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.
Embrace the Chill: Essential Tips for Winter Hiking
As winter blankets the landscape, the allure of hiking amidst snowy trails and frosted forests becomes irresistible. While summer draws throngs of adventurers, winter offers a unique and captivating experience for those seeking a quieter, more intimate connection with nature. Here are some essential tips to make your winter hiking escapades not just enjoyable but safe and unforgettable.
Kanab: Basecamp for 5 Epic Days in Utah
If Kanab seems eerily familiar, there’s a reason: over 250 classic Western films and TV shows have been set here, earning it the nickname ‘Little Hollywood.” Pay homage to the town’s silver screen history with a stop at the Little Hollywood Movie Museum, where you can roam around movie sets once frequented by John Wayne and Clint Eastwood.
Epic National Park Colorado-Utah Road Trip
The national parks in Colorado and Utah are bucket list destinations for many travelers, and for good reason! The rugged terrain, inspiring views, rich histories and vibrant communities will create memories for you and your family that will last a lifetime.
Enjoy Biking, Boating and Sipping in Redding, California
Redding, California, is a city full of adventure opportunities! Find yourself on an e-bike tour, exploring the city and its surroundings in a fun and eco-friendly way, or out on Shasta Lake with endless opportunities for boating, fishing, water skiing, and swimming. Whatever you decide to do, though, be sure to end your day with a cool beverage from one of the local vineyards or breweries, to reflect on time well spent on your California vacation.
Exploring Indigenous Hawaiian Heritage
When traveling to national parks and other sunset-soaked paradises on the Hawaiian islands, you are also visiting the ancestral lands of the Native Hawaiian people. We have created a guide to help you feel prepared exploring Native and Indigenous Hawaiian heritage during your next visit to Hawai’i. The Native Hawaiian communities are still very much tied to the land and waters of this area, and you can create a positive experience for both yourself and these communities by visiting with gratitude and respect – prepared to learn about the local cultures and histories.
Connected at the Roots: A Trail Among California’s Giant Sequoias
After making your way through a national forest, a national monument, and a national park, you’ll be ready to wind down in a peaceful village. Treat yourself to a fabulous dinner from locally sourced foods (with some local wine, of course), and a well-earned night’s sleep in one of the towns neighboring the parks.
Visit Aspen, Colorado Like a Local
Every year, people flock to the mountain mecca of Aspen, Colorado. It’s easy to see why! With the postcard-perfect Maroon Bells, dizzying heights of Independence Pass, and an arts, shopping, and dining scene that would make any big city envious, Aspen is a can’t-miss destination. Help to reduce your environmental impact during your next visit with the tips below.
A Weekend of Wellness in Sedona, Arizona
In the spirit of not overdoing it, this weekend itinerary doesn’t require much preparation. Throw some necessities like hiking boots and a few essential layers into your carry-on, and leave your worries behind.