As Americans, we live on one of the most beautiful continents in the world. There’s nothing like taking a beautiful train ride to allow us to see the most breathtakingly gorgeous parts of our continents close up. That’s why we’ve compiled five of the best train rides that you can take to allow you to see more of North America!

Amtrak Cascades

Route: Eugene, OR to Vancouver, BC

Duration: 11 hours, 30 minutes

This train ride will allow you to journey through the Pacific Northwest like never before. During the trip, you can enjoy the sweeping seascapes, majestic mountains, lush forests, and possible wildlife sighting of creatures like bald eagles and otters.

Cape Cod Central Railroad

Route: Hyannis, MA to Sandwich, MA

Duration: 2 hours

If you want a shorter ride, this could be the one for you! This historic route first started way back in 1848, and it gives travelers the chance to enjoy views of the Cape’s woodlands, sand dunes, marshes, and cranberry bogs.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Route: Bryson City, NC to Nantahala Gorge, NC

Duration: 4 hours, 30 minutes

This train ride gives travelers the chance to experience the sounds of bluegrass music and Appalachian storytelling while traveling along the Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers. You’ll get to see this part of the country like never before on this train!

Cass Scenic Railroad

Route: Cass, WV to Bald Knob, WV

Duration: 4 hours, 30 minutes

Contained within a vast state park, this rail line will take you through the mountains past sawmills, old locomotive shops, creeks, and springs. The spectacular view from Bald Knob, the third highest point in West Virginia, has to be seen to be believed!

Rocky Mountaineer

Route: Vancouver, BC to Banff, AB

Duration: Options abound,  anywhere from two days to two weeks

This route, the most popular one the company offers, gives travelers the chance to retrace the steps of 19th century explorers, traveling through the legendary Spiral Tunnels and Continental Divide. You will get unforgettable views from both the tops of mountains and the depths of canyons on this magical journey!