18 Best February Train Trips in the U.S. With Scenic Views from Your Seat
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of the U.S. this February, taking a train ride could be the perfect option. Whether you’re headed through snowy mountains, along coastal cliffs, or across rolling plains, there’s something special about seeing the country from the comfort of a train. The journey itself becomes just as enjoyable as the destination, with breathtaking views waiting outside your window. During February, many routes offer a peaceful winter landscape, with snow-covered peaks and quiet forests that add a sense of serenity to your trip. The charm of traveling by train is that you can relax and watch the world unfold at a slower pace.
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Amtrak California Zephyr (Chicago to San Francisco)
The California Zephyr offers one of the most iconic train journeys in the U.S., traveling from Chicago to San Francisco through the beautiful landscapes of the Midwest and the Rocky Mountains. Starting in Chicago, the train crosses the Great Plains before entering the majestic mountains of Colorado. As the train approaches the Sierra Nevada, the views become even more breathtaking, with the towering peaks and snowy landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.
The train features panoramic windows that allow passengers to soak in the surrounding views, and the observation car is perfect for relaxing while watching the world go by. The route takes you through cities like Denver, Salt Lake City, and Reno, making it a great way to see a wide range of landscapes. February brings snow-capped peaks and peaceful winter scenes, adding a layer of beauty to the already stunning journey. The full trip spans around 2,400 miles, and with stops in major cities, it offers a unique chance to experience diverse American culture while enjoying the views.
Amtrak Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle)
For a winter wonderland train experience, the Empire Builder is an ideal choice. This train travels from Chicago to Seattle, crossing through the Midwest and up into the Pacific Northwest. The trip takes passengers through snowy plains and dense forests, with winter weather adding a magical touch to the scenic beauty. As you cross the border into the Pacific Northwest, the snow-covered mountains and crisp air create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Along the way, you’ll pass through cities like Minneapolis and Fargo, as well as stunning areas such as the vast prairies of North Dakota. The highlight of the journey is the portion that travels through the Glacier National Park region, where the train winds through dramatic, snow-capped peaks. During February, this stretch becomes even more enchanting with the winter scenery enhancing the already striking views.
Amtrak Crescent (New York to New Orleans)
Traveling between New York City and New Orleans, the Crescent is a beautiful train route that offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. Beginning in the bustling city of New York, the train takes passengers through picturesque towns and southern landscapes, providing a unique glimpse of American culture and history. Along the way, the journey passes through charming places such as Atlanta, Georgia, and Birmingham, Alabama, allowing passengers to witness the South’s scenic beauty.
During February, you’ll find mild weather compared to the colder northern cities, and the trees and fields will start to show their winter colors. The Crescent’s route also includes glimpses of the Appalachian Mountains, where the views are particularly striking as the train moves through valleys and hills. For anyone interested in experiencing a cross-section of American culture while enjoying southern vistas, the Crescent is the perfect option.
Amtrak Adirondack (New York to Montreal)
The Adirondack train route is one of the best for those looking to experience nature’s beauty. Starting in New York City and traveling north to Montreal, the train takes passengers through the Adirondack Mountains and the picturesque countryside of upstate New York. February offers snow-covered views that make the entire journey feel like a winter wonderland.
The train travels along Lake Champlain, providing stunning views of the frozen lake and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. As you head into Canada, the scenery shifts, and passengers are treated to views of the Laurentian Mountains, which are equally mesmerizing in the winter. The charm of the quaint towns along the way, combined with the natural beauty, makes the Adirondack route a memorable and scenic train journey.
Amtrak Cardinal (New York to Chicago)
The Cardinal offers one of the most scenic routes in the eastern U.S., traveling from New York to Chicago through the Appalachian Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley, and the lush landscapes of Ohio. February brings a blanket of snow over the mountain ridges, making the views even more spectacular. Along the way, the train passes through charming towns and major cities such as Washington D.C. and Cincinnati, providing a great mix of cityscapes and natural beauty.
As you travel through the Blue Ridge Mountains, the snow-covered peaks and valleys provide an ever-changing landscape that looks like a living postcard. The Cardinal also passes through some of the best examples of eastern forests, where winter really brings out the rugged beauty of the terrain. This train route offers a peaceful, relaxing ride with stunning vistas perfect for anyone looking for an unforgettable winter adventure.
California Coast (Los Angeles to San Francisco)
For those who want to experience the beauty of the California coast in February, the Amtrak Coast Starlight is a fantastic option. Starting in Los Angeles and heading north to San Francisco, this scenic route takes passengers along the Pacific Ocean, offering sweeping views of the coastline. The journey travels through lush vineyards, charming seaside towns, and offers views of the rugged Pacific cliffs that are even more beautiful when covered in winter’s mist.
In February, the crisp air and dramatic waves make the coastal scenery feel even more vivid, as the train glides past beaches and towering cliffs. This route is perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of California’s natural beauty while enjoying the comfort of a train ride. The full trip takes about 12 hours, and during that time, the views will keep you captivated, from the Pacific Ocean to the serene landscapes of central California.
Amtrak Southwest Chief (Chicago to Los Angeles)
Taking a train ride on the Southwest Chief is an unforgettable way to experience the American Southwest. Starting in Chicago and heading west, this route offers views of the plains, deserts, and rugged mountains as the train travels through cities such as Kansas City, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff. The winter months transform the desert landscapes, with snow-dusted mesas and cacti providing a unique contrast against the clear blue skies.
The journey also offers views of the Rocky Mountains and other scenic landmarks like the Santa Fe National Forest. This route is known for its breathtaking sunsets and starry skies, which are particularly striking during the winter months. For anyone who loves a train trip that crosses diverse landscapes while offering front-row seats to stunning vistas, the Southwest Chief is an ideal choice.
Rocky Mountaineer (Denver to Moab)
For those looking to experience a luxurious and scenic train ride, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an extraordinary journey from Denver to Moab. The train winds its way through the rugged terrain of Colorado and Utah, passing through towering cliffs, canyons, and the famous red rock formations that are so iconic to the American West. In February, the wintery landscape of snow-dusted canyons and rocky outcrops creates a unique, serene experience.
This route is perfect for anyone interested in seeing the natural beauty of the Colorado Plateau in its winter splendor. The train’s large windows and observation decks make it easy to take in the sweeping views of snow-covered mesas and towering peaks. Along the way, passengers will enjoy gourmet meals and first-class service, making this one of the most luxurious scenic train rides in the U.S.
The Polar Express (Various locations)
The Polar Express is a magical train ride that operates in several locations across the U.S. during the winter months. Based on the beloved holiday story, this special train ride is perfect for families looking to experience the holiday magic throughout February. The route travels through snowy landscapes, with the scenic views of winter forests, frozen rivers, and snow-covered fields creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Onboard, passengers are treated to festive music, hot cocoa, and the excitement of a winter adventure that is sure to delight young and old alike. This family-friendly journey is designed to capture the wonder of the season, with visits from Santa Claus and a trip to the North Pole, making it a favorite for those looking to make memories during the winter months.
Amtrak Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles)
Traveling from New Orleans to Los Angeles, the Sunset Limited offers an extraordinary ride across the southern part of the U.S. This route takes passengers through the bayous of Louisiana, the deserts of Texas, and the rugged southwestern landscapes, with plenty of scenic views along the way. February’s mild winter temperatures make the journey pleasant as the train travels through small towns, vast deserts, and sprawling prairies.
As the train crosses the Texas Hill Country and enters the deserts of Arizona, the views of cacti and arid landscapes become particularly striking. The full trip is over 1,900 miles long, offering a unique opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, from the humid bayous to the dry deserts of the American Southwest.
Amtrak Coast Starlight (Seattle to Los Angeles)
The Coast Starlight offers one of the most stunning views along the West Coast, traveling between Seattle and Los Angeles. This scenic route follows the Pacific Ocean for much of its journey, providing breathtaking coastal views, with waves crashing against rugged cliffs and long stretches of sandy beaches. In February, the chilly winter air and low-hanging fog enhance the beauty of the coastline, making the views even more dramatic.
As the train moves inland, passengers also get to see lush forests, rolling hills, and distant mountain ranges. The route is particularly famous for its views of the Cascade Range and the majestic Mount Shasta in Northern California. If you’re looking to experience the Pacific Coast in all its natural beauty, this train ride offers a front-row seat to one of the most picturesque areas of the U.S.
The Grand Canyon Railway (Williams to Grand Canyon)
One of the most iconic train journeys in the country, the Grand Canyon Railway offers an unforgettable ride to one of the world’s most famous landmarks. The trip from Williams, Arizona, to the Grand Canyon is filled with scenic beauty, starting with the high desert landscapes of the southwest. As the train moves toward the Grand Canyon, the views change dramatically, with dramatic cliffs, distant mountain peaks, and expansive plateaus surrounding the train.
February brings crisp temperatures and a peaceful winter silence, making the journey even more magical. Passengers can enjoy the history of the route, which has been in operation since the early 20th century. The Grand Canyon itself offers breathtaking views of the snowy rim and the vast canyon below. It’s a perfect trip for those seeking a classic Western experience.
Amtrak Lake Shore Limited (New York to Chicago)
Traveling from New York City to Chicago, the Lake Shore Limited offers a stunning ride along the shores of Lake Erie and Lake Michigan. The journey takes passengers through beautiful upstate New York, crossing the countryside before following the edge of the Great Lakes. In February, the snow-covered shores of the lakes and the frozen waters provide a serene and beautiful winter backdrop.
The route also takes you through the charming towns of Ohio and Pennsylvania, where the winter landscape is transformed by snow-dusted trees and fields. The train’s spacious windows offer excellent views of the lake and the surrounding scenery, making it a great choice for those who love winter vistas. As the train heads into the heart of the Midwest, the views of the American Midwest’s plains and urban centers round out the trip.
Amtrak Cascades (Vancouver to Eugene)
For a journey through the Pacific Northwest, the Amtrak Cascades route provides incredible views from Vancouver down to Eugene, Oregon. This route travels through lush forests, picturesque valleys, and snow-capped mountains, making it a great choice for anyone who enjoys the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. February adds to the charm of this journey, with snow-covered trees and mist rising from the valleys.
The route travels along the Columbia River, offering passengers sweeping views of the river and the surrounding cliffs. As the train crosses into Oregon, it offers stunning glimpses of the Cascade Mountains. The Cascades route is a perfect blend of coastal, forest, and mountain landscapes, making it a scenic journey for nature lovers.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango to Silverton)
For a truly unique and scenic ride, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a historic journey through Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. This narrow-gauge train takes passengers on a 45-mile route between Durango and Silverton, traveling through canyons, forests, and snow-covered mountains.
February offers a perfect opportunity to see the rugged beauty of the Rockies with the peaks covered in snow and the landscape covered in a blanket of white. The train travels along the Animas River, with breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and forests. This historic train route, which dates back to the late 1800s, offers a vintage experience with modern comforts, allowing passengers to enjoy the stunning winter scenery in style.
Amtrak Missouri River Runner (Kansas City to St. Louis)
Traveling along the Missouri River, the Missouri River Runner offers passengers the chance to experience the beauty of the state of Missouri. The route runs between Kansas City and St. Louis, passing through small towns, lush forests, and along the winding river.
In February, the river and its surrounding areas are tranquil, with the crisp winter air and the fog rising off the water providing an atmospheric experience. The train offers great views of the state’s farmland and forests, with the rolling hills of Missouri’s Ozark Mountains becoming visible as you approach St. Louis. The Missouri River itself provides a constant backdrop to the journey, with scenic views at every turn. This route offers a peaceful and scenic way to travel through the heart of Missouri.
The Alaska Railroad (Anchorage to Fairbanks)
For a journey to one of the most remote and beautiful parts of the U.S., the Alaska Railroad offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Traveling between Anchorage and Fairbanks, this train route takes passengers through the wilderness of Alaska, offering some of the most breathtaking and untouched landscapes in the country.
February adds a layer of beauty with snow-covered landscapes and icy rivers. The train passes through the majestic Alaska Range, with its towering mountains and vast glaciers. The Northern Lights are also a possible treat for those traveling in winter, adding an ethereal glow to the already stunning surroundings. This route is perfect for anyone looking to experience the wilderness of Alaska in all its winter splendor.
Amtrak Northeast Regional (Boston to Washington D.C.)
For a shorter but equally scenic journey, the Northeast Regional offers a fantastic way to see the eastern U.S. from Boston to Washington D.C. The train takes passengers along the coastline, providing stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, with winter waves crashing along the shore. The route also passes through charming New England towns, offering a glimpse into the region’s winter charm.
In February, the snow-covered beaches and coastal towns look like something out of a postcard, with frosty mornings and clear skies. As the train moves through Connecticut, New Jersey, and into the heart of Pennsylvania, the scenery shifts from coastal to rural landscapes, providing a great mix of views.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.