Want to skip long road trips and still get jaw-dropping views of America’s wild beauty? Taking a train to national park is the easiest, most scenic, and eco-friendly way to reach nature—without the stress of driving. From snow-capped mountains to red rock canyons, these train routes turn your journey into part of the adventure.
Crave wildlife, hiking trails, or peaceful landscapes, each train to national park route delivers unforgettable views right from your seat. Ready to ride the rails straight into nature’s best destinations?
1. Glacier National Park via Amtrak’s Empire Builder
Travel aboard the Empire Builder from Chicago or Seattle to West Glacier, Montana. The journey is as much the adventure as the destination, passing through the dramatic Rocky Mountains, winding rivers, and dense forests. Onboard, you may spot eagles soaring overhead or bison grazing in distant meadows. Once at Glacier, enjoy over 700 miles of hiking trails, pristine lakes like Lake McDonald, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering scenic drives and panoramic viewpoints.
Pro Tip: Reserve a window seat on the right side of the train when traveling westbound for the best mountain views and photography opportunities.
2. Rocky Mountain National Park via California Zephyr
The California Zephyr is known as one of America’s most scenic rail routes. Stop at Granby, Colorado, just 20 minutes from the park’s west entrance. Along the way, marvel at the Continental Divide, alpine valleys, and cascading rivers. Rocky Mountain National Park offers over 350 miles of trails, alpine lakes, and wildlife such as elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. Trail Ridge Road provides breathtaking views from over 12,000 feet above sea level.
Pro Tip: Pack layers; temperatures can fluctuate dramatically with elevation, even in summer.
3. Arches National Park via California Zephyr
Disembark at Green River, Utah, and take a short shuttle ride to Moab, the gateway to Arches National Park. This park is famous for its over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, red rock formations, and scenic hiking trails. The train journey across Utah’s deserts and mesas provides unique photo opportunities before you even set foot in the park.
Pro Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset when the rocks glow with warm hues, creating perfect photography conditions.
4. Grand Canyon National Park via Grand Canyon Railway
Depart from Williams, Arizona, aboard the Grand Canyon Railway for a nostalgic ride across the Arizona desert. The 65-mile journey features vintage railcars, cowboy reenactments, and scenic desert views. Arrive directly at the South Rim, ready to explore the canyon’s iconic viewpoints, hiking trails, and dramatic sunsets over the vast canyon expanse.
Pro Tip: Upgrade to first-class for panoramic windows and onboard refreshments during your journey.
5. Yosemite National Park via Amtrak and Bus
Take the California Zephyr to Emeryville, California, and then transfer to a bus service that takes you straight into Yosemite National Park. This park is home to towering granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and spectacular waterfalls like Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall. Along the train route, enjoy scenic views of the Sierra Nevada and California’s river valleys.
Pro Tip: Visit in spring to see waterfalls at peak flow or in fall to enjoy quieter trails with fewer crowds.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park via Amtrak Crescent
Ride the Amtrak Crescent to Greensboro, North Carolina, then continue by shuttle or rental car into the Great Smoky Mountains. This park is famous for mist-covered mountains, lush forests, and over 800 miles of hiking trails. Explore Clingmans Dome, Roaring Fork, and historic Appalachian structures. Wildlife, including black bears and white-tailed deer, is abundant.
Pro Tip: Early morning visits provide the best chance to catch mist rising off the mountains and wildlife sightings.
7. Zion National Park via Amtrak and Bus
Travel on the Southwest Chief to Flagstaff, Arizona, and then take a bus to Springdale, Utah, the gateway to Zion National Park. The train journey offers stunning views of the Southwest’s red rock deserts and mesas. Inside Zion, enjoy hiking Angels Landing, exploring The Narrows, or driving along scenic park roads.
Pro Tip: Book shuttle passes in advance during peak seasons to avoid long waits and ensure access to popular trailheads.
8. Yellowstone National Park via Amtrak and Bus
Board the Empire Builder to Billings, Montana, followed by a bus ride into Yellowstone National Park. Travelers can witness geysers, hot springs, and wildlife like bison, elk, and wolves. Highlights include Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering dramatic canyon views.
Pro Tip: Stay in nearby lodges or campgrounds to maximize early morning wildlife sightings before park crowds arrive.
9. Denali National Park via Alaska Railroad
From Anchorage, board the Alaska Railroad for a scenic journey into Denali National Park. Along the route, spot glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife such as moose and bears. Denali is home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali, and offers hiking, wildlife tours, and photography opportunities.
Pro Tip: Observation cars provide unobstructed views for photography and wildlife spotting—bring binoculars for a closer look.
10. Saguaro National Park via Amtrak Sunset Limited
Travel aboard the Sunset Limited to Tucson, Arizona. From there, Saguaro National Park is a short drive away. The park is known for its towering saguaro cacti, desert landscapes, and hiking trails perfect for sunrise and sunset. The train route itself passes through Sonoran desert vistas, offering views of dramatic mountain ranges.
Pro Tip: Visit during early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best light for photography.
11. Badlands National Park via Amtrak Empire Builder
Disembark at Pierre, South Dakota, and take a short drive to Badlands National Park. The park features rugged landscapes, sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires. Train travelers can enjoy the expansive plains of South Dakota en route, making for a scenic journey before exploring the park’s unique geology.
Pro Tip: Sunset is spectacular in Badlands; the rocks change color dramatically as the sun dips below the horizon.
12. Cuyahoga Valley National Park via Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad operates within the park, offering passengers panoramic views of the Cuyahoga River, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The train provides access to historic towns, scenic overlooks, and cycling paths, making it a perfect family-friendly adventure.
Pro Tip: Consider riding the train during fall when the foliage creates a vibrant, multicolored landscape.
These 12 train routes make it easy to combine comfort, adventure, and a deep connection with nature, all while enjoying the unique charm of rail travel. Pack your bags and let the rails take you straight into America’s most iconic national parks.
