Top 5 Scenic Train Routes in North America

From dramatic coastlines to mountain vistas, North America’s railways provide some of the best ways to explore the continent's diverse landscapes.

In this video, Jeb Brooks from GreenerGrass.com takes us on a journey through North America’s most scenic train routes. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, these breathtaking train trips will offer you stunning views and unforgettable experiences:

1. Amtrak Empire Builder

Starting at number five is Amtrak’s Empire Builder, which travels from Seattle or Portland to Chicago, covering 2,250 miles over 46 hours.

Passengers will experience majestic mountain views, including the Cascade Mountains and the wilderness of Northern Idaho.

One highlight is Glacier National Park in Montana, a perfect spot for a stopover. As the train continues through Montana’s wide-open spaces and along the Mississippi River, travelers are likely to spot bald eagles.

A coach seat starts at $107, while private rooms are available starting at $620.

2. Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic

The Alaska Railroad Coastal Classic surprises with its jaw-dropping scenery. The route runs between Anchorage and Seward, Alaska, covering just 114 miles in 4.5 hours.

Despite its short duration, this journey is packed with dramatic coastal landscapes, wildlife sightings, and mountain passes.

The train hugs Kenai Lake, offering stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. The journey ends at Seward, a gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.

Fares start at $124 for Adventure Class and $253 for Gold Star service.

3. Amtrak Coast Starlight

Amtrak’s Coast Starlight runs from Los Angeles to Seattle, covering nearly 1,400 miles in 34 hours.

This West Coast route is renowned for its stunning coastline views, offering nearly three hours of Pacific Ocean scenery.

Passengers will also experience California's arid central region and the lush forests of Oregon.

A coach seat starts at $102, while private rooms are available starting at $56.

4. Via Rail Canadian

The Via Rail Canadian offers one of the most iconic train journeys in the world. Covering 2,800 miles across Canada, this route takes 97 hours, making it North America’s longest train trip.

From Toronto to Vancouver, passengers will travel through Ontario’s forests, Manitoba’s prairies, and finally the Canadian Rockies.

Scenic highlights include Moose Lake, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks.

Travelers can opt for luxury services, like the Rocky Mountaineer, starting at $1,700, or a more affordable economy seat on the Via Rail Canadian for $514 CAD.

5. Amtrak California Zephyr

Topping the list is the California Zephyr, which runs from Emeryville near San Francisco to Chicago. This journey spans nearly 2,500 miles in over 51 hours and showcases some of the most diverse landscapes in North America.

The train travels through the Bay Area, the Sierra Nevada mountains, and the Rocky Mountains, offering views of lush forests, lakes, and canyons.

As passengers make their way across the Midwest, they’ll pass through iconic landscapes like Ruby Canyon and the Rockies.

Fares for a coach seat start at $100, with private rooms available starting at $629.

These five scenic train journeys represent the best that North America has to offer in terms of train travel.

If you’ve experienced other unforgettable train journeys, be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below!

Happy travels!

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