Best Train Journeys Around the World in Reno, Nevada, United States
1. Trans-Sierra Railroad
Scenic journey through the Sierra Nevada mountains with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe and historic Donner Summit.
- Natural Beauty: Offers stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and diverse flora
- Historical Significance: Trains have been operating on this route since the late 19th century
- Adventure Activities: Access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports
2. Virginia & Truckee Railroad
Step back in time on a vintage train ride through historic Carson City and Virginia City.
- Historical Experience: Travel on the same tracks as miners did during the Comstock Lode silver rush
- Local Culture: Explore unique shops, museums, and restaurants in Carson City and Virginia City
- Scenic Routes: Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes
3. California Zephyr
Long-distance Amtrak journey from Chicago to Emeryville (San Francisco) with a layover in Reno.
- Sightseeing Opportunities: View famous landmarks such as the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado River, and the Sierra Nevada
- Comfortable Travel: Offers sleeper cars for overnight stays and dining car service
- Versatile Itinerary: Allows travelers to customize their journey by getting off or boarding at various stops along the route
4. Carson City Railroad Museum
Learn about the rich rail history of Nevada with exhibits on locomotives, artifacts, and model trains.
- Educational Value: Provides insight into the role of railroads in shaping Nevada's history
- Interactive Experiences: Allows visitors to explore a variety of exhibits and learn about different aspects of trains
- Preservation Efforts: Helps preserve historical rail artifacts for future generations
5. Reno-Sparks Heritage Railroad
Short train ride through the heart of Reno and Sparks, featuring historical narration and scenic views.
- Local Culture Exploration: Showcases the history and development of Reno and Sparks
- Accessibility: Affordable and convenient for travelers, with various departure times available
- Family-Friendly Experience: Offers a fun and educational experience for all ages
6. Nevada Northern Railway
Vintage train ride through the historic Ely area, with options for steam engine rides and mining tours.
- Historical Insights: Provides a glimpse into Nevada's silver mining era
- Scenic Attractions: Offers beautiful views of the Great Basin desert and nearby mountains
- Unique Experiences: Opportunities to ride in different types of vintage railcars, such as a caboose or boxcar
7. The Glimpse Train
Short train ride through the Great Basin desert in Gerlach, featuring stunning views of the Black Rock Desert and nearby mountains.
- Natural Wonders: Offers breathtaking landscapes, including the Black Rock Desert and Ubehebe Crater
- Unique Landmarks: Provides access to the famous Burning Man festival site in the off-season
- Adventure Opportunities: Allows travelers to explore nearby attractions, such as Hot Springs and the Slot Canyons
8. The Carson Valley Railroad Museum
Museum showcasing rail history in the Carson Valley area, featuring exhibits on locomotives, artifacts, and model trains.
- Educational Value: Provides insight into the role of railroads in shaping the Carson Valley area's history
- Interactive Experiences: Allows visitors to explore a variety of exhibits and learn about different aspects of trains
- Preservation Efforts: Helps preserve historical rail artifacts for future generations
9. The Flower Train
Seasonal train ride through the Reno-Sparks area, featuring blooming flowers and scenic views.
- Natural Beauty: Offers beautiful landscapes with vibrant flower displays
- Seasonal Attraction: Available during the peak blooming season of local flowers
- Family-Friendly Experience: Offers a fun and educational experience for all ages
10. The Tahoe Express Gondola
Aerial cable car ride from Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe to the top of Mt. Rose, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Scenic Routes: Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada mountains
- Adventure Activities: Access to outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports at the top of Mt. Rose
- Eco-Friendly Transportation: Reduces carbon footprint by offering an electrically-powered gondola
11. The Reno Aviation Museum
Museum showcasing the history of aviation in Reno and the surrounding area, featuring exhibits on planes, artifacts, and model airplanes.
- Educational Value: Provides insight into the role of aviation in shaping Reno's history
- Interactive Experiences: Allows visitors to explore a variety of exhibits and learn about different aspects of aviation
- Preservation Efforts: Helps preserve historical aircraft artifacts for future generations
12. The Nevada State Railroad Museum
Museum showcasing the history of railroads in Nevada, featuring exhibits on locomotives, artifacts, and model trains.
- Educational Value: Provides insight into the role of railroads in shaping Nevada's history
- Interactive Experiences: Allows visitors to explore a variety of exhibits and learn about different aspects of trains
- Preservation Efforts: Helps preserve historical rail artifacts for future generations
13. The Virginia & Truckee Railroad Ghost Train
Seasonal nighttime train ride through the historic Carson City and Virginia City area, featuring ghost stories and spooky fun.
- Unique Experience: Offers a different perspective on the area's history with ghostly tales
- Family-Friendly Entertainment: Provides an enjoyable and engaging experience for all ages
- Seasonal Attraction: Available during the Halloween season
14. The Sierra Railroad Museum
Museum showcasing the history of railroads in the Sierra Nevada region, featuring exhibits on locomotives, artifacts, and model trains.
- Educational Value: Provides insight into the role of railroads in shaping the Sierra Nevada's history
- Interactive Experiences: Allows visitors to explore a variety of exhibits and learn about different aspects of trains
- Preservation Efforts: Helps preserve historical rail artifacts for future generations
15. The Truckee Railroad Society
Non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of railroads in the Truckee area, featuring exhibits on locomotives, artifacts, and model trains.
- Educational Value: Provides insight into the role of railroads in shaping the Truckee area's history
- Community Engagement: Supports local communities by preserving and sharing railroad heritage
- Preservation Efforts: Helps preserve historical rail artifacts for future generations