11 Scenic Train Rides for Memorable Family Journeys This March
Family trips are made even more special when you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature from the comfort of a train. Scenic train rides offer a unique perspective of the world around you, with every turn revealing something new. The combination of fun, comfort, and spectacular views makes train travel a wonderful option for family getaways.
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Rocky Mountaineer, Canada
The Rocky Mountaineer takes travelers through the stunning Canadian Rockies, covering up to 750 miles in 2-3 days. Starting in Vancouver, it winds through picturesque towns like Kamloops and Jasper, providing breathtaking views of glaciers, rivers, and rugged mountain peaks. This scenic ride offers panoramic windows that let families enjoy the natural beauty of the region while traveling in comfort. March is the perfect time to experience this route, as the snow-capped mountains create a serene, winter wonderland, and the spring season begins to awaken.
The train ride offers both daylight and twilight routes, with unique views of wildlife, rushing waterfalls, and vast forests. March is ideal for the Rocky Mountaineer because the weather is crisp and clear, and crowds are smaller, making it a more relaxing and intimate journey. With gourmet meals, luxurious seating, and a knowledgeable crew, it’s an unforgettable experience for all ages. The route provides a great combination of relaxation and adventure, ideal for families to bond and explore the beauty of Canada.
Glacier Express, Switzerland
The Glacier Express is one of the most famous scenic train routes in Switzerland, connecting Zermatt and St. Moritz in about 8 hours. Traveling over 180 miles, this train crosses 291 bridges and goes through 91 tunnels, offering views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and charming Swiss villages. Known for its luxurious comfort and impeccable service, this train ride offers a front-row seat to the Swiss Alps’ natural beauty. March is the best time to take this journey, as the Alps are typically covered in snow, offering a magical winter experience before the crowds arrive in the summer months.
The Glacier Express is renowned for its glass-domed coaches, which provide unobstructed views of the mountainous landscape. Families will enjoy the spectacular sights of the Swiss Alps, including the iconic Matterhorn and the picturesque villages along the route. The experience is enhanced with top-quality meals and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages interaction and relaxation. March, with its quieter pace and fresh snow, allows families to experience the serene beauty of Switzerland without the hustle and bustle of peak seasons.
The Royal Scotsman, Scotland
The Royal Scotsman offers a luxurious train ride through the stunning Scottish Highlands, covering 400 miles over a 4-day journey. Departing from Edinburgh, the route takes families through quaint villages, scenic lochs, and vast moorlands. Known for its plush interiors and exceptional service, this ride allows passengers to relax in style while taking in the breathtaking scenery. March is a wonderful time to travel, as the landscape begins to bloom with early spring colors, and the crowds are still low.
The Royal Scotsman is designed for relaxation and adventure, offering families the chance to explore Scotland’s rich culture and natural beauty. The journey includes stops at historic castles, distilleries, and other local attractions, making it an immersive experience. The train features private suites, exquisite dining options, and even a spa carriage, offering a perfect combination of luxury and nature. With its cozy atmosphere and captivating surroundings, it’s an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most scenic regions.
California Zephyr, USA
The California Zephyr runs between Chicago and San Francisco, covering 2,438 miles over 51 hours. This scenic train ride offers some of the most diverse and picturesque landscapes in the United States, including the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Nevada, and vast plains. Families can enjoy the views from panoramic windows, passing through national parks, rugged mountains, and sprawling deserts. March is an ideal month to experience the California Zephyr, as it offers mild temperatures and the chance to see the transition from winter to spring.
The route offers comfortable seating and excellent dining, with options to experience the scenery in different classes. Along the way, families can enjoy attractions like the Utah desert, the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies, and the stunning landscapes of California. This trip is a great way for families to bond while experiencing America’s diverse beauty in one sweeping journey. March offers clear skies and pleasant weather, creating the perfect conditions for viewing this expansive scenery.
Trans-Siberian Railway, Russia
The Trans-Siberian Railway is a world-famous route that stretches from Moscow to Vladivostok, covering over 5,700 miles in a journey that lasts about 6-7 days. The train passes through dramatic landscapes, including vast Siberian forests, rolling hills, and expansive steppes, offering an unmatched experience of Russia’s natural beauty. Families will be captivated by the scenic views and the unique culture and history they encounter along the way. March is a great time to travel as the winter snows create a pristine, breathtaking atmosphere across the Siberian wilderness.
This historic train ride allows families to experience Russia’s heartland, with stops in cities like Yekaterinburg, Ulan-Ude, and Irkutsk, providing opportunities for exploration and cultural enrichment. The train offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant journey despite the long distances. The cold March air and stillness of the snowy landscape provide a magical backdrop for family adventures. A trip on the Trans-Siberian Railway is a memorable experience, showcasing the beauty and history of one of the largest countries in the world.
Bernina Express, Switzerland and Italy
The Bernina Express is one of the most scenic train journeys in Europe, connecting Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy, covering 144 miles over approximately 4 hours. This UNESCO World Heritage route passes through the Swiss Alps, offering jaw-dropping views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and charming villages. The train’s panoramic windows provide an immersive experience, making it one of the most sought-after rides for families interested in scenic travel. March is perfect for this journey, as the winter scenery blends with the first signs of spring in the lower altitudes.
As the train winds through the Alps, families can enjoy views of famous landmarks such as the Landwasser Viaduct and the Bernina Range. The Bernina Express is known for its smooth ride and spacious interior, making it comfortable for families of all sizes. The journey is an excellent way to experience both the Swiss and Italian landscapes in a single trip. The quiet, serene March weather enhances the journey, offering clear skies and snow-covered peaks to enjoy.
The Indian Pacific, Australia
The Indian Pacific is one of Australia’s most famous long-distance trains, traveling across the entire continent from Sydney to Perth. The journey spans about 4,352 kilometers (2,704 miles), taking approximately 65 hours, with several scenic stops along the way. Families can enjoy vast desert landscapes, lush rainforests, and rolling plains. March is ideal as the temperature is moderate, allowing families to comfortably explore Australia’s diverse regions without extreme heat.
This train offers luxury accommodations, with options for private cabins and all-inclusive services. Along the route, families can stop at iconic landmarks like the Nullarbor Plain and the Blue Mountains. The train also provides opportunities for cultural experiences and excursions, such as visits to Aboriginal heritage sites. The relaxing pace and breathtaking scenery make the Indian Pacific a memorable experience for families seeking adventure across Australia.
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, USA
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic 45-mile ride through the beautiful San Juan Mountains of Colorado. This 3.5-hour journey takes families through rugged canyons and picturesque forests, all while experiencing the charm of a vintage steam train. March is a great time to ride, as the surrounding snow-covered mountains offer a tranquil and serene landscape, making it a perfect family outing.
The train’s vintage steam locomotives add to the charm of the experience, providing both nostalgia and a unique sense of adventure. Families can enjoy breathtaking views of the Animas River, deep gorges, and towering cliffs. This historic ride has been operating for over 130 years and continues to be a favorite among families who want a scenic and educational train ride. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and family fun.
The Canadian Pacific, Canada
The Canadian, a luxurious train that travels between Toronto and Vancouver, offers a scenic and immersive journey through Canada’s vast wilderness. This 4-day ride covers over 2,700 miles, offering families a chance to witness Canada’s beautiful forests, lakes, and mountains. The train features panoramic windows that provide unparalleled views of the country’s natural beauty, from the Rocky Mountains to the prairies. March is ideal for this ride, as it avoids the peak tourist seasons and offers clear skies and crisp air.
The Canadian offers a comfortable ride with sleeping cars, dining cars, and lounges, ensuring families can enjoy the journey in comfort. Along the way, families can relax and enjoy activities like storytelling, music, and games. The train also stops at several scenic towns and cities, allowing passengers to explore local culture. March offers moderate temperatures, making it a pleasant time to witness the landscapes without the summer rush.
The White Pass and Yukon Route, Alaska
The White Pass and Yukon Route in Alaska offers a 3-hour journey through breathtaking landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and deep valleys. Located in Skagway, Alaska, the train travels through the scenic White Pass, providing incredible views of snow-capped peaks and winding rivers. The ride is especially stunning in March, when the mountains are covered in fresh snow, creating a winter wonderland atmosphere. This route provides families with an immersive adventure into one of the most beautiful and remote parts of the world.
The White Pass and Yukon Route is known for its historical significance, as it was originally built to support the Klondike Gold Rush. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views from the train’s comfortable cars, which are designed to allow unobstructed views of the landscape. Families will love the opportunity to learn about the region’s history while taking in the natural beauty. The March weather adds to the allure, offering crisp air and pristine snow-covered views.
The Bernina Express, Switzerland
The Bernina Express is a scenic train ride that connects Chur, Switzerland, to Tirano, Italy, covering 144 miles over approximately 4 hours. The route is famous for its stunning Alpine views, passing through the Swiss Alps, glaciers, and picturesque villages. March offers the perfect balance of snowfall and clear skies, allowing families to experience a winter wonderland that is both peaceful and beautiful.
The Bernina Express is known for its panoramic windows, allowing passengers to enjoy unobstructed views of the majestic mountains and valleys. The train’s design ensures a smooth and enjoyable ride, while families can take in the natural beauty of the Alps. The route is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, adding cultural significance to the experience. March’s mild temperatures and light crowds make it an ideal time for this unforgettable scenic journey.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.