Try Out These Best US Scenic Train Rides For Gorgeous Fall Colors

Most people will agree, the summer of 2023 was too hot, but as it comes to an end, many of us are looking forward to colorful fall scenes. All those oranges, reds and browns of the fall make getting through summer worthwhile. To many, fall means apple cider, hot chocolate and cozy nights watching TV. However, others are seeking out the best scenic, fall colors across the USA. One of the best ways to do this is by taking a scenic train ride and gazing at the colorful display through the windows. Read on to find out the best scenic train rides the US has to offer this coming fall.

 

Essex Steam Train, Connecticut for fall scenes

The Essex Steam Train offers more than just a train ride, as it is a combination rail and river expedition. The trip heads through the Connectivity River Valley, a beautiful, but often overlooked part of the country. Meanwhile, passengers will get some gorgeous views and fall scenes along the way.

The train ride dates back to 1868 and is narrated, and also offers bird watching in the wetlands alongside the river. Meanwhile, the combination train and riverboat journey takes two-and-a-half hours. However, if you opt only for the train, this scenic journey will take around one hour. Find out more from the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat website here.

Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, New Mexico for fall colors

This iconic railway is often dubbed the C&TSRR, and is available only for views, including colorful fall scenes. The narrow gauge heritage railway is only three feet wide and runs on almost 65 miles of track between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito Colorado.

Often called the best scenic train ride in the USA, it offers sweeping views along the Western Rocky Mountains.  Meanwhile, the heritage railway is a National Historic Landmark and is the longest, highest and most authentic steam railroad in the country.

Catskill Mountain Railroad, New York in the fall

The Catskill Mountain region is around two-and-a-half hours north of New York City. Meanwhile, this unspoiled area of upstate New York is one of the best places to view some of the best colorful fall scenes in the country. To make it even better, these gorgeous scenes can be viewed from a historic steam train. Moreover, the Catskill Mountain Railroad offers many great activities for young and old as it heads through some of the oldest and most iconic farmlands in the USA.

Fall colors from the Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad, Ohio

Ohio offers some of the best fall foliage in the country and one of the best ways to view it is on the Cuyahoga Scenic Railroad. In the fall, enjoy the views while heading through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and alongside the Cuyahoga River.

Here, passengers will enjoy views of impressive forests, endless hills and open farmlands, all painted with red, purple and orange shades for the fall season. Find out more from the railroad’s website.

Experience the most colorful fall scenes from some of the best steam-train rides in the USA this year.