When I was young, our family traveled across Europe by train. We had the ViaRail pass which allowed us to hop on hop-off trains in cities across the continent. The experience taught me how to board a train, and what to pack and gave me an opportunity to see the world from a different vantage point.
In the US, you can experience the beauty of autumn by train. Fall foliage train rides offer an unparalleled way to experience the season, blending breathtaking views of autumn leaves with the serene beauty of lakes, rivers, and mountains. Here’s your guide to the best routes, practical tips for first-timers, and what to expect along the way.
What to Expect on the Train
Fall foliage train rides take you through regions famed for their stunning autumn landscapes, many centered around or near beautiful lakes. These journeys allow you to relax in comfort while soaking in panoramic views of lakes, rivers, and mountains adorned with fall colors. Some trains offer open-air cars or large viewing windows, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment of the scenic splendor. Many routes also provide onboard guides who share fascinating insights about the natural and cultural history of the areas you pass through.
Best Times to Go Leaf-Peeping by Train
The timing for peak foliage varies by region, so planning your trip around these periods will ensure you catch the most spectacular views. Generally, late September to mid-October is the best window:
- New England: Early October is prime time for states like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.
- Midwest: The vibrant colors tend to peak slightly later, often around mid-October.
- West Coast: The season can extend into November, especially in areas like Oregon and Northern California.
Our Picks for Top Fall Color Train Routes
New England’s Scenic Routes
Vermont’s Green Mountain Railroad
- Route: Chester to Ludlow
- Duration: 2 hours (round trip)
- Price: $35 for standard seating; $65 for premium dome seating
This journey offers an immersive experience through Vermont’s iconic autumn landscape, including serene views of Lake Pauline and Lake Rescue. As the train winds through the heart of the Green Mountains, you’ll pass by the charming shores of these lakes, where the reflection of the fiery foliage on the water creates a breathtaking mirror effect. The route also takes you through the quaint towns of Chester and Ludlow, showcasing classic New England architecture surrounded by rolling hills of red, orange, and yellow leaves. The premium dome seating provides the best vantage points to take in the full beauty of this lakeside journey.
Amtrak’s Vermonter
- Route: Washington D.C. to St. Albans, VT
- Duration: 13.5 hours
- Price: $135 for coach; $345 for business class
The Vermonter is a comprehensive journey through the heart of the Northeast, offering passengers spectacular views of lakes such as Lake Champlain, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the U.S., as well as the Connecticut River. As you travel through Massachusetts and New Hampshire into Vermont, the train hugs the shores of these waterways, providing picturesque scenes of autumn foliage reflected in the still waters. You’ll also pass through several state parks, including the Green Mountain National Forest and Fort Dummer State Park, where the vibrant fall colors are especially striking. Business class offers a more luxurious experience with spacious seating and complimentary meals, perfect for enjoying the view as you journey through some of New England’s most beautiful lakeside regions.
Downeast Scenic Railroad (Maine)
- Route: Ellsworth to Green Lake
- Duration: 1.5 hours (round trip)
- Price: $25 for adults; $40 for first-class
The Downeast Scenic Railroad offers a unique opportunity to experience Maine’s autumn beauty, passing along the shores of Green Lake and within close proximity to Branch Lake. This 1.5-hour journey takes you from Ellsworth, a historic town known for its fall festivals, through dense forests and past pristine lakes that glow with the colors of fall. The waters of Green Lake provide a perfect mirror for the surrounding trees, making this one of the most picturesque routes in the state. The train itself features vintage coaches that evoke the charm of yesteryear, adding a nostalgic touch to your lakeside leaf-peeping adventure.
West Coast Wonders
Napa Valley Wine Train (California)
- Route: Napa to St. Helena
- Duration: 3 hours (round trip)
- Price: $195 for gourmet lunch; $350 for the Vista Dome experience
The Napa Valley Wine Train offers a luxurious journey through one of California’s most celebrated wine regions, where the autumn colors are beautifully complemented by views of Lake Hennessey and the vineyards that surround it. As you travel from Napa to St. Helena, the train skirts the edges of this serene lake, providing stunning vistas of golden vineyards and the vibrant foliage that lines the shore. The experience is further elevated with a gourmet meal, featuring locally sourced ingredients and paired with Napa Valley wines. For the ultimate indulgence, the Vista Dome experience offers a glass-domed car that gives you panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hillsides, all while enjoying the finest cuisine Napa has to offer.
Mount Hood Railroad (Oregon)
- Route: Hood River to Parkdale
- Duration: 4 hours (round trip)
- Price: $50 for standard seating; $100 for the First Class Lounge
The Mount Hood Railroad takes you on a scenic journey through the Columbia River Gorge, with the majestic Mount Hood as a backdrop and stunning views of Lost Lake along the way. As the train departs from Hood River, it travels through lush orchards and vineyards before entering the dense forests that surround Lost Lake. The vibrant autumn colors reflected in the lake’s calm waters create a postcard-perfect scene. This route also passes through several scenic overlooks where you can see the full expanse of the Columbia River Gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. First Class Lounge seating provides a more luxurious and comfortable way to enjoy this breathtaking landscape, complete with refreshments and panoramic windows.
Chehalis-Centralia Railroad (Washington)
- Route: Chehalis to Ruth
- Duration: 2 hours (round trip)
- Price: $35 for coach; $70 for first class
The Chehalis-Centralia Railroad offers a journey through the lush landscapes of Washington, including picturesque views of Riffe Lake, a reservoir known for its striking fall colors and clear waters. As the train steams through this scenic area, you’ll pass through forests filled with vibrant yellows and oranges, set against the deep green of the evergreens. The route also offers glimpses of Mount Rainier in the distance, adding to the dramatic beauty of the journey. Along the way, the train passes near the historic town of Centralia, where you can see classic Pacific Northwest architecture and maybe even catch a local fall festival. First-class passengers will enjoy an enhanced experience with plush seating and premium service, making this two-hour trip through Washington’s lakes and forests even more enjoyable.
Rocky Mountain Majesty
Rocky Mountaineer (Colorado to Utah)
- Route: Denver to Moab
- Duration: 2 days, 1 night
- Price: Starts at $1,200 for SilverLeaf Service; $2,500 for GoldLeaf Service (including overnight hotel stay)
The Rocky Mountaineer’s “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route is a luxurious adventure that offers some of the most stunning views in the American West, including the tranquil waters of Gross Reservoir and the Colorado River. Starting in Denver, the train travels through the Rocky Mountains, where the golden aspens and snow-capped peaks create a spectacular contrast. You’ll pass Gross Reservoir, where the reflection of the autumn leaves on the water is nothing short of magical. The journey then descends into the dramatic red rock canyons of Utah, following the path of the Colorado River as it winds through some of the most iconic landscapes in the region. GoldLeaf Service passengers are treated to the ultimate luxury, with exclusive access to a bi-level dome car and gourmet meals served as you take in the incredible scenery.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Colorado)
- Route: Durango to Silverton
- Duration: 9 hours (round trip)
- Price: $110 for standard seating; $200 for Presidential Class
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a journey through the San Juan Mountains, with unforgettable views of Lake Nighthorse and the Animas River. As the train ascends from Durango towards Silverton, you’ll pass by the serene waters of Lake Nighthorse, where the surrounding aspens and pines create a colorful mosaic of fall foliage. The route then follows the Animas River, with its clear, fast-flowing waters that contrast the autumn leaves along its banks. This historic train, originally built to transport silver and gold, now offers passengers a window into the wild beauty of Colorado’s high country. The Presidential Class provides the most luxurious way to enjoy this journey, with plush seating, large windows, and exclusive amenities.
Georgetown Loop Railroad (Colorado)
- Route: Georgetown to Silver Plume
- Duration: 1 hour
- Price: $30 for coach; $70 for Parlor Car
The Georgetown Loop Railroad may be a short trip, but it’s packed with spectacular views of the Rockies and Clear Creek. The train’s route follows Clear Creek as it winds through the narrow valley between Georgetown and Silver Plume, offering close-up views of the autumn foliage along the water’s edge. The route includes the famous Devil’s Gate High Bridge, where the train crosses over the creek on a historic trestle, offering dramatic views of the canyon below and the mountains towering above. The Parlor Car offers a more refined experience, with comfortable seating, large windows, and complimentary beverages, making this hour-long journey a luxurious way to enjoy the best of Colorado’s fall colors.
Practical Tips for First-Time Train Travelers
If it’s your first time taking a fall foliage train ride, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind to make the most of your trip. First off, packing smart is key. Since temperatures can swing from cool in the morning to warm in the afternoon, layering is your best friend. I’d recommend bringing a light jacket, and don’t forget a small daypack for essentials like your camera, snacks, and maybe even a cozy blanket for extra comfort.
When it comes to seating, where you sit can really make a difference in your experience. If you want the best views, try to book a seat on the side facing the landscape—usually the right side if you’re heading north or west. This way, you’ll have an unobstructed view of all the stunning scenery as it rolls by.
Now, let’s talk food. Most trains have some kind of dining option, and if you’re on something like the Napa Valley Wine Train or the Rocky Mountaineer, you’re in for a treat with gourmet meals served onboard. But if you’re on a shorter ride, don’t worry—they often have snack bars or food carts with lighter fare to keep you satisfied.
Finally, take advantage of any onboard amenities. If your train has a dome car or an open-air gondola, make sure to spend some time there—the elevated view really enhances the leaf-peeping experience. And don’t forget to bring binoculars for spotting wildlife or getting a closer look at the landscapes. Of course, your camera is a must-have; there will be so many Instagram-worthy moments you won’t want to miss!
What to Expect Onboard
Dining with a View: Most trains have dining cars where you can enjoy regionally inspired dishes while watching the scenery unfold. In premium services like the Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf, you’ll dine in style with multi-course meals.
Comfort and Entertainment: Seating is generally plush, with larger windows in upgraded classes. Some routes, like Amtrak’s Vermonter, offer Wi-Fi and power outlets. Entertainment ranges from live music to historical narrations about the areas you’re passing through.
Seasonal Activities: At various stops, you can partake in local festivals, explore hiking trails, or even engage in seasonal activities like apple picking. Many trains offer package deals that include these excursions.
Booking Your Fall Foliage Train Ride
Given the popularity of these routes during peak foliage season, it’s wise to book as early as possible. Tickets can often be purchased directly from the train company’s website. Consider booking upgrades for a more luxurious experience—many of these packages include meals, panoramic cars, and overnight stays at local hotels.
Final Thoughts: An Eco-Friendly Way to Travel
Train travel is a more sustainable way to see the world, and fall foliage rides are no exception. Minimize your impact by packing light, bringing reusable items, and supporting local economies by purchasing from small businesses along the way. Many train companies are also committed to reducing their carbon footprint, making your scenic journey as green as the landscapes you’ll pass through—until they turn golden, red, and orange, that is.
Whether you’re a seasoned rail traveler or trying it for the first time, a fall foliage train ride offers an unforgettable way to experience the splendor of autumn. So, pack your bags, choose your route, and get ready for a journey that’s as luxurious as it is picturesque.
