16 Scenic Train Rides Around the World to Take in Fall

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Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer offers an unforgettable experience through the Canadian Rockies, especially during the fall months. The train travels through stunning mountain landscapes, offering expansive views of valleys, rivers, and forests that turn golden and red during autumn. Passengers enjoy panoramic windows that bring the beauty of nature right to their seats, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant fall colors.

The journey itself is just as spectacular as the views outside the window. With luxury service, the Rocky Mountaineer provides a comfortable and relaxing way to experience the changing seasons. As the train makes its way through British Columbia and Alberta, passengers can take in the breathtaking sight of mountains dusted with snow, forests filled with fall foliage, and the crisp, clean air that defines autumn in this region.

Glacier Express, Switzerland

The Glacier Express is one of the world’s most famous scenic train rides, stretching from Zermatt to St. Moritz in Switzerland. This train ride passes through the Swiss Alps, offering unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and lush green forests that turn vivid shades of orange and gold in the fall. The train’s route is renowned for its high-altitude panoramas, making it a favorite for those wishing to witness the alpine landscapes in their autumn glory.

Fall transforms the scenery into a magnificent tapestry of autumn hues, as the train slowly meanders across bridges, through tunnels, and over majestic mountain passes. The comfort and style of the Glacier Express enhance the experience, offering spacious seats, a full-service restaurant, and large windows designed to maximize your view of the stunning landscape.

The Blue Train, South Africa

The Blue Train is a luxurious and iconic journey through South Africa’s diverse landscapes, including scenic views of the country’s vineyards and wildlife areas during the fall season. As the train travels between Pretoria and Cape Town, passengers are treated to sweeping views of golden vineyards, rugged hills, and expansive fields as the autumn colors begin to appear. The lush scenery is complemented by the opulence of the train’s interiors, which make the journey even more special.

Beyond the visual beauty, the Blue Train offers an indulgent experience with gourmet meals, luxurious cabins, and attentive service. The fall months enhance the charm of the trip, as the crisp air and gentle sunshine combine with the warmth of the train’s ambiance, creating a truly unforgettable adventure.

Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy

The Bernina Express travels through some of the most spectacular landscapes in both Switzerland and Italy, crossing the Swiss Alps and reaching the picturesque region of Tirano in Italy. During the fall season, the mountains, forests, and valleys are painted with autumn colors that make the journey feel even more magical. The train passes through unspoiled nature, including alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and towering peaks.

The ride is made even more impressive by the Bernina Express’s route, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The scenic beauty of the area, with vibrant fall foliage, dramatic cliffs, and pristine lakes, is best appreciated from the panoramic windows of the train. The ride offers one of the most spectacular ways to see the Swiss Alps as they change with the season.

Settle-Carlisle Railway, England

The Settle-Carlisle Railway in England offers a charming ride through the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. This historic railway is known for its incredible views of the rugged countryside, and during the fall, the hills and valleys are covered in golden and rust-colored leaves. As the train climbs and descends through the mountains, passengers are treated to a breathtaking mix of moorland and forest, which becomes even more stunning in autumn.

Along the way, travelers pass through tunnels, over viaducts, and past quiet villages, all while enjoying the serene beauty of fall. The journey offers a true sense of nostalgia, as the quaint stations and historic trains add to the old-world charm of the experience. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this scenic ride is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the British countryside.

Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia

The Trans-Siberian Railway is an epic journey across Russia, connecting Moscow to Vladivostok. As the train travels through vast forests, sprawling plains, and across the Ural Mountains, the changing colors of the fall season make it even more spectacular. During autumn, the Siberian landscape transforms into a sea of golden birch trees and fiery red foliage, making the ride one of the best ways to experience the expansive beauty of Russia.

This legendary train journey is not only known for its size but also for the diverse environments it traverses, from the dense forests of Siberia to the scenic views of Lake Baikal. The experience of seeing these contrasting regions bathed in autumn colors provides an unforgettable adventure for anyone interested in seeing the true breadth of Russia.

The Ghan, Australia

Traveling from Adelaide to Darwin, The Ghan offers a remarkable train ride through the heart of Australia’s outback. The journey showcases the beauty of the Australian desert, which, during fall, is framed by the warm, golden colors of the landscape. The train passes through dramatic red sands, rugged mountains, and the lush tropical zones of the Northern Territory, offering a wide variety of autumn scenery.

The Ghan is a luxurious train that offers a comfortable and stylish way to experience the wild beauty of the Australian wilderness. Passengers enjoy top-tier service, gourmet meals, and large windows that allow for an uninterrupted view of the ever-changing scenery, especially as fall sets in across the Australian outback.

Mont-Blanc Express, France and Switzerland

The Mont-Blanc Express takes passengers through the beautiful landscapes of both France and Switzerland, offering spectacular views of the French Alps. The fall season is the perfect time to experience the Alps, as the golden larches and vibrant forests create an incredible contrast against the snowy peaks. The train travels through picturesque villages and scenic valleys, offering an immersive experience of the stunning Alpine environment.

This journey is a favorite among those wanting to see the Alps up close. As the Mont-Blanc Express travels along the narrow tracks, passengers are treated to exceptional views of forests that come alive with autumn colors, making it an ideal scenic ride for fall.

The Heart of Wales Line, Wales

The Heart of Wales Line is a charming railway that runs through the rural heart of Wales. As the train travels through the Cambrian Mountains, passengers can enjoy the beauty of rolling hills and green valleys, especially as they take on rich fall hues. The area is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, and the fall months make it even more picturesque as the landscape transforms.

Travelers can enjoy the tranquility of the countryside and the historic charm of small towns along the route. The train itself is a comfortable and leisurely way to take in the seasonal changes in Wales, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sights and sounds of autumn as you travel.

The West Highland Line, Scotland

The West Highland Line offers an unforgettable journey through some of Scotland’s most scenic landscapes. As the train travels from Glasgow to Mallaig, passengers can admire the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, with forests and hills turning rich shades of gold, red, and amber in autumn. The train passes by lochs, mountains, and small villages, creating a serene and scenic backdrop during the fall season.

This iconic route is celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, and the fall months bring out the best in the scenery. The lush greenery of the Highlands begins to shift to warm autumn tones, offering a peaceful and breathtaking view of one of the most beautiful regions in the UK.

The Golden Pass Line, Switzerland

The Golden Pass Line connects Montreux on Lake Geneva to Lucerne, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss Alps. Fall is a perfect time to take this scenic journey, as the dense forests surrounding the route burst into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. The journey offers views of the Alps, pristine lakes, and charming villages, all of which are framed by the warm, rich hues of autumn.

The panoramic windows on the train allow passengers to take in the beauty of the Swiss countryside without any obstruction. The golden, orange, and red hues of the trees, combined with the breathtaking alpine views, make this one of the most spectacular scenic train rides during fall.

Cinque Terre Railway, Italy

The Cinque Terre Railway in Italy provides a stunning journey along the Ligurian coast, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and colorful villages perched on cliffs. Fall is an ideal time to take this ride, as the vineyards and olive groves along the coast take on vibrant fall shades. The quaint villages are framed by the changing colors of the landscape, making the journey even more picturesque.

As the train glides along the coastline, passengers can enjoy views of the sea, cliffs, and charming villages bathed in the golden light of autumn. The changing foliage, combined with the vibrant coastal scenery, offers an unforgettable backdrop for a fall adventure.

California Zephyr, USA

The California Zephyr offers one of the most scenic train rides in the United States, traveling from Chicago to San Francisco. The journey takes passengers through the Sierra Nevada mountains, the Rockies, and the Great Plains, providing a wide variety of landscapes to enjoy. During the fall, the Rocky Mountains and surrounding forests come alive with vibrant colors, making it an excellent time to experience the beauty of these iconic locations.

As the train winds through forests, valleys, and across rivers, passengers can take in the sights of fall foliage, especially as they pass through the Colorado Rockies and the eastern Sierra Nevada. The California Zephyr provides a comfortable and scenic way to explore the changing landscapes of America during the autumn months.

The Flam Railway, Norway

The Flam Railway is one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, offering travelers a breathtaking journey through the Norwegian fjords. The autumn months are especially stunning, as the fall colors reflect beautifully off the waters of the fjords and the surrounding mountains. As the train climbs and descends through the valleys, passengers can admire the vibrant colors of the trees and the dramatic views of waterfalls and snow-capped peaks.

The journey through the Norwegian countryside is serene and peaceful, with the crisp autumn air enhancing the experience. Whether it is the colorful trees, the majestic fjords, or the towering mountains, this scenic train ride offers some of the best views in Europe during the fall season.

The Trans-Mongolian Railway, Mongolia

The Trans-Mongolian Railway is an incredible journey from Moscow through Siberia and into Mongolia, offering passengers a chance to experience some of the most untouched landscapes in the world. During the fall months, the train travels through vast steppes and dense forests that take on shades of yellow, orange, and red as autumn sets in. The route through Mongolia offers a glimpse into remote areas where nature is untouched and the seasonal changes are incredibly dramatic.

Passengers on the Trans-Mongolian Railway can enjoy expansive views of vast open spaces and forests full of vibrant fall colors. The rugged, natural beauty of the Mongolian landscape is especially captivating during the fall season, making this one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

The Jacobite Steam Train, Scotland

The Jacobite Steam Train, also known as the “Hogwarts Express” from the Harry Potter films, travels through the Scottish Highlands on a journey between Fort William and Mallaig. This scenic route offers some of the most spectacular views in Scotland, especially during the fall when the landscapes are filled with vibrant hues. The train crosses over the famous viaduct used in the Harry Potter films, giving passengers a sense of nostalgia and magic.

As the train passes through glens, mountains, and lochs, passengers can watch the colorful autumn foliage unfold before their eyes. The combination of the steam-powered train, historic route, and breathtaking scenery makes the Jacobite Steam Train a perfect way to experience the Scottish Highlands in the fall.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.