The USA is home to an amazing diversity of landscapes, and some of the most awe-inspiring are the dramatic mountain ranges and shimmering lakes dotted throughout the country. Vacations By Rail offers a fantastic choice of tours that take you to these awesome destinations, with unforgettable rail journeys along the way. From Cadillac Mountain in Maine to Lake Tahoe in the west, these sights weave a picturesque backdrop for a rail vacation. Consider a Colorado rail adventure featuring visits to the state's best mountain towns or stand in awe of North America's highest mountain peak, Denali, on an Alaska rail tour. There are few better ways to admire the changing seasons than from mountain overlooks, whether it is New Hampshire's Mt. Washington with views of six states and Canada or the atmospheric Smoky Mountains.
America's stunning lakes provide a chance to sit back and take in the serene beauty of nature. From Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park and the Midwest's Great Lakes, to Lake Champlain and Lake Winnipesaukee in New England, still waters and tranquil settings set the tone for a relaxing getaway.
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This state offers untamed beauty, with diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to snow-covered mountain peaks. Colorado's mountains form the highest section of the Rockies. Summit Pike's Peak by cog railway or pass through the rugged San Juan range for unforgettable scenery.
Located in Montana's Big Sky Country, Glacier National Park is home to two mountain ranges and more than 700 lakes. The largest of these lakes is Lake McDonald, a 10-mile stretch of crystalline water surrounded by snowy mountains that reflect in the mirrored surface.
America's Last Frontier, Alaska wild landscapes enchant visitors year-round - admire frozen tundra, ancient forests and dramatic fjords. Board the historic Denali Star railway to the highest peak in North America or summit Mount Alyeska by aerial tram for panoramic vistas.
Aside from this region's historical importance, New England is also world-renowned for its fall foliage, bathing the forested mountains and valleys in fiery hues. Cruise Lake Winnipesaukee to experience sights of azure water surrounded by red and gold trees and lakeside towns.
(416 reviews)Journey through the untamed beauty of Colorado on this 8-day Rocky Mountain expedition. We discover expanses of landscape hidden from modern traffic aboard six scenic railways: Georgetown Loop Railroad Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Royal Gorge Route Railroad...
(266 reviews)Nine unforgettable days take you deep into Alaska's wild beauty on this expertly guided adventure. Your journey begins in Fairbanks, where a riverboat cruise introduces you to the region's scenic waterways, and a visit to Trail Breaker Kennel lets you experience the thrill of dog sledding. From Fairbanks, board the legendary Alaska Railroad's...
(159 reviews)The Old West's rugged frontier towns and renowned national historic sites are hallmarks of this 11-day escorted tour. We begin our journey across America's Western frontier by joining modern technology with nostalgic travel methods, riding Amtrak's California Zephyr from Chicago to Provo, Utah. The route takes us across the Rocky Mountains...
(183 reviews)Discover the natural wonders and rugged wilderness of the Southwest on this scenic rail tour through Canyon Country. This tour has it all: amazing national parks, classic train journeys, and spectacular sightseeing and excursions. Your adventure begins in Chicago with a classic rail journey aboard the legendary California Zephyr to Grand...
(51 reviews)This well-planned round-trip itinerary from Chicago includes travel aboard Amtrak's famed Empire Builder, accommodations in historic lodges and visits to breathtaking natural attractions within Glacier National Park, often referred to as the "Switzerland of North America."...
On this new itinerary for 2026, experience scenic railways on an unforgettable tour of New England in the Fall. Travel through spectacular mountain scenery lit up with vivid colors on this autumn tour along America's scenic East Coast. Stay in Boston with time to explore its history and culture, then journey by boat to fascinating Salem. ...
(119 reviews)The vibrant hues of autumn color the backdrop for this tour to some of New England's most historic and picturesque sites. This round-trip from Boston delves into popular East Coast locations like coastal Kennebunkport and Portland in Maine, Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire, and Newport in Rhode Island. Delight in excursions aboard two of...
Set out on an adventure into the vast and rugged landscapes of the northwestern United States on this week-long vacation. Crossing the country on Amtrak's Empire Builder, arrive in East Glacier for days spent amidst Montana's wild scenery, fresh mountain air and stunning destinations. Uncover the "Crown of the Continent" from multiple...
(289 reviews)Discover five of America's beloved national parks on this rail tour to America's West. Start your tour with a classic overnight rail adventure aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Here, we visit the first national park of the itinerary, Glacier National Park, surrounded by glorious natural spectacles. Moving...
(126 reviews)Set your sights on amazing scenes of America's West with visits to six national parks on this unforgettable rail tour. The journey begins on Amtrak's Empire Builder, aboard which beautiful vistas of the Northern Prairies create the serene backdrop for the start of our trip. Our first visit is to Whitefish, where Glacier National Park's...
(33 reviews)If it is the experience of a lifetime you seek, look no further than a scenic tour through the country aboard the legendary tracks of the Empire Builder. Totaling over 2,200 miles in length, this journey shows us glimpses of seven of the northern-most states and the beautiful Pacific Coast. The expedition begins in the heart of the Midwest -...
(34 reviews)Travel from Chicago or Seattle aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder and relax in comfort as the glorious scenery passes by. Your Glacier National Park 7-day adventure includes two nights onboard Amtrak's Empire Builder as well as two nights each in Glacier Park Lodge and St. Mary Lodge. This well-planned itinerary lets you enjoy the best of Glacier...
Oct 20, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween by joining an expertly curated vacation to some of the most legendary and lore-filled destinations around the globe.
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Oct 14, 2025 · By Rob Payne
Experience New England’s colorful fall foliage with Vacations by Rail’s great range of escorted tours, exploring the White Mountains, Cape Cod and Maine.
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Aug 13, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
If your idea of a memorable trip includes nature’s beauty and majestic wildlife, look no further than Alaska, where wild adventures are easily accessible.
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Jul 24, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Whether in America’s national parks, the Canadian Rockies or traveling from coast to coast, discover the top destinations to visit in North America in 2026.
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