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.
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. ...
(206 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 Junction...
The sites of yesteryear, iconic towns and delightful fall scenery set the backdrop for this New England adventure. Following an itinerary through Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island, this journey presents some of the nation's best autumnal foliage in unforgettable settings. Explore by rail on the Conway Scenic...
(289 reviews)Discover five beloved national parks on this 13-day escorted tour through the West. Start with a classic overnight rail journey aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Experience a float trip down a winding river, drive through Glacier National Park on an open-top Red Jammer bus and cruise across a sparkling...
Your two-night stay is in the heart of the unspoiled natural attractions and stunning beauty Glacier National Park. Wondrous displays of nature, historic lodges, and sightseeing through the forests and valleys of this complex ecosystem are highlights of your stay before returning by train to Chicago.
(438 reviews)From soaring peaks to deep gorges and iconic sites, including the Garden of the Gods, relish untamed Colorado on this remarkable rail vacation featuring six heritage trains. Delve into the Colorado Rockies' mining history on the Georgetown Loop Railroad and the Leadville Railroad, and skirt the San Juan Mountains on the Durango & Silverton Narrow...
(288 reviews)Nine unforgettable days showcase the Last Frontier's wild beauty on this expertly guided vacation. Uncover Fairbanks on a riverboat trip and meet sledding dogs, then ride Alaska Railroad's legendary Denali Star. Marvel at North America's tallest mountain and its incredible wildlife in Denali National Park and Talkeetna, before continuing south to...
(118 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...
(15 reviews)Depart coastal Seattle for the 100+-year-old Glacier National Park aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder. Highlights of your two-day visit include an excursion along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road and stunning views from Marias and Logan Passes.
(56 reviews)There is no place quite like the Alaskan wilderness. This corner of North America is a unique place where culture-filled destinations are carved into landscapes that remain virtually untouched otherwise. Gorgeous scenery marked by glaciers, snowy mountain ranges, fjords, pretty coastlines, and wide-open expanses is always within reach, and the...
(29 reviews)By land and by sea, discover a land of untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery in Alaska. Begin by boarding the elegant Holland America Ship in Vancouver, sailing north to reveal forested shores, glaciers and the quintessential towns of Alaska's Inside Passage. Uncover the charms of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, and then disembark in...
(43 reviews)The essence of the Pacific Northwest was built upon the shoulders of artists and adventurers and continues to embody these spirits today. Experience the unique presence of this region first-hand as you travel between Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco over eight action-packed days. Each city leaves an impression unlike the one before, and...
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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