This Summer: Trade Your National Park Road Trip for a Train Journey to National Parks

Explore America's National Parks by Train

Summer is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the national parks in the United States, with dry mountain roads, sparkling lakes, and fields of wildflowers in full bloom. If you're considering a trip to a national park, why not enhance your experience by traveling by train instead of by car? Amtrak, the largest train service in the U.S., offers numerous routes directly to some of the most famous parks.

Amtrak's Fantastic Routes

Traveling by train not only allows you to soak in stunning views but also saves you time. One of the most popular ways to plan your summer trip to national parks is by using Amtrak Vacations. This service provides a variety of flexible tour packages, including shuttle services and overnight accommodations, perfect for those seeking convenience.

If you prefer a more independent adventure, simply choose your route, hop on the train, and stop at stations near park entrances. This will help you save travel time and give you more opportunities to enjoy nature.

Train to Grand Canyon National Park

The Amtrak Southwest Chief route is one of the best choices for those wanting to witness the enchanting beauty of the American Southwest. This route begins in Chicago and passes through eight states, with the most scenic stretch occurring as the train travels through New Mexico and Arizona before concluding in Los Angeles.

Passengers will have the chance to admire rare desert landscapes that cars can't access, including sprawling cattle ranches, rolling mountains, and Pueblo villages. Notably, you can stop in Flagstaff to connect with a shuttle to the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, from which you can take a train to Grand Canyon National Park.

Channel Islands National Park

If you're a beach lover, the Pacific Surfliner to Channel Islands National Park is an excellent choice. This park comprises a chain of five rugged islands rising from the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, located right off the Southern California coast.

The train departs from San Diego and stretches approximately 350 miles along the California coastline. The stunning views of sandy beaches, sea cliffs, and coastal villages will captivate you. After arriving in Oxnard, passengers can use rideshare services to the harbor to catch a ferry to the islands.

Discovering the Rocky Mountains and Yosemite

Amtrak Vacations' “Essential Rocky Mountains to Yosemite” tour will take you through two of the most famous national parks in the West. This six-day itinerary starts in Denver, including a tour of Rocky Mountain National Park before boarding the California Zephyr.

As the train moves through the natural wonders of the West, you'll be treated to magnificent scenery such as Ruby Canyon and the Wasatch Mountains. Plus, passengers will enjoy complimentary meals on board with a diverse menu.

Glacier National Park and Mount Rainier

The journey from Chicago to Seattle on the Empire Builder will take you through the vast lands of Montana and into the Pacific Northwest, with a visit to Glacier National Park. After exploring this stunning area, the train continues into Washington, home to the majestic Mount Rainier.

If you visit between late July and mid-August, you'll be greeted by a spectacular display of wildflowers in bloom, especially the purple lupine, red paintbrush, and pink penstemon.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

Vietnamese travelers planning to visit the national parks in the U.S. should keep a few things in mind. Firstly, you will need a U.S. tourist visa, and the processing time can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Secondly, airfare from Vietnam to the U.S. typically ranges from 15 million to 25 million VND, depending on the time and airline. Finally, check the USD exchange rate to prepare for expenses here, with an average meal costing around 300,000 VND for a simple dish.

Don't forget to plan your trip in advance to ensure the safest and most enjoyable travel experience!

Article referenced and edited from: Condé Nast Traveler