Best Train Journeys Around the World in Mission Viejo, California, United States
1. Trans-Siberian Railway
Longest railway in the world, spanning across Russia, offering a glimpse into diverse landscapes and cultures.
- Cross-Continental Journey: Travel from Europe to Asia, experiencing a vast continent's culture and history.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the Siberian taiga, Ural Mountains, and Lake Baikal's unique ecosystem.
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with locals from different ethnic groups along the route.
2. Rocky Mountaineer
Luxury train ride through Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest, showcasing stunning mountain ranges and pristine wilderness.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy panoramic windows for unobstructed views of the Rockies.
- Gourmet Dining: Savor gourmet meals prepared by award-winning chefs onboard.
- Guided Sightseeing: Expert guides provide insight into the area's history, culture, and wildlife.
3. California Zephyr
Iconic transcontinental train route from Chicago to San Francisco, offering breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies and the Great Salt Lake.
- Scenic Diversity: Travel through various landscapes, including the Rocky Mountains, deserts, and farmlands.
- Historic Sites: Pass by famous landmarks such as Denver's Union Station and the Golden Gate Bridge.
- Affordable Luxury: Experience a comfortable journey without breaking the bank with coach class accommodations.
4. Denver to Glacier National Park
Scenic train ride through Colorado's Rocky Mountains to Montana's Glacier National Park, passing by historic towns and natural wonders.
- Natural Wonders: Witness the stunning beauty of Glacier National Park, including glaciers, lakes, and peaks.
- Historical Sites: Explore the historical sites along the route, such as the Moffat Tunnel and Glenwood Canyon.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including elk, moose, bears, and mountain goats.
5. Coast Starlight
Train journey from Los Angeles to Seattle, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, Redwood forests, and Cascade Mountains.
- Ocean Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean during parts of the journey.
- Forest Exploration: Travel through the Redwood forests, one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems.
- City Sights: Pass by major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Portland.
6. Empire Builder
Train ride from Chicago to Seattle, showcasing diverse landscapes including the Great Plains, Glacier National Park, and the Cascade Range.
- Landscape Variety: Experience a wide variety of landscapes, from prairies to mountains.
- Historic Sites: Pass by important landmarks such as the Mighty Mississippi River and the Spokane Falls.
- Cultural Immersion: Interact with locals from different regions along the route.
7. Ocean View Railways
Scenic train ride along California's central coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal landscapes.
- Oceanic Wonders: Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Ocean from the comfort of your seat.
- Historical Sites: Pass by historic sites such as Hearst Castle and San Luis Obispo's Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.
- Seasonal Attractions: Take advantage of seasonal attractions, like whale watching in winter or wildflower viewing in spring.
8. Cascades Route
Train journey through Oregon's Willamette Valley and the Cascade Range, showcasing picturesque landscapes and historic sites.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the stunning beauty of the Willamette Valley and the Cascade Range.
- Historical Sites: Pass by historic sites such as the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad and the Crater Lake National Park.
- Wine Tasting: Stop at various vineyards along the route for wine tastings and tours.
9. San Joaquin Valley Route
Train ride through California's Central Valley, offering a glimpse into agricultural heartland and diverse landscapes.
- Agri-Tourism: Learn about California agriculture and visit farms along the route.
- Scenic Variety: Experience a variety of landscapes, from fields to mountains.
- Historical Sites: Pass by historic sites such as the California State Railroad Museum and the old town of Stockton.
10. Napa Valley Wine Train
Scenic train ride through Napa Valley's vineyards, offering wine tastings and gourmet dining along the way.
- Wine Tasting: Savor world-class wines from various vineyards in Napa Valley.
- Gourmet Dining: Indulge in gourmet meals prepared by award-winning chefs onboard.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Napa Valley's vineyards and rolling hills.
11. Big Sur Railways
Scenic train ride along California's Central Coast, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal redwood forests, and rugged cliffs.
- Ocean Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the comfort of your seat.
- Scenic Beauty: Witness the stunning beauty of coastal redwood forests and rugged cliffs.
- Historical Sites: Pass by historic sites such as the Big Sur Station and Henry Miller Library.
12. Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Cable car ride up Mount San Jacinto in Palm Springs, offering panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and Chino Canyon.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley and Chino Canyon from the mountaintop.
- Nature Exploration: Explore the desert ecosystem, including hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Seasonal Attractions: Take advantage of seasonal attractions, like winter snow sports or summer stargazing events.
13. Orange County Pacific Rail Trail
Bike ride or walk along a former railroad corridor in Orange County, offering scenic views and connections to local attractions.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the beauty of coastal landscapes, wetlands, and cityscapes.
- Active Transportation: Participate in an active form of transportation while exploring Orange County.
- Connectivity: Connect to local attractions, such as beaches, parks, and restaurants along the trail.
14. San Diego Coast Rail Trail
Bike ride or walk along a former railroad corridor from Oceanside to Santa Fe Depot in San Diego, offering scenic views and connections to local attractions.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the beauty of coastal landscapes, beaches, and cityscapes.
- Active Transportation: Participate in an active form of transportation while exploring San Diego County.
- Connectivity: Connect to local attractions, such as beaches, parks, and the San Diego Zoo along the trail.
15. Los Angeles Metrolink
Commuter rail system in Los Angeles County, offering connections to major cities and attractions throughout Southern California.
- Connectivity: Connect easily to major cities and attractions across Southern California.
- Efficient Transportation: Travel efficiently by rail, avoiding traffic congestion on the roads.
- Affordable Travel: Save money on gas and parking by using public transportation.