If you’ve ever considered planning a long-distance train trip, you’ve probably spent hours poring over the Eurail map. And why not? Europe’s extensive rail network, paired with its culture and history, as well as the ease of traversing borders on a single pass, make it an obvious choice.

But there’s another option, with routes that might be even more spectacular. North America is an incredibly underrated destination for train travel, with both Canada and the United States offering epic journeys with mind-boggling views and impeccable hospitality. There’s a huge array of journeys to choose from, whether you’re indulging in luxury or travelling on a budget. Here are 12 unforgettable rail routes to put on your radar.

Pictured: Rocky Mountaineer, First Passage to the West

REVEL IN THE ROCKIES

First Passage to the West, Vancouver to Banff

Canada’s most famous train, the Rocky Mountaineer, winds its way through its namesake mountains on a grand two-day journey. This legendary trip includes a hotel stay midway, so you won’t miss a second of the deep canyons, towering passes, snow-capped peaks, enormous glaciers or famous wildlife. There are two levels of service to choose from, but every ticket includes glass-domed coaches, an outdoor viewing area, gourmet meals, complimentary drinks and wonderful on-board hosts.

TIP: It’s easy to see why the magnificent summer is the peak season, but consider travelling in spring to see baby wildlife or autumn to see fall colours. Just be sure to pack layers to keep warm.

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CRUISE THE COAST

Coast Starlight, Seattle to Los Angeles

America’s west coast is remarkable, with everything from snowy mountains to deep forests, lush valleys, idyllic beaches and inspiring cities. You can see it all on this stunning route, with two departures daily. The entire route takes 35 hours, with fantastic stops such as the hipster haven of Portland, the outdoor adventure hub of Klamath Falls in Oregon, the wine wonderland of San Luis Obispo in California and picture-perfect San Francisco.

TIP: This route includes one or two nights on board, depending which departure you book. Sleep soundly by upgrading to a bedroom with your own shower and loo from $2888, twin share.

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Picture: John Hyun/Flickr

AMAZING ARIZONA

Grand Canyon Railway, Williams to Grand Canyon

This train trip is like no other. You’ll ride a vintage rail car all the way to the majestic Grand Canyon on an entertaining ride with western musicians. Five of the company’s locomotives are diesel electric, but it also runs two steam locomotives, built in 1906 and 1923, on select dates. You can choose from a glass-domed carriage with a sparkling wine toast or an immersive family-friendly experience with characters including a group of outlaws who gallop alongside the train and stage an old-fashioned holdup.

TIP: Save on the cost of train tickets by booking a two-, three- or four-night package that includes accommodation at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams and Maswik Lodge North, inside the canyon.

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AMERICAN WEST

Empire Builder, Chicago to Seattle

Chicago was once dubbed the “Paris on the Prairie”, which makes it an excellent place to start a journey through the rugged splendour of the American West. From the bright lights of the city, this train will cross the North Dakota plains before entering the big sky country of Montana and heading towards the Pacific Northwest, following the journeys of the pioneers who settled in this area. Seize the chance to stop for a few days and explore the impressive Glacier National Park along the way.

TIP: Look at the itinerary and plan ahead so you can snag your spot in the train’s Sightseer Lounge when you pass the Mississippi River – they’re on a first-come, first-serve basis.

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CROSS CANADA

The Canadian, Toronto to Vancouver

You could fly across Canada – the world’s second-largest country – but nothing beats making the 4466km journey from Toronto to Vancouver by rail. The scenery is the star of the show as you clickety-clack your way out of the city into lake country, before crossing the vast prairies and watching the Rockies growing ever-larger on the horizon. This trip takes four days, with two departures per week and a choice between prestige, sleeper and economy class.

TIP: Extend your trip into an 11-day journey with Canadian Train Vacations (prices start from $C9090 – about $10,000) and add tours of Jasper and Banff national parks.

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SEE THE SOUTH

Sunset Limited, New Orleans to Los Angeles

Amtrak’s southernmost route passes huge wetlands and enormous deserts as it departs Louisiana and meanders along the Mexican border from Texas to California. This 48-hour trip is perfect for travellers who have visited the US before and are looking for a new perspective, with three departures a week. Along the way, enjoy the culture of San Antonio, the views of Big Bend and Saguaro national parks and enjoy the golf and spas of Scottsdale.

TIP: This destination is perfect for foodies, with a chance to try everything from Cajun and Creole dishes to Tex-Mex and the fresh seasonal dishes of the west coast.

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Picture: throgers/Flickr

CONTINENTAL DIVIDE

Rockies to the Red Rocks, Moab to Denver

See America’s West in a whole new way as you glide through Utah and Colorado on the other Rocky Mountaineer – to be known as Canyon Spirit from its 2026 season – seeing extraordinary natural rock features including arches, hoodoos (rock spires) and rugged canyons that have been carved over millions of years. This two-day trip includes a hotel stay at beautiful Glenwood Springs and offers you a chance to experience the true beauty of the desert on a luxury train that includes fine dining, wines and cocktails.

TIP: See these incredible red rocks from the air by booking the optional Canyonlands and Arches National Park Airplane Tour – it will really help you appreciate America’s vastness.

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GREAT WHITE NORTH

VIA Rail, Winnipeg to Churchill

Unfortunately this train isn’t called the Polar Bear Express, which seems like a missed opportunity, because it’s the main reason travellers take this scenic two-day, two-night trip spanning 1697km of scenic Canada. Churchill is famous for the furry white locals prowling the Arctic tundra (and occasionally the local streets), as well as its beluga whales – and the Northern Lights, which you might even spot from your carriage. Tickets start from just $265, making this off-the-beaten-track journey a steal.

TIP: Inclement weather can affect train schedules in this part of the world, so remember to be patient and bring an attitude of adventure as you embark on your trip north.

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DIVINE DENALI

Alaska Railroad, Anchorage to Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a spectacular wilderness, home to North America’s tallest peak at 6190m and one of the best places to see North America’s “Big Five”: grizzly bears, moose, caribou, wolves and dall sheep. Choose from GoldStar Service or Adventure Class as you enjoy this quintessentially Alaskan experience, which runs seasonally with daily departures from May to September.

TIP: Make the most of your trip by adding a cruise, such as Princess’s 10-day Denali Explorer, which includes the train as well as a six-night cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver from $3283.

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CURATED CALIFORNIA

Napa Valley Wine Train, Napa (round trip)

The gorgeous Napa Valley is just an hour and 15 minutes by car from San Francisco but what better way to experience the picturesque countryside and New World drops than by train? Enjoy an elegant three-hour lunch or dinner experience, which includes a welcome glass of sparkling as well as a four-course meal made on board using seasonal ingredients. Don’t forget your camera.

TIP: There’s no official dress code, but since this experience is a little bit fancy, lean in and dress for the occasion. Opt for smart casual during the day and cocktail party attire at night.

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MAGNIFICENT MARITIMES

The Ocean, Montreal to Halifax

Dive into the culture of French-speaking Montreal, enjoying the historic charm, architecture, lively festivals and events and excellent food before boarding the train and watching the lovely landscapes of Quebec roll by your window. This 1346km journey takes one day and one night as the train trundles towards the charming Maritimes – the cluster of peninsulas and islands that make up New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island – to the pretty seaside city of Halifax.

TIP: The configuration on this train means some seats and rooms face backwards, so the train will book forward-facing options first. Make sure you book early if this is your preference.

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DELIGHTFUL DESERT

New Mexico Rail Runner, Albuquerque to Santa Fe

New Mexico is a much underrated destination, home to rich Native American culture as well as incredible attractions such as White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns national parks and Rio Grande Gorge. This is a local commuter train linking the vibrant cities of Albuquerque and Santa Fe, and while it only takes about 90 minutes, it’s a fun activity with stunning views for just $15.

TIP: This route passes a number of pueblos, or Native American villages. Many require photography permits or prohibit photography altogether, so keep this in mind.

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See also: 

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