train takes you on a daylong journey from the lakeside city of Sault Ste. Marie in Ontario 114 miles north to the Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park, where you’ll have 90 minutes to go on a hike or stop for a picnic near the Agawa River. You should hurry if you’re thinking of booking this trip—tickets for its peak season (September 15 to October 10, 2023) tend to sell out quickly.

Pretend you’re heading back to school at Hogwarts on this fall train ride in Scotland.

11. The Jacobite

• Route: Fort William to Mallaig, Scotland
• Book now: westcoastrailways.co.uk
• Round-trip duration: About 4 hours

Harry Potter fans will recognize this vintage steam locomotive as the real-life version of the Hogwarts Express that crossed over the Glennfinnan Viaduct in the films. You may not be on your way to Hogwarts, but you’ll certainly take in some magical scenery along the 84-mile train ride. The train is offering a morning service until October 27, 2023, as well as an afternoon service that ends on September 29, 2023.

Fall may be shoulder season in Switzerland but it’s no less scenic this time of year.

12. Bernina Express

• Route: Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy
• Book now: rhb.ch
• Round-trip duration: About 9 hours

The Rhaetian Railway through the Albula and Bernina Passes in the Alps was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008 for its outstanding architectural and civil engineering achievements, which include hundreds of viaducts and bridges through high mountain passes. The train runs year round, but fall is particularly beautiful in this region of Switzerland.

Cherry blossoms may come to mind when you think of Japan, but fall foliage is just as scenic.

13. Sagano Scenic Railway

• Route: Saga Torokko Station to Kameoka Torokko Station, Japan
• Book now: sagano-kanko.co.jp
• Round-trip duration: About 1 hour

Only 15 minutes outside of Kyoto, you can catch the Sagano Scenic Railway from the Saga Torokko Station. It will take you on a 25-minute train ride through the Hozukyo Ravine, which is lined with Japanese maple trees that turn red and orange every autumn, before finishing at the Kameoka Torokko Station.

This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was most recently updated on August 11, 2023, to include current information.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

14 Beautiful U.S. Train Trips To Experience

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• United States

When it comes to travel, getting there is supposed to be half the fun. But what if getting there is the whole point? In 2023 it can be, with our curated list of the most beautiful train trips in the United States. Whether you’re going near or far, prefer a quick trip or a long journey, or just want to see some jaw-dropping American landscapes — we’ve got you covered below, in no specific order. All aboard.

1. Rockies To The Red Rocks (Rocky Mountaineer)

Denver, colorado to moab, utah.

If you love dramatic landscapes, this train trip could be perfect for you. The Rocky Mountaineer’s newest luxury train route traces the Colorado River, with views of mountains, canyons, and cliffs. If the scenery out your window isn’t enough, enjoy the luxury on the train. You’ll enjoy gourmet dining and deliciously crafted cocktails, all under the coach’s beautiful glass-domed ceilings. Rocky Mountaineer has a reputation for luxurious train travel in Canada, and this is their first route in the U.S. We certainly hope it won’t be the last. Read more in Jo-Anne Bowen’s 11 Reasons I Loved Rocky Mountaineer’s Newest Route From The Rockies To Red Rocks .

2. Durango & Silverton Railroad

Durango to silverton, colorado.

We think this train is spectacular, and we aren’t alone: USA Today ranked it the top train in the U.S. for 2021 and 2022. Once you step inside, we think you’ll agree. First things first, this train is a throwback: It was declared a national historic landmark and gives passengers a real glimpse of what locomotives were like in the late 1880s. The trip is special, too — passengers travel through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains between Durango and Silverton. It’s a 3.5-hour trip, but you’ll probably wish it were longer. Read more in Robin O’Neal Smith’s Scenic Colorado Train Ride Perfect For A Day Trip .

10 Colorado Springs Vacation Rentals For Your Rocky Mountain Getaway

3. Glacier Discovery Train

Anchorage, alaska.

If you’ve never explored Alaska, Anchorage is a great place to start. It’s the state’s biggest city and is chock full of great restaurants, hotels, and cultural destinations. But in Alaska, it’s the natural landscape that takes center stage — so trains are a great way to take it all in. The Alaska Railroad offers round-trip service from Anchorage to several coastal cities and the state’s interior. Don’t miss the Glacier Discovery Train, which starts in Anchorage and heads southbound to Grandview. You’ll have views of the Bartlett Glacier, Trail Glacier, and Placer River Valley. Read more in Peggy Cleveland’s 7 Gorgeous Train Trips You Can Only Experience From Anchorage .

4. Denali Star Train

Fairbanks, alaska.

Or head north on the Denali Star Train from Anchorage to Fairbanks, a 12-hour journey with enchanting views of fresh snow and frozen rivers. This is the land of the northern lights, so you’ll be in for a treat. But keep an eye out for bears, moose, and eagles — from the safety of your train window, of course. Read more in Peggy Cleveland’s 7 Gorgeous Train Trips You Can Only Experience From Anchorage .

5. Southwest Chief (Amtrak)

Chicago, illinois to los angeles, california.

The Southwest Chief runs all the way from Chicago to Los Angeles — and what a way to see this country. You’ll see the rolling plains of the Midwest, cross the Mississippi River, traverse Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, and voyage through the New Mexico desert. If that’s too much, consider doing just a segment or two. You can hop on and off as it suits you. No matter how much time you spend on this train, you’ll enjoy a glimpse of America like never before. Read more in Jill Dutton’s 8 Great Stops To Make While Riding Amtrak’s Southwest Chief .

6. Coast Starlight (Amtrak)

Los angeles, california to seattle, washington.

Beautiful beaches, majestic mountain peaks (Mount Rainier, anyone?), and some of the most photogenic landscapes in the United States: The West Coast has something for every kind of traveler. Seeing it from the unique vantage point of Amtrak’s Coast Starlight is truly a special way to see it all. The journey is spectacular — following the coast for nearly 350 miles and traveling through some jaw-dropping mountains and rolling hills. The 1,400-mile route takes 35 hours from start to finish, but you’re free to disembark at any stop along the way. In fact, we’ve already created a terrific itinerary for you here, at Jill Dutton’s 7 Pacific Coast Stops To Make While Riding Amtrak’s Coast Starlight .

7. Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, arizona to grand canyon south rim.

Seeing the Grand Canyon is a special experience, no matter how you do it. But voyaging there on the Grand Canyon Railway is truly next level. You’ll begin your journey in Williams, Arizona, where you can opt for a stay at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel before your trip. The hotel has an Old West feel and is especially convenient for families with small children or people with mobility differences.

Once you’re on board the train, you’ll notice several classes of service available, complete with live music and entertainment. There’s also an observation dome for panoramic views. After about 2 hours, you’ll disembark just a short walk from a Grand Canyon visitor center. Read more about the journey in Judy Karnia’s 9 Reasons This Historic Arizona Railway Is A Perfect Experience For The Whole Family .

8. Verde Canyon Railroad

Clarkdale to perkinsville, arizona.

The Verde Canyon Railroad is another Grand Canyon train experience. While both adventures use restored rail cars and vintage trains, the vibes here are quite different. You won’t find live music or cowboy shows on the Verde Canyon Railroad. Instead, nature and scenery are the main stars of the show here — think informative, educational narration playing on-board, and open-air cars to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views. The towering red rock buttes may take your breath away. Read more in Julie Diebolt Price’s Arizona Grand Canyon Railway vs. Verde Canyon Railroad: 7 Key Differences to Know .

9. Santa Fe’s Adventure Train (Sky Railway)

Santa fe to lamy, new mexico.

Spend a couple of hours checking out this new railway line brought to you by none other than Game of Thrones creator George R. R. Martin, who happens to live in Santa Fe himself. He joined a group of benefactors and artists to revive the old Santa Fe Southern Railroad a few years ago. They renovated the original locomotives with modern, first-class amenities and offer scenic trips from the New Mexico capital to Lamy, a small town about 18 miles away. The trip takes a little over an hour. Be sure to check out their themed rides, including Jazz Under the Stars and Murder on the Lamy Line. For more details, see Jim Fulcher’s Historic New Mexico Train Ride Promises Unique Adventures For Travelers .

10. Austin Steam Train

Cedar park to burnet, texas.

Texas is huge. If you’re trying to get off the beaten path, consider one of several interesting train trips throughout The Lone Star State. The Austin Steam Train is a great option for anyone interested in exploring the Texas Hill Country. Hop aboard in Cedar Park, just north of Austin, and enjoy a leisurely 6-hour round-trip train ride to Burnet. If that’s too long, consider the Bertram Flyer, a shorter trip that includes time for a tour of a 1912 train depot. Read more about some fantastic train itineraries throughout the state in Janie Pace’s 7 Epic Train Rides in Texas .

11. Tennessee Valley Railroad

Chattanooga to delano, tennessee.

Tennessee has a long, storied history with the American railroad. The state was an important transportation hub for moving goods and people from the mid-1800s and onward. Nearly 200 years later, train rides are a wonderful way to look back on this history and see Tennessee’s beauty. There are several experiences to choose from, but we especially love the Tennessee Valley Railroad. You’ll embark in Chattanooga, a town known for trains. The journey begins at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, dedicated to the restoration and preservation of old steam engines and rail cars. From there, you’ll head out on a 55-minute ride along the former Southern Railway tracks. Who needs a time machine when you have this? Read about other journeys in Amy Sward’s 5 Unique Train Rides In Tennessee .

12. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Independence to akron, ohio.

All aboard this train to experience Ohio’s only national park. The journey begins at Rockside Station in Independence, Ohio, and ends about 3 and a half hours later at North Side Station in Akron. You’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the Cuyahoga River, and depending on when you go, verdant forests and patches of blooming wildflowers. Hop off and explore the park’s several hiking trails or waterfalls, and catch a return train back when you’re done. All this, in Ohio? You bet. Read more in Brandy Gleason’s Cuyahoga Valley National Park: 6 Tips For Visiting Ohio’s Hidden Gem .

13. East Broad Top Railroad

Orbisonia to colgate grove, pennsylvania.

Talk about a throwback! The East Broad Top Railroad is America’s oldest narrow gauge railroad, and it’s even designated a National Historic Landmark. Nevertheless, it sat dormant since 1956, serving as little more than a time capsule — until now. The East Broad Top is back on the move, journeying from Orbisonia, Pennsylvania on a 9-mile round trip to Colgate Grove and back. Choose from coaches, open-air cars, or a caboose. There’s a wheelchair-accessible car, too. Read more in Robin O’Neal Smith’s This Vintage American Railroad Adventure Set To Reawaken This Year .

14. Conway Scenic Railroad

Conway, vermont.

Nestled in the heart of Conway, New Hampshire, you’ll find the Conway Scenic Railroad. The station alone is worth checking out. But if you feel like doing some exploring, check out any of the several rides available daily. Scenic journeys are available for passengers who just want to look out the window and take in the beauty of New Hampshire’s landscape. If you want a history lesson, you can book one of the authentic, historical trips. Journeys range from 1 to 5 hours, and prices start at $35. Read more in SJ Morgensen’s 6 Best Stops Along The Kancamagus Scenic Highway .

Related Reading:

• My 9 Favorite Experiences On A Relaxing Weekend Train Trip From Denver To Moab
• The Scenic Colorado Train Ride Perfect For A Day Trip
• 8 Spectacular Fall Foliage Train Rides In The U.S.

Kristen is a writer, editor, and video producer living in Austin, Texas. For years, Kristen worked in newsrooms across the country and created content for some of the world's best-known brands. When she's not working, Kristen loves checking out live music, hiking the Texas Hill Country, and traveling the world with family and friends. Her favorite destinations include Napa Valley, Greece, and British Columbia.

Call us on 01553 661 500

The Hadrian

Saturday 12th october 2024.

Breathtaking landscape and nostalgic steam locomotive haulage combine in one of our most exciting and varied tours by special train. Our train will be hauled from York to Carlisle and from Carlisle to Darlington a locomotive from the Carnforth pool. Passengers will experience the magnificent and world famous Settle to Carlisle Railway, travel on the 183-year old Tyne Valley Line, and speed along the East Coast Main Line.

Our train leaves Derby, diesel hauled, early in the morning and stops to pick up more passengers at Long Eaton, Beeston, Ilkeston, Alfreton and Chesterfield. We continue through Barrow Hill and Church Fenton to York, where we change locomotives, with a steam locomotive from the Carnforth pool replacing the diesel locomotive on our train for the onward journey, via Leeds, over the spectacular Settle to Carlisle Railway.

Between Hellifield and Carlisle there is scarcely a level mile but our powerful steam locomotive will negotiate the 78 miles of rising and falling gradients in truly classic style. Settle Junction marks the beginning of one of Britain’s most arduous climbs, a total of 15 miles, mainly at a gradient of 1 in 100. This will be a tough test for our locomotive, which we will see – and hear – working very hard! We cross the breathtaking Ribblehead Viaduct, high above the valley floor, and enter Blea Moor Tunnel.

The route runs high above valleys, and over numerous viaducts to Dent, the highest main line station open in England. We make the final climb to Ais Gill Summit, all 1,169 feet of it, the dramatic peak of our journey! We descend through the valley at Mallerstang and then drop down through Kirkby Stephen to Lazenby, where our steam locomotive pauses to take on water.

We can expect a fast run downhill from Lazenby along the Eden Valley to Carlisle, where we arrive at around 14:00. There will be time to explore the ‘Border’ city with its many attractions that include the castle, cathedral, Tullie House Museum, the pedestrianised English Street and the Lanes Shopping Centre.

 We leave Carlisle at around 16:00 and take the scenic Tyne Valley Line towards Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The Newcastle & Carlisle Railway opened this line in June 1838 and it runs eastwards, following the river Tyne just a few miles south of Hadrian’s Wall. We pass through Wylam, the birthplace of railway engineer George Stephenson, before we join the East Coast Main Line at Low Fell. We can expect some fast running as we head south through Durham to Darlington, where reluctantly, we shall have to say farewell to our steam locomotive. Our diesel locomotive will now continue to York, home to the National Railway Museum, and back to our outward stations before arriving in Derby late evening.

Available Classes

Premier Dining includes a full English breakfast and a four course dinner freshly prepared on board and silver served at your seat.

First Class includes morning tea or coffee with a bacon/breakfast roll and a muffin and an afternoon service of tea or coffee with a savoury of the day followed by scone with butter and jam.

Standard Class includes a reserved seat usually at a table for four.

Please Note

Tables for two can be guaranteed in Premier Dining and First Class for a supplement of £30 per person (subject

to availability). A buffet car is available and serves tea, coffee, snacks and light refreshments.

Catering - Further Details…

Destination s route.

• Conditions Item Link

Actual timings shown

The Old Stables, Estuary Road, King's Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2HL – Phone: 01553 661 500

© 2024 | The Railway Touring Company Limited | Founded by Nigel Dobbing in 1997 | All rights reserved. This work remains the property of The Railway Touring Company Limited and may not be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, without permission. Website: LucidSynergy Ltd.

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Sunset Steam Express Tours for 2023 revealed by Steam Dreams Rail Company

The Steam Dreams Rail Company has recently revealed dates for its 2023 Sunset Steam Express Tours, which are set to take place on Tuesdays through the summer from the 22nd of June to the 29th of August.

Departing from London Victoria at 18.15 the tour will make its way through Guildford before ascending the scenic Surrey Hills and onto the Vale of Holmesdale before returning to London via Dorking and Reigate . The tour will arrive back in London Victoria at 21.45

Passengers will enjoy travelling in luxury onboard the impeccably restored wood-panelled carriages, which will be hauled by one of the following steam locomotives:

• 61306 Mayflower
• 70000 Britannia

Juliet Soley from Steam Dreams Rail Company said: ‘We are very excited to be running our Sunset Steam Express trains for a third season. These nostalgic trips are very popular and offer a lovely alternative to a more traditional night out.'

‘Passengers love the nostalgic experience travelling by steam train offers and coupled with its luxurious and comfortable surroundings, delicious food for those choosing the dining option and stunning scenery makes this the perfect magical evening out.'

Booking options are as follows:

Pullman Style Dining:

Includes the highest level of service offering an indulgent and luxury travel experience for passengers with original windows, armchair seating and tables set with crisp linen, embellished crockery, fresh flowers and glassware. Passengers will be welcomed with a glass of Champagne and will enjoy a specially created three-course menu designed by Executive Chef Nicholas Allen. All food is prepared on board the train using locally sourced seasonal produce.

First Class:

Includes the same luxury carriages as Pullman Style Dinings, alongside a welcome glass of sparkling wine and a savoury snack box.

Premium Standard:

Includes seating in tables of four with large windows perfect for the incredible views and tea and coffee. An array of refreshments is available to buy via the buffet bar and passengers are also able to bring their own picnics on board.

Prices for the Sunset Steam Express are:

• Dining options start at £155 per person for Pullman Style Dining
• First Class options start at £119
• Premium Standard options start at £69 per person

To find out more or to book please visit: www.sunsetsteamexpress.co.uk or call 01483 209888

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The Sunset Steam Express is one trip that I’d love to do, but it would be very expensive. Travel to London and a stay in a hotel.

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• Loco Hauled

D1015 'Western Champion' is seen departing Bristol Temple Meads with 1Z50 'The English Riviera Airshow' from Tame Bridge Parkway to Paignton. 50007 'Hercules' was on the back throughout the tour. Photo by Ed, 1st June 2024.

UPCOMING EVENTS & EXPERIENCES

Transport Heritage NSW operates a regular program of events and experiences, both at the NSW Rail Museum and in partnership with heritage transport organisations across NSW.

Every Saturday & Sunday

Steam train rides, nsw rail museum.

Every weekend, enjoy a 40-minute steam train ride as part of a visit to the NSW Rail Museum, Thirlmere.

30 June 2024

Steam to the surf, main line heritage train experience.

Experience a day out by steam train along the scenic Illawarra Line from Sydney to Wollongong and return.

24 & 25 August 2024

Shoalhaven steam weekend.

Take a scenic 50-minute steam train ride from Bomaderry to Berry and return for one weekend only this August!

29 June 2024

Penrith steam train rides.

Steam returns to Penrith for ONE DAY only! Experience a 75-minute steam train ride up the Blue Mountains and return.

6 & 7 July 2024

Gosford steam weekend.

Experience the beauty of Brisbane Water and the Hawkesbury behind the largest operating steam locomotive in the Southern Hemisphere.

30, 31 August, 1,6, 7, 8 September

Day out with thomas.

Thomas & Friends return to the NSW Rail Museum for Day Out With Thomas in August 2024 with the Bubble Tour! 

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This Is The Most Scenic Train Journey In Your State

Posted: December 28, 2023 | Last updated: December 28, 2023

The right track

America grew rich with the foundation of the railroad, and today its railways are still among the best ways for travelers to traverse the home of the brave. From heritage lines pulled by vintage steam engines to highlights of the expansive Amtrak network, we’ve rounded up the most beautiful train journey in each US state.

Though some (we see you Wyoming) are faring well without scenic rail rides, we’ve found something that rail buffs will love in every part of the the country.

Click or scroll through this gallery to discover your state’s most scenic train journey…

Alabama: Calera and Shelby Railroad

Stationed in Calera, just south of Birmingham in central Alabama, the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum hosts rail excursions on a first-generation diesel-electric locomotive. Riding the Calera and Shelby Railroad, which operates on a former slip of the 1891 L&N Alabama Railroad, you’ll pass through the atmospheric forests of Shelby County on a 75-minute journey.

Seats are available in an enclosed coach or an open-air carriage – if you really want to immerse yourself in the scenery. Trips run twice on Saturdays between March and September.

Alaska: Denali Star

The Denali Star is the flagship service of the Alaskan Railroad. Typically operating between May and September, the journey swings from Anchorage – a city that owes its very existence to the Alaskan Railroad – to Fairbanks through the dramatic heart of Denali National Park. In its entirety the expedition lasts an epic 12 hours, traveling through Southcentral and Interior Alaska with views of North America’s tallest mountain, Denali, on a clear day.

The train’s Adventure Class offers large picture windows, while GoldStar Service gets you glass-domed ceilings and access to an outdoor viewing deck.

Arizona: Verde Canyon Railroad

There’s more than one spectacular canyon in Arizona, and you can ride a vintage train right down the spine of this one. Verde Canyon Railroad was built in 1912 to serve the area’s copper mines and has been transporting sightseers year-round since 1990.

Chasing the meanders of the Verde River, this four-hour round-trip takes passengers past Mars-red rock amphitheaters, historic ranch towns, kiwi-colored cacti, and the ancient ruins of Native American civilizations. Watch for bald eagles overhead as you chug along through the wilderness.

Arkansas: Springdale to Van Buren

Operated by the Arkansas and Missouri Railroad, this all-day round-trip from Springdale, deep in the Ozark Mountains, to the city of Van Buren and back racks up 134 miles of track. The trip includes three hours of free time to explore the historic district of downtown Van Buren, which converges around Main Street and its gingerbread-like architecture.

Silver Feather passengers will ride in the train’s panoramic glass-domed dining room in one direction and ride downstairs in the other, offering two different perspectives of the same journey.

California: Pacific Surfliner

Skirting the Golden State’s gleaming Pacific coastline, the Pacific Surfliner train runs between the sun-drenched cities of San Luis Obispo and San Diego, calling in at Santa Barbara and Los Angeles along the way. For just under nine hours, passengers journey through the warmth of SoCal, passing the narrow Simi Valley towards the Santa Susana Mountains.

Gliding through oceanside towns and past strips of yellow sand, watch surfers in the near-distance as salt spray spatters the windows.

Colorado: Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

A National Historic Landmark, the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has occupied a 45-mile stretch of the original Denver and Rio Grande Railway since 1882. Its signature route between Durango’s heritage railway depot and the historic mining town of Silverton opens May through October each year, climbing into the Rocky Mountains alongside the Animas River and looking out onto the brooding San Juan National Forest.

The journey takes three and a half hours each way and includes almost two hours to explore Silverton.

Connecticut: Amtrak Hartford Line

The Amtrak Hartford Line connects leafy New Haven (home to Ivy League juggernaut Yale University) to the city of Springfield in western Massachusetts via Connecticut’s capital, Hartford. Taking just under an hour and a half in its entirety, the journey is the perfect introduction to the state’s pretty cities and to the bucolic beauty of New England, much-loved by American author Mark Twain.

On the leg between Windsor and Windsor Locks, you’ll roll over the Farmington River Railroad Bridge (pictured), which has stood for over 150 years.

Delaware: Wilmington and Western Railroad

The Wilmington and Western Railroad opened in 1872 as a way of transporting goods between the mills of Red Clay Creek and the port of Wilmington. Now it offers passengers the chance to soak up some of the most arresting vistas in the tri-state area, while still paying homage to Delaware’s industrial legacy.

The 10-mile route winds through old milling communities, small canyons, and wooded groves, with the option to de-train at Mount Cuba for a picnic lunch.

Florida: Walt Disney World Railroad

After being out of service for four long years, the Walt Disney World Railroad reopened to passengers in December 2022 with a revamped track and a new conductor. Found within the world-famous tourist attraction’s Magic Kingdom, the nostalgic railroad's fleet of four restored vintage narrow-gauge steam engines leads Disney fans on a leisurely 20-minute ride around the park.

Walt Disney himself was a lifelong rail buff – he loved trains so much that he built a miniature railway in his backyard.

Georgia: Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Tracing the Toccoa River in the Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway coasts along on tracks first laid towards the end of the 19th century. Starting from the downtown depot of the eponymous town of Blue Ridge, this peaceful round-trip journey sweeps through the greens and browns of the Georgian countryside before pausing in the sister towns of McCaysville in Georgia and Copperhill, just over the border in Tennessee.

You can choose to ride in a climate-controlled vintage rail car or an open-air carriage.

Hawaii: Kauai Plantation Railway

On Hawaii’s oldest island, you can learn about the original sugar cane and taro crops that have sustained native Hawaiians since ancient times in a really unique way. The Kauai Plantation Railway tours the 105-acre Kilohana Plantation, where more than 50 varieties of fruit trees, vegetables, flowers, and other plants grow in fragrant orchards, fields, and groves.

The narrated 40-minute journey aboard mahogany-hewn carriages also features a stop to feed the working farm’s animal residents, including pigs, goats, and donkeys.

Idaho: Silverwood Theme Park

Idaho is full of stunning landscapes, but sadly has little to offer those wishing to enjoy them from the tracks. The Gem State’s sole tourist train route, the Thunder Mountain Line, had to close down in 2016, while its lone Amtrak station at Sandpoint is served by the Empire Builder service but only in the dead of night.

However, Silverwood Theme Park, in the panhandle of northern Idaho, does have its own steam train – Engine No 7. It circles the park and ventures into the Silverwood forest, also participating in immersive theater shows.

Illinois: California Zephyr

Spanning 2,424 miles and over 50 hours from Chicago to San Francisco, the California Zephyr is one of Amtrak’s longest routes. The leg through Illinois begins as the train pulls away from the Windy City’s Union Station in the middle of the afternoon and makes its way into Chicago's suburbia.

From the sightseer lounge, Amtrak’s observation car, catch views of pastoral Illinois that will remind you why its nickname is the Prairie State, with grasslands and farms melting into wetlands and trees the closer you get to Iowa.

Indiana: French Lick Scenic Railway

The French Lick Scenic Railway was founded with the desire to replicate the golden age of train travel when trains were the primary vehicle for long-distance travel across America. In addition to hosting a program of themed rail adventures aimed at young families, French Lick runs a scenic ride through parts of the Hoosier National Forest (pictured).

The journey lasts an hour and 45 minutes, departing from a 1907 train depot and twisting through the hills and forests of southern Indiana, passing through the state’s second-longest railroad tunnel in the process.

Iowa: Boone and Scenic Railroad

Since the 1920s, Iowa has lost more than 50% of its rail mileage, which had boomed around the turn of the century. The state retains several heritage stations and railroads that now serve as tourist attractions, and one of these is the Boone and Scenic Railroad.

Its classic Fraser Train facilitates excursions from May to October, starting in Boone and traveling to the old coal-mining settlement of Fraser through the Des Moines River Valley. A literal high point of the journey is crossing the 156-foot Bass Point Creek High Bridge (pictured).

Kansas: Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad

The Abilene and Smoky Valley Railroad was established in 1993 as a tribute to the Sunflower State’s railroad history. Running on heritage tracks initially laid in 1886, the volunteer-led line's regular excursions through the Smoky Hill River Valley feature vintage carriages and open-air viewing cars, where you can sit and watch the sights of old agricultural Kansas rock by.

The service departs from the listed Rock Island Depot (pictured) in historic Abilene – take the dinner train for a truly magical experience.

Kentucky: Big South Fork Scenic Railway

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway often finds itself high up lists of America's most delightful rail journeys, especially during leaf-peeping season. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs, this round-trip adventure clanks along accompanied by views of the Daniel Boone National Forest and the Big South Fork River and Recreation Area.

This trip culminates in a two-hour layover at the Barthell Coal Camp where passengers can learn about life during the early 1900s in the southernmost Appalachians.

Louisiana: Sunset Limited

Departing three times a week, the Sunset Limited connects the Big Easy to LA and is the oldest named train in Amtrak's fleet (it turns 130 in 2024). After leaving New Orleans the train remains in Louisiana for around five hours, calling at four stations in the state on a journey that jangles past balcony-trimmed small towns, ethereal bayous, and seas of sugarcane before dipping into dusty Texas.

Maine: Downeaster

Named after the Down East region of maritime Maine, the Amtrak Downeaster links the Pine Tree State to New Hampshire and Massachusetts, from Brunswick to Boston. The route through Maine takes up around half the just over three-hour journey, hugging the rugged coast and taking in stops like Wells – with its seven miles of soft beaches – and Portland, where lobster rolls await.

The terminus town of Brunswick has plenty going for it too, with a year-round farmers’ market and nature-rich bike trails to hit. Five round-trips operate each day.

Maryland: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Cruising through the Allegheny Mountains between Cumberland and Frostburg, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad navigates creeks, canyons, streams, bridges, and tunnels on its four-and-a-half-hour round-trip. The historic diesel and steam locomotives climb up the mountainside and traverse thick forest before reaching the charming town of Frostburg, where passengers can hop off and explore.

Willis Mountain, Haystack Mountain, Cash Valley, and Helmstetter Farm are among the most interesting sights along the way. The route operates year-round.

Massachusetts: Cape Cod Central Railroad

Dating back to the mid-1800s, the Cape Cod Central Railroad offers excursions that are not only stunningly scenic but educational too. As the train threads through salt marshes, sand dunes, woodlands, and cranberry bogs, passengers are treated to narrated tales of fruit harvests, canal history, and the cape's coastal ecology.

The classic circular two-hour trip starts from Hyannis and makes its way through idyllic villages like Sandwich (the oldest on the cape) before crossing the landmark Buzzards Bay vertical lift bridge.

Michigan: Blue Water

Amtrak's Blue Water service laces together several Michigan stops between Port Huron and Chicago. It bends around the southern shore of Lake Michigan before heading into the Great Lake State's interior, terminating on Lake Huron's shores.

The westbound Blue Water service makes for a pleasant morning on the tracks, while the eastbound train leaves Chicago in the late afternoon, promising some serious sunset action if you travel when the evenings are longer.

Minnesota: North Shore Scenic Railroad

Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Railroad traverses the westernmost spur of Lake Superior's shoreline. Operating on a 28-mile strip from Duluth to Two Harbors, known as the Lakefront Line, these trains roll along tracks first laid more than 100 years ago, which once contributed to the North Star State's iron ore industry.

The railroad hosts various excursions – treat yourself to a first-class ticket on the Duluth Zephyr, where the major perk is the chance to ride in the Dome Car, its curved windows optimized for sightseeing.

Mississippi: City of New Orleans

Traveling 900 miles and through several decades of America's musical heritage, the City of New Orleans train is one of Amtrak's greatest hits, linking some of the country’s finest cities. The journey between Chicago and New Orleans will strike a particular chord with blues lovers – one of the best stops is Mississippi state capital Jackson (pictured), nicknamed 'the city with soul.'

The southbound service spends more than four hours rattling through Mississippi on a daylight run, flanked by snowy-white cotton fields.

Missouri: Missouri River Runner

With daily departures, the Missouri River Runner crosses the Show-Me State from Kansas City to St Louis in less than six hours. Partially trailing the Missouri River, the longest river in the United States, the train's highlights include the scenic bluffs of Jefferson City, which give way to conservation areas where eagles can be spotted overhead from the comfort of your seat.

As the gap between the train and St Louis closes, lush stands of green foliage herald your approach to the gateway of the west.

Montana: Empire Builder

Tracking through still-wild tracts of land once explored on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Amtrak's formidable Empire Builder train covers more than 40 stations in eight states from Illinois to Washington over the course of 46 hours. Perhaps the most majestic part of the route is the Montana leg, which skates through natural wonders like the Kootenai River Valley (pictured) and Glacier National Park.

Around 12 hours of the Empire Builder’s journey is dedicated to the Treasure State, so you can safely take a nap without fear of missing out.

Nebraska: Omaha Zoo Railroad

Since the Fremont and Elkhorn Valley Railroad ceased operations in 2012, Nebraska now has no standard-gauge scenic train routes to ride. The California Zephyr, Amtrak's most visually impressive journey, passes through at night regardless of your direction of travel, making rail adventures in the Cornhusker State hard to come by.

There is, however, a small steam-powered train offering short trips around Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo, which carries passengers in its open-air cars from March to November every year.

Nevada: Virginia and Truckee Railroad

The so-called 'Queen of the Short Lines,' the Virginia and Truckee Railroad whisks passengers back in time on some of the oldest locomotives in the state. The line has been a fixture of Virginia City since 1869; today, century-old steam engines and heritage diesel trains still depart from the original depot.

Passengers can expect to see some of the most famous Comstock mines and ruins en route to Gold Hill, while listening to the conductor’s stories of the region’s legendary silver rush. Wild horses and raptors call these ranges home, so keep your eyes peeled.

New Hampshire: Mount Washington Cog Railway

The world's first mountain-climbing cog railway, this little locomotive journeys to the peak of the highest mountain in the northeastern United States. Rising above Bretton Woods and New Hampshire's White Mountains, the National Historic Engineering Landmark operates three-hour round-trips daily from May to October.

If you’re lucky enough to dodge the mountain's notorious weather (it can snow on Mount Washington even in summer), the 360-degree views from the summit can extend all the way to the Atlantic Ocean.

New Jersey: Whippany Railway Museum Excursions

An excursion from Whippany Railway Museum starts with a woman dressed all in white welcoming you onto restored vintage carriages. She is a representation of Phoebe Snow, a fictional character who appeared in adverts for the Lackawanna Railroad at the beginning of the 20th century.

Over the course of 45 minutes, you'll follow the route of the historic Whippanong Trail, over a high steel bridge and past all that remains of Lake Passaic, an ex-glacial lake where swamp-dwelling wildlife now roams. Trips run on select spring, summer, and fall days.

New Mexico: Sky Railway

Passengers on New Mexico’s Sky Railway are walking in the footsteps of Hollywood icons Judy Garland and Clark Gable by riding the heritage line. For over 140 years, these tracks have swept travelers across the amber and olive-green landscapes between Santa Fe and Lamy.

There are a few different ways to enjoy the round-trip journey – the Stargazer experience unlocks the mysteries of the night sky above the Galisteo Basin, while the Sunset Serenade sets the coming of dusk to a soundtrack of live music.

New York: The Adirondack

After a three-year hiatus, Amtrak’s much-loved Adirondack service returned to the rails in the spring of 2023. In 10 hours, the route connects New York City to Montreal in Canada, but for the vast majority of the journey upstate New York takes center stage.

The train rolls out of NYC’s Moynihan Train Hall and into the winelands of the Hudson River Valley, passing through serene Saratoga Springs and the Adirondack Mountains. It’s not hard to see why it's often ranked as one of the world’s top scenic train rides, especially when the fall colors catch fire.

North Carolina: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Spanning 53 miles (85km) of track, some of which dates back to the late 19th century, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad runs round trips from Bryson City that traverse secluded patches of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that are hard to reach in other ways. The line’s most scenic excursion transports passengers across the rusting trellis bridge over Fontana Lake and into the heart of the Nantahala Gorge.

Book a ticket in the open-air gondola for uninterrupted views.

North Dakota: Fort Lincoln Trolley

As one of the most sparsely populated and rural states in America, North Dakota doesn’t have too much to contribute when it comes to scenic train journeys. Amtrak’s Empire Builder does pass through, but only one company operates tourist train excursions – and those are currently on pause.

The Fort Lincoln Trolley has historically run from Mandan to Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park (pictured), ferrying passengers in a replica streetcar. But in mid-2023, the owners of the trolley announced their retirement, and it’s not yet known if successors have been found.

Ohio: Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

The Cuyahoga River nourishes dense forests, billowing hills and vast farmlands, and you can see them all in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. There's no better way to tour this green haven than a heritage train carriage, and the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad hosts rail excursions into the park ranging from immersive murder mysteries to boozy cruises.

Keep it traditional with the two-hour National Park Scenic Excursion, operating between January and April (yes, even in the snow). A seat in Upper Dome class promises sublime panoramic views.

Oklahoma: Heartland Flyer

It might not be the longest journey on Amtrak’s route map, but the daily Heartland Flyer from Fort Worth in Texas to Oklahoma City isn’t short on impact. For most of its just-over-four-hour dash, the train slips through the Sooner State’s cities and countryside, running the gauntlet of 'Tornado Alley' and passing through lands rich with Native American history.

Summer is the best time of year to take the northbound service, which offers superb sunsets. Ardmore (pictured) is one of five Oklahoma stations on the line.

Oregon: Mount Hood Railroad

The snow-capped peak, the fluffy tree blossom, the romance of train travel – it could barely be a more inviting scene. Riding the Mount Hood Railroad is a bucket-list experience, starring Oregon's highest point (an active volcano) and the striking valleys of the Columbia River Gorge.

Trips are laid on throughout the year, including special excursions for Christmas, Easter, and Halloween, swinging through woodlands, vineyards, and orchards with Mount Hood and Mount Adams looming above. Hold onto your hat as the train navigates one of only five switchbacks remaining in the US.

Pennsylvania: Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway

This tourist train operates out of the historic town of Jim Thorpe, which has been called the Switzerland of America in its time. As its name might suggest, the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is swaddled by towering cliffs, mountains, and abundant wildlife on its forested run to Old Penn Haven.

Featuring passenger cars that have been in service since as early as 1917, the train offers open-air, vista-dome, and standard coach seating on its narrated 70-minute round-trip journeys.

Rhode Island: Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad

Rhode Island might be known as the Ocean State, but you can leave your boat in the dock for this scenic voyage. The Newport and Narragansett Bay Railroad is a fantastic way to explore America's smallest state overland, though the water is never too far away.

Tracing the contours of Narragansett Bay, passengers can opt to ride the rails the unconventional way – on pedal-powered Rail Explorers (pictured) – or aboard the Grand Bellevue, an opulent dinner train guaranteed to only leave you hungry for another trip.

South Carolina: Palmetto

Amtrak’s Palmetto train out of NYC is the cropped variant of the Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes that continue south to Florida through Savannah, Georgia. These only slip through South Carolina in the wee hours, while the Palmetto catches the state famed for its sabal palm trees at much more sociable times.

Passengers can watch as it sails through Charleston (pictured) and Florence, the closest rail station to Myrtle Beach. You’ll rattle through urban sprawls and country parks, past lakes and quaint communities, all without moving a muscle.

South Dakota: Black Hills Central Railroad

The Mount Rushmore State’s only major excursion line, the Black Hills Central Railroad operates on restored, vintage rolling stock. These historic tracks are credited with the emergence of modern South Dakota, having carried settlers and town planners over the plains and into the mountains, for better or worse.

Now they carry the 1880 Train, which provides passengers with a stunning introduction to the dramatic landscapes of these ancient hills. Journeys last for a little over two hours.

Tennessee: Tennessee Valley Railroad

There are a few different excursions on the Tennessee Valley Railroad to choose from, but we love the 50-mile round-trip on the Hiwassee Loop. Here, the line’s tracks tie themselves in knots as they crisscross each other on the train’s journey up the mountain near Farner.

Unlike many heritage rail excursions, there’s no layover on this route, so you can enjoy five hours of unbroken, nostalgic travel.

Texas: Texas Eagle

From end to end, the longest iteration of Amtrak's Texas Eagle route takes a whopping 65 hours to complete, making it America's longest rail journey. The daily service runs just from Chicago to San Antonio, but three times a week it continues on to Los Angeles.

You'll likely snooze through much of Arizona, but the Texas leg is definitely worth staying awake for, as around half the train's journey takes place in the Lone Star State. Expect pine woods, seemingly endless fields, cosmopolitan cities, pretty small towns, and peaceful rivers on your passage.

Utah: Rocky Mountaineer

You get two states for the price of one on the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route, a dramatic two-day journey between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado that includes an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs. While most of the run coasts through Colorado, Utah’s rust-red scenery is impossible to overlook.

After crossing the state line, you’ll see the shadow of Mount Peale rise above the valley, often sprinkled with snow up to early summer, contrasting with the warm scarlet sandstone of Moab and Arches National Park.

Vermont: Champlain Valley Dinner Train

From June through October, the Champlain Valley Dinner Train serves up an indulgent three-course meal with a side order of Green Mountain State splendor. From the window of your 1930s dining car – Vermont’s fastest-moving restaurant – gaze out on the undulating landscapes of green, purple and gold while feasting on delicious dishes that evolve with the seasons.

The decadent journey operates on weekends, departing from and returning to Burlington on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain, where mountains meet Vermont’s most populous metropolis.

Virginia: Northeast Regional

Amtrak’s Northeast Regional is not just a fast and convenient commuter service – it’s also one of the best ways to explore the celebrated state that gave America four of its first five presidents. There are various daily routes of the Northeast Regional that serve Virginia, connecting state capital Richmond to the coastal city of Newport News and Alexandria, the latter of which stands on the western bank of the Potomac River.

You can also use the train to visit Fredericksburg, as well as the historic triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown.

Washington: Amtrak Cascades

While the Coast Starlight train from Seattle to Los Angeles might get all the fanfare for being one of North America’s greatest train journeys, it’s actually the Amtrak Cascades service that gives you the best span of Washington State. The Washington leg of this route extends from Vancouver in the south (not to be confused with the Canadian city where the train also happens to terminate) to Bellingham in the north, following the shores of Puget Sound out of Seattle (pictured) and into the wilds of the Pacific Northwest.

West Virginia: Cass Scenic Railroad

Located in West Virginia's Pocahontas County, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is unusual among America's roster of state parks, as it was created to preserve and promote a heritage train line. Founded to serve the old lumber company town of Cass, the 11-mile railroad now conveys passengers out of the Greenbrier Valley and up into the mountains on a characterful steam locomotive.

Wisconsin: Osceola and St Croix Valley Railway

Managed by the Minnesota Transportation Museum, the Osceola and St Croix Valley Railway operates seasonal tourist rail journeys through the scenic St Croix River Valley on a vintage locomotive. The route sweeps through gorgeous landscapes marked by waterfalls and blonde sandstone bluffs on a 90-minute round-trip that toes the Minnesota border.

Fall is a particularly wonderful time of year to ride this train; the riverside foliage turns orange and ocher, while birds and animals scramble among the fallen leaves.

Wyoming: Jackson Hole Aerial Tram

With not a single Amtrak service or tourist train ride to speak of, it seems the iron horse is no match for a real one in the Cowboy State. But trains haven’t always been absent from Wyoming, and attractions like the Union Pacific Roundhouse and the Cheyenne Depot Museum document some of the state’s rail heritage.

And if you’re still keen to experience a scenic journey here, riding the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram to the top of Rendezvous Mountain is the next best thing.

Now take a look at America's most eccentric attractions

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