12 Most Scenic Train Journeys for Breathtaking Fall Foliage

Embrace the autumnal shift with the vibrant hues of red and orange as temperatures dip, and pumpkin spice takes over shelves. Train journeys provide an ideal way to immerse oneself in the changing season. Across the United States, Canada, and Europe, countless rail routes await, offering landscapes bathed in fall colors, with choices ranging from luxurious experiences to affordable adventures.

Explore Fall's interactive foliage map reveals the transformation of leaves nationwide, with peak colors occurring in northern US states during October. Situation-perfect, these rail experiences cater to a variety of budgets and desires, allowing travelers to luxuriate in autumn's beauty.

Vermont's Verdant Vermonter

Amtrak's Vermonter route offers a quintessential New England experience, stretching from Washington, DC, to St. Albans in northern Vermont. The nearly 14-hour passage through the Connecticut River Valley leads you through Massachusetts and New Hampshire landscapes, revealing stunning vistas of maples and oaks before reaching the majestic Green Mountains of Vermont. Pricing for a round trip in October usually starts at $240.

Adirondack Adventures from NYC to Montreal

The Amtrak Adirondack train charts a course from the energetic streets of New York City to the cultural embrace of Montreal, tracing through upstate New York and touching picturesque locales like Saratoga Springs. This ten-hour trip showcases the autumn beauty of the Hudson Valley and Adirondack Mountains along Lake Champlain. Tickets, depending on departure times and locations, begin at approximately $144.

Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway: Italian-Swiss Symphony

Witness astounding fall splendor along the Vigezzina-Centovalli Railway, which connects Italy’s Domodossola with Switzerland’s Locarno over a 32-mile journey. This route, famously dubbed the 'foliage train,' weaves through dramatic gorges, mountains, rivers, and cascades. A round-trip ticket is priced around €39, or about $45.

Scotland's Historic Highland Line

Journey from Glasgow to the coastal charm of Mallaig via the West Highland Line for a five-and-a-half-hour adventure. Traverse Scotland's breathtaking lochs and mountains draped in autumn tones. The route also graces the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct, immortalized in the 'Harry Potter' films. Ticket prices start at approximately £51, translating to around $68.

Luxury in Landscape: The Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer offers unparalleled elegance, taking passengers from Denver to Moab, Utah. Marvel at nature through glass-dome windows with exquisite meals enhancing the journey. Although the journey runs only during daytime, ensuring perfect scenery views, it comes with a price reflecting its luxurious nature, starting at $1,700 for the 2025 season.

Ohio's Budget-Friendly Cuyahoga Experience

Indulge in Ohio’s Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, a wallet-friendly option showcasing Midwestern autumn vibrancy. From family-friendly rounds to themed experiences, this railroad provides diverse encounters. The national park excursion offers a three-and-a-half-hour tour for just $26 per adult.

Canada's Agawa Train: Into the Canyon

Traverse the splendid terrains of northern Ontario aboard the Agawa Canyon Tour Train. Beginning amidst the grand shields and rushing rivers, passengers descend 500 feet into the canyon, enjoying ten miles of breathtaking descent. This 10-hour itinerary, inclusive of a canyon park stop, is priced from CA$166, or approximately $119 USD.

Empire Builder’s Epic Passage

Embark on a cross-country rail trip aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder, extending from Chicago to either Seattle or Portland. This 46-hour odyssey crosses through diverse terrains, offering vistas of the Mississippi River and the North Dakota plains. A notable highlight is the picturesque Glacier National Park in Montana. October sees fares beginning at $490.

Heartland Flyer: A Short Southern Sweep

For a shorter venture, opt for the Heartland Flyer, connecting Oklahoma City with Fort Worth, Texas. Discover the vibrant foliage across riverside forests over a four-hour span, with fares commencing at $56.

Bernina Express: Alpine Mastery

The Bernina Express captivates with alpine grandeur through Switzerland and northern Italy. The illustrious route, part of UNESCO's World Heritage listings, negotiates 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, offering unparalleled panoramic splendor. Fares for the route from Chur to Tirano commence at CHF ₣66, or around $83.

California Zephyr's Grand Voyage

Amtrak’s California Zephyr offers a comprehensive journey, departing Chicago towards the Bay Area near San Francisco over 51 hours. Containing breathtaking perspectives of the Rocky Mountains and Colorado's picturesque canyons, this ride is an immersive autumnal passage, with initial costs at $476.

Conway Scenic's Classic Railback

A quintessential New Hampshire experience awaits along the Conway Scenic Railroad, with its nostalgic journey originating from North Conway. Gliding through Mount Washington Valley into the White Mountains, this train ride offers five-and-a-half hours of pure scenic pleasure, with fares beginning at $83.