Train travel isn’t just about reaching your destination—sometimes, it’s about the journey itself. North America is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking rail routes, offering panoramic views of mountains, coastlines, deserts, and forests. Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape or a cross-country adventure, these scenic rail journeys deliver unforgettable experiences from the comfort of your seat.

1. Amtrak Coast Starlight (California to Washington)
   Route: Los Angeles to Seattle
   Highlights: Pacific Ocean views, snowcapped Cascade Range, and the lush forests of Oregon
   Duration: About 35 hours
   Why it’s worth it: Considered by many the most beautiful train ride in the U.S., the Coast Starlight offers varied landscapes that shift dramatically throughout the trip.
2. Rocky Mountaineer (Canada and U.S.)
   Route: Vancouver to Banff or Jasper (Canada); Denver to Moab (U.S. route)
   Highlights: Canadian Rockies, rivers, canyons, and desert plateaus
   Duration: 2–4 days depending on the route
   Why it’s worth it: The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train with glass-domed coaches, gourmet meals, and overnight hotel stays included—ideal for a bucket-list vacation.
3. Amtrak California Zephyr (Illinois to California)
   Route: Chicago to Emeryville (near San Francisco)
   Highlights: Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, high plains, and desert vistas
   Duration: About 51 hours
   Why it’s worth it: The California Zephyr is Amtrak’s most scenic cross-country route, spanning 7 states and hundreds of iconic landscapes.
4. VIA Rail’s The Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver)
   Route: Toronto to Vancouver
   Highlights: Boreal forests, prairie grasslands, and the Canadian Rockies
   Duration: Around 4 days
   Why it’s worth it: The Canadian provides a luxurious, immersive way to experience Canada’s diverse geography in comfort.
5. White Pass & Yukon Route (Alaska/Canada)
   Route: Skagway, Alaska to Fraser, British Columbia
   Highlights: Mountain passes, glaciers, waterfalls, and gold rush history
   Duration: About 2.5 hours (round trip options available)
   Why it’s worth it: This narrow-gauge railway was built in 1898 and now operates primarily as a scenic ride for tourists. Learn more at White Pass & Yukon Route.

Tips for Maximizing the Scenic Experience

• Book a window seat. Choose the side with the best views depending on the route; online forums like The Man in Seat 61 often offer insights.

• Travel during daylight. Opt for segments that run during the day so you don’t miss the main views.

• Bring a camera or binoculars. These routes often pass through wildlife-rich regions.

• Reserve early. Scenic routes fill up quickly—especially in summer or fall.

Add-On Savings for Your Trip

Even if your tickets are purchased directly from Amtrak or VIA Rail, there are still ways to trim trip costs. Use cashback platforms for purchases made before or during your trip:

• Earn cashback with a Starbucks gift card at station cafés

• Get Dunkin’ at a discount with Fluz before departure

• Buy an Amtrak gift card online to use toward ticket purchases when available

• Use Rakuten or Ibotta for hotels and travel supplies

You can browse additional participating brands through the Fluz store directory, or download the app directly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to slow down and truly take in the beauty of North America, a scenic train journey offers one of the most enriching ways to travel. With stunning routes that rival the world’s best, these rail adventures are more than transportation—they’re destinations in themselves.