1. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
Image Courtesy of Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
This fantastic journey will have you taking in Georgia's stunning Blue Ridge mountains, Toccoa River, and the Chattahoochee National Forest. A typical journey along the open-air Blue Ridge Scenic Railway last around four hours. Make sure not to miss their Firecracker Special show, which includes a very impressive fireworks display.
2. Amtrak's Coast Starlight
Image Courtesy of Amtrak
Amtrak's Coast Starlight is often called one of the USA's most spectacular train rides, and not without good reason. Not only will you be able to see some exceptional views of the Pacific Ocean, but you'll also manage to do it without breaking the bank since journeys start at just $98!
3. Cass Scenic Railway
Image Courtesy of West Virginia State Parks
Looking for a train journey with a difference? Then why not hop onto one of these beautiful steam-powered trains and cruise through West Virginia's Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Make sure that you remember to pack your camera, since there are some highly impressive views of Monongahela National Forest along the way.
4. Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner
Image Courtesy of Amtrak
If you were thinking of passing through California's Pacific Coast Highway in your car, we'd recommend opting for making the journey with Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner instead. Not only will you get from San Diego to San Luis Obispo in under 6 hours, but you'll be able to unwind and check out the scenery on the way too.
5. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Image Courtesy of Facebook (Great Smoky Mountains Railroad)
North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers a couple of outstanding train journeys that are perfect for adults and kids alike. One option is to take the 4-hour Tuckasegee River Excursion, which will take you past a spot where "The Fugitive" (a 1993 movie) was filmed. Otherwise, you can opt to take the Nantahala Gorge Excursion, which goes directly past the Nantahala River.
6. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
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Family-friendly travel is what the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is all about! Whether you choose to take a ride on the Santa Train during the holiday period or the Fall Foliage Train in the fall, these journeys along Ohio's Hocking River will offer you views of Ohio's most outstanding scenery.
7. The Mount Washington Cog Railway
Image Courtesy of the Mount Washington Cog Railway
Operating from late April up until November, the Mount Washington Cog Railway in New Hampshire's Bretton Woods will provide your whole family with a great adventure as you gradually ascend Mount Washington's 6,288-foot summit. Once there, you'll be treated to unparalleled views of New Hampshire, Maine, and even the Atlantic Ocean.
8. Heber Valley Railroad
Image Courtesy of Facebook (Heber Valley Railroad)
Here's one great blast from the past! Heber Valley Railroad's vintage steam train has a long and prosperous history, dating all the way back to 1907. Try not to allow the breathtaking views of Provo Canyon and Heber Valley to distract you from all of the wildlife roaming around the route, including deer, elk, and even bald eagles!
