12 US Train Journeys Offering Stunning Fall Foliage Views

Fall transforms America’s landscapes into vibrant tapestries, and there’s no better way to enjoy the season than from a train. From New England’s golden hills to the Rockies’ fiery aspens, these 12 scenic routes showcase autumn’s brilliance. Whether you prefer vintage steam locomotives or luxurious dome cars, these fall foliage train journeys promise sweeping views, cozy vibes, and an unforgettable experience as you roll past forests, rivers, and mountain ranges glowing with color.

Conway Scenic Railroad – North Conway, New Hampshire

Set in the heart of the White Mountains, the Conway Scenic Railroad offers a classic New England foliage experience. Board vintage railcars in North Conway and glide past rolling hills, covered bridges, and brilliant forests dressed in autumn golds and reds. The Mountaineer route travels through Crawford Notch, offering jaw-dropping views of cliffs and valleys. For pure nostalgic charm and sweeping fall scenery, this heritage ride captures the season beautifully.

Mount Washington Cog Railway – New Hampshire

Climbing to the summit of Mount Washington, this 144-year-old railway delivers New England’s highest-altitude leaf-peeping. As you ascend 6,288 feet aboard the world’s first cog railway, the scenery shifts from hardwood forests to alpine views. The summit’s visitor center offers panoramic sights of the Presidential Range and an interactive weather museum. It’s a unique blend of history and natural wonder, especially stunning in late September through early October.

Napa Valley Wine Train – California

Fall in wine country means vineyards glowing gold and crimson, and the Napa Valley Wine Train lets you enjoy it in luxury. The route includes a three-hour fine dining experience aboard vintage railcars, featuring gourmet meals and local wines. Views of rolling hills and colorful vines stream past as you sip and savor. It’s an indulgent way to experience California’s harvest season, blending leaf-peeping with culinary bliss.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – Bryson City, North Carolina

Departing from the quaint town of Bryson City, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad winds through lush valleys, over rushing rivers, and into the heart of fall’s most vivid displays. The Tuckasegee River and Nantahala Gorge routes offer scenic rides beneath canopies of fiery red and gold leaves. The historic train cars add a nostalgic touch, while the peaceful pace lets couples soak in the mountain serenity. With views that stretch for miles, it’s a must for fall foliage lovers.

Georgetown Loop Railroad – Georgetown, CO

Just 45 minutes from Denver, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers a breathtaking autumn ride through the Rocky Mountains. Built in the 1880s, this narrow-gauge railway climbs nearly 600 feet, crosses high trestle bridges, and winds through golden aspen groves and pine forests. The open-air cars enhance the panoramic views, and the historic charm of the old mining towns adds to the romance. Fall excursions often include themed events, making it a perfect, cozy escape for couples.

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad – Colorado & New Mexico

This historic steam train climbs from Antonito, CO to Chama, NM, crossing the Colorado-New Mexico border. With elevations soaring above 10,000 feet and curves cutting through gorges and forests, riders are treated to golden aspens and vivid foliage. Open-air gondolas let you breathe in the crisp mountain air and possibly spot wildlife along the tracks. It’s a rugged and remote experience that captures the pure essence of fall in the American Southwest.

Adirondack Train – New York

Running from New York City to Montreal, Amtrak’s Adirondack route is among the most scenic in the Northeast. The 10-hour journey passes the Hudson Valley and winds deep into the Adirondack Mountains, showcasing lakes, rivers, and forests awash in color. Fall transforms the landscape into a painter’s palette, and large windows offer nonstop views. It’s a long, peaceful ride through some of the East Coast’s most stunning terrain.

Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad – Elkins, WV

Fall in love with autumn aboard the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad. Departing from Elkins, this scenic journey ascends through colorful West Virginia hills, including the steep climb to Bald Knob on the famed Cass Scenic line. The vintage steam or diesel locomotive offers both open-air and enclosed cars, stained with golden aspen and maple hues. With fall fares starting around $69, the ride combines stunning vistas, crisp mountain air, and charming onboard narration, an ideal romantic getaway for leaf-peeping couples.

Catskill Mountain Railroad – New York

Based in Kingston, this family-friendly heritage railway offers two fall-themed rides: the Fall Flyer and the Pumpkin Express. Both travel through the Hurley Flats along a historic rail corridor, showcasing vibrant foliage in the Catskills. The Pumpkin Express even includes a take-home pumpkin. With affordable fares and festive flair, this ride blends small-town charm with seasonal beauty in one of New York’s classic leaf-peeping areas.

Tennessee Valley Railroad – Chattanooga, Tennessee

Departing from Grand Junction Station, this charming excursion rolls through the vibrant Tennessee Valley. Passengers enjoy lush fall canopies, historic bridges, and gentle river views. With themed rides like Murder Mystery or Dinner Trains, it’s a perfect blend of foliage and fun. A great pick for those craving southern autumn charm aboard a vintage locomotive.

Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway – Jim Thorpe, PA

Experience Pennsylvania’s fall beauty aboard vintage cars on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Departing from historic Jim Thorpe, this ride winds along the Lehigh River through a canopy of brilliant reds and golds in Lehigh Gorge State Park. October rides are especially popular for peak foliage. The open-air cars offer panoramic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and historic bridges, making this a perfect leaf-peeping adventure for couples and families alike.

Cass Scenic Railroad – West Virginia

Step back in time on the Cass Scenic Railroad, where vintage steam engines haul you through the Appalachian Mountains. The route climbs to Bald Knob, West Virginia’s third-highest peak, offering sweeping views of fiery maple, birch, and oak trees below. Originally built for logging, the railway now charms fall travelers with its old-time atmosphere and dramatic mountain vistas, making it a must for any fall foliage enthusiast.