Exploring America’s national parks doesn’t always require a road trip; Amtrak makes it easy to reach some of the country’s most stunning landscapes by rail. From snow-capped mountains to desert canyons, these scenic train routes deliver breathtaking views before you even arrive. Travelers can sit back, relax, and watch the country unfold through panoramic windows. Here are nine incredible national parks you can visit directly or conveniently via Amtrak, proving that the journey can be just as memorable as the destination.
1. Glacier National Park, Montana
One of the most spectacular Amtrak-accessible parks, Glacier National Park, sits just steps from the Empire Builder route. Passengers can disembark at East Glacier Park Station and be surrounded by snow-tipped peaks, alpine lakes, and endless hiking trails. The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road offers jaw-dropping views of rugged terrain and cascading waterfalls. Whether exploring on foot or by bus tour, Glacier’s untouched wilderness and mountain grandeur make it a must-see stop for nature lovers traveling by train.
2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
The Southwest Chief route brings travelers to Williams, Arizona, where the historic Grand Canyon Railway connects directly to the South Rim. The two-hour ride through pine forests and red desert landscapes feels like a trip back in time. Once at the canyon, visitors can stroll along scenic overlooks, hike rim trails, or simply marvel at the vastness of nature’s masterpiece. Combining rail travel with one of the world’s greatest wonders makes this journey truly unforgettable.
3. Yosemite National Park, California
Reaching Yosemite is easy from Amtrak’s San Joaquins line, with connecting Thruway buses from Merced Station straight into the park. The route passes through California’s Central Valley before arriving at one of America’s most beloved destinations. Towering granite cliffs, thunderous waterfalls, and peaceful meadows await visitors year-round. Whether you’re camping beneath El Capitan or picnicking in Yosemite Valley, the train-to-park connection offers a relaxed and eco-friendly way to experience California’s natural crown jewel.
4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Amtrak’s California Zephyr route, known for its breathtaking mountain views, passes near Rocky Mountain National Park via the Fraser-Winter Park Station. From there, travelers can easily reach the park by shuttle or rental car. The journey itself winds through the Rockies, offering scenic vistas of canyons, rivers, and alpine tunnels. Once inside the park, visitors can hike, spot elk, or drive the famous Trail Ridge Road. This route perfectly pairs stunning rail scenery with alpine adventure.
5. Everglades National Park, Florida
The Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes run through South Florida, placing travelers close to Everglades National Park. From the Miami or Hollywood stations, it’s just a short drive to the park’s sawgrass wetlands and mangrove forests. Airboat tours glide past alligators, herons, and turtles in their natural habitat. As one of the most unique ecosystems in the world, the Everglades combines adventure and wildlife with an easy, scenic rail connection for curious explorers.
6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Amtrak’s Cardinal line connects Washington, D.C., to Charlottesville, Virginia, a perfect jumping-off point for Shenandoah National Park. A quick drive along Skyline Drive reveals 105 miles of panoramic mountain scenery and peaceful forest trails. Visitors can hike to cascading waterfalls or stop at overlooks that glow with fall foliage. Whether you’re after a weekend escape or a full nature retreat, the train-to-park route offers convenience, comfort, and a front-row seat to Virginia’s natural beauty.
7. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Cuyahoga Valley is one of the few U.S. national parks with its own train, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, and it’s easily reached from Amtrak’s Cleveland Station. The park blends lush forests, waterfalls, and farmland along the Cuyahoga River. Visitors can hop on and off the scenic train within the park, explore trails, or visit Brandywine Falls. The combination of Amtrak and local rail makes it one of the most train-friendly parks in America.
8. Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
For adventurous travelers, Glacier Bay can be reached using Amtrak’s Coast Starlight or Empire Builder routes combined with a ferry from Bellingham, Washington. The journey north offers stunning Pacific coastline views before arriving in Alaska’s wilderness. Once there, visitors can cruise among icebergs, watch whales breach, and witness glaciers calving into turquoise waters. Though it requires multiple connections, this rail-and-sea route rewards travelers with one of the most unforgettable natural spectacles on Earth.
9. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Accessible via the Sunset Limited or Texas Eagle routes, Joshua Tree National Park is a short transfer away from the Palm Springs Amtrak Station. The drive leads to a surreal desert landscape filled with twisted Joshua trees, giant boulders, and glowing sunsets. Visitors can hike through trails like Hidden Valley or watch the Milky Way illuminate the sky at night. Combining desert adventure with rail travel makes Joshua Tree a peaceful, dreamlike escape for explorers.
