Exploring the USA by rail is a journey through some of the world's most iconic and varied landscapes, from the sun-drenched coasts of California and the vast beauty of America's National Parks to the soulful rhythms of the deep south and the untamed beauty of Alaska. Home to legendary train routes like the Alaska Railroad, the California Zephyr and Amtrak's Empire Builder, these journeys offer unforgettable views and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
Our independent rail vacations let you experience the USA at your own pace, with all the key details taken care of. Whether you're looking to explore a single region or travel cross-country, our curated itineraries and wide range of routes showcase the very best of the United States - tailored to your interests and designed to give you the freedom to explore on your own terms. Browse our Independent tours and start planning your USA vacation today.
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With each itinerary thoughtfully designed to suit different travel styles, our tours let you experience the freedom of independent travel across America's most scenic rail routes.
With travel, transfers and accommodation included - and no hidden extras - all the essentials are taken care of, so you can simply relax and focus on discovering the beauty of the USA by rail.
Travel when it works for you. With flexible dates available on many of our independent tours, you can choose the timing that fits your plans and enjoy a more personalised way to explore the USA.
(319 reviews)The classic ambiance of an overnight rail journey meets the splendors of one of America's top natural attractions on this rail vacation to Arizona. Join Amtrak's Southwest Chief on its cross-country route from Chicago to Flagstaff, and then board the 120-year-old Grand Canyon Railway on its route to the Grand Canyon. Uncover iconic views and top...
(170 reviews)Uncover scenic landscapes and quintessential sights of Alaska on this seven-day independent journey featuring the Denali Star. Travel from Anchorage to Talkeetna, where a jetboat takes you along the Talkeetna and Susitna Rivers, and then embark on a tundra wilderness tour in Denali National Park, with an expert guide revealing the best...
(36 reviews)By land and by sea, discover a land of untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring scenery in Alaska. Begin by boarding the elegant Holland America Ship in Vancouver, sailing north to reveal forested shores, glaciers and the quintessential towns of Alaska's Inside Passage. Uncover the charms of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, and then disembark in...
(23 reviews)Experience the Northern Lights like never before on this independent trip into Alaska's backcountry to Borealis Basecamp. Set just outside of Fairbanks, this unique hotel immerses you in the spirit of Alaska with fantastic excursions, including dog sledding, and presents the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of private fiberglass igloos. ...
(16 reviews)An epic route of towering mountains, glistening glaciers and remote terrain beckons on this remarkable rail and cruise vacation. Start your journey in the Canadian Rockies, venturing west on the renowned Rocky Mountaineer. This train follows a daylight-only route that captures the magical landscapes of Canada. Arriving in the seaport city...
A journey of wonders bookended by the Rockies, this week-long trip paints a vivid picture of the American Southwest and West. Travel in luxury aboard Canyon Spirit from Denver to Glenwood Springs, Moab and Salt Lake, setting out by daylight only with a remarkable perspective on the changing scenery. Arriving in Salt Lake City, the journey...
(31 reviews)Set your sights on the best of the Canadian Rockies, as you arrive in Calgary and transfer to the rest town of Banff. Enjoy a sightseeing tour quintessential Banff sites, such as the hot springs; a gondola ride and much more before transferring to Lake Louise for an overnight. The next morning soak up the scenery and board an Ice Explorer for...
Beautiful vistas and incredible adventures lie ahead on this journey through America's Last Frontier. Travel from Anchorage to Fairbanks on the Alaska Railroad, surrounded by pristine wilderness, and experience Fairbanks your way before heading into the backcountry in search of the elusive Northern Lights. Complete with a two-day stay at...
(16 reviews)This 10-day rail-cruise adventure combines some of the most breathtaking scenery on the west coast by land and sea with a relaxed and well-paced itinerary to meet every lifestyle. The Coast Starlight links Los Angeles to Seattle, the Gateway to Alaska. Widely regarded as one of the most spectacular U.S. train routes, you will travel more than...
(47 reviews)Embrace winter's natural beauty and Alaska's frontier spirit on this week-long journey featuring Fairbanks and Anchorage. In Fairbanks, spend your days exploring independently and your nights chasing the Northern Lights at Chena Hot Springs Resort and a backcountry yurt. Then, traverse 350 miles of the remote, untouched Alaskan interior to...
(14 reviews)From the magnificent Kenai Fjords to the immense Denali National Park, this independent rail tour takes you to the best of Alaska. Ride the historic Alaskan Railroad through breathtaking scenery and visit the historic towns that once housed Alaska's first frontiersmen.
Follow the lead of the explorers of years past and head west for a grand adventure to the "City by the Bay," San Francisco. This six-day rail vacation shows the contrasts between two American cities and the nature that surrounds them. Spend a day wrapped in the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies while based in Denver, and then board...
May 22, 2026 · By Ian Holt
Aboard Canyon Spirit’s new three-day route from Salt Lake City to Denver, Great Rail Journeys writer Ian discovers the Southwest’s beauty in relaxed luxury.
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Aug 13, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
If your idea of a memorable trip includes nature’s beauty and majestic wildlife, look no further than Alaska, where wild adventures are easily accessible.
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May 15, 2025 · By Great Rail Journeys
From the remote expanses of wild Alaska to the stunning islands and fjords of Scandinavia, here are our top destinations for Northern Lights tours in 2026.
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Dec 27, 2023 · By Great Rail Journeys
Ah, Alaska! A land where summer unfolds like a fairy tale, where the sun stretches across the sky, refusing to set, painting landscapes so diverse they seem otherworldly. Here, history whispers tales of resilient cultures against a backdrop of nature's most dramatic scenes. In Alaska, summer is more than a season; it's a grand adventure under endless daylight.
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