What Are the Top US National Parks Near Train Stations?

You can easily explore some of America's top national parks using train travel. Amtrak offers scenic routes that bring you near beautiful locations like Glacier National Park via the Empire Builder line, with stunning views of the Rockies. From Salt Lake City or Idaho Falls, train access to Yellowstone allows you to witness its majestic geysers. The California Zephyr line connects you to Yosemite through Merced station with convenient shuttles available.

Don't miss the adventure at New River Gorge, accessed from the Hinton station on the Cardinal route. There are more breathtaking parks to explore from these convenient rail connections.

Image: Tony Webster from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Amtrak California Zephyr on the Colorado River (28154290124), CC BY-SA 2.0

Key Takeaways

Glacier National Park is accessible from East Glacier Park Amtrak station with stunning hiking trails and wildlife.
Yellowstone National Park can be reached via Amtrak, offering geysers, diverse wildlife, and scenic Zephyr or Empire Builder routes.
Yosemite National Park is accessible from the Merced station on the California Zephyr, with shuttle services connecting to the entrance.
Olympic National Park is reachable via Dungeness Bus Line from Seattle, featuring diverse ecosystems and hiking trails.
New River Gorge is near Hinton station on the Amtrak Cardinal route, known for whitewater rafting and rock climbing.

Amtrak's Role in Park Access

Amtrak plays a crucial role in making national parks more accessible to travelers across the United States. By offering convenient train journeys, Amtrak connects you to stunning destinations like Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Canyon National Parks. These scenic train routes, including the famous California Zephyr and Empire Builder, let you enjoy breathtaking views en route to your adventure, creating a memorable travel experience before you even arrive.

Once you reach the Amtrak station, getting to your chosen national park is a breeze. Many stations are within an hour's drive of park entrances, and shuttle buses are often available to streamline your journey. This means you don't have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or renting a car, allowing you to focus on the natural beauty that awaits you.

Moreover, Amtrak's Trails & Rails program enhances your travel by offering educational interpretive programs on select routes. As you journey through diverse landscapes, you'll learn about the natural and historic significance of the parks, enriching your visit. With Amtrak, your national park adventure starts the moment you board the train, making the entire experience both convenient and enlightening.

Glacier National Park by Train

As you journey across the United States with the convenience of train travel, a visit to Glacier National Park becomes an unforgettable adventure. Arriving at the East Glacier Park Amtrak station, you'll find yourself at the doorstep of one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the country. The park boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails, inviting you to explore its breathtaking scenery filled with glaciers, towering mountains, and pristine lakes.

Amtrak's Empire Builder route offers a scenic travel experience, taking you through the majestic Rocky Mountains and right up to the park's entrance. Once you arrive, the adventure continues with shuttle services and guided tours, including the iconic Red Bus Tours, which provide an immersive way to see the park's many attractions.

Glacier National Park is a haven for wildlife viewing, offering a chance to spot rare species like bears and bighorn sheep. As you explore the diverse biodiversity of the area, each moment becomes an opportunity to connect with nature. Whether you're here for the hiking trails or the chance to witness wildlife in their natural habitat, Glacier National Park delivers an unparalleled experience.

Discovering New River Gorge

West Virginia's New River Gorge National Park is an adventurer's paradise easily accessible via the Amtrak Cardinal route, with Hinton station just a short drive away. Known for its stunning whitewater rafting, the park offers thrill-seekers an unforgettable journey on the New River's challenging rapids. If rock climbing is your passion, you'll find New River Gorge a world-class rock climbing destination, boasting over 1,400 routes suitable for both novices and experienced climbers alike.

One of the park's highlights is the New River Gorge Bridge. This architectural marvel, one of the longest arch bridges in the world, offers breathtaking views. Walking along its catwalk is a thrilling experience you shouldn't miss. But that's not all—New River Gorge National Park is a haven for various outdoor activities. With over 70 miles of trails, you can explore the natural beauty through hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. Additionally, train enthusiasts might appreciate the Illinois Railway Museum for its extensive outdoor displays, offering insights into railway heritage that complements the adventurous spirit of the park.

Experience the excitement of the rapids with stunning whitewater rafting.
Test your skills on over 1,400 climbing routes at a premier rock climbing destination.
Walk the iconic New River Gorge Bridge for spectacular views.
Discover diverse outdoor activities across 70 miles of trails.

Exploring Yellowstone by Rail

Leaving the excitement of New River Gorge behind, let's embark on a journey to another iconic natural wonder: Yellowstone National Park. This legendary destination is accessible by Amtrak trains, with the nearest stations at Salt Lake City or Idaho Falls. From there, shuttle services can whisk you away to the park's entrances, making your adventure seamless.

Once you arrive, immerse yourself in Yellowstone's natural beauty. Known as the first national park in the U.S., it boasts over 500 geysers, including the world-famous Old Faithful. Witnessing this geothermal marvel erupt is an unforgettable experience. As you explore, keep an eye out for the park's diverse wildlife, such as bison, elk, and grizzly bears, roaming the vast landscapes. Enhance your journey by selecting journeys that highlight wildlife-rich destinations and offer immersive experiences.

Traveling on Amtrak's California Zephyr or Empire Builder routes enhances your journey, offering scenic vistas of breathtaking landscapes on your way to Yellowstone. Once inside, you'll find over 900 miles of hiking trails that cater to both leisurely walks and challenging treks, allowing you to soak in the park's stunning views and unique ecosystems. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Yellowstone promises an extraordinary escape into the heart of nature.

Yosemite Train Travel Tips

Getting to Yosemite National Park by train is a convenient and scenic option that enhances your travel experience. The California Zephyr, an Amtrak train, offers a picturesque journey through the heart of the country. Your adventure begins with a stop in Merced, the closest major train station to Yosemite, located about 75 miles away. From Merced, the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) provides shuttle services directly to the park entrance, ensuring a seamless transition from train to trail. Model train enthusiasts might find it interesting that rare models may sell for hundreds to thousands of dollars, adding a potential financial gain to their hobby. To make the most of your trip, keep these tips in mind:

Book in Advance: Reservations for both the Amtrak train and YARTS shuttle services are recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Check Seasonal Schedules: Train and shuttle schedules can vary, particularly in winter when some park roads may close. Plan accordingly to avoid surprises.
Leave the Car Behind: YARTS shuttle services within the park mean you can explore Yosemite's attractions without a personal vehicle.
Travel Light: A lighter load makes transitions between travel modes quicker and easier, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery.

Grand Canyon Scenic Routes

Yosemite's majestic landscapes might leave you breathless, but the Grand Canyon offers its own awe-inspiring wonders accessible by train. You can reach this iconic destination via the Grand Canyon Railway, which departs from the train station in Williams, Arizona. This vintage train ride isn't just about reaching the park; it's an experience in itself, full of onboard entertainment and scenic views of the Arizona landscape, including the stunning Coconino National Forest.

Once you arrive, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon awaits with its numerous scenic viewpoints. Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station are must-visits, offering breathtaking vistas of the canyon's immense beauty. If you're eager to explore more, the hiking trails like the Bright Angel Trail and the Rim Trail provide incredible opportunities to witness the canyon from different angles.

These trails are perfect for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers, offering stunning panoramas and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural wonder of the Grand Canyon.

Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, the Grand Canyon Railway journey, combined with the park's spectacular landscapes, promises an unforgettable experience. So hop on the train and prepare to be amazed.

Rocky Mountain Rail Journey

Embark on a captivating adventure with the Rocky Mountain Rail Journey, starting in the vibrant city of Denver. Here, you'll have the chance to explore the magnificent Rocky Mountain National Park. Before you know it, you'll be boarding the famed California Zephyr. This Amtrak route offers breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, showcasing the stunning landscapes of the Rockies as you travel towards Grand Junction. While on this journey, you can:

Witness diverse wildlife, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Enjoy seamless connections to shuttle services from Amtrak stations to nearby park entrances.
Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, especially rewarding during the summer months.
Access five national parks from Grand Junction, including Arches and Canyonlands.

The California Zephyr is more than just a train ride; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the most awe-inspiring natural beauty the United States has to offer. Whether you're an avid hiker or a photography buff, this rail journey provides countless opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. With easy access from Amtrak stations, it's never been more convenient to explore the wonders of these national parks. Scenic train travel promotes a deeper connection with the environment, making every mile of your journey a memorable experience.

Olympic National Park Access

With seamless connections from Seattle's train stations, accessing Olympic National Park has never been easier. Hop on the Dungeness Bus Line for a convenient ride to the park's entrance, where you're greeted by nearly a million acres of breathtaking wilderness. This park boasts a diverse array of ecosystems, from lush temperate rainforests to rugged coastlines and alpine mountains, offering a variety of experiences for nature lovers.

Olympic National Park is a haven for biodiversity, with over 300 bird species and wildlife such as elk and black bears. Whether you're an avid bird watcher or just love spotting wildlife, this park won't disappoint. Once you're there, indulge in numerous recreational activities. With over 600 miles of hiking trails, you'll find paths leading to stunning vistas and serene spots perfect for camping. Don't miss exploring the coastal tide pools, teeming with fascinating marine life.

Make sure to take advantage of the shuttle services from train stations to explore park highlights like Hurricane Ridge, where sweeping mountain views await. Also, consider visiting the Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach for an unforgettable Olympic National Park adventure.

Arches and Canyonlands Visits

Exploring the dramatic landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks is a must for nature enthusiasts. Both parks are easily accessible for those traveling by train, thanks to Amtrak's California Zephyr. Get off at the Grand Junction station in Colorado, and you'll find yourself just a short 30-minute drive away from these iconic destinations. Shuttle services are available, making the journey convenient and hassle-free.

Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch. It's a paradise for photographers and adventurers alike. Whether you're hiking through the rugged terrain or marveling at the natural rock formations, there's no shortage of breathtaking views.

Canyonlands National Park offers diverse landscapes and panoramic vistas that are perfect for hiking and photography. The park's vastness and beauty are sure to leave you in awe.

While visiting, you can enjoy:

Hiking through trails with stunning views
Rock climbing on unique formations
Stargazing under clear desert skies
Photography capturing the incredible scenery

Don't miss out on these outdoor activities that make Arches and Canyonlands unforgettable destinations for nature lovers.

Mount Rainier Exploration by Train

Many travelers find Mount Rainier National Park to be an easily accessible destination from Seattle, thanks to train services that whisk you through the scenic Pacific Northwest. As you journey by train, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of lush forests and majestic mountains, setting the stage for your adventure. Once you arrive, the park's vast expanse of over 260 miles of hiking trails awaits exploration. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, you'll find trails that lead to stunning vistas of the iconic Mount Rainier, towering at 14,411 feet.

While exploring, you'll encounter diverse ecosystems that make this park unique. Wander through old-growth forests that whisper tales of ancient times, or bask in the vibrant colors of alpine meadows blooming with wildflowers during summer months. Don't miss the chance to visit the park's stunning waterfalls, like Christine Falls and Narada Falls, perfect spots for photography or simply unwinding amidst nature's splendor.

To enrich your experience, consider joining interpretive programs or ranger-led tours. They offer insights into the park's unique geology and wildlife, making your visit to Mount Rainier National Park both educational and unforgettable.