Something spectacular accompanies summer in the Pacific Northwest: the long days, mild pristine weather, and breathtaking landscapes: deep emerald forests, sparkling lakes, scenic coastlines, all of which beckon for exploration. Yellowed grass fields stretch infinitely, creating an ideal backdrop for weekend picnics and outdoor recreation. But here’s a thought for consideration: maybe the best way to take everything in isn’t behind the wheel of a car, but through the oversized windows of a train.
Train travel isn’t limited to reaching a destination. Rather, it is the journey itself, and where else can you sip on hot coffee as snow capped peaks glide past or watch the sunset dip below the Pacific without the worry of stalled traffic?
This summer, unwind and embrace the art of slow traveling with these handpicked scenic Amtrak routes, and ride one of the Top 5 breathtaking trains across the Pacific Northwest, overflowing with natural beauty and endless comfort. Ready to ride?
Amtrak Cascades: Seattle to Portland
Why You’ll Love It:
In under four hours, you’ll experience this quintessential route for the region’s greatest hits: unrivaled vistas of the Puget Sound and Mt. Rainier, the Columbia River Gorge, and a quaint slice of Pacific North West towns, all of which are best to viewed from train windows. Glide past forests, city skylines of sailboats, and a whole lot more.
Best Suited For:
Weekend adventurers, first-time train travelers, and city-hoppers.
Spokane to Glacier National Park: Empire Builder
What You’ll Adore:
Riding from Spokane to Glacier National Park is an experience that few rides can match. You’ll feel as if you’re part of a nature documentary, especially when the Empire Builder slices through isolated valleys and dramatic mountains, but this, stunningly, would be the live version of it and you are the star.
Best Suited For:
Adventurous solitaires, nature enthusiasts, and bucket list travelers.
Seattle to Klamath Falls: Coast Starlight
What You’ll Adore:
Every mile is worth the picture from Seattle’s metropolitan skyline to Oregon’s breathtaking Oceans, forests capped mountains and even the crystalline alpine lakes. This route is akin to browsing a living postcard. You can also stretch in comfy seats or treat yourself to a scenic-view lounge car.
Best Suited For:
Those seeking ultimate tranquility, photographers and couples.
Portland to Eugene: Amtrak Cascades
What You’ll Adore:
Ride in the Wine Country while enjoying the company of the riverside, this ride is subtly slapped with pastoral grace. Be it a festival, family get-togethers, or a weekend at the vineyard, this route allows you to enjoy every part of the journey.
Best Suited For:
Relaxed families, travelers, and Oregon innovators.
Empire Builder: Everett To Leavenworth
Why You’ll Love It:
On your way to Leavenworth, watch for evergreen-covered cliffs alongside small rushing rivers. You’ll feel like you are in the middle of nowhere as Alpine villages filled with bratwurst and beer gardens greet you.
Ideal For:
These delightful experiences are suitable for cultural getaways, holidays, or anyone who enjoys the mountains.
🌞 Tips For Traveling During Summer
• Don’t Wait: Make reservations early as summer trains fill fast.
• Be Smart With Your Gear: A light summer jacket is advisable as the mountains can be nippy even in the morning.
• Stay Organized: There’s no need to pack too much as the rhythm of the trains will help keep you relaxed.
🎟️ Excursion deals are now available, check the summer promotions for family packages. Over the summer, Amtrak offers deals that allow you to get more from your travel budget. Their multi-ride deals and discounts for family and groups are accessible to anyone looking to travel for less and the earlier you purchase the tickets, the better the savings.
🚉 Why Train Travel This Summer?
✅ A warm summer excursion that is nature-friendly
✅ The absence of both traffic collisions and annoying navigation
✅ Views that cannot be seen from the road.
✅ Greater opportunity to disconnect; her, with herself, with people and with nature.
🌲 All Aboard for Unforgettable Summer Journeys
Escaping to the mountains, chasing sunsets or discovering new beautiful places, these train routes will catch you the best view of Pacific Northwest Evergreen. Therefore, this summer you can leave your car keys at home and let the tracks do the direction guiding.
Because the most amazing stories always begin with the train whistles.