Steam locomotives once powered America's trains. Today, most steam engine trains have been converted to diesel or electric power. Still, there remain some scenic train rides that offer this nostalgic mode of travel, such as New England's Essex Steam Train, which follows a course through the pastoral Connecticut River Valley-an exceptionally breathtaking sight during fall foliage season.
Steam train excursions recall a bygone era of travel. Itineraries featuring these heritage railways offer the ideal balance between modern touring and historical journeys. California's Redwood Forest Steam Train employs one of the oldest preserved narrow-gauge steam engines. This scenic train ride shares the history of the Roaring Camp Railroad on its journey through the state's towering redwood groves. Colorado is home to two famous steam train rides: The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, connecting the historic mining towns of Durango and Silverton across the Animas River Canyon and the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, the longest narrow-gauge steam railroad in the United States. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates a steam train excursion along the Tuckasegee River through the western corner of rural North Carolina. In contrast, the Tennessee Valley Railroad's Summerville Steam Special offers a look at the mountains in Southern Tennessee and Northern Georgia.
These steam train trips in the USA showcase some of the country's best-kept secrets: special trains, charming small towns, and fantastic scenery.
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Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this memorable vacation featuring national parks, historic rail journeys and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction and view the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde National Parks, before riding the...
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...
(449 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...
(64 reviews)Join an expert Tour Manager and local guides on this 9-day vacation beginning and ending in San Francisco. Embark on an unforgettable tour unveiling some of California's greatest offerings - including a spectacular day aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train and time to uncover the Golden State's premier nature spots. Marvel at the rugged coast from...
(175 reviews)Embark on an 11-day escorted tour of the Old West's rugged frontier towns, majestic landscapes and renowned national historic sites. Journey across America's Western frontier on Amtrak's legendary California Zephyr from Chicago to Provo, Utah. Cross the Rocky Mountains, discovering hidden landscapes where the region's beauty comes to life. Visit...
(39 reviews)Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains: A region of scenic landscapes and iconic cities, and incredible sites that enrich the mind and the soul. During our time here, you will visit legendary sites, some of Tennessee and North Carolina's most beloved cities and one of the most grandiose homes in the country. Your journey begins in Music City, U.S...
(89 reviews)From mountains to sandstone arches and all the varied terrain between, this week-long journey is a showcase of nature. Admire the craggy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains surrounding Salt Lake City before boarding Canyon Spirit, a train that combines luxury and adventure. Following its brand-new route, travel from Salt Lake City into the...
Experience the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque on this memorable fall vacation, revealing the beauty of the Southwest from its national parks to historic railroads. Board Amtrak's Southwest Chief for an overnight journey to Albuquerque, where colorful celebrations await. Marvel as hundreds of balloons ascend into the New...
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