America by rail: 5 iconic train journeys in the U.S. every traveller must experience once in a lifetime

There is something deeply romantic about train travel, be it anywhere. But when it comes to train travel in America, it simply stands out because it carries travellers a varied landscape; through deserts, via mountains, inside forests and beautiful coastlines in the most grand way! Today, that old-world glamour still lives on a handful of extraordinary rail journeys across the United States. From the red rocks of Utah to California’s wine country, let’s have a look at five most luxurious train journeys in the US every traveller should experience once in their lifetime.

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(PC: cograilway.com)

“Rockies to the Red Rocks”, Rocky Mountaineer is one of North America’s most luxurious rail journeys. This one’s legendary. The train traverses through Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah. It takes travellers through dramatic scenery like canyons, deserts, cliffs, forests and remote mountain landscapes which are not accessible by road. The train is known for its glass-domed coaches.

One thing to remember is that Rocky Mountaineer operates only during daylight hours. Guests stay overnight in upscale hotels during the journey. The best time to travel is between spring and autumn, when the Colorado River canyons and Utah deserts are in their most colourful avatar.

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This one offers California’s rolling vineyard experience. The train runs through the heart of Napa Valley between Napa and St. Helena. It is a restored vintage train which offers gourmet dining with vineyard scenery. And the winery experiences are simply amazing. The train uses historic Pullman railcars dating back to the early 20th century.

Imagine cruising through endless vineyards and rolling hills in California towns like Yountville and Rutherford. Autumn is the best season to enjoy the journey.

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Amtrak Coast Starlight is counted among America’s most scenic coastal rail journeys. For travellers who want luxury combined with stunning views, the Coast Starlight offers one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world. The train runs between Seattle and Los Angeles. One of the highlights is the Sightseer Lounge, where floor-to-ceiling windows reveal constantly changing scenery. It is a perfect experience for slow travellers.

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The Grand Canyon Railway is counted among America’s most historic train rides. It leaves from Williams, Arizona and the route travels roughly 65 miles to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Travellers can choose from the Luxury Dome and Luxury Parlor, where travellers enjoy stunning views. Musicians, cowboy performers and old-fashioned railway aesthetics add to the theatrical atmosphere of the ride.

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Now this is America’s highest railway adventure. For travellers seeking dramatic altitude and mountain scenery, the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway in Colorado makes for an unforgettable luxury rail experience. It was first opened in the 1890s. The railway climbs to the summit of Pikes Peak at over 14,000 feet. The experience is more about the extraordinary setting. ​

(PC: cograilway.com)