America's national parks were born of the idea to protect the country's natural wonders for all to enjoy. The country's first national park, Yellowstone, was established in 1872; today, the United States is home to 63 national parks, each showcasing spectacular treasures. Great Rail Journeys offers nearly 50 vacations by rail packages that highlight these fantastic destinations, allowing you to visit one or more national parks on a well-connected route.
A visit to Yellowstone brings fumaroles, geysers and sparkling lakes, whereas in Yosemite, towering ancient trees paint a lush scene against stoic mountains. Arches National Park brings soaring sandstone arches and colorful rock formations, while Grand Canyon National Park offers breathtaking vistas of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. See the tallest mountain in the United States, Denali, in Alaska's Denali National Park, or the sprawling scenes from Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Whether traveling by train on one of our escorted tours, embarking on a rail-drive expedition, or joining a cruise vacation, each itinerary reveals America's many natural wonders.
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(67 reviews)Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this memorable vacation featuring national parks, historic rail journeys and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction and view the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde National Parks, before riding the...
(67 reviews)Seek the magical aurora borealis on a sensational winter journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage, riding the amazing Aurora Winter Train in the shadow of Denali. An evening in the wilderness provides a great chance to catch the Northern Lights, while an exciting dog-sled ride through the snow-covered tundra and a curling lesson help uncover the...
(168 reviews)Nine unforgettable days showcase the Last Frontier's wild beauty on this expertly guided vacation. Uncover Fairbanks on a riverboat trip and meet sledding dogs, then ride Alaska Railroad's legendary Denali Star. Marvel at North America's tallest mountain and its incredible wildlife in Denali National Park and Talkeetna, before continuing...
(126 reviews)Embark on an 11-day escorted tour of the Old West's rugged frontier towns, majestic landscapes and renowned national historic sites. Journey across America's Western frontier on Amtrak's legendary California Zephyr from Chicago to Provo, Utah. Cross the Rocky Mountains, discovering hidden landscapes where the region's beauty comes to life...
(220 reviews)Discover five beloved national parks on this 13-day escorted tour through the West. Start with a classic overnight rail journey aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Experience a float trip down a winding river, drive through Glacier National Park on an open-top Red Jammer bus and cruise across a...
(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...
(317 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...
(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...
(99 reviews)Discover the natural wonders and rugged wilderness of the Southwest on this scenic rail tour. Journey west on the California Zephyr to Arches National Park and enjoy a jetboat ride down the Colorado River. Visit the unique Capitol Reef National Park, the vast Bryce Canyon National Park, and the historic Zion National Park. Take in the panoramas...
(74 reviews)Join an expert Tour Manager and local guides on this 9-day vacation beginning and ending in San Francisco. Embark on an unforgettable tour unveiling some of California's greatest offerings - including a spectacular day aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train and time to uncover the Golden State's premier nature spots. Marvel at the rugged...
Set out on an adventure into the vast and rugged landscapes of the northwestern United States on this week-long vacation. Crossing the country on Amtrak's Empire Builder, arrive in East Glacier for days spent amidst Montana's wild scenery, fresh mountain air and stunning destinations. Uncover the "Crown of the Continent" from multiple...
(93 reviews)From mountains to sandstone arches and all the varied terrain between, this week-long journey is a showcase of nature. Admire the craggy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains surrounding Salt Lake City before boarding Canyon Spirit, a train that combines luxury and adventure. Following its brand-new route, travel from Salt Lake City into the...
For a unique vacation in the USA, visit one or more of these national parks by train. Some of the country's most popular parks, such as Glacier National Park and Grand Canyon National Park, are situated along iconic rail routes that offer daily service to these must-see destinations. Other parks, including Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Teton, and Arches, are easily accessible by bus, car or motorcoach. Perfect for families, for seniors and for adventurers of all walks of life, national park vacations take many forms.
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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Oct 14, 2025 · By Rob Payne
Experience New England’s colorful fall foliage with our great range of escorted tours, exploring the White Mountains, Cape Cod and Maine.
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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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Aug 01, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Discover countries filled with culture, cuisine and remarkable scenery in the top-trending vacation destinations for 2026, from Europe to Asia and Australasia.
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