Top U.S. Natural Wonders You Can See by Rail
When it comes to immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the United States, few experiences can compare to a scenic rail journey. With its towering mountains and stunning coastlines, the country offers an unparalleled abundance of natural wonders just waiting to be discovered.
If you're ready for an adventure, let Amtrak Vacations be your guide as we explore six of these remarkable destinations. Best of all, we take care of all the details for hotels, trains and sightseeing so you can sit back and enjoy these memorable vistas and places.
1. Grand Canyon:
Prepare to be mesmerized as you embark on a rail journey to the iconic Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon Railway, departing from Williams, Arizona, will take you on a scenic ride through picturesque landscapes until you reach the majestic canyon itself. Witness the sheer magnitude of the canyon's colourful layers, carved by the forces of nature over millions of years. It's an experience that will leave you in awe of the Earth's geological wonders.
2. Yosemite National Park:
Indulge in the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite National Park in California, where nature's magnificence awaits. Designated as a World Heritage Site, this iconic park is renowned for its ancient Giant Sequoias, majestic granite cliffs, and cascading waterfalls that will leave you breathless. As you explore, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls Yosemite home, including black bears, mule deer, coyotes, peregrine falcons, and golden eagles. With many outdoor activities available, such as rock climbing, rafting, horseback riding, and snow tubing, adventure beckons at every turn.
3. Glacier National Park:
Embark on an unforgettable rail adventure to Glacier National Park, often referred to as the "Crown of the Continent." This remarkable destination in Montana is a breathtaking masterpiece of deep valleys, sparkling lakes, dense forests, and captivating alpine scenery. With over 130 pristine named lakes, five National Historic Landmarks, and more than 1 million acres encompassing parts of two mountain ranges, Glacier National Park offers a truly immersive experience. Explore its diverse ecosystems, where over 1,000 species of plants and countless species of animals thrive. For intrepid explorers, Glacier National Park is an unrivalled paradise waiting to be discovered.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park:
Set off on a rail expedition to Rocky Mountain National Park, nestled in the picturesque heart of the Colorado Rockies. This iconic destination, affectionately called the Rockies, encompasses a vast mountain range that spans over 3,000 miles, extending from the northernmost region of British Columbia in western Canada to the southern reaches of New Mexico. Renowned for its awe-inspiring peaks and valleys, this beloved park offers many thrilling activities, including hiking, hunting, skiing, and more.
5. Yellowstone National Park:
Experience an extraordinary rail expedition to Yellowstone National Park, a true gem as the world's inaugural national park. Nestled in the northwest corner of Wyoming, with extensions into Montana and Idaho, lies Yellowstone, a pristine haven of natural wonders. From mesmerizing geysers and bubbling hot springs to majestic waterfalls, tranquil lakes, breathtaking canyons, and untouched forests, this park offers an idyllic retreat for all. Marvel at the spectacle of over 300 geysers, including the iconic Old Faithful, while encountering a rich diversity of wild birds and exotic flora.
6. Arches National Park:
Discover the captivating beauty of Arches National Park, nestled in the stunning state of Utah, on a train holiday. This stunning park is renowned for its remarkable assortment of natural sandstone arches, reaching towering heights above the desert terrain. The landscape is adorned with majestic stone pinnacles, fins, and balanced rocks, painted in breathtaking hues of orange, red, and yellow. Discover the park's splendour through its scenic 18-mile drive and an array of hiking trails offering panoramic views of the monuments and the valley below. As a favourite destination for photographers, the sunsets at Arches are a sight to behold, ranking among the most spectacular on Earth.
Amtrak Vacations offers an exceptional way to explore the natural wonders of the United States. From the iconic Grand Canyon to the majestic Rocky Mountains, these rail journeys provide an immersive experience of the country's breathtaking landscapes. So, pack your bags, hop on board, and let the train take you on an extraordinary journey through the heart of America's natural splendour.
