Have you ever wanted to explore national parks in the USA by train? If so, today’s your lucky day! Welcome to the first leg of our multi-part cross country train series. Read below for everything you need to know about train travel in America, including rail pass options, routes, stops nearest to national parks, and more. Be sure to check out the other itineraries in our cross country train travel series. Knock out each section one at a time or string them all together for an epic multi-week (or even month!) adventure exploring every corner of America by train.
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8 of the Most Scenic Train Rides in America
As a native of central Pennsylvania, I have been immersed in railroad culture as early as I can remember. Train whistles cried out at all hours and corner bars in the neighborhood near railroad repair shops were frequented by soot and oil-covered workers trudging in after shift was up. When I traveled to Europe, railroads took on a different role in my life, no longer the local industry barely keeping the town afloat but a reliable transit option allowing access to a world of adventure. The contrast is troubling, but the potential for rail travel in the United States is not lost. A resurgence of interest in scenic, leisurely travel in America makes trains more appealing than ever.
Manitou Springs, Colorado: Where Outdoor Adventure, Wildlife & American History Converge
In addition to being an outdoor and wildlife mecca, Manitou Springs, Colorado, offers a fascinating glimpse into American history, culture, and art.
Explore More with Endless Activities in El Paso, TX
For those looking for a place where culture, food, and outdoor activity thrive in West Texas, El Paso is the answer. Rated one of the safest big cities in the United States for two decades, El Paso is teeming with things to do. Hike, mountain bike, sip agave spirits galore and so much more—this is one destination that knows how to do it all.
Small Towns, Big Stories: Unveiling South Dakota’s Missouri River
Whether you are coming for a sea of sunflowers in late summer or seeking the Milky Way-spilled skies over the prairies along the Missouri; if you are hoping for a pheasant or fish dinner or some smooth-as-glass water to ski, the ‘Mighty Mo’ is waiting.
The Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip: Shenandoah & Great Smoky Mountains National Parks
Crossing the heart of central Appalachia from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this Blue Ridge Parkway road trip itinerary is packed with everything from history and culture to hikes and waterfalls.
Reliving the Wild West at Bannack State Park
Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious to explore a bygone era, The Bannack Days Festival is surely worth adding to your bucket list. Try your hand at gold panning and witness skilled artisans practicing traditional crafts. Explore the historic buildings guided by knowledgable rangers. Hike through the surrounding hillsides or spend a leisurely afternoon fishing in nearby Grasshopper Creek. Spend the night under the stars and get a sense of what life may have felt like for the original settlers of Bannack.
Aspen, Colorado: Everything You Expect & So Much More
Aspen is rightly renowned for all it has to offer the outdoors person. When you’re ready to rest your legs, or if your travel group includes some less active members, Aspen will overdeliver.
10 Cities for the Best Solo Trips in the US
Embarking on a solo travel adventure is a journey into freedom and self-discovery. The United States, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, offers a plethora of destinations for those seeking unforgettable solo experiences.
Travel Utah with Knowledge: Start at NHMU
Utah has a rich archaeological record, and our dry climate preserves a remarkable variety of objects—from turkey feather robes to woven sandals—made by Utah’s Indigenous peoples. The museum’s archeological collection, one of the largest in western North America, contains evidence of continual human habitation in the region for over 14,000 years!