Seeing a national park by train adds a whole new layer to the adventure. Instead of driving for hours or worrying about parking, you can relax, look out the window, and enjoy the changing landscapes along the way.
Amtrak makes it possible to reach several U.S. national parks with stations nearby or connecting transit. This is especially helpful for travelers who don’t want to rent a car or prefer a lower-stress way to explore.
Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, or just fresh air and big views, there’s something special waiting at each stop. Let’s take a look at some parks that are surprisingly easy to get to by rail.
Glacier National Park
The Empire Builder line transports you to a world where jagged peaks meet vast skies. Arriving at East Glacier, the station is a gateway to over two dozen glaciers. Walking from the platform, the crisp mountain air fills your lungs, invigorating your spirit.
Did you know? This park is home to the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road, a marvel of engineering winding across the Continental Divide. Whether you’re exploring by foot or shuttle, the park’s untouched beauty promises a memorable adventure.
Grand Canyon National Park
The journey to the Grand Canyon begins on Amtrak’s Southwest Chief, leading you to Williams, AZ. Here, the Grand Canyon Railway awaits, whisking you through ponderosa pines to the canyon’s edge.
Standing at the South Rim, the vast chasm stretches out, offering unparalleled vistas. Did you know? The canyon’s layers reveal a geological history spanning millions of years, captivating geologists and visitors alike. With historic lodges nearby, it’s a perfect blend of natural wonder and human heritage.
Yosemite National Park
Board the San Joaquins line to Merced, where a YARTS bus awaits to transport you into Yosemite’s majestic embrace. Granite cliffs rise dramatically, waterfalls cascading like threads of silver.
As you wander, discover the park’s cultural roots, home to the Ahwahneechee people for centuries. And here’s a surprising fact: Yosemite was pivotal in the creation of the National Park idea, inspiring conservation movements worldwide. Each trail unveils a new perspective on nature’s grandeur.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Travel aboard the California Zephyr to Granby, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains’ alpine splendor. Here, high-elevation trails invite you to explore its rugged vistas.
The views are nothing short of spectacular, with a diverse ecosystem that changes with every turn. Did you know? The park’s Trail Ridge Road is the highest paved road in any national park, leading you through breathtaking landscapes above the treeline. It’s a place where adventure meets serenity.
Everglades National Park
Board Amtrak’s Silver Service to Miami, the gateway to the Everglades’ subtropical wilderness. Mangroves weave a tapestry of life, their roots creating a haven for wildlife.
Did you know? This park is home to both alligators and crocodiles, a rare coexistence. Wander the “river of grass,” where each ripple tells the story of this unique ecosystem. It’s a journey into a world teeming with life, where the subtropical sun dances on the water’s surface.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Catch the Capitol Limited line to the heart of an urban oasis. Just outside Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley marries history with nature.
Discover forest trails that lead to cascading waterfalls, or stroll along the historic canal towpath. Did you know? This park features a working scenic railroad, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the past. It’s a unique blend of city convenience and natural beauty, perfect for a day of exploration.
Shenandoah National Park
Arrive via Amtrak’s Cardinal or Crescent lines to Charlottesville, a stone’s throw from Shenandoah’s stunning vistas. The Skyline Drive offers a ribbon of road with breathtaking views.
With each bend, the Blue Ridge Mountains reveal their secrets. Did you know? Shenandoah is home to a large number of black bears, often spotted from the safety of your car or a hiking trail. It’s a landscape that invites contemplation and adventure alike.
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Travel the San Joaquins line to Fresno, your portal to the land of giants. Witness the grandeur of sequoias, their trunks stretching skyward, a testament to nature’s majesty.
In summer, shuttle buses guide you through groves where history is etched in bark. Did you know? The General Sherman Tree is the largest by volume, a living monument in its own right. Experience the quiet strength of these ancient trees, standing tall against time.
White Sands National Park
The Sunset Limited line takes you to Alamogordo, where a white desert awaits. Gypsum dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, a surreal landscape under the New Mexico sun.
Did you know? Unlike regular sand, gypsum doesn’t absorb heat, making the dunes cool to the touch even on the hottest days. It’s a place where you can sled down pristine slopes or simply let your imagination wander. Nature’s palette at its finest.