10 U.S. Towns With Scenic Railways That Make the Ride the Whole Plan
Traveling by train offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the U.S. countryside. Scenic railways provide a relaxing and immersive journey through stunning landscapes. These routes give you a chance to sit back, relax, and take in breathtaking views. From towering mountains to serene lakes, every turn offers something new to admire.
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Williams, Arizona
Williams sits on historic Route 66 and is most famous for the Grand Canyon Railway that departs from town to the South Rim of the canyon. The vintage steam and diesel engines give riders a sense of history as desert landscapes stretch out beyond the windows. Along the route, you will see dramatic rock formations, rugged plateaus, and open skies that shift color as the day moves on. Williams itself mixes Old West charm with railroad heritage, making it a perfect starting point for a scenic rail adventure.
The town has preserved much of its early twentieth century feel through historic buildings, diners, and roadside attractions that keep the spirit of the railroad alive. Lodging options range from cozy inns to family-friendly hotels that welcome travelers after a full day of sightseeing. Dining in Williams offers regional Southwestern fare alongside classic American comfort food that appeals to all ages. If you time your visit during the cooler months, the crisp air and clear skies add to the scenic backdrop that surrounds the railway.
Blue Ridge, Georgia
Blue Ridge is a mountain town with a strong reputation for outdoor recreation and scenic beauty, and the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway highlights this charm. The train winds along the Toccoa River and through the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, offering views of dense forests and rolling hills. At the midpoint in McCaysville and Copperhill, you can step off the train and explore two small towns that sit on either side of a state line.
The full round trip takes several hours, making it a relaxed way to see the countryside without rushing from one viewpoint to the next. In autumn, the foliage paints the hills in red and gold hues that make photographers and nature lovers happy to ride again and again. Blue Ridge itself offers additional attractions such as breweries, hiking trails, and a scenic aerial tram that reaches mountaintop overlooks. The railway is a staple of the town’s tourism and a memorable way to feel connected to this southern mountain region.
Cumberland, Maryland
Cumberland sits at the edge of the Allegheny Mountains and serves as the eastern terminus for the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. Passengers board restored steam or diesel trains that roll through mountain passes, forested valleys, and over historic rail bridges. The route passes through the famous Helmstetter Curve and Brush Tunnel, giving riders glimpses of classic American mountain terrain. Along the way there are opportunities to learn about regional history as narration offers insights into the railroad and the towns it served long ago.
Cumberland has its own railroad heritage that is reflected in museums, preserved depots, and local landmarks that speak to its role in early transportation. The town makes a good base for exploring nearby state parks, Civil War sites, and the scenic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Seasonal excursions like dinner trains or holiday-themed rides add variety for visitors looking for more than just a daytime trip.
Bryson City, North Carolina
Bryson City is the gateway for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, a scenic line that runs along the Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River. The train offers views of rushing waters, forested mountainsides, and historic trestles that bring the natural environment right up to the window. This area is known for its outdoor activities, so many visitors combine their train ride with hiking, fishing, or rafting nearby. The depot in town captures railroad history with displays and information about the line’s significance to local development.
The town itself has a relaxed, small-town feel that makes it a pleasant place to stroll after your ride. Local shops line Everett Street, and nearby museums provide context about the region’s culture and heritage. Because the railroad offers themed excursions at different times of the year, there is always something new to experience if you return on another trip. Whether you want serene natural views or a mix of town life with rail adventure, Bryson City has both in equal measure.
Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
Jim Thorpe, often called the “Switzerland of America,” sits in a valley surrounded by forested hills, and it hosts the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. This excursion line follows the Lehigh River through deep gorges, past waterfalls, and over historic railroad bridges that once carried coal and goods in the early industrial era. The ride showcases dramatic rock walls and roaring river currents that make every bend worth watching. At the station, visitors can learn about the region’s railroad past and the role it played in the growth of northeastern Pennsylvania.
The town itself is a historic gem with Victorian architecture, narrow streets, and specialty shops that invite slow exploration. Outdoor enthusiasts will find trails for biking and hiking that hug the river and climb into the surrounding hills. Local breweries and restaurants offer hearty meals that reflect the Pennsylvania tradition of comfort food and local ingredients. Jim Thorpe’s combination of scenic rail experiences and charming town life make it a memorable stop in the region.
Durango, Colorado
Durango sits in the southwest corner of Colorado and is known for the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad that winds through the San Juan Mountains. This historic rail line carries passengers through rugged canyons and along the Animas River with high cliffs and waterfalls framing the journey. Steam engines maintain the old world charm of early rail travel while the scenery looks much the same as it did over a century ago. The route ends in Silverton, a former mining town with preserved buildings and a strong sense of frontier history.
In Durango, visitors find a lively downtown with cafes, art galleries, and outdoor outfitters that invite further exploration. The surrounding region offers opportunities for rafting, mountain biking, and exploring ghost towns that speak to Colorado’s mining history. Many travelers return for the seasonal excursions that change with the weather and bring new perspectives on the mountains. This combination of living history and natural beauty makes Durango a standout rail destination.
Peninsula, Ohio
Set within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Peninsula is one of the towns served by the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This route takes riders through lush forests, alongside rivers, and past rolling farmland that showcases northeastern Ohio’s varied terrain. Stops near Akron and Independence make it easy to tie in urban exploration with peaceful countryside views. Riders often spot wildlife, pass historic canal locks, and enjoy changing scenery with each season.
Peninsula itself has a historic feel with its small-town shops, craft breweries, and close proximity to park trails. The national park brings outdoor recreation to the doorstep of the train station, with miles of paths that lead to waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Seasonal events on the railroad, such as themed rides and special excursions, add to the appeal for repeat visitors. With easy access from larger cities, this town makes a great starting point for a scenic rail and nature escape.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Flagstaff in northern Arizona is another gateway for the Grand Canyon Railway, and it has its own charms that pair well with rail-based exploration. High elevation pine forests give way to red rock formations and deep canyons that define the region’s scenery. The historic downtown area blends arts, culture, and dining with plenty of sidewalk cafes and galleries to explore before or after your ride. Nearby attractions such as Lowell Observatory and Walnut Canyon National Monument add depth to your trip beyond trains.
Flagstaff’s elevation brings cooler summer temperatures that make it a pleasant escape from desert heat. The railroad station reflects the town’s long connection to rail travel and stands as a reminder of how trains helped shape the American West. Seasonal festivals celebrate astronomy, outdoor adventure, and local history that round out a visit to this mountain town. You will find that the rail experience here links naturally with the landscapes and culture that surround it.
Staunton, Virginia
Staunton is home to the Virginia Scenic Railway, which offers excursions through the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. These routes feature panoramic views of rolling hills, orchards, and farmland that embody the region’s pastoral beauty. Onboard commentary helps you understand local history and points of interest as you move through this historic corridor. The town itself has a lively downtown with boutique shops, historic theaters, and local eateries that reward visitors after their rail journey.
Staunton’s architecture and cultural offerings add depth to your visit, with art galleries and historic homes inviting exploration. Seasonal excursions sometimes highlight local wines and culinary pairings that introduce regional flavors to your rail day trip. Nearby parks and hiking trails offer fresh air and scenic views for those who want more outdoor time. Riding from Staunton brings you into the heart of Virginia’s scenic valley country.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is near rail lines used by excursions and scenic operators that showcase the Appalachian Mountains and lush forests of western North Carolina. Though known for the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, the region’s rail rides add another dimension to your mountain exploration. The city blends craft breweries, farm stands, and arts venues with easy access to outdoor wonders like waterfalls and mountain vistas.
Asheville’s vibrant downtown feels welcoming after a day of views from your seat. Food halls, artisanal coffee shops, and local music venues keep the cultural energy alive late into the evening. The surrounding national forests are perfect for hikes, picnics, and scenic drives that complement any rail adventure. It is a place where town life and highland scenery connect in a way that invites return visits.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.