Most Scenic Amtrak Routes – Complete Train Travel Guide

If you wonder about Amtrak’s most scenic routes, then Amtrak offers some of the most beautiful train journeys across the United States. These routes pass through diverse landscapes like towering mountains, sparkling lakes, lush forests, and stunning coastlines. Riding these trains is a relaxing way to see the country’s natural beauty without the stress of driving. Whether you want to enjoy snowy peaks, ocean waves, or wide-open plains, Amtrak’s scenic routes provide unforgettable views right from your seat. This blog will guide you through the top routes to help you plan your next scenic adventure by rail.

Here are the four most scenic amtrak routes in the U.S. that showcase breathtaking views of mountains, coastlines, and forests.

Coast Starlight (Seattle, WA to Los Angeles, CA)

The Coast Starlight is one of the most scenic train routes on the West Coast, offering spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the towering Cascade Mountains. Travelers can enjoy lush forests, charming cities like Portland and Sacramento, and stunning coastal landscapes all along the route.

• Highlights:
  • Breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline and beaches.
  • Majestic Cascade Mountain Range and redwood forests.
  • Charming stops in cities like Portland, Sacramento, and San Francisco.
• Best Time to Travel: Spring through fall for mild weather and vibrant landscapes.
• Duration: Approximately 35 hours.

California Zephyr (Chicago, IL to Emeryville, CA)

The California Zephyr is a legendary cross-country route that traverses the Great Plains, Rocky Mountains, and Sierra Nevada. Along the way, passengers experience majestic mountain peaks, rolling valleys, and iconic stops such as Denver and Salt Lake City. 

• Highlights:
  • Majestic mountain ranges and river valleys.
  • Vast plains and desert scenes.
  • Iconic stops include Denver and Salt Lake City.
• Best Time to Travel: Late spring through fall to capture diverse landscapes.
• Duration: 52 hours.

Empire Builder (Chicago, IL to Seattle, WA/Portland, OR)

The Empire Builder travels from Chicago to the Pacific Northwest, passing through vast northern plains, the Mississippi River, and breathtaking Glacier National Park. This route offers an incredible mix of natural wonders, including dense forests, wildlife, and mountain vistas.

• Highlights:
  • Glacier National Park views and the Rocky Mountains.
  • Mississippi River and expansive northern plains.
  • Notable stops include Minneapolis and Spokane.
• Best Time to Travel: Summer and early fall for clear views of the mountains.
• Duration: Around 46 hours.

Pacific Surfliner (San Diego, CA to San Luis Obispo, CA)

The Pacific Surfliner is a beautiful coastal route hugging Southern California’s shoreline, offering views of sandy beaches, rolling hills, and sparkling ocean waters. It connects vibrant cities such as Los Angeles and Santa Barbara while giving travelers a relaxing seaside experience. 

• Highlights:
  • Ocean views and sandy beaches.
  • Coastal cliffs and rolling hills.
  • Key stops include Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.
• Best Time to Travel: Year-round, with spring and fall offering less crowded experiences.
• Duration: About 8 hours.

Amtrak most scenic routes offer a unique and relaxing way to see some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you choose the coastal views of the Coast Starlight, the mountain grandeur of the California Zephyr, the northern wilderness on the Empire Builder, or the sunny beaches along the Pacific Surfliner, each journey promises unforgettable sights and memorable experiences. Traveling through these routes is the perfect way to slow down, enjoy nature, and create lasting memories.