Find new off-the-beaten-path stops and hidden gems that make travel by train through the Pacific Northwest very scenic.

🚉 There’s More to See—If You Know Where to Look

When one thinks about the Northwest, Portland, Glacier National Park, and Seattle instantly come to mind. But between these well known tourist destinations lie landscapes, towns and local hidden gems that even the tourists miss. And that’s the magic of traveling by train; it is not just about the destination, it is a journey filled with stunning discoveries and scenic surprises.

This summer, we encourage you to take a slower approach to travel, step away from the rush, and try to find some of the treasures hidden by the side of the train tracks. All of these gems are waiting for their discovery to be a part of your next trip. Each has its own story, flavor, and charm.

1. Edmonds, Washington

Route: Amtrak Cascades / Empire Builder

Edmonds is often missed as it is postcard-perfect waterfront town situated just north of Seattle. Take a walk along the marina or view art galleries. If you like, you can enjoy a bite of crab melt in a nearby cafe with a view of the Olympic mountains.

Hidden Gem Highlight:

There are few people and good views when watching the sunset at Marina Beach Park.

2. Leavenworth, Washington

Route: Empire Builder

Leavenworth is a Bavarian themed mountian village with beer gardens and trails. Like a good mountain village, it has a lot of charming stores to browse alonf with icicle ridges. One should come here for the kitsch, and stay for the stunning nature and scenery surrounding the village.

Hidden Gem Highlight:

Near Leavenworth, the short hike to Icicle Ridge Trailhead has a panoramic view of the valley which is perfect during golden hour.

Route: Coast Starlight

3. Chemult, Oregon

Chemult is a quiet stop on first glance, but infact is an access to high-desert adventure and pristine lakes. From here you can take off to Crater Lake National Park.

Hidden Gem Highlight:

One of America’s most scenic drives, Rim Drive at Crater Lake, can be accessed with a rented car from town.

4. Vancouver, Washington

Route: Amtrak Cascades / Coast Starlight

Vancouver has often been underestimated due to its neighbor in Oregon, but it has more to offer than meets the eye. From a buzzing waterfront promenade and historic Fort Vancouver to a growing food scene, there’s something for everyone.

Hidden Gem Highlight:

The Vancouver Waterfront Park at sundown is extraordinary. The views of the Columbia River along with the parks walking trails, and wine bars make it a must visit.

5. Klamath Falls, Oregon

Route: Coast Starlight

Klamath Falls is an outdoorsman’s paradise; a calm city built beside lakes and surrounded by wildlife refuges as well as volcanic landscapes, it is also one of the sunniest cities in Oregon.

Hidden Gem Highlight:

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers stunning birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration season.

6. Mount Vernon, Washington

Route: Amtrak Cascades

This small town is best known for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, however, during the summer it is also packed with vibrancy. Farmers markets, riverside walks, and antique shops make for a perfect summer day.

Hidden Gem Highlight:

Rent a bike and ride through Skagit Valley farmland.

🌲 Why These Hidden Gems Matter

Authentic local cultures offer unique experiences and helps tourists avoid the crowds as well as populations that are typically swamped with visitors.

Sustainable Exploration: Lower impact travel is made easier by train stops.

Unexpected Memories: Unplanned places often create the best memories.

🧳 Traveler Tip:

Consider Using a Multi-Ride Pass or Creating a Customized Hop-Off Hop-On Route.

With flexible ticket choices like Amtrak’s Rail Passes, you have the freedom to customize a route, allowing you to spend a night or two in these hidden gem towns and reboard whenever you’re ready. Revel in the mantra, Slow Travel, and Travel Well.

🎟️ Planning to Explore More?

Visit our Promotions & Discounts page to learn more about multi-city tickets, summer rail passes, and other special fares that make extended exploration possible at a reduced cost.

🚂 Make Every Mile Count

Some of the best parts of the ride aren’t the big-city attractions; they are the small-town curbside cafes where strangers turn into friends, the random detours that become the highlight of the trip, and the backroads that lead to your new favorite bistro. Every Amtrak stop has a story, all you need to do is listen.

So this summer, go off the book. Venture beyond the travel itineraries. Experience the untold parts of the Pacific Northwest. And remember, joy lies in exploration.

See you on the tracks! 👋🌲