Seeking Recommendations for Scenic Amtrak Routes
 

Hi everyone,

I hope you're all well! I'm planning to take an Amtrak trip soon and I'm interested in finding the most scenic routes. I've heard there are some breathtaking journeys out there and I'd love to get your advice.

What are some of the best Amtrak routes that offer beautiful landscapes and a comfortable ride? I'm particularly curious about routes that span across multiple states and provide unique views. I'd really appreciate any personal experiences or tips you can share!

Thanks so much for your help, and happy travels to all!

This might help:

https://www.amtrak.com/most-scenic-train-rides

Yes, the California Zypher which goes through the Rocky Mts. in Colorado is very scenic. Then the landscapes in Utah are also attractive.

Limuxtec,

The California Zephyr has stellar scenery pretty much from Denver to Emeryville (SF Bay). Ditto the Empire Builder from East Glacier to Seattle/Portland. Both trains have Chicago as their eastern terminus, but the spectacular part really begins Colorado and Montana headed west. This said, most Amtrak rides have their special moments. I quite like the Adirondack too the NYC to Plattsburgh part (along the Hudson River and Lake Champlain) and the Cardinal from DC to Chicago is really lovely in mountainous western Virginia and near the New River Gorge in West Virginia. The coast from NY to Boston is also a scenic favorite of mine.

Happy travels,

Daniel

For a short journey, the train from New York City to Montreal has some nice views along the Hudson and, northwards, into the Adirondacks.....
Glad you began this thread..I'd love to take a long train trip within the USA but wonder about the comfort on Amtrak, especially in the sleeper cars.....
We are so far behind Europe in the train sector.

Thanks

You're absolutely right! The California Zephyr and the Empire Builder are renowned for their breathtaking scenery. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the sweeping landscapes of Montana, these routes truly offer some of the most spectacular views.

I'd recommend the Coast Starlight on the west coast.

I agree that the Adirondack has some nice stretches as does the Vermonter.

My husband really wants to take a train trip from the East Coast across the country to CA next year.

Last winter I took the Crescent from NYC to New Orleans, spent a few days, then boarded the Sunset Limited to Tucson. After a few days there I drove to LA via Joshua Tree and Santa Barbara. We booked a roomette for each leg. Were I spending more than one night at a time on board, I'd go for a full room. Wrote a trip report. https://www.fodors.com/community/uni...-then-1723119/

Thanks for the link to that TR. We have considered the route you took but continuing on by train to LA on the Sunset Limited.
i have only crossed the country by train once, and that was 50 years ago.