Unforgettable American Train Journeys

Photo source: Pixabay - David McConnell

Traveling America by train gives you a taste of the country that can't be found anywhere else. When you travel America by train, you get to see beautiful, hidden landforms such as the famous American prairies,vast canyons, large desert vistas and snowy mountain ranges.

What better way to experience the unspoiled landscape and the untamed frontier of this beautiful country than by train? Plus, many trains pass through the some of Americas best national parks.

Here are some of the many unforgettable train journeys found around the country.

Grand Canyon Railway

Traveling through the Grand Canyon by train is a remarkable experience that takes you through a wide range of landscapes and elevations. Along the trip you have the chance to witness some beautiful wildlife including elk, mountain lions and pronghorn.

The adventure starts in Williams, Arizona, and heads north until you reach the South Rim. Be sure to check weather conditions and tour availability before you leave home.

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

If you are looking for a train journey that promises outstanding views then the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is perfect. The train travels 45 miles and climbs more than 9,000 feet above sea level.You also cross over a 190-foot long bridge as you pass over the Animas River that lies 250 feet below.

For those seeking a little more excitement, add an extra a day and try your hand at zip lining. This isn't your normal zip line experience though. There are a whopping 22 zip lines that span through the trees and are so remote that they can only be accessed by train or helicopter.

Virginia and Truckee Railroad

The Virginia and Truckee Railroad was Nevada's most renowned short line railway in the 1800s.Today, the vintage trains sing with the sentimental song of a steam whistle, and when mixed with the gorgeous landscape of the Sierra Nevadas, create an unforgettable family travel experience.

Throughout the ninety-minute ride from Carson to Virginia City, the train takes you through tunnels and passages, old cemeteries, silver ore veins and abandoned mines. Plus, you can enjoy the day shopping, touring, and enjoying Virginia City before taking the return train back.

The Ethan Allen Express

One of the most easily accessible train rides in American, this railroad was named after a hero of the Revolutionary War, Ethan Allen.

It leaves Penn Station in New York City and winds its way up following the Hudson River in the Catskills into upstate New York and lastly into the Green Mountains of Vermont. That sounds like quite a trip, but it is a mere 5 1/2 hours as long as you don't disembark the train.

Of course, that means you would be missing out on some great adventures including hiking, boating and museum tours. There are also several fun towns and cities to visit along the way including Saratoga Springs, famous for its mineral spa and yearly horseraces.

The Heber Valley Railroad

Since 1899, this important short line railroad has traveled between Utah's beautiful Provo Canyon and the lush Heber Valley. There are many excursion options on these diesels and steam trains that both educate and charm tourists. Possibilities run the gamut from romantic dinner trains to adventure trains that include stops for zip lining and whitewater rafting.

Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

The Smoky Mountains are filled with beautiful trees, crystal clear rivers, mountains ridges and gorgeous valleys. Taking the train through this beautiful part of the country gives tourists remarkable views of everything this area has to offer. You will see over a hundred different species of trees, thousands of flowers and if youre lucky a variety of wildlife. Exploring this wildnerness area by train is an unforgettable journey through one of America's most beautiful national parks.

America is a vast country with varying landscapes. Train travel lets you sit back, relax and enjoy the untamed country that many never get to see.

Have you taken a classic American train trip? Where did you go?

What do you think of these trips? Let us know in the comments below!

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.