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The allure of train travel remains as timeless as ever. The gentle lull of the carriage, the scenic landscapes unfurling before your eyes, the captivating rhythm of wheels on the track – it’s a magical experience that captivates the heart of any traveler. In 2023, The USA Today presented a list of the top 10 most mesmerizing train rides that you simply cannot miss. Let’s hop on and explore these incredible rail journeys.

 

1.California Zephyr, Amtrak: Starting in Chicago and ending in San Francisco, this 51-hour journey showcases the diverse landscapes of America’s heartland, including the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevadas, and the vast plains of Nebraska.

2.Coast Starlight, Amtrak: Connecting Los Angeles and Seattle, this route offers some of the most breathtaking views of the West Coast, with sights of the Pacific Ocean, lush forests, and majestic mountains.

3.Cass Scenic Railroad, West Virginia: A historic logging train, this ride takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Appalachian mountains and offers a peek into America’s rich industrial past.

4.Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado: Traveling through Colorado’s rugged San Juan mountains, this steam-powered train promises an unforgettable journey back in time.

5.Empire Builder, Amtrak: Traversing the northern part of the U.S from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, this trip offers spectacular views of the Great Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Cascade Mountains.

6.Grand Canyon Railway, Arizona: Embark on a nostalgic journey on this vintage train from Williams, Arizona, to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

7.Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic, Alaska: Experience the Alaskan wilderness at its finest with this ride from Anchorage to Seward, boasting views of glaciers, mountains, and possibly even wildlife.

8.Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, New Mexico & Colorado: This narrow-gauge heritage railway transports passengers through the rugged landscapes of the Rocky Mountains and the high desert.

9.White Pass & Yukon Route, Alaska: Built during the Klondike Gold Rush, this railway offers thrilling sights of glaciers, waterfalls, and gorges along the way from Skagway, Alaska, to Whitehorse, Yukon.

10.Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Georgia: Journey through the charming countryside and along the Toccoa River on this scenic train ride through Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains.

Train travel invites us to slow down and savor the journey as much as the destination. Whether you’re an avid rail enthusiast or a curious traveler, these 10 incredible train rides offer not just a mode of transportation, but a unique, captivating adventure that creates unforgettable memories. All aboard for the journey of a lifetime!