Here are three of the best:
Amtrak Missouri River Runner
COURTESY OF AMTRAK
This Midwest route departs from St. Louis and travels across the state to Kansas City, offering scenic views of the Missouri River. The train stops at a number of charming destinations along the way, and each offers rich history and a host of fascinating attractions. Be sure to hop off at the quaint riverside city of Hermann to catch the trolley that includes stops at local wineries, distilleries, and restaurants. Check out Stone Hill Winery, which dates back to 1847 and boasts numerous international accolades for its impressive wines, or explore Hermann Farm, an enormous property with tours showcasing the regal (and relatively rare) Shire horses bred on site.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
COURTESY OF NEW MEXICO TRUE
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is nothing short of breathtaking as it traverses the diverse terrain of Colorado and New Mexico, winding through lush forests and across high plains. This train line is also one of the country’s highest, topping out at 10,015 feet as it crosses Cumbres Pass. The train snakes 64 miles from Antonito, Colorado, to Chama, New Mexico, and passengers can opt for a one-way journey along the whole line or a “half limited” voyage, which travels round-trip from either terminus to the midpoint station in Osier, Colorado. With the leaves transforming the landscape into a show of spectacular reds, golds, and oranges, this ride is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country come autumn.
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
COURTESY OF FANNIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway begins at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia, and takes riders on a four-hour, 26-mile round-trip journey along the Toccoa River through the northern Georgia countryside. The railway offers a choice between traditional closed cars (featuring large picture windows) and open-air cars, for riders who want to breathe in the crisp mountain air while admiring the autumn colors. The journey starts with a one-hour trip to McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, neighboring mountain towns situated on the state line. Travelers enjoy a two-hour “layover” there before making the one-hour return trip through the scenic forest and back to the depot in Blue Ridge.
View all 13 fall scenic train trips by copying and pasting the link below:
(travelandleisure.com)