train tours in western us

Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, amtrak trips out west: 7 amazing train vacations.

For an adventure with Wild West towns, Spanish missions, national parks and historic landmarks, book a trip on Amtrak for an epic experience. Multiple long-distance trains travel across the Western United States, so you can choose the route based on your sightseeing interests.

To start planning your Amtrak vacation, here are seven must-do train trips out West.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page .

1. Glacier National Park

Take a trip on the Empire Builder from cities such as Chicago, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Portland and Seattle to experience Glacier National Park and Great Northern Railway history.

Founded in 1889, the Great Northern Railway connected Saint Paul, Minnesota with Seattle, Washington. To increase ridership, the railroad company petitioned the US government to create Glacier National Park, which was near their railroad tracks.

The effort paid off. Glacier National Park was established in 1910, and the railroad company built lodges and chalets that you can still stay in today:

• 1910 Belton Chalet (next to the West Glacier Station)
• 1913 Glacier Park Lodge (next to East Glacier Park Station)
• 1939 Izaak Walton Inn (former railroad employee lodging next to the Essex Station)

The Great Northern Railway also built several lodges inside Glacier National Park (Granite Park Chalet, Lake McDonald Lodge, Many Glacier Hotel and Sperry Chalet), but you’ll need a car to get there. Exit at the Whitefish Amtrak Station for rental cars or to reach an airport .

2. Route 66

Amtrak’s Southwest Chief travels near Route 66, the first all-weather road that connected Chicago with Los Angeles. Board the train in Chicago to officially kick of the journey from the start of the highway, but once you are outside of Chicago, the train doesn’t connect with Route 66 again until Las Vegas, New Mexico.

For a trip that’s all along the historic road, start in Albuquerque and travel to Los Angeles. You can also get off the train for one night or more at one of the below Amtrak stations to see Route 66 up close:

• Las Vegas, New Mexico
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Gallup, New Mexico
• Winslow, Arizona
• Flagstaff, Arizona
• Kingman, Arizona ( Historic Route 66 Museum )
• Needles, California*
• Barstow, California*
• Victorville, California*
• San Bernardino, California
• Los Angeles, California

*Westbound trains arrive in these cities after midnight

3. Colorado Rocky Mountains

The majestic Colorado Rocky Mountains straddle the Continental Divide and separate the Western US from the Great Plains. The California Zephyr will take you there from cities including Emeryville (near San Francisco), Sacramento, Salt Lake City, Chicago, Omaha and Denver. It’s one of the most scenic Amtrak routes with beautiful views all year long.

If you start the trip in Chicago, you’ll spend a night on the train before reaching the Rockies, but you’ll get to see the massive mountains rise in the distance on the approach.

To experience just the mountain journey, we recommend starting in Denver. From there, you can take a day trip to Salt Lake City, or travel to one of the Amtrak stations in the mountains so you can hike, ski and visit local attractions. See Colorado train trip ideas to learn more.

4. Donner Pass and Lake Tahoe

If you recall from history class, the Donner Party was a group of pioneers that traveled out west in a wagon train in 1846. They got caught in a blizzard and almost half of them died after spending months next to what is now Donner Lake (pictured above).

Amtrak’s California Zephyr train travels through this area today from cities including Chicago, Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City, Sacramento and Emeryville. You can view Donner Lake out the windows along with the Sierra Nevada mountains, which made the last leg of the journey west difficult for many settlers.

To visit Donner Memorial State Park and enjoy outdoor activities at nearby North Lake Tahoe , you’ll need to rent a car. Exit the train in Truckee, California, which is a historic town that was originally built along a wagon road. You can arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to the nearby Enterprise Rent-A-Car office .

With the car, you can choose from many different lodging options in the mountains or near the water. Plan to say at least one night in the area.

5. Old West Towns

Dodge City, Kansas and Las Vegas, New Mexico (pictured above) are two great places to experience the Wild West on the Southwest Chief route.

In Dodge City, Boot Hill Museum is one of the top attractions to visit, with interactive displays, artifacts and activities that recreate the town’s past. You can also check out the Gunfighers Wax Museum and walk the Dodge City Trail of Fame .

Las Vegas, New Mexico is eight hours away from Dodge City via train and has over 900 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. It hasn’t changed much since Billy the Kid, Doc Holliday, Jesse James and other outlaws walked the streets. Be sure to check out the Plaza Hotel that opened in 1882. Former President Theodore Roosevelt visited here in 1899 as part of a Rough Riders reunion.

Both cities have hotels and downtown districts in walking distance of Amtrak stations. Holiday Inn Express & Suites is closest to the Dodge City Amtrak Station and the Castaneda Hotel , which was formerly a Harvey House for railroad passengers, is closest to the Las Vegas, New Mexico Amtrak Station.

If you’re looking for a flight for the return trip, Albuquerque and Kansas City are the closest Amtrak stops with major airports. To start the trip, you can begin in and near Los Angeles or cities including Chicago and Kansas City.

6. Spanish Missions

San Antonio, Texas is just one of many places where you can view historic Spanish missions in the United States. The Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited Amtrak routes stop here, with departures from cities in Texas, as well as Chicago, St. Louis, Little Rock, New Orleans, Tucson and Los Angeles.

The must-visit destinations include The Alamo (also known as Mission San Antonio de Valero ), Mission Concepción , Mission San José  (pictured above), Mission San Juan  and Mission Espada . View the missions trip guide to learn more or plan to go on a guided tour .

After you’ve seen all the sights, you can return home on Amtrak or book a flight out of San Antonio or another major city on the Texas Eagle or Sunset Limited routes. Note that The Alamo is in walking distance of the San Antonio Amtrak Station along with the San Antonio River Walk and several hotels ( Staybridge Suites is closest to the station).

7. Grand Canyon and Flagstaff

For views of an amazing natural wonder, plan a trip to the Grand Canyon via Amtrak’s Southwest Chief . The closest station is Flagstaff, and you’ll need to rent a car (pick up service available during office hours), book a shuttle or go on a tour to reach the Grand Canyon from there.

Perks of renting a car include being able to visit other top area attractions including Walnut Canyon National Monument , Lowell Observatory , Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort .

Even if you don’t rent a car, you can explore Historic Downtown Flagstaff and Route 66 , check out the many art galleries , visit the Clara M. Lovett Art Museum and go on an electric bike tour . Lyft and Uber services are also options for getting around, although all the above activities are walkable if you stay at a hotel or vacation rental downtown.

Tip : Train arrival time in Flagstaff is better if you are traveling west vs east. To travel west, you can start the trip in Chicago, Kansas City or Albuquerque, which all have major airports.

More Information

• 10 most scenic Amtrak routes
• 5 best Amtrak sleeper car routes
• Amtrak roomettes vs bedrooms
• 7 things to pack for an Amtrak trip
• 10 attractions on the Sunset Limited route to plan a trip around
• 10 attractions on the Southwest Chief route to plan a trip around

Top photo courtesy Pxhere

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• Train Rides
• Train Travel
• Train Trips
• Train Features

Western USA train rides roll over the Rockies and onto the Pacific

Find a train ride in the Western USA…

Even before the transcontinental railroad was completed and the Golden Spike driven at Promontory Point, Utah, railroads had already begun to win the west. In particular, mother lodes of gold, silver, and copper had spurred the rapid development of narrow-gauge short lines to shuttle workers to the mines and to haul newly mined ore out. To the north, logging railroads played a similar role, with trains running lumberjacks to deep woods camps and returning laden with timber. As the mines were depleted and forests laid bare, workers and investors left, and so did the trains.

Of course, not all of the old lines failed and, for a time, newer standard gauge main lines were the west’s principal means of travel. It is along segments of those heritage railways that today’s scenic train rides unfold offering up rare glimpses of history and nature, often inaccessible by any other means of travel.

Nowhere in the Western US is the point made more clearly than on a train ride through Colorado. There, in San Juan National Forest mountain country, the award-winning Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad steam train snakes along an isolated river route. To the north, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad follows a precarious route that crosses the unique hanging bridge — a still-stunning 19th century engineering feat. Likewise, the engineering precision that enables both the Georgetown Loop Railroad and Rio Grande Scenic Railroad to overcome steep Rocky Mountain grades.

The Pacific Coast is home to a diversity of heritage railways and scenic train rides.

Best loved are San Francisco’s Cable Cars. The world’s last manually operated cable car system is synonymous with the City by the Bay. Across the Bay, amid the rolling hills of Northern California’s internationally famous wine country, the Napa Valley Wine Train follows a vineyard route that generates an international buzz among wine lovers and rail fans alike.

Southern California is home to a quirky assortment of tourist trains. The Fillmore & Western Railway’s “Movie Trains” have featured in hundreds of films, series, and commercials. The Orange Empire Railway Museum is the largest railway museum in the West. And downtown LA’s Angel’s Flight funicular lays claim to the title “world’s shortest railway.”

Up the coast, tucked amid the Pacific Northwest’s Cascades Range, two of the region’s namesake mountain railways ply their scenic routes. Oregon’s Mount Hood Railroad and Washington’s Mount Rainier Railroad & Logging Museum keep watch over the rolling foothills they call home.

[expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Alaska” tag=”h2″] Coastal Classic Train – Alaska Railroad Anchorage, Alaska First edging the Turnagain Arm coast, the train veers off through backcountry wilderness for an extended halt at Seward and Resurrection Bay. Optional activities include Kenai Fjords National Park cruise, Wildlife island cruise with wilderness lodge lunch, and Real Alaska Tour with glacier hike and dog sled ride. Train operates seasonally. Telephone: +1 (907) 265-2494 . Glacier Discovery Train – Alaska Railroad Anchorage, Alaska Into the wilds of the Chugach National Forest, the train crosses Alpine Meadows in range of awesome glacier views. Optional layovers include Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, and Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop trail walk. Rafting, hiking, and ice climbing add-ons available. Train operates seasonally. Telephone: +1 (907) 265-2494 . White Pass & Yukon Route Skagway, Alaska – Carcross, Yukon An engineering marvel, this Gold Rush era railroad climbs nearly 3000 ft (914 m) from glacial tidewater to White Pass Summit. Other excursions run to Fraser, Bennett and Whitehorse, Canada. Hiker services for Denver and Laughton Glaciers and Chilkoot Trail are available. Highlights include overnight camping add-ons. Trains operate seasonally. Passport required for some services. Telephone: +1 (800) 343-7373 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”California” tag=”h2″] Angel’s Flight Railway Los Angeles, California The world’s shortest railway, downtown LA’s 1901 narrow gauge funicular takes passengers on a short hop between Grand Avenue (across from Grand Central Market) and Hill Street (at California Plaza) on Bunker Hill. Trains operate year-round (Monday to Friday only). Telephone: +1 (213) 626-1901 . California State Railroad Museum Sacramento, California Old Sacramento State Historic Park is home to one of the nation’s foremost railroading museums. Excursions, along the banks of the Sacramento River, are among the most popular attractions. Highlights include library, restored freight depot and extensive collections of locomotives and rolling stock. Trains operate seasonally; museum open year-round. Telephone: +1 (916) 445-5995 . Fillmore & Western Railway Fillmore, California The “Home of the Movie Trains,” featured in Hollywood productions, hosts scenic excursions through the citrus groves of Heritage Valley. Highlights include Murder Mystery Dinner Trains and rail/tour packages. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (805) 524≠2546 . Irvine Park Railroad Orange, California Kids and grown-ups alike delight in riding aboard this charming 1/3 scale railroad through the Orange County foothills of Irvine Regional Park. Highlights include access to the Orange County Zoo, public stables, and paddle boat and bike rentals. Trains operate year-round. +1 (714) 997-3968 . Napa Valley Wine Train Napa, California Among the “Best Rail Experiences in the World,” the Wine Train treats guests to gourmet lunch and dinner services aboard Vista Domes, or antique Pullman dining and lounge cars. Highlights include Winery Tours and theme runs. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (800) 427-4124 . Niles Canyon Railway Niles and Sunol, California Scenic train rides wind along Alameda Creek in Niles Canyon, site of numerous Charlie Chaplin films. Optional layovers allow riders time to explore the old rail town of Sunol or Fremont’s historic Niles district and return on a later train. Highlights include open-air car and caboose rentals. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (510) 996-8420 . Orange Empire Railway Museum Perris, California The largest railway museum in the West operates a changing roster of trains and trolleys from a world-class collection of locomotives and rolling stock dating from the 1870s. Highlights include Run One guest engineer opportunities and caboose rentals. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (951) 943-3020 . Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo, California Through San Diego’s back-country, the Golden State takes visitors on a 90-minute scenic train ride along an authentic mountain railroad. Highlights include locomotive cab rides, open-air car (in season), caboose rides, and “Engineer-for-an-Hour” opportunities. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (619) 478-9937 . Railtown 1897 State Historic Park Jamestown, California A feature of Hollywood movies for nearly a century, the train museum’s 6 mi (10 km) train ride through the rugged hillsides of California’s Gold Country runs past the water tower made famous on “Petticoat Junction.” Highlights include cab rides, Crew for a Day experience, and Sierra Railway shops and roundhouse. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (209) 984-3953 . Roaring Camp Railroads Felton, California Ancient redwood stands form the backdrop for a pair of memorable adventures: by narrow-gauge Redwood Forest Steam Train to the top of Bear Mountain; or aboard the Beach Train to the boardwalk at Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz to Felton also available). Highlights include Engineer for a Day experience. Steam Train runs year-round; Beach Train, seasonally. Telephone: +1 (831) 335-4484 . River Fox Train West Sacramento, California Along a unique wetlands route, the River Fox crosses open farmland and the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area — one of the nation’s largest restored habitats and home to nearly 200 species of birds. Highlights include open-air cars; rail bikes and beer and wine trains. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (800) 866-1690 . San Francisco Cable Cars MUNI – San Francisco Municipal Railway San Francisco, California Famous for their gravity defying engineering, photo ops, and signal bells (a single bell for stop; two for go); many a heart left in San Francisco lingers aboard one of the city’s beloved cable cars. Dating back to the late 19th century, SF’s cable car lines form the world’s last manually operated cable car system. Routes include Powell-Mason and Powell-Hyde lines (Market Street to Fisherman’s Wharf via Union Square and Chinatown) and California line (Van Ness to Financial District via Nob Hill). Highlights include Cable Car Barn and Powerhouse tours, Cable Car Turnarounds and Cable Car Museum. Trains operate year-round . Telephone: +1 (415) 701-2311 . Skunk Train Fort Bragg and Willits, California The North Coast’s varied nature is contrasted along two different routes. Blue heron, osprey, and egret range along the Pudding Creek Express’s wetlands route while Wolf Tree Turn excursions descend into the redwood-thick Noyo River Canyon. Dogs are welcome! Highlights include open-air car and rail bikes. Pudding Creek Express runs year-round; Wolf Tree Turn, seasonally. Telephone: +1 (707) 964-6371 . Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Fish Camp, California Ten minutes from Yosemite National Park, vintage trains drawn by steam-powered Shay locomotives and antique self-propelled “Jenny” railcars haul passengers along a onetime logging track through Sierra National Forest. Highlights include Moonlight Special/BBQ packages. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (559) 683-7273 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Colorado” tag=”h2″] Colorado Railroad Museum Golden, Colorado Colorado’s Age of the Locomotive comes to life aboard a narrow-gauge steam train train tour of the museum grounds which contain an operational roundhouse and railyard displaying over 100 narrow and standard gauge steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses. Highlights include “Gallopin’ Goose” Motorcar rides, Depot Museum, and garden railway. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (800) 365-6263 . Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad Cripple Creek, Colorado A 15-ton iron horse recreates the excitement of the Gold Rush age along its 4 mi (6.5 km) narrow-gauge route. Historic mines and the deserted mining camp of Anaconda are sights along the way. Highlights include open-air car. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (719) 689-2640 . colorado-cripple-creek-and-victor-narrow-gauge-railroad Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Antonito, Colorado & Chama, New Mexico Through high desert and lush meadows, America’s longest narrow gauge railway zig zags along the Colorado – New Mexico border crossing tunnel and trestle, and climbing to Cumbres Pass — at 10015 ft (3050 m), the highest rail pass in the USA. Highlights include first-class Parlor Car, complementary lunch buffet, and museum. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (888) 286-2737 . Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Durango, Colorado Along the Animas River’s snaking course, steam engine trains cut through the mountain country of the San Juan National Forest. Durango to Silverton (May to October; one-way bus option available); Rockwood (summer only) and Durango (November to early May) round trips to Cascade Canyon are also popular. Highlights include open-air cars, locomotive cab and motor car rides; Rail/Raft Adventures, Brew Trains and rail/hotel/recreation packages. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (888) 872-4607 . Fort Collins Municipal Railway Fort Collins, Colorado Restored street cars proceed along the original West Mountain Avenue line between the downtown shopping district and City Park of this pretty college town. Trains operate seasonally. Georgetown Loop Railroad Georgetown and Silver Plume, Colorado A 19c engineering marvel, this historic steam engine train ride’s corkscrew route climbs a 600 ft (180 m) grade in just 2 mi (3 km), clearing horseshoe curves and massive Devil’s Gate High Bridge. Highlights include historic Parlor Cars. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (888) 456-6777 . Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad Leadville, Colorado From the Victorian mining town of Leadville – North America’s highest incorporated city – the LC&S travels through the world’s largest alpine valley, in sight of towering Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, to the Continental Divide. Highlights include engine train rides and caboose rides; raft-and-rail and zip-line-and-rail specials. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (866) 386-3936 . Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway Manitou Springs, Colorado Completely rebuilt in time for the 2021 season, the world’s highest cog railroad returns after a two year hiatus. Climbing Pikes Peak since 1891, the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway passes grazing bighorn sheep and 2000-year old bristlecone pines, overtakes the timberline, and crosses Alpine tundra to reach its summit station, 14,115 ft (4300 m) in the sky. Highlights include biking and hiking combos. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (719) 685-5401 . Rio Grande Scenic Railroad Alamosa and Fort Garland, Colorado The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad is no longer operating. La Veta Mountaineer . All passengers enjoy first-class style seating within the Vista Dome car and complementary brunch onboard. Alamosa Wine and Cheese Train Tour also offered. Highlights include seasonal theme trains. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (877) 726-7245 .08-feb-19 --> Royal Gorge Route Railroad Cañon City, Colorado One thousand feet below the gorge’s cliffs, the railroad ventures through the granite-walled narrow its railbed shares with the Arkansas River. The 1879 hanging bridge is an engineering marvel. Service classes include Vista Dome; bistro-style and First Class dining is available. Highlights include open-air cars, Ride with the Engineer experience, Murder Mystery trains, and Wine Express. Trains operate year-round (holiday theme only mid-Nov through New Years Eve). Telephone: +1 (888) 724-5748 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Hawaii” tag=”h2″] Hawaiian Railway Ewa, Hawaii Oahu’s last remaining sugar train steams past an old sugar cane plantation and a ghost town on its way to the ocean at Kahe Point. Highlights include Ice Cream Rides and a Toy Train Museum. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (808) 681-5461 . “The Sugarcane Train” Lahaina Kaanapali & Pacific Railroad Lahaina – Puukolii, Hawaii The Sugar Cane Train is expected to resume operations in the future. Telephone: +1 (808) 667-6851 .--> [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Montana” tag=”h2″] Charlie Russell Chew-Choo Hanover, Montana Rolling through the heart of Big Sky Country, the Chew-Choo’s Monatana Dinner Train serves up a memorable 3½ hours of great scenery and western-style entertainment along with a full-course prime rib dinner. Highlights include Wild West Hold-Up reenactment. Limited days of operation. Telephone: +1 (866) 912-3980 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Nevada” tag=”h2″] Nevada Northern Railway Ely, Nevada A National Historic Landmark, today steam and diesel runs retrace a stretch of former copper-hauling railway through two tunnels and rugged canyon lands. Highlights include open-air cars, Great Basin Star Train, Be the Engineer experience, caboose and locomotive cab rides, yard tours, and Overnight in the Yard opportunities (bunkhouse or caboose). Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (866) 407-8326 . Nevada State Railroad Museum Carson City, Nevada Steam trains and rare motor cars alternate runs out of historic Wabuska Station. Artifacts, educational displays, and rolling stock spotlight the Silver State rail’s role in the development of ore-hauling and transcontinental railroads. Highlights include changing exhibits. Trains operate year-round except January. Telephone: +1 (702) 486-5933 . Nevada Southern Railway Boulder City, Nevada Built in the 1930s to service the Boulder Dam project, the Mojave museum railway takes visitors on a scenic 45-minute desert run. Highlights include open-air car, locomotive cab rides, displays of historic steam locomotives and rolling stock. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (702) 486-5933 . Virginia & Truckee Railroad Virginia City, Nevada “The Queen of the Short Lines” rides again — reviving a stretch of the historic rail route built to link the outside world with the boomtowns of Nevada’s 19c silver bonanza: the Comstock Lode. Today’s guests enjoy 35-minute excursions aboard restored 1920s coaches. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (775) 847-0380 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Oregon” tag=”h2″] Mount Hood Railroad Hood River, Oregon Riders spot fruit orchards, woodland fauna and mountain vistas along this century-old railroad’s Hood River course. Return trip follows an hour’s layover at the foothill hamlet of Parkdale. Highlights include First Class WIne Tastings and optional Onboard Deli Lunch. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (800) 872-4661 . Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad Garibaldi & Rockaway Beach, Oregon Steam trips between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach depots offer up stunning views of Tillamook Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Highlights include dinner trains. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (503) 842-7972 . Oregon Electric Railway Museum Antique Powerland Brooks, Oregon The largest trolley museum in the Pacific Northwest features a 1 mi (1.5 km) demonstration run and a working car barn tour. Highlights include exhibits of vintage trams and street cars. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (503) 393-2424 . Sumpter Valley Railroad Sumpter & Baker City (McEwen), Oregon A one-time timber train, the historic “Stump Dodger” treats passengers to an old-fashioned narrow gauge steam engine train ride through the heart of Gold Rush Country. Highlights include locomotive cab rides and rail artifacts display. Limited days of operation. Telephone: +1 (866) 894-2268 . Willamette Shore Trolley Lake Oswego and SW Portland, Oregon Over tall trestles, through an S-curve tunnel and along the scenic Willamette Riverbank, this heritage trolley plies its preservation line between Lake “O” and Southwest Portland waterfront district. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (503) 697-7436 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Utah” tag=”h2″] Heber Valley Railroad Heber City, Utah Runs to sparkling Deer Creek Reservoir feature views of Mt. Timpanogos. Longer excursions continue along the Provo River into glacier-carved Provo Canyon. Highlights include raft/rail combos and optional box lunches. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (435) 654-5601 . [/expand] [expand trigclass=”noarrow trigger” rel=”class-one” title=”Washington” tag=”h2″] Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum Chehalis, Washington Service has been suspended as of March 2022. Telephone: +1 (360) 748-9593 . Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Yacolt, Washington Through the Evergreen State’s historic logging country, trains clear a tunnel, edge along a cliff and cross a trestle bridge en route to Moulton Falls County Park. Highlights include annual Christmas tree runs. Limited days of operation. Telephone: +1 (360) 686-3559 . Mount Rainier Railroad & Logging Museum Elbe, Washington Mount Rainier Railroad & Logging Museum has ceased operations until further notice. Telephone: +1 (360) 492-6000 . 08-feb-19 --> Northwest Railway Museum Snoqualmie, Washington Amid the western Cascade Foothills, antique coaches depart the museum’s 19c depot bound for North Bend, the top of Snoqualmie Falls and the scenic overlook of the Valley. Optional departures and layovers at North Bend. Highlights include guided Snoqualmie Depot and Train Shed Exhibit Building tours. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (425) 888-3030 . Seattle Center Monorail Seattle, Washington The world rode into the future — or so they thought — when they rode the monorail at the 1962 World’s Fair. What was cutting edge then is kitschy now but it still makes a cool introduction to the Emerald City. Trains operate year-round. Telephone: +1 (206) 905-2620 . Yakima Valley Trolleys Yakima, Washington Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, America’s last intact, early 20c interurban railway runs through the heart of Apple Country as it has since 1907. An operating carbarn and substation contain heritage cars and equipment. Trains operate seasonally. Telephone: +1 (509) 249-5962 . [/expand]  

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14 Most Scenic Train Rides On The West Coast

Head to the West Coast of America and Canada for train journeys with breathtaking views of mountains, ocean, and wildlife.

Read update

Two More Of The Most Scenic Train Rides On The West Coast

• Scenic train rides on the West Coast offer breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, Cascade Range, and other natural wonders. Don't miss the Amtrak Cascades route for a truly incredible experience.
• The Amtrak Empire Builder is another must-try scenic train route that takes you through the Rocky Mountains, Columbia River Gorge, and dense Pacific Northwest forests.
• For a more relaxing option, take the Amtrak Coast Starlight route to enjoy epic scenery from Los Angeles to Seattle. Choose from different seat options, including Superliner bedrooms, for ultimate comfort.

North America is a vast continent, and railways are a great option for exploring the incredible landscapes of America and Canada at high speeds. From commuter trains to train tours and sleeper trains , the most scenic train rides on the West Coast offer something for everyone.

They vary in duration, making it easy to build some sort of train journey into any road trip or vacation along the Pacific coast. Travelers heading to British Columbia, Alaska, Oregon, Washington, or California should book their tickets for one of these scenic railways ASAP.

UPDATE: 2023/10/02 16:59 EST BY REENA JAIN

This list has been updated to include two more scenic train rides on the West Coast, including Amtrak Cascades and Amtrak Empire Builder, which offer fantastic experiences and incredible natural magnificence.

10 Day Trips In The U.S. That You Can Only Take By Scenic Train

14 amtrak cascades.

The Amtrak Cascades route is one of the most scenic Amtrak routes, with spectacular scenery of the West Coast. It runs between Eugene and Vancouver, providing breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and the Cascade Range. It is also the only Amtrak route using a cafe car and a European trainset. Although the whole route is full of natural splendor, traveling between either Seattle or Portland and Bellingham, Washington, is a truly incredible experience. Advantages of these journeys include vistas of Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, Mount Hood, Puget Sound, and the Columbia River Gorge.

• Travel Time: Between Portland and Bellingham: 6.5 hours; Between Seattle and Bellingham: 2.5 hours

13 Amtrak Empire Builder

Another scenic train route that deserves to be on this list of West Coast train trips is the Amtrak Empire Builder . It is the ideal train journey to take in spectacular mountain and forest sights while traveling. This cross-country route travels between Chicago and Seattle through the Cascade Mountains, the Rocky Mountains, the Columbia River Gorge, and the dense Pacific Northwest forests. Along the way, travelers can disembark at any of the destinations for a night or more or take a nature retreat, including close to Glacier National Park.

• Route: Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA

12 Amtrak Coast Starlight

One of the best road trips in the world is arguably driving up the west coast of the United States from California Big Sur to Seattle. But, a more relaxing option that frees up travelers’ eyes from the road to fully appreciate the epic scenery is to make this journey via train. The Amtrak Coast Starlight route takes passengers all the way from sunny Los Angeles, California, to the Pacific Northwest in Seattle, Washington.

• Notable For: Ultimate West Coast Trip - LA To Seattle

The trip takes approximately 35 hours (one way) and passes through the San Francisco Bay Area, Santa Barbara, Sacramento, and Portland. The views on this route are unmatched, with coastal scenery, lush forests, and breathtaking mountain peaks. Travelers can choose what class of seat they want to book, with options ranging from Coach Class seats to Superliner bedrooms.

11 Rocky Mountaineer First Passage To The West

Further north across the Canadian border is one of the best train journeys on Canada’s west coast. Take the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to Banff National Park via Kamloops. The trip takes two days with a night aboard the train and can be completed in either direction.

• Cost: $2,199 - $3,704 CAD (From $1,730 USD)

For first-time visitors to the Canadian Rockies, it’s the perfect way to take in the incredible scenery. It’s also a good option for transiting comfortably between two of the best places to visit on the West Coast.

10 Amtrak California Zephyr

Although it doesn’t start on the West Coast, Amtrak’s California Zephyr train route is one of the top choices for a scenic journey to the West Coast. The train originates in Chicago, and the trip ends in Emeryville (San Francisco). There are stunning views along the way as the train winds through Nevada, Utah, and Colorado to reach its final destination.

• Route: Chicago to San Francisco

One way, the journey takes 51 hours and 20 minutes. Ogle the Sierra Nevada mountain range and get a glimpse of the Pacific Coast in Sacramento before arriving in Emeryville, where transit connections are available to San Francisco and Oakland stations.

Coast By Train: See America's Best Views By Railway

9 alaska railroad’s coastal classic.

For a short but sweet west coast train ride, travelers can head to the far north reaches of Alaska. In 4.5 hours, Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic route takes passengers from Anchorage to Seward along the shoreline of the Turnagain Arm, with a stop in Girdwood at the 1.25-hour mark. In a region of rich wilderness, this train excursion is a chance to spot whales in the ocean or see bears roaming alongside the tracks.

• Note: Great For Day Trips To Seward

Once passengers arrive in Seward, they can spend a few hours enjoying various activities like dog sledding, glacier hikes, or boat tours before boarding a return train to Anchorage.

8 Rocky Mountaineer Journey Through the Clouds

When visiting Canada’s west coast and starting the trip from Vancouver, the Rocky Mountaineer offers another enticing train route called Journey Through the Clouds. This option takes passengers from Vancouver to Jasper National Park, rather than Banff, via Kamloops.

• Duration: Packages For 4 Days and 3 Nights

Jasper National Park covers 11,000 square km in Alberta, Canada, and it is the biggest National Park in Canada’s Rocky Mountains. The area is full of wildlife, including elk, grizzly bears, black bears, and big-horned sheep.

Climbing Aboard Canada's Rocky Mountaineer, One Of The Most Scenic Trains In The World

7 white pass and yukon to skagway rail route.

Adventurous travelers can undertake a cross-border train journey from the port of Skagway, Alaska to the capital of Canada’s Yukon Territory, Whitehorse. From Skagway, it’s possible to take the White Pass Summit Excursion for $134 per adult. The train ride to the White Pass Summit is about 2.5 hours or 40 miles round trip . It offers incredible views of the mountain scenery that Alaska has to offer.

• Location: Canada's Yukon Territory

6 Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

Surf enthusiasts, all aboard! The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is one of the surfer’s dream West Coast train tours, taking passengers and their surfboards along the California coast. The whole route takes 5 hours and 45 minutes to complete and covers 351 miles.

• Distance: 564 Kilometers or 351 Miles

The start and endpoints of the trip are San Luis Obispo and San Diego. The train travels through Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties, helping surfers catch the best waves on America’s west coast.

5 Prince Rupert To Jasper With VIA Rail

Skip Vancouver on this west coast Canadian train journey and take a VIA rail adventure from the scenic coastal city of Prince Rupert, British Columbia, instead. Prince Rupert is in Northern BC and is a great alternative to Southern BC for nature lovers.

• Distance: 1,160 Kilometers or 720 Miles

The VIA Rail route from Prince Rupert to Jasper via Prince George covers 1160 km and is offered in economy class . The train stops in Prince George overnight, and passengers must find their own accommodations in the town before departing the next morning for Jasper.

4 The Skunk Steam Locomotive

Venture into the northern wilds of California, and one will discover Fort Bragg and the most peculiar Glass Beach (worth a stop for those going up the coast) . Another notable attraction is the historic Skunk Steam Locomotive (fortunately, its stink was historical and not current).

• Fare: Adult: $79.95

The historic railway used to have a pot-belly stove to keep passengers warm. It had the reputation of being a train one could "smell before one could see it." Today visitors enjoy riding the old railway cars through the redwoods and through the Noyo River canyon.

3 Grand Canyon Railway

Admittedly the Grand Canyon is not strictly speaking the West Coast, but still, it is worth a mention if not for the experience of an old-timey train robbery. The Grand Canyon Railway was built in 1901 to take folks to the stunning Grand Canyon , and today, it is a family-friendly scenic train with plenty of acts and performances to keep all the kids entertained.

• Fare: $67 Pullman Class Return

The Grand Canyon Railway runs from Williams to Grand Canyon Village in Arizona - a journey of 64 miles. With its Wild West re-enactments and shows, it is arguably one of the most entertaining ways to get to the world's most stunning canyon.

2 Oregon Coastal Scenic Railway

One of the unmissable heritage train trips in Oregon is with the Oregon Coastal Scenic Railroad and its vintage steam trains. They offer a range of options, including the Fall Splendor Excursion, Candy Cane Express, Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular, and the Sunset Dinner Train.

• Starting Price Range: $30-180

The train trips are between one and three hours long, and some include a four-course catered meal (complete with beer and wine for purchase). Sit back and see some of the best of the Oregon Coast roll by as one travels as they did in the golden age of train travel.

1 Oregon Pacific Railroad

Take a historic train ride in Portland, Oregon, with the Oregon Pacific Railroad . They are once again bringing back their Saturday passenger service (they are a family-owned and operated freight railroad company). Their passenger train service operates every Saturday from March to November. Add this activity to one's essential weekend itinerary for Portland .

The cars are pulled by heritage GMD-1 diesel locomotives and have an open-air car, passenger cabooses, and a very historic business passenger car. The rides last around 45 minutes and cost $14 per adult passenger. They travel along the east bank of the Willamette River through the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge.

5 Top Train Trips for Exploring the West

Article By: Ralph Spielman

Simplify your family vacation planning with these five top train trips for exploring America’s Western states. Each of these rail travel adventures are sure to make for interesting family travels.

What could be simpler than train travel? No driving worries, strange motels, bad food, security checks, airport hassles or cramped seating afflict those who experience about long distance travel by train. Flights are much faster, true. Train trips, howevr, are much more immersive. Picture travel at eight feet or 12 feet above the ground versus 35,000 feet and, it’s not as bumpy.

Were your kids cooped up at home during the pandemic? Hopefully, they practiced online learning skills and hung around the virtual Amtrak Activity Center ? It’s time to introduce them to train travel and the fun of moving around train cars.

Heading Out on Amtrak’s Western Train Trips

As an avid train traveler and vacation-lover, I want to share a few of my favorite longer train trips. They are out West and suitable family travel fun, filled with history, geography and the natural sciences.

They’re all operated by Amtrak. America’s national rail operator runs 21,000 route miles in 46 states, the District of Columbia and three Canadian provinces. Did you know that Amtrak operates more than 300 trains each day to more than 500 destinations? ?

If that sounds daunting, there are travel agents who specialize in rail travel. Alternatively, consult with Amtrak Vacations , the railroad’s official tour operator. Let’s look at my top five train trips for exploring the Western U.S. plan ahead for future journeys.

What Makes These Western Train Trips Memorable

Any train travel offers great sightseeing out the windows. As a bonus, these trains also make servicing stops. Stops range from five minutes to an hour and allow passengers a chance to get off the train and walk around a new station a little.

There’s no special responsibility weighing on the driver – that’s someone else’s job so your family can relax together. All of the Amtrak trains noted offer reasonably comfortable seats and meal services, with a selection of food, snacks and drinks for the duration of the trip. Vegan and vegetarian alternatives are also available.

One item to remember is train timekeeping is not always exemplary; on all these runs, Amtrak owns or shares track with host freight-carrying railroads. These “landlords” may be bent on putting their freight train in front of yours. Expect possible delays.

Keeping Everyone Busy When They’re All Aboard!

Another item worth remembering is that WiFi is not generally available on these trains, but some of the larger stations should have it. Given the lengths of these suggested trips, you might want to bring favored snacks and games (both board and electronic games).

Unlike flying, there are a lot of toilets to choose from and strollers are free to carry on. Many stations on Western train trips offer advanced boarding for families with young children. If you are traveling in a sleeping car, the showers on-board can be a big help, with big towels supplied by Amtrak.

And even if your kids don’t belong to Greta Thunberg’s Kids Rights movement, they surely know that rail travel is much more environmentally friendly than CO2-burning road and air transport.

What’s Special about Overnight Amtrak train trips in the U.S.?

This author has had occasion to travel overnight in long-distance coaches, where every seat is comparable to an international business class airline seat. It is, surprisingly, better than you might think, relatively quiet at night and very affordable for families. The long-distance rail cars are built for the job and big windows on each side afford some fantastic views of scenic areas.

Why go West? Sleek double-decker trains carry everyone in quiet luxury with longer horizons and large windows for better viewing. When you alight at a service stop and look down the length of the train, both the length and height of your rolling home combine to make it seem like a linear apartment building. These rolling behemoths stretch more than three city blocks in length.

If your budget can afford it, the way to travel is in a sleeping car on the runs west of Chicago.

Special Facilities & Amenities on Western Train Trips

The sleeping car first appeared in the 1850s and, for my money, is the most unique way to travel anywhere in the world, especially in that part of our nation. These Western trains travel from Chicago and New Orleans to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland, Oregon and Seattle.

Each two-level Western train offers an upper-level dining car with tableside meals, and an upper-level sightseer cafe/lounge car, with floor to ceiling windows to ensure memories and incredible photos. Chances are, either sleeping car or coach, your accommodation will be on the upper level with its own amazing views.

Western Long Haul Train Trips with Sleeper Cars

The gamut of overnight Western rail trip offerings starts at a lower-level, full-width family room, suitable for as many as four family members! Other accommodations offered are a cozy roomette, suitable for two in upper and lower berths and deluxe double bedrooms, suitable for up to three people, equipped with an ensuite shower, sink and toilet.

Accessible rooms are suitable for physically challenged travelers plus a companion. Showers are available for all sleeping car passengers.

While there are roomettes on both levels, the family and accessible rooms are on the lower level. Double bedrooms, the premium accommodation, are strictly on the upper level, and offer amazing views.

Favorite Amtrak Stations in the West: Albuquerque, Denver, Fort Worth

Servicing stops in places like Albuquerque, New Mexico; Denver, Colorado; and Fort Worth, Texas afford breaks in the ride. The whole family has a chance to take leg-stretching platform walks and witness the activity at the station.

Albuquerque even offers opportunities to purchase Native American handicrafts during the stop the Southwest Chief makes there.

I’ve tried to describe westward journeys in most cases to give everyone a longer day as you chase the sun on its westward journey. Let’s hop aboard each one for a look at their respective routes.

Have a memorable trip, no matter which train you decide on!

Chicago and New Orleans>Los Angeles; Texas Bayous, Farms and Deserts on the Sunset Limited

With a set of through cars from Chicago joining the New Orleans-originating Sunset Limited in San Antonio, Texas, the southernmost transcontinental Amtrak train travels three times a week in both directions.

Should you depart from New Orleans, the Sunset will whisk you west by way of a 900-mile transit of Texas. Bayous, farms, ranches and desert are all visible on this trip.

Should you book from Chicago or St. Louis to connect with the Sunset Limited , a sleeping car and a coach start on the Texas Eagle , which runs through Little Rock on its way to the San Antonio rendezvous, where both trains join. By the time the sun rises heading west, you are gazing on the farmlands of eastern Texas.

Traveling southwesterly through the state, it takes 16 hours (about the time to drive from New York to Chicago) to go from the Arkansas border to your connecting point.

West from Texas>Los Angeles; Crossing New Mexico on the Sunset Limited

When both parts of the Sunset Limited unite and head west, a New Mexico morning greets passengers. Daylight in New Mexico and Arizona takes the train through what was the Gadsden Purchase, land the U.S. purchased from Mexico to build the very route the train travels on.

The Arizona desert gives way to nocturnal transit of California’s Imperial Valley with an early breakfast arrival at Los Angeles.

Chicago>Los Angeles; From Lake Michigan to the Pacific on the Southwest Chief

While the Texas Chief/Sunset Limited will take you from Chicago to Los Angeles through the desert, the shorter way between those two points is on the daily Southwest Chief , which travels through scenic, largely unpopulated Northern New Mexico during daylight hours in both directions.

You view the High Desert, a riot of reds and browns against a sunny blue sky, through large windows. From an elevation of 600 feet in Chicago, the train climbs to an amazing 7,588 feet above sea level at the Raton Tunnel in Northern New Mexico. This marvel of engineering is the highest point in the Amtrak system.

Fun stops for the family to disembark and tour would be Lamy, New Mexico — a short taxi ride from Santa Fe – and Albuquerque. Flagstaff, Arizona is the gateway to the Grand Canyon. Fullerton, California is close to Disneyland in Anaheim.

Along the way, the friendly crews will be happy to point out attractions of interest; you may just see wild stallions on the range in Southern Colorado! It’s a wonderful way to see the Southwest go by, instead of zooming above it at 500 mph. The thrill of having a leisurely meal while floating through scenic vistas from the flat Illinois plains to the Rocky Mountains? Priceless.

On a Western adventure, a train trip is a lot more real than flying over and more restful than a long drive.

Chicago>San Francisco; Through the Mountains on the San Francisco Zephyr

If Denver, Salt Lake City, or the San Francisco Bay Area are points on your destination horizon, a mid-afternoon departure on the daily California Zephyr makes for perfect family travel to your special destination. It is a spectacular transit between Denver and Salt Lake City in daylight in each direction. There are 44 tunnels through the Rocky Mountains, a 50-mile climb out of Denver and a six-mile long Moffat Tunnel to keep everyone interested in the journey. The views on a clear day from the sightseer lounge car climbing out of Denver on a clear day are breathtaking.

The full trip, at over 2,400 miles, is one of the longest routes Amtrak currently offers. The western end of the line in Emeryville, California is but a short connecting bus ride to San Francisco over San Francisco Bay.

Western Rail Favorite: Northern Crossing; Empire Builder and the Pacific Northwest

The daily Empire Builder offers up the plains of the Midwest, the Rockies and Pacific Northwest forests en route from Chicago to its twin destinations, Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon. The window of your coach or sleeping car room will afford a better than wide screen television 3D view of constantly changing vistas.

Heading West, the trains leave in the afternoon, with second day arrival at the last stop in the late morning. The Eastbound train leaves in the late afternoon, with an arrival in the late afternoon in Chicago on the second day of travel.

Kids will love daylight views of the Northern Rocky Mountains through miles of Montana wilderness, dotted by the occasional small town. If you look closely on the way through Glacier Park, you might just see some mountain goats! On the way to and from Seattle, you will travel through almost eight miles of the Cascade Tunnel, currently the country’s longest railroad tunnel.

These Western Stations Encourage You to Stay Awhile

You might want to make a family friendly detour, perhaps at Glacier National Park, served by stations at East Glacier Park, Essex, West Glacier and Whitefish, all in western Montana. Or, spend an overnight in the Twin Cities, filled with family-friendly museums, restaurant, and cultural events.

If you want a shorter flavor of local culture, a 30-minute stop in Minot, North Dakota; a 25-minute stop in Havre, Montana; or a 20-minute stop in Shelby, Montana; will allow for some daytime platform strolling as your two-level train is serviced. Train time is always busy at these  places, integrating the locals with the travelers arriving at each station. For your budding engineers, there is a large Great Northern Railroad steam engine to glance at as part of the Havre Station.

Please note: the Sunset Limited only runs three days a week in each direction; the other trains run daily.

Ralph’s Train Western Trip Tips

It pays to book your Amtrak tickets in advance online or in person. Young trainfans will probably enjoy a visit to their local station to plan and purchase tickets for their next journey.

Full dining car service is available to both coach and sleeping car passengers on long distance trains. On many trains, the original china and silverware are back in use too.

Coach passengers can purchase food in the cafe car. Full dining car service (plates and linen on the tables) is available to all passengers on the Sunset Limited , the Southwest Chief , San Francisco Zephyr , and the Empire Builder section to Seattle. The Empire Builder section to Portland, Oregonand the Texas Chief offer a lessened meal service for sleeping car passengers.

Get New Amtrak Deals And Learn About New Amtrak Fare Rules

Amtrak introduced a new, simplified fare structure. It’s great news for a few reasons. New Amtrak fares are more flexible and affordable since October 2023. Amtrak has also committed to refunding credit card purchases to the original form of payment, rather than giving you an eVoucher. There are now only two fare types but each has its own rules, so read on.

Amtrak Flex Fares :

These tickets allow maximum flexibility in travel planning.

Flex Fare Rules : Flex Fares are fully refundable if canceled and can be changed without fees before departure . However, buying new tickets will reflect the latest fares. Note that when even deeper discounts are available, these fares will be non-changeable and only 50% will be refunded if canceled.

Amtrak Value Fares :

These tickets are the best value if your dates/travel times are locked.

Value Fare Rules : Take advantage of a these lower-priced tickets. However, travel times and dates are non-changeable. Plus, you only get a 75% refund if canceled.

Take advantage of recent Amtrak Fare improvements you may have missed.

• Ultra-low  “Night Owl” fares , which are as low as $5 – $20 on select Northeast Corridor (NEC) routes.
• Amtrak Guest Rewards  members can now redeem tickets with points on more fare types.
• Revised children’s discount  means all children (2-12 years old) can travel for 50% off with an accompanying adult (previously limited to 1 child discount per adult fare).
• Expanded passenger discounts – such as senior and military –apply to all fares, including sales.
• Book Share Fares , which allow groups of 3-8 people traveling together to receive discounts ranging from 17% to 60%.

Our Next Station?

Please share your feedback in the Comments section below! If you’re interested in more rail travel ideas for tweens, teens and lifelong railfans, let us know.

The last time, I covered my favorite train trips in the East . For our next installment, we will travel up the Pacific Coast from Los Angeles to Seattle, visit Canada for some great across-the-border train trips, and visit a few tourist railroads for some short, family-friendly and truly memorable rides.

Ralph Spielman is a retired Fortune 500 Corporate Travel Administrator, a lifelong train enthusiast, a volunteer docent at Grand Central Terminal and a volunteer at The High Line, both in New York City. He has ridden many trains, large and small in Asia, Europe, North America and Australia.

Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.

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4 great scenic train rides across the US

Want to truly immerse yourself in the vastness of the USA? There's no better way than to take a scenic cross-country train trip.

During these long-distance train rides, the journey is just as exciting as the destination itself. Relaxing in your seat as you watch the U.S. landscape out your train car window slowly change from cities to farmlands or from wide-open plains to towering mountains is an experience that's worth the extra transit time.

Amtrak offers many overnight and multiday scenic train rides across the U.S. from the East Coast, the West Coast and everywhere in between. Route names like the Empire Builder, the Coast Starlight and the California Zephyr are enough to inspire wanderlust for any traveler.

Whether you're new to train travel or an avid rider of the rails, here are four bucket list-worthy U.S. train rides to take for stunning scenery, plus some tips on how best to book and enjoy them.

Tips for cross-country train travel

While taking a cross-country train trip can be a rewarding experience, as it offers days to leisurely sit back and enjoy scenic landscapes, many people have worries about how best to book such a long trip and what to expect when it comes to sleeping arrangements. TPG has a few tips to help you get on board with the concept and easily plan your journey.

Browse routes by region

A good first step to take when looking for a route that's right for you is to search Amtrak's "Browse by Region" menu. You can pick a large area of the country from which to start or finish your trip.

Once you click on an area, Amtrak will provide lists of highlighted long-distance routes, as well as shorter point-to-point trips. You can then select a route like the Capitol Corridor in California before being directed to ticket purchase menus.

Explore Amtrak Vacations

Amtrak offers curated vacation packages to rail travelers via its Amtrak Vacations website. These tours can include side trips (via bus) to national parks , sightseeing tours in cities and hotel lodging on stopovers along the route. You can search for packages around vacation themes like "Fall Foliage" and "Multiple National Parks."

Amtrak's set of "Most Scenic Journeys" vacation packages include trips lasting up to two weeks that combine rail travel and additional tours. Think of these trips like cruises with shore excursions . Some of the scenic journey-designated options focus on national parks, while others are big-city oriented.

You can click on each option's details to find itineraries, dates and prices. Then, all that's left to do is book your rail vacation.

Consider famous routes

A shortcut to finding scenic cross-country rail routes on Amtrak is to visit its Amtrak Vacations website and click on "Famous Rail Routes." This set of approximately 20 different overnight train routes gives you a great set of suggestions for your own potential cross-country journeys.

For more details on the fixed routes, click on any of the tabs. Once you've chosen a route, you can either book a package tour with Amtrak Vacations or go to the regular Amtrak website and book a point-to-point trip.

Weigh your accommodation options

Taking an overnight or a multiday train trip means you'll need to sleep aboard the train. All of Amtrak's long-distance train trips provide a variety of seating and room arrangments.

The cheapest way to travel is to simply book a seat on the route. While Amtrak's seating is comfortable, with more legroom than you'll find in an airline's business class, it may not be the way you want to travel for many hours. You can get up, walk the train and stop in the cafe car, but this can still be a tough way to travel during a multiday journey.

Fortunately, Amtrak provides several classes of accommodations on cross-country trips, ranging from shared roomettes with fold-out bunks to bedrooms, larger family bedrooms and suites complete with private bathrooms and showers. Should you book one of these rooms on a cross-country itinerary, you'll enjoy access to a separate dining car.

Prices for the various ticket classes vary widely between routes and dates, so check potential itineraries to find the best option for you.

4 scenic train trips to take in the US

Now that you know the basics when it comes to picking a long-distance train route, you'll want to narrow down your options. Although there are many scenic routes in the U.S., here are our four favorites.

California Zephyr: San Francisco to Chicago

Amtrak's California Zephyr route travels between San Francisco and Chicago on a three-day journey. The 51-hour trip (on the west-to-east path) begins in nearby Emeryville, California, then travels through central California farmlands up into the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Along this part of the route, you'll enjoy spectacular panoramas from glassed-in viewing cars.

The train continues through Reno and the Nevada deserts into Salt Lake City before traveling up into the Rocky Mountains to reach Denver . You'll descend into the wide-open plains of Nebraska and eventually wind your way into the Windy City.

This trip is a great way to immerse yourself in the American West, as you'll get a true feeling of the vastness of the region and the variety of terrain that makes up the country.

One-way prices start at $141 per person for a seat in coach and $688 for a room.

Empire Builder: Seattle to Chicago

The Empire Builder train route connects Chicago and Seattle on a 46-hour journey connecting the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. The train loosely follows the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail, the route the explorers took to map out the region acquired during the Louisiana Purchase.

Meriwether Lewis and William Clark would have appreciated sitting back in the train's viewing cars to enjoy eyefuls of Montana 's Big Sky Country, Glacier National Park , the Cascade Range and the vast plains of North Dakota. Additionally, the explorers would have marveled at the metalwork of North Dakota's towering Gassman Coulee Trestle bridge.

Should you wish to depart or arrive in Portland, Oregon, instead of Seattle, know that there's an alternate route of the Empire Builder from this Pacific Northwest city, so you can plan your itinerary based on your preferences.

One-way train fares from Chicago to Seattle begin at $150 per person, while rooms cost at least $651.

Southwest Chief: Los Angeles to Chicago

Traverse the American Southwest on a southern route between Los Angeles and Chicago. The Southwest Chief route departs daily and takes roughly 40 hours to cross eight states.

For some of the journey, the train follows the classic American road trip thoroughfare of historic Route 66 . However, unlike its car-friendly neighbor, the train route offers views you won't find while driving the highway, as it winds on twisting tracks that travel through narrow red-rock canyon passages before offering wide-open vistas of mountains and deserts.

The train's main stops include Kansas City, Missouri; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Flagstaff, Arizona. You can also take advantage of excursions from the train when you purchase one of Amtrak's vacation packages. For example, you can visit the Grand Canyon (by train or bus) while the train is stopped in Williams, Arizona.

Even if you never leave the train, the views along the way are enough to create lasting memories.

Expect to pay at least $146 per person for a coach seat on this one-way route or a minimum of $899 for a room.

Crescent: New York City to New Orleans

See the American South on this 30-hour journey between New York City and New Orleans . Departing the urban landscape of the Big Apple, this route will take you through the Northeastern cityscapes of Philadelphia , Baltimore and Washington, D.C. , among other destinations.

Once it exits the urban corridor, the train winds through the countryside of Virginia and the Carolinas, offering stops in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina. Then, it continues through the Deep South states of Georgia, Alabama and Mississippi before reaching its final stop in New Orleans.

Tickets for this one-way route start at $139 for a seat in coach and $580 for a room.

Bottom line

Traveling by train across the U.S. gives you a unique perspective of the scale and scope of the American landscape. While it may be slower than flying across the country, rail travel gives you the opportunity to sit back and savor the journey, appreciating the changing views as the hours roll by.

The four scenic cross-country train trips highlighted here are only some of Amtrak's many long-distance journeys available to book. By exploring Amtrak's website, you can find many different rail journeys in nearly every part of the U.S. Best of all, most offer an array of seating options, so you can choose the ticket that best suits your travel preferences and budget.

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Western United States

Welcome to the region of evergreen giants, painted deserts, and pink-hued stone citadels. Our Western USA tours immerse you in lands woven with legend and lore, cowboy culture, and steaming National Parks.

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

Welcome to the West

Here legends larger-than-life loom over landscapes sculpted in sand. Rivers tunnel through time leaving cavernous canyons in their wake. Geysers steam like clockwork precision and rocks balance, arch and bridge in whimsical formations. Go west with Tauck and you'll find evergreen giants, painted deserts, pink-hued stone citadels as you ride with cowboys, hike with naturalists and raft with guides passionate about the places they roam. 

Yellowstone national park, seriously... there's no other place on earth like it – yellowstone national park.

There's everything else, and then there's Yellowstone; it's truly like no other place on Earth. Why? Because it sits atop the largest "supervolcano" on the North American continent – one of the hottest spots on the planet. It's called the Yellowstone Caldera, and it lurks beneath the surface, giving rise to Yellowstone National Park's host of gushing geysers, steaming fumaroles, hot springs, mud pot and more – nothing less than the largest concentration of geothermal features on Earth, spectacular in winter or summer. In an amazing setting such as this, pretty much anything you do – from a wildlife safari in the summer, to a snowcoach ride in the winter… or hike, climb, horseback ride, ski, snowshoe, watch a sunrise or a sunset – is something you'll never forget.

Yosemite National Park

Through a lens, brightly and darkly – yosemite national park.

What a young Ansel Adams saw through his lens as he trekked into the California wilderness more than 100 years ago – as John Muir did a half-century before him – has inspired countless visitors to explore its chiseled landscapes. Celestial bodies trump electricity. Running water falls from rocks. Residents are furred, finned or feathered. And skyscrapers with names like Half Dome and El Capitan are nature-made. Adams iconic photographs need no words or explanation. Even in black and white, they capture what he felt about places now immortalized for future generations.

Grand Teton National Park

Big sky, big mountains, big picture... grand teton national park.

Out here in the Great American West, everything is "big." For starters, Wyoming comprises part of "Big Sky Country"... where the heavens ranging above the region's vast grasslands, winding rivers and jagged mountain peaks do indeed appear to stretch on forever and ever. Then there are the mountains themselves – in this case the Tetons, crowned by Grand Teton (that's the "big" one that gives the national park its name; other peaks in the range include Middle Teton, South Teton, Mount Owen and Teewinot) – seemingly bursting right up out of the floor of the glacial valley we call Jackson Hole, to loom majestically over everything below.

Grand Canyon National Park

Coming to grips with the impossible... at grand canyon national park.

Surely you have stumbled upon some other planet... or at least it feels that way at Grand Canyon National Park. Your first glimpse of the enormous Grand Canyon strains credulity. What giants have been playing with the rock here? Or what cataclysmic force of the universe? Then the drama starts. Clouds, shadows, and the shifting sun keep transforming the landscape. As the sun flames in the west, canyon walls turn red while the giants paint the sky, creating masterpieces so beautiful they freeze you in your tracks. The Grand Canyon sprawls wide open, carved out by the Colorado River, revealing two billion years of Earth's history; here is where air meets land, where you meet what feels like destiny, with just the white-tailed Kaibab squirrel, only found here, as witness.

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Treasures of the American West

Our passion for and experience in the national parks of the West goes back generations; we pioneered air-land tours to the Western parks in the 1960s and haven't looked back since. In Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton and more, we stay at coveted inside-the-park lodges, know the best places to visit and explore, and the best ways to share our passion with you.

America's canyonlands, california's gold coast, yellowstone & grand teton national parks, majestic california: san francisco, yosemite & the pacific, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.

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The best train rides in the USA for seriously gorgeous views

From coastal routes to journeys through the mountains, these train rides spotlight all of America's most stunning scenery.

From redwood groves to sprawling desert landscapes to miles of picturesque countryside, America has no shortage of stunning scenery across its 50 states. One of the best ways to take in all the beauty is by hopping aboard a train. 

While a road trip through America is always a great choice to see the country's sights, we'd argue train travel is even better. Not only is riding  on a train a timeless experience with notes of romance and nostalgia, but there's no airport stress or need to be at attention behind the wheel. Instead,  you can sit back, relax and simply stare out the window as you take it all in. 

Below, you'll find the best and most scenic train rides across the country. On the West Coast, take in ocean views aboard the Coast Starlight (from Los Angeles to Seattle ) or the Surfliner, which hugs the California coast for miles. On the East Coast, the Mount Washington Cog Railway takes you through the Mount Washington area in New Hampshire. Looking for something even more adventurous? Head to Alaska  to catch the Denali Star’s 350-mile trek from Fairbanks to Anchorage.

Whether you're looking for a multi-day adventure or a route that only lasts a few hours, these train rides won't disappoint.

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Best train rides in the USA

1.  Rockies to the Red Rocks

Denver, co to moab, ut.

Trip length: Two days

The first U.S. offering from luxury Canadian company Rocky Mountaineer, the ' Rockies to the Red Rocks ' trip takes passengers on a two-day ride from Denver to Moab—passing through stunning Rocky Mountains and southwest scenery along the way. Best of all? Passengers will witness all that gorgeous nature from the train's glass-dome top! That's right, we're talking about unobstructed views of some of the most gorgeous scenery in the USA . The 2024 season runs from April 14 through October 9.

2.  Coast Starlight

Los angeles, ca to seattle, wa.

Trip length: 36 hours

Traveling by train instead puts a spin on the classic left-coast road trip. The advantages? There are zero wrong-turn fights and way more photo ops. The 1,377-mile Coast Starlight route hits the best of the West: Santa Barbara, San Francisco, Sacramento, Portland, and more. On the 36-hour trip, bounce from your seat to the dining car and the 'sightseer lounge car,' where all the seats face the panoramic, floor-to-ceiling windows. 

3.  Pacific Surfliner

San diego, ca to san luis obispo, ca.

Trip length: 8-9 hours

If you're looking for a train ride with ocean views, you can't beat Amrak's Pacific Surfliner , which travels along a 351-mile route, many of the trip is directly along the California coast. The route starts out in San Diego before meandering up through Anaheim, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and other stops before ending in San Luis Obispo in the central part of the state. 

4.  The Grand Canyon Railway

Williams, az to the grand canyon, az.

Trip length: 2 hours 15 minutes

Sure, you may have been to the Grand Canyon already, but have you ever admired Grand Canyon country by train? On The Grand Canyon Railway , you’ll depart from Williams, Arizona, and roll through pine forests and prairies, spotting pronghorn and bald eagles, before arriving two hours and 15 minutes later at the epic South Rim. All of the historic cars of the Grand Canyon Railway have fascinating former lives and some have glass-dome ceilings for unstoppable panoramas. 

5.  The Empire Builder

Chicago, il to portland, or.

Trip length: 45–46 hours

There is only one word to describe this journey: epic. The Empire Builder runs daily between Chicago and the Pacific Northwest, mirroring much of Lewis and Clark’s original expedition. It passes through a greatest-hits list of must-see sites, from the urban (St. Cloud and Minneapolis) to the great outdoors (big-sky country and Glacier National Park ). The trip totals 46 hours, which warrants booking at least a roomette with seats that convert to beds so you can fully stretch out once you’ve gotten your fill of landscapes under the moonlight. 

6.  The Alaska Denali Star

Anchorage, ak to fairbanks, ak.

Trip length: 12 hours

This 350-mile stretch through the heart of Alaska highlights the state's beautiful, rugged wilderness. Between the birch forests, rushing rivers, caribou- and bear-spotting, views of Mt. McKinley and a stint through Denali National Park, there’s a reason this is the Alaska Railroad ’s flagship sojourn. If you can swing it, splurge on a GoldStar upgrade and take in the spectacular scenery from an open-air viewing car, with absolutely nothing between you and the wild. 

7.  Skunk Train

Willits, ca.

Trip length: 2 hours

Hopping aboard  Skunk Train  is like traveling back in time—this historic train has been traversing Mendocino County in California since 1885. Today, you can choose from a variety of routes and experiences. The most popular journey is Wolf Tree Turn. This 16-mile route will take you through old-growth redwood groves within Noyo River Canyon, over trestle bridges, and under tunnels, ending with a stop in Crowley, where you can take in the majesty of one of the oldest trees in the area, the Wolf Tree. Enjoy snacks and beverages (including alcoholic ones) before heading back toward Willits.

8.  The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Bryson city, nc.

Trip length: 3.5 hours

It may be pint-size, but Bryson City, the departure point for this rail-riding adventure, is rich with local gems like barbecue joints, a soda fountain and a brewery. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has various routes, but the four-and-a-half-hour Nantahala Gorge excursion is a scenery-serving star, snaking along the forested Nantahala River and crossing the Fontana Lake by bridge. Foliage lovers, take note: The leaves here are breathtaking during the fall.

9.  The Mount Washington Cog Railway

Bretton woods, nh.

Trip length: 3 hours

Like the Little Engine That Could, this antique train chugs daily up Mount Washington , depositing its passengers at the 6,288-foot peak, the highest in the Northeast. A working museum of sorts (the track dates to 1852), the Cog has the elevated feel of a gondola, only you’re in a sturdy little train. At the top, take in the sweeping views of Canada and the Atlantic on a clear day. 

10.  The Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa valley, ca.

Trip length: 3 to 6 hours on average

On this California Wine Country track, you can get intoxicated by the scenery alone: picture-perfect wineries and hills carpeted in lush rows of vines. But you’ll have a little help, what with all the vino you’ll be sipping alongside your onboard multicourse meal—both lunch and dinner are options. The roving restaurant aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train comprises a collection of vintage Pullman railcars complete with mahogany panels and brass hardware. So go ahead and soak it all up—you’re not behind the wheel, after all.

11.  California Zephyr

Emeryville, ca to reno, nv.

Trip length: 6 hours 45 minutes

At more than 2,400 miles long, the  California Zephyr —stretching from San Francisco to Chicago—is Amtrak's longest route. While we don't recommend you do the route in its entirety (unless that floats your boat), we highly recommend the route stretching from the Bay Area (hop on in San Francisco or Emeryville) to the Lake Tahoe area (get off in Reno or Truckee). This scenic journey is an ideal way to get to Tahoe, beat the traffic, and take in dreamy views.  

12.  The Hawaiian Railway Society

Trip length: 1.5 hours

Train travel takes a turn for the tropical on this 90-minute jaunt across Oahu in an old sugar-cane hauler traveling at the lickety-split speed of 15 miles an hour. The ride aboard the Hawaiian Railway Society shows you a rarely-seen version of Hawaii, filled with old sisal plantations and ghost towns. Time your trip for the second Sunday of the month and you can book a seat in the elegant 1900 parlor car that was the personal ride of Oahu Railway & Land Co. founder Mr. Dillingham. It's worth noting, however, that reservations are now required to ride the train. 

13.  Durango Narrow Gauge Railroad

Durango, co to silverton, co.

Trip length: 3.5 hours

One of the most scenic ways to experience one of the most scenic states; a ride on the Narrow Gauge Railroad isn’t merely photo fodder, but a full immersion into the wild, wild west. The train has been rolling between Durango and Silverton since 1882, when it was tasked with transporting silver and gold out of the San Juan Mountains. The 45.4-mile route runs in both directions along the Animas River, crisscrossing it five times, and passing by old stagecoach trails and long-deserted mining camps as it winds between 14,000ft high peaks.

14.  The Ethan Allen Express

New york city, ny to burlington, vt.

Trip length: 7 hours 35 minutes

While the destination is a major draw, getting there is half the fun on this five-and-a-half-hour journey from New York City to Vermont. On the Ethan Allen Express , you’ll cruise through the postcard-perfect towns of New York’s Hudson Valley; hit Saratoga Springs, as famous for its horse races as its hot springs and snake around Vermont’s fittingly named Green Mountains, before landing in charming little-big city Rutland, with its historic downtown and one helluva farmers' market.

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It was a wonderfully beautiful tour! The guide Hogan was a perfect guide and driver! Thank you very much!

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Our guide Adrian was amazing he is very knowledgeable about the parks that we went to and very understanding,the hotels were beyond my expectations,every day was special and a new adventure.I highly recommend doing this tour with them.

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Exceeded expectations!

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Truly an outstanding tour. Our guide was knowledgeable of the area and had wonderful contacts that augmented the experience. We would not hesitate to go with TourRadar on our next adventure.

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Our tour guide,Vicky took care of us & exceeded my expectations for this tour!She was very punctual & showed us all that was described in the tour agenda plus a few other side trips!She shared interesting information on all the areas we visited & had some pretty humorous stories too!I would highly recommend this tour!

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the tour was very well organized, the tour guides were great!

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Loved this three day trip through Sedona , Monument Valley and Valley of Fires. Our tour guide Lorenzo is the best ever. He is patient kind and funny. He knows the information of the areas very well and makes people feel at ease even when things don’t go the way it’s planned . Our bus driver Ozzie was also fantastic and we felt safe in his capable hands . We had a brand new Greyhound bus ! It’s a long drive each day but the scenery was lovely . We are up early each day but it’s ok if you go to bed early. Hotel stay in Page was basic and breakfast average. But the price of this tour is good value overall . We couldn’t see Antelope Canon this time as there had been lots of rain and flash flooding . Instead we got a trip through the Valley of Fires . Highly recommend this trip!

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Everything was great. We enjoyed the pacing of our itinerary and our guide Gogee was excellent.

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The tour guide Chris was amazing.

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Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

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LA to the Bay (11 Days)

Fantastic tour! Great organisation from Emily, who helped us keep on track and answered our many questions, while having a great time with us

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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Alaska Adventure - 20 Days

Where does a person start on such an EPIC tour. It was all i expected and more. Dave and Natalie have put together a tour that has the ability to push each and everyone of us right out of our comfort zones. Right from the minute i booked Natalie was on it, keeping me informed, answering questions, giving advice, nothing ever seemed too much. This tour shows you the magnificent beauty of Alaska - the mountains all splotched in snow, the glaciers too many to name, bald eagles gliding through the sky everywhere, orcas, humpbacks and northern rights on our cruises not forgeting the sea otters, seals and sea lions and then the land animals - bears, moose and caribou amongst others. I could go on and on - i cannot find fault with this tour and can and will highly recommend it to everyone. THANK YOU Dave and Natalie ???????????????? (Can't wait for the next Infinite Adventure adventure to start.)

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We have chosen the tour specifically because it was in German and also in other languages shown. Also on our voucher was again confirmed the tour with professional, German-speaking tour guide. Unfortunately, the tour guides did not speak German. We were able to help ourselves a bit with the translation app but we also missed a lot of information. We are very disappointed about this and expect compensation. The tour guides have tried and were very nice also the tour was very nice.

Majestic Alaska (10 Days)

This was an excellent experience

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10 Scenic Train Rides Throughout The West Coast With The Best Views

• The West Coast offers spectacular and scenic train rides that showcase the beauty of California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and Canada. These train rides should be included in any West Coast vacation itinerary.
• The Amtrak Coast Starlight is one of the best ways to see the West Coast, taking passengers through Portland, Seattle, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles while offering stunning views of the Cascade Range and the Pacific shoreline.
• The Napa Valley Wine Train provides a luxurious and nostalgic experience through the beautiful Napa Valley, allowing passengers to enjoy wine-tasting, farm-to-table cuisine, and stunning views of California's countryside.

While trains aren't the #1 method of travel anymore, they are still the most scenic and adventurous way to see the United States, specifically the West Coast. The West Coast still has spectacular train rides all year round that offer unique experiences for travelers and beautiful coastal and countryside views.

Every experience is different, but each of these scenic West Coast train rides allows passengers to witness the grandeur and unmatched beauty of California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, and even Canada. If travelers are thinking of spending their vacation on the West Coast, these trains should be added to the list!

Related: This Is Why A Scenic Amtrak Train Ride Is The Perfect First-Time Solo Trip

Coast Starlight

Easily one of the best ways to see the West Coast is through the windows of the Amtrak Coast Starlight . Voted as one of the top Amtrak sleeper trains in the world , this is one of the best train rides on the West Coast for scenery, as it takes travelers through Portland, Seattle, Santa Barbara, Sacramento, and Los Angeles.

Passengers can literally enjoy a front-row seat to the stunning Cascade Range, Mount Shasta, and the Pacific shoreline as they enjoy delicious onboard dining options and a spacious cabin.

• Cost: Coach seat- $100-150, Business class seat- $150-200
• Trip length: 35 hours one-way
• Popular stops: Seattle, Olympia, Tacoma, Sacramento, San Jose, Santa Barbara

Amtrak Cascades

This incredibly scenic train route runs from Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, B.C., and showcases the best of the Pacific Northwest. The Amtrak Cascades journey takes travelers through the mountains of the Cascade Range in Washington, Puget Sound, the Columbia River Gorge, and beautiful cities like Seattle, Bellingham, and Everett.

Passengers have the option to choose from the Bistro and Lounge car for local food and beverages and the best window views of the Pacific Northwest scenery. This 467-mile route stops at 18 different cities and takes about 7 hours from Eugene to Vancouver.

• Cost: Average ticket price is $47
• Trip length: 7 hours one-way
• Popular stops: Oregon City, Portland, Tacoma, Mt. Vernon, Bellingham

Children get to ride this train route with a 50% discount!

Snoqualmie Valley Railroad

Stretching 5.5 miles and about a 2-hour trip total, the Snoqualmie Valley Railroad is one of the most scenic train rides on the West Coast with the best views; it offers a unique excursion that takes passengers from North Bend, Washington to Snoqualmie Falls.

On the way, the train stops at the Railway History Center and Train Shed Exhibit Hall. Visitors will have the unique, short but sweet opportunity to see the Snoqualmie Valley and the extraordinary 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls. The Snoqualmie Valley Railroad has a very specific seasonal schedule, so guests should plan accordingly and purchase tickets ahead of time .

• Cost: Average ticket price is $28
• Trip length: 2 hours round-trip
• Popular stops: North Bend Depot, Railway History Center, Historic Snoqualmie Depot, Snoqualmie Falls

Amtrak Capitol Corridor

Highly considered as the best way to get around Northern California is with the Amtrak Capitol Corridor train. This is a 168-mile passenger train that travels from San Jose to Sacramento, California while presenting breathtaking views of the Sierra Foothills and the Silicon Valley.

The Amtrak Capitol Corridor offers everything from free Wi-Fi to a café car, bike racks, and a quiet car for those who like to get work done or sit in silence while taking in the serene views of California.

• Cost: Average ticket price is $40
• Trip length: 3 hours 15 minutes one-way
• Popular stops: Santa Clara- Great America, Oakland Jack London, Sacramento, Auburn

Before booking trips, visitors should check out the many Amtrak booking tips and tricks for planning train travel!

Related: Amtrak San Diego: 10 Things To Know About The Santa Fe Depot & Its Scenic Trains

The Rocky Mountaineer

For a more luxurious and unforgettable experience seeing the Canadian Rockies, the Rocky Mountaineer train route is the way to go! On this relaxing train journey, passengers can enjoy a refreshing cocktail, incredible Pacific dishes, and top-notch service while gazing at the jaw-dropping views of the USA's West Coast and Canada. Guests can select overnight trips that last 2–3 days or up to 10–12 days.

While their most popular train route travels from Vancouver, B.C. to Banff, the Rocky Mountaineer offers 4 other rail routes that are sure to leave travelers with unforgettable memories.

• Cost: Tickets start at $1,730
• Trip length: Rail route packages vary, some trips can last up to 10–12 days
• Popular stops: Banff, Jasper, Kamloops, Denver, Vancouver, Whistler

Napa Valley Wine Train

Nothing sounds quite as good as a luxurious train ride through California's Napa Valley while wine-tasting. The Napa Valley Wine Train transports passengers to an onboard vintage era while making a 36-mile round trip to St. Helena and back. Visitors will have a chance to see California's beautiful countryside and go on in-depth winery tours at multiple stops along the way.

In addition to being one of the most scenic trains on the West Coast with beautiful views, it's also a ride renowned for its good; guests can taste California's local cuisine and farm-to-table specials onboard. Travelers will truly feel as though they've stepped back in time to the early 1900s as they cruise through the gorgeous Napa Valley.

• Cost: Tickets start at $250
• Trip length: 6 hours round-trip
• Popular stops: Oakville, Charles Krug Winery, V. Sattui Winery

Guests can view the Napa Valley Train Menu before their trip.

Denali Star

The best way to see the wild and breathtaking landscapes of Alaska is through the Denali Star Train . Even though it's listed as one of the most beautiful train rides in the US during the fall , the Denali Star operates year-round.

This passenger, semi-luxury train travels from Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska, and lasts for 24 hours round-trip. During this ride, passengers will be able to see Denali, the tallest mountain in North America, Knik River, Denali National Park, incredible views of the Alaska Range, and so much more.

• Cost: Tickets start at $73 and vary based on seat class and stops
• Trip length: 24 hours round-trip
• Popular stops: Wasilla, Talkeetna, Denali National Park, Anchorage

Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad

This vintage steam train is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest and offers unique excursions for every age! The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad not only presents passengers with unmissable views of the Oregon coast but also educates them about the surrounding wildlife and environmental conservation in Oregon.

What visitors love most about this train are the seasonal-themed rides. They offer the Fall Splendor Excursion ($20), Halloween Coast Train ($25), and the Candy Cane Express ($30).

• Cost: Tickets start at $30
• Trip length: 1–3 hours
• Popular stops: Rockaway Beach, Garibaldi

Related: California Zephyr Vs. Southwest Chief: Which Amtrak Train Route Is More Scenic?

Skunk Train

Since it first opened in 1885, the world-famous Skunk Train has been making journeys through the popular Redwood Forest Noyo River canyon in California. This railway offers different adventures all year round like the Christmas Tree Train, Pudding Creek Express, Mushroom Train, and the Pumpkin Express. Travelers can view the majestic redwoods, bridges, tunnels, and more California scenery right from the comfort of the train.

The Skunk Train was famously named back in 1925 because of the fumes omitted from the train being skunk-like. Locals said they could "smell it before they could see it." Luckily, the train doesn't smell that way anymore

• Cost: Ticket prices range from $50-200
• Popular stops: Fort Bragg, Willits

Leavenworth Snow Train

Unlike the previous train journeys, the Leavenworth Snow Train only runs every Saturday in December but is 100% worth it for people visiting Washington State during the holidays. Leavenworth, Washington is the perfect Christmas getaway , and the town's unique snow train adds exponentially to the holiday magic.

Passengers travel from Leavenworth to Seattle and back and receive a buffet breakfast, dinner, and entertainment during the train ride while traveling through the snow-covered mountains of Washington. This experience is easily one of the best Christmas trains in the US to enjoy during the holiday period.

• Cost: $229 per adult and $219 per child
• Trip length: Around 8 hours round-trip
• Popular stops: Leavenworth, Seattle

12 epic train journeys around the world

The destination is only as good as the journey. A great train trip doesn’t just take you from one place to another, it allows you to explore the world at a slower, and more sustainable pace. Venture out on a great cross-country expedition while soaking up sweet panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows, or go back in time on a historic locomotive.

Are you ready to hop on board? Here are some of the most epic train journeys in the world, plus tips on the best routes, travel times, onboard services, and things to do along the way.

1. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, Europe

Travel time: Two days (for their Classic Routes)

Train journeys: The Classic Routes go to and from Venice, London, Verona, and Paris. Check their website for the full list of train journeys available .

Be transported to the glamorous Golden Age of Travel in historic carriages, carefully restored from the 1920s. On the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express , explore Europe in style onboard this lavish locomotive, complete with plush interiors, stellar service, and lively ragtime tunes by the resident pianist. Dress in your Sunday best and enjoy a sumptuous four-course table d'hôte menu paired with their sommelier’s choice of wines. Then take your night to the Bar Car for decadent cocktails and spirited conversations among newfound companions. Turn in for the night in one of their luxurious suites, fitted with lush beds and ensuite bathrooms.

Most of their classic routes between the major European cities—like Geneva , Innsbruck , Venice , and London —take two days but if you’re in for an epic ride, look out for the annual six-day Paris to Istanbul expedition that’ll take you on a journey through Budapest and Bucharest .

2. Glacier Express, Switzerland

Travel time: Eight hours

Train journeys: From Zermatt to St. Moritz (and vice versa)

Catch Switzerland’s most spectacular manmade and natural wonders from the comfort of your train seat with the Glacier Express . The train connects Zermatt , Switzerland —home to the iconic Matterhorn and Gornergrat —to St. Moritz , a stunning and luxurious alpine resort town. You’ll be journeying through 91 tunnels, crossing 291 bridges, and catching sights like the Rhine Gorge, Oberalp Pass , and other lakes, valleys, villages, and pastures through your cabin’s floor-to-ceiling windows.

Upgrade to the Excellence Class experience to take this scenic train ride to the next level. You’ll be guaranteed the best window seats in the house, a five-course menu with wine pairings, and exclusive access to the in-house bar.

3. Alaska Railroad, Alaska, United States

Travel time: 2.5 to 12 hours one-way

Train journeys: To and from Anchorage, Fairbanks, Talkeetna, Hurricane, Grandview, or Seward. Check their website for the full list of train journeys available .

Explore Alaska's sprawling countryside mountains on the Alaska Railroad . It offers train journeys all year round, with daily routes during summer from May to September. The flagship “Denali Star Train” is great for wildlife spotting in summer, stopping by Denali National Park and Preserve along the 12-hour journey between Anchorage and Fairbanks . The “Coastal Classic Train” between Anchorage and Seward is also great for beautiful coastal scenery, fjords, fishing, and hiking. Here’s a tip: upgrade to the GoldStar Service for glass-domed cabins with panoramic views, an upper-level outdoor viewing deck, meals, and drinks.

Don’t worry if you’re visiting in wintertime though. You can still experience an epic train journey through Alaska on the “ Aurora Winter Train ” which offers stunning views of the state’s magical snowy landscape and even the chance to see the northern lights.

4. Eastern & Oriental Express, Singapore

Travel time: Four days

Train journeys: Round trip from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, Taman Negara, Langkawi Island, or Penang Island. Check their website for the full list of train journeys available .

Be swept away on a grand journey through Malaysia on the Belmond-operated Eastern & Oriental Express . Your four-day journey begins in Singapore and up north through lush jungles, charming towns, and relaxing islands. The “Wild Malaysia” journey is great for wildlife lovers, stopping at Taman Negara National Park , one of the oldest tropical rainforests and home to the endangered Malayan tiger. On the other hand, the “Essence of Malaysia” journey has a little bit of everything. You’ll make stops at the cultural hub of Penang and Langkawi’s Pulau Payar Marine Park , where you can snorkel with colorful sea creatures and other exciting water activities.

Along your train journey, feast on a four-course fine dining experience each night with a table d'hôte menu that features Malaysian flavors. Then, continue the night in the jazzy Bar Car for champagne and signature cocktails. Seats are limited so travelers recommend booking your train journey a few months in advance.

5. Serra Verde Express, Curitiba, Brazil

Travel time: Four hours

Train journeys: From Curitiba to Morretes (and vice versa)

Wind through the lush greenery, waterfalls, canyons, and mountain passes of Brazil on the Serra Verde Express , one of the most famous railways in South America . Constructed over a hundred years ago, the train connects Curitiba to the historic coastal city of Morretes . While there aren’t many amenities or services available onboard, some carriages have sliding windows that allow the aromas of the rainforest to waft into the cabin, letting you fully immerse your senses.

To make the most of your journey, we recommend booking a round-trip package that includes a tour of Morretes . You’ll get to explore the city’s history, churches, markets, and colonial homes before ending the day with a barreado (a Brazillian beef shank stew) lunch by the Nhundiaquara River .

6. Rocky Mountaineer, North America

Travel time: Two to fifteen days

Train journeys: From Vancouver to Banff or Jasper in Canada, and from Moab to Denver in the U.S. Check their website for the full list of train journeys available .

Go on a majestic journey across the Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer in North America. Choose from three epic routes through Canada like the “Journey Through The Clouds” trip, which takes you from Vancouver and past Fraser River , Hell’s Gate , Pyramid Creek Falls , and the mighty Mount Robson en route to Jasper .

For the best 360 views, upgrade to the GoldLeaf experience which features cabins with wraparound glass dome windows and a huge outdoor viewing platform. While most of the journeys take two to three days, there are round-trip packages that go on for up to 15 days, taking you from Vancouver to Whistler and back.

7. West Highland Line, Scotland

Travel time: 3.5 to 5.5 hours

Train journeys: From Glasgow to Oban, Fort William, or Mallaig

Explore the scenic west coast of Scotland on the West Highland Line where you’ll whizz past mighty glens, vast lochs, and majestic mountains. From Glasglow , journey up north to Fort William and Mallaig and past scenic spots like Monessie Gorge, Ben Nevis , and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct , better known as the Hogwarts Express railway in the Harry Potter films.

The westward route from Glasgow takes you to the port town of Oban , passing by the historic Kilchurn Castle , the beautiful Falls of Lora , and the scenic Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park . Keep your eyes peeled and you might even spot some adorable red deer hiding among the trees.

8. The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru

Travel time: Ten hours

Train journeys: From Cusco to Puno (and vice versa)

Travel between Cusco and the port city of Puno on the PeruRail Titicaca train . Also known as The Lake Titicaca Train, the journey takes you across the amazing landscapes of the Peruvian Andes and down towards the magical Lake Titicaca , one of South America’s biggest lakes. From your train carriage, the scenic views are paired with amazing onboard experiences. You can watch live Peruvian music and dance performances, feast on a three-course gourmet meal, and have a spot of afternoon tea. The highlight? Enjoying a Peruvian cocktail on the semi-open observatory Bar Car.

Once in Puno, don’t miss a visit to the mystical Uros Floating Islands . These islands are home to the indigenous Uros people who have made their homes entirely out of totora reeds.

9. Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy

Travel time: 1.5 to 4.5 hours

Train journeys: From Chur or St. Moritz to Tirano or Poschiavo (and vice versa)

Ride the Bernina Express and explore the snowy Swiss Alps from your warm train cabin. You’ll ride on Europe’s highest railway tracks, across UNESCO World Heritage Sites, over the magnificent Landwasser Viaduct , and past natural wonders like Lago Bianco and Palü Glacier.

Take the 4.5-hour classic route that connects Chur in Switzerland to the Italian town of Tirano . At this small commune next to the Switzerland-Italy border, you’ll get to visit historic sights like the Santuario della Beata Vergine di Tirano , an ornate church with interesting historical artifacts and intricately painted ceilings. If you’re in Milan , take a day trip to St. Moritz with the Bernina Express tour package . It includes a tour of St. Moritz, round-trip transfers, and hotel pick-ups to and from your accommodation in Milan.

10. Coast Starlight Train, United States

Travel time: 35 hours

Train journeys: From Seattle to Los Angeles (and vice versa)

Given that this train route runs daily, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t experience the Amtrak Coast Starlight Train at least once in your lifetime. This West Coast train adventure takes you from Seattle to Los Angeles , passing by stunning sights, from the snowcapped peaks of the Cascade Range and Mount Shasta to the Golden Gate Bridge and the sandy beaches of Santa Barbara .

Don’t worry, all meals are provided for on the train, including a three-course dinner menu featuring seasonal ingredients. There are coach class seats available but consider treating yourself to a good night’s sleep during the long journey ahead with their Superliner rooms and suites that come with convertible beds. If you need to stretch your legs on the 35-hour journey, hop off at San Luis Obispo in California for a wine tasting in a vineyard or outdoor adventures at Klamath Falls in Oregon .

11. The Ghan, South Australia and Northern Territory

Travel time: Two to four days

Train journeys: From Darwin to Adelaide (and vice versa), and Darwin or Adelaide to Alice Springs

The Ghan is an incredibly epic and luxurious once-in-lifetime experience that takes you on a journey through Australia . Go for the four-day cross-country expedition that will take you from Darwin in the Top End , all the way to Adelaide down south, passing through some of the most remote parts of Australia. You can explore more of the Australian outback with off-train experiences to Katherine and Coober Pedy , or opt for the shorter train expeditions that end in Alice Springs , a perfect base to explore the Red Centre .

Onboard, you’ll be treated to regionally inspired meals and world-class wines aboard the stylish cabins. Then take the conversations to the social lounges, fully stocked with games, books, and booze for endless fun. For ultimate luxury, go for the Platinum experience which includes cabins with expansive window views, ensuite bathrooms, and personalized service.

12. Deccan Odyssey, India

Travel time: 15 days

Train journeys: From Delhi to Mumbai, or Mumbai to Kolkata or Hyderabad (or vice versa)

Journey across India on the luxurious Deccan Odyssey . Watch the diverse landscapes of India unfold before you as you relax in the glamorous cabins and dig into decadent Indian and international dishes. If you ever get bored of the views, the train even has a sauna and spa where you can get a traditional Ayurvedic massage, a gym, and even a hair salon.

For majestic palaces and cultural wonders, the “Splendours of Nothern India” route will take you from Delhi to Mumbai , through the scenic lakes in Udaipur and of course, the extravagant Taj Mahal in Agra. If sunkissed beaches and sunsets are more of your thing, the “Madras Mail” route might be perfect for you, passing through the coastal cities of Goa , Kochi , and Pondicherry en route to Hyderabad from Mumbai.

Explore more epic train journeys

Ukraine war latest: Ukraine 'destroys Russian Black Sea minesweeper'

Ukraine's navy says it has destroyed a Russian Black Sea fleet minesweeper. Meanwhile, an attack on a residential area in Kharkiv left six civilians injured - with Ukraine saying it is investigating the bombing as a potential war crime.

Sunday 19 May 2024 12:15, UK

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• Two killed in Russian strikes on Kherson  | Five dead in Kharkiv
• Ukraine investigating 'potential war crime' after civilians wounded
• Ukrainian soldiers reveal how they were secretly moved ahead of Russian invasion
• Russia takes control of village in Kharkiv - defence ministry
• Live reporting by  Josephine Franks

President Salome Zourabichvili has vetoed a controversial bill which sparked weeks of mass protests Georgia - but it is likely her veto will be overturned by the government majority. 

The "foreign agents" bill passed by parliament earlier this week would force media and non-governmental organisations and other non-profit groups to register as "pursuing the interests of a foreign power" if they receive more than 20% of funding from abroad.

The president said the bill, which the US has described as a "Kremlin style law", contradicts Georgia's constitution and "all European standards", adding it "must be abolished".

She is increasingly at odds with the ruling party, Georgian Dream, considered by many as pro-Russian.

Read more about the rule and what the president's veto means below...

The number of people killed in Russian airstrikes in a recreation area just outside Kharkiv has risen to five, and at least 16 are injured. 

Kharkiv mayor Ihor Terekhov gave update on Telegram, saying: "The explosions heard in Kharkiv around noon occurred in a nearby suburb. 

"Two Russian missiles hit a recreation centre where people were relaxing, killing five people and injuring sixteen others." 

Yaroslav Trofimko, an inspector with the local police department, said there "never any soldiers here".

"It was a Sunday, people were supposed to be here to rest, children were supposed to he here, pregnant women, resting, enjoying a normal way of life." 

He arrived on the scene after the first blast, and was there when the second strike hit the same scene around 20 minutes later.

Ukraine has frequently accused Russia of using "double tap" strikes to kill or injure emergency workers at the scene of strike impacts. 

Kharkiv's governor Oleh Syniehubov earlier said a paramedic was among those injured. 

Russian air defences downed 103 Ukrainian drones and 12 United States-made ATACMS missiles over the past 24 hours, the Russian defence ministry said .

Russian officials earlier said that Ukraine had fired nine ATACMS at Crimea and attacked Russian regions with at least 60 drones, forcing one oil refinery in southern Russia to halt operations. 

We're getting more news from the scene of a Russian strike in a northern suburb of Kharkiv where four people were killed, as reported in our 10.30 post.  

The number of people reported injured has risen from eight to 15. 

A recreation area was destroyed, according to Reuters correspondents at the site.

Rescuers described a powerful blast, followed by a second, "double tap" strike about fifteen minutes later. 

A man's corpse lay under the rubble of what just over an hour previously was a busy lakeside restaurant area on a sunny day. 

A woman stumbled around in shock looking for her handbag in the wreckage. 

"The occupiers attacked the area where local residents were relaxing," Kharkiv's governor, Oleh Syniehubov, said on Telegram. 

In recent weeks, Kharkiv city and the region of the same name have been under constant attack by Russian missiles and guided bombs as Russian troops have launched an offensive in the northeast of the region. 

Ukraine fired long-range missiles at Crimea and attacked Russia  with at least 60 drones in a major attack last night.

Meanwhile Ukraine says it destroyed more than 30 Russian drones.

Russian air defences shot down 57 Ukrainian drones over its southern Krasnodar region, the country's defence ministry said. 

As we reported in our 8.26 post, an oil refinery hit by debris had to halt operations, with local military officials saying there was no fire or damage. 

Local news outlet Astra published videos appearing to show an explosion at the refinery as it was hit by a drone. The videos could not be independently verified. 

Nine long-range ballistic missiles and a drone were destroyed over the Russia-occupied Crimean Peninsula following Friday morning’s massive Ukrainian drone attack that cut off power in the city of Sevastopol. 

The Russian-installed governor of Ukraine's partially occupied Kherson region, Vladimir Saldo, said one person died and 16 were wounded when a Ukrainian drone hit a minibus on Sunday morning.

In Ukraine, air force officials said air defence shot down all 37 Russian drones launched against the country overnight (more in our 7.20 post). 

Four people have been killed and at least eight more injured in a Russian airstrike on Kharkiv, Ukrainian officials say. 

Kharkiv's governor Oleh Syniehubov said the strike hit the residential area of Malodanyliv.

A paramedic was among those injured, he said on Telegram. 

Kharkiv has been the target of frequent airstrikes since Russia began its new offensive on the northeastern region late last week. 

Residential buildings have been destroyed and Ukraine has accused Russia of targeting civilians, saying it is investigating this as a "potential war crime". 

Governor Oleh Syniehubov said this morning that one person died and 11 were wounded as a result of shelling on Saturday. 

Here are some of the latest pictures from the city...

Ukrainian forces have destroyed Russian Black Sea fleet minesweeper, a statement from the Ukrainian navy said.

"Last night the Ukrainian Defence Forces destroyed the Russian Black Sea Fleet's Project 266-M Kovrovets minesweeper," it said on Telegram.

As Russia’s new invasion of northern Ukraine ticks into its second week, Trevor Philips asks Defence Secretary Grant Shapps if we are creating a stalemate in the war with Russia.

It comes after Volodymyr Zelenskyy said this week: "We are in a nonsense situation where the West is afraid that Russia will lose the war. And it does not want Ukraine to lose it."

Grant Shapps says he went to Ukraine earlier this year and made the point that "by delaying what we should be doing - and in fact now have, through particularly what [the US] Congress has done - we are running the risk of doing exactly what President Zelensky is concerned about".

He goes on: "I think this is completely nonsensical for the West. We have to understand we are in an existential battle about the way we run the world order and about democracy itself."

He accuses autocratic countries of trying to "impose" their systems on "free and democratic countries", declaring: "We have to stand up to that."

Speaking on Sunday Morning with Trevor Philips, Grant Shapps says the delay in giving aid to Ukraine gave Russia a window of opportunity for its new offensive. 

"It is [a] fact that the delay in sending additional aid [to Ukraine] - and here, obviously, the United States Congress was slow on this - had left a hiatus in which, for example, Putin has moved into, or tried to move into Kharkiv."

He says he is "confident" Ukraine will be able to repel the attack, but says there are a "few difficult weeks ahead".

"But that didn't need to happen," he adds.

Mr Shapps also says "Europeans have to step up as well", calling for other European countries to commit to spending 2.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, which the government has said it will do by 2030.

He would not be drawn on whether the UK should change its rules to allow weapons provided by the UK to be used in Russian territory. 

Mr Shapps instead called for Germany and other countries to allow the weapons they provide to be used in Crimea, which was illegally annexed by Russia in 2014. 

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