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Vintage Rail Journeys

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VINTAGE RAIL JOURNEYS (New South Wales) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

“There’s something romantic about a train journey,” a look inside of Vintage Rail Journeys

“We like to slow things down and to really take things in,” said Simon Mitchell and Danielle Smith from Vintage Rail Journeys. “There’s something romantic about a train journey that traverses through the countryside, taking in the scenery and immersing yourself in the sights, the sounds of the people you meet along the way.”

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In 2019, the Canberra couple transformed the glorious Southern Aurora express passenger train into the Aurora Australis with the addition of modern luxuries but decided to keep the train’s beautiful mid-century vintage features.

“We have a lot of repeat clients that travel with us and, most of the time, with the people they met on the previous journey. There is such a warm and convivial atmosphere on the train,” said the couple.

“The beauty about our journeys is that we showcase some of the best regions in the state, from the coast to the western regions of New South Wales,” they added.

Vintage Rail Journeys offers three distinct journeys which also include off-train experiences. “We have great relationships with the communities we visit. On our Golden West Rail Tour, we visit regions in the Central West including a tiny town called Kandos. We stop there for an evening and on our first trip, we had a party at the community hall. The entire town turned up.

“That’s the charm of our rail journeys … And because we don’t travel by night, guests get to see the stars in these amazing places.”

Another drawcard of a Vintage Rail Journey is the food and wine on offer. They said: “Our chef, Scotty, is from Orange, so he has an intimate knowledge of the produce. One of the favourite dishes is the lamb and Scotty even harvests his own strawberries.” 

“But the food experiences extend off the train. We spend some time in Griffith and in the morning, we leave the train and head to the farm of local chef Luke Piccolo from Limone Dining [for] a fabulous breakfast.”

And keeping up with the vintage theme, a 1950s bus also accompanies the train, meeting the locomotive in each place and transporting passengers into town.

“It’s such a lovely experience and we have an option of Roomette (solo) Cabins and Twinette Cabins (upper and lower bunk beds). It doesn’t matter if you’re not travelling with a partner. Our guests make great life-long friends and have a memorable trip.”

2022 itineraries

North coast rail tour.

This five day journey takes you along the scenic North Coast Line. You’ll enjoy a Dolphin watch lunch cruise on the Hastings River, the Byron Bay hinterland rainforest, uncrowded surf beaches of the Macleay Valley Coast and the historic towns of Maitland/Morpeth before returning to Sydney.

Price: from $4250 per person

2022 dates: June 19-23 and October 23-27

Riverina Rail Tour

Tour the heart of Australia’s food bowl stopping at regional attractions and towns – such as Temora, Coolamon, Junee and Griffith – on this four-night Riverina trip.

2022 dates: February 27 to March 3, March 27-31, August 28 to September 1, September 25-29

Golden West Rail Tour

This four-night journey highlights some of our most breathtaking scenery, including the sandstone-cliffs lining the Hawkesbury River, the stunning coast to Newcastle and the wide expanse of the Central West.

2022 dates: February 13-17, March 13-17, April 10-14, September 11-15, October 9-13, November 6-10

Visit: vintagerailjourneys.com.au

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Vintage Rail Journeys

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VINTAGE RAIL JOURNEYS (New South Wales) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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All aboard - 5-day Golden West Rail Tour - Vintage Rail Journeys

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Thank you Simon, Danielle and your fabulous supportive crew. You made our journey relaxing and... read more

An amazing trip on the Golden West Rail Tour. Loved the nostalgia of the old restored train... read more

All aboard - 5-day Golden West Rail Tour

Having just returned from a most enjoyable 5-day Golden West Rail Tour through regional NSW, I wanted to share some insights from this exciting trip on board the wonderfully restored 1960s Southern Aurora. Departing from Central Railway Station Sydney ensued very easy access from the Airport as my partner and I travelled from interstate. As others have previously reported, Simon and Danielle and staff welcomed us onboard and anticipated every need during the journey. Meals were most enjoyable and served in two sittings in the beautifully restored Dining Car. Beyond this was the very spacious Lounge Car and Bar. Very reasonably priced pre and after dinner drinks were enjoyed here along with much conversation, the sharing of life stories and at times entertainment be it from the staff entertainer or a guest playing their instrument. There was no need to dress up for meals and guests wore whatever they felt comfortable in. Sleeping carriages joined from either end of the Dining and Lounge cars and comprised Twinette compartments and Roomette compartments for single passengers. Personal carriage space was adequate and very comfortable. If you wish, the staff member allocated to individual carriages was more than happy to provide a hot coffee on waking. The highlight of the trip for me was being able to explore rural NSW with its magnificent sandstone escarpments and bush and especially being able to travel on lines closed to regular train traffic. Overnighting in remote sidings added to the adventure. Coaches were on hand to provide transport to the many off board activities we enjoyed; be it Museums, Wineries, a Rural Homestead, Working Farm or other points of interest. Another highlight was having one of the original Ansett Pioneer Clipper Coaches accompany us at every stop. This was both a thrill to travel on and a sight to be seen. Judging by the spontaneous conversations and at times raucous laughter amongst guests, I am sure new friendships were formed. Whether travelling alone or with family or friends everyone shared in the experience and fun along the way. Each of the Vintage Rail Journeys – Riverina Rail Tour / North Coast Tour / Golden West Tour - offer their own unique highlights and destinations. Whether you are a train buff or just want to have a very different rural adventure, Simon Danielle and team will ensure you will feel very much at home onboard Southern Aurora. I will have no hesitation in discussing these adventures with my clients. Robert Travel Consultant Melbourne

Thanks for extensive Review, Robert, we are so glad that you enjoyed your time on tour with us, and we hope we can welcome you back soon!

Thank you Simon, Danielle and your fabulous supportive crew. You made our journey relaxing and fun. There were many repeat travellers on this journey, but you made us feel as welcome as them. We enjoyed it so much we think we will join you again in April. Kaye & David.

So glad to hear that you enjoyed your journey, Kaye & David - we'll hope to see you again in April!

Really lovely personalised service - made us feel quite special. A lovely mix of being on the train and off the train

Thanks Jo, we loved having you on board, especially the sing alongs on the lounge carriage!

An amazing trip on the Golden West Rail Tour. Loved the nostalgia of the old restored train carriages. Staff were fantastic, organisation for off-train experiences was first class and meals were over the top delicious. And we loved that old Ansett Clipper. It was overall great fun. Trivia, entertainment and dancing on a train. What more can you ask for.

Thanks for your kind words Ken, so glad you enjoyed your time on board!

Well organised, terrific staff, friendly people and great meals - treated like royalty. The daily excursions were well planned and all the people we met on this tour were a pleasure to make acquaintance with.

We are glad you enjoyed your time on board John!

Friendly staff provide a personalised service. An always interesting journey with well-chosen excursions.

Thanks for your kind words Grant M, it was a pleasure having you on board!

Vintage Rail Journeys

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Vintage Rail Journeys - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Not sn experience I would repeat. - Vintage Rail Journeys

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Having just returned from a most enjoyable 5-day Golden West Rail Tour through regional NSW, I... read more

Thank you Simon, Danielle and your fabulous supportive crew. You made our journey relaxing and... read more

Not sn experience I would repeat.

My husband and I have just completed the tour through central western NSW. All the staff were terrific- courteous, friendly and very obliging. The highlight was the enjoyable company of all the lovely fellow travelers we met. The food was acceptable enough and accommodation as to be expected on a vintage train. The lounge was comfortable enough, but in a grotty condition.There were, however, too many teething problems which reduced our enjoyment of the trip, and the manager did not appear interested in addressing these. The last day was spent on a bus tour of the Blue Mountains. Unfortunately, it was a cold and rainy day, which could not be helped, but to be left waiting in those conditions for the train to meet us for more than an hour, was a poor way to end our trip. I would have been reasonable for Management to organise somewhere out of the cold for that time and perhaps to pay for warm drinks at a cafe or similar for us all as compensation for the situation. A PR exercise which would have paid well for the owners. It was a pleasant enough experience, if over priced for what was provided, and not one I would readily recommend.

Hi Chris & Kim, Thanks for taking the time to talk through your concerns with us on the phone, we really appreciate your feedback. You've been able to provide us with the detail that will allow us to improve what we do for future guests. We apologise that we didn't meet your expectations. Kind regards, Simon Mitchell & Danielle Smith, Directors Vintage Rail Journeys

We recently returned from a 5 day/4 night Riverina Rail Tour operated by Vintage Rail Journeys in NSW. This tour is a serious alternative to the 3 major Australian rail tours although not to the same level of luxury. The pre-trip arrangements are well documented and carried out by the owners and staff. The Riverina trip went through NSW towns and stopped overnight in Goulburn, Griffith (Murrami Siding), Temora and Orange. From a rail travel enthusiast's viewpoint, it was great that train travel occurred during the day (The train was "stabled" overnight) so no scenery was missed. Totally relaxing sitting in a comfortable cabin watching the countryside pass by (or in the Lounge with a glass of Shiraz). The staff on board were friendly and helpful. The Lounge and Dining Cars are well fitted out and the food very tasty with good, multiple choices each day (2 courses). There were daily organised tours visiting local rail facilities or museums. Breakfast at Piccolo's Farm in Griffith was a highlight. As detailed in the Company's documentation, the train is circa 1960s rolling stock which has been faithfully restored. The cabins are self-contained with ensuite and bunks. There are some challenges with the top bunk and toilet, but are quite manageable and add to the authenticity of the train facilities. The whole 5 day trip is conducted at a relaxed pace and we found it to be totally enjoyable. Anyone who loves train travel should put this on their must-do list. Apparently the Company conducts 2 other similar tours. We will certainly do these in the next few years.

Thanks for your very kind and fair review - we look forward to welcoming you back on board for a Golden West or North Coast Rail Tour :)

REVIEW OF VINTAGE RAIL JOURNEY’S RIVERINA TOUR 27th – 31st MARCH 2022 Simon Mitchell and Danielle Smith are to be congratulated for conceiving and organising such an epic undertaking as this five-day exploration of NSW’s Riverina district by rail. The logistics involved are mind-boggling; arranging locomotives, refuelling, watering, food and staff, are only the obvious things. Being thrown a last minute route alteration due to track closures was handled amazingly with alternative pathways booked and additional excursions seemingly taken in their stride. The whole trip was a delight from the welcoming on Platform 1 at Sydney Central, (glass of champagne thrown in), to the small gifts of soap and chocolates along the way. Although the cabins are small and cramped and the en suite even more so, it is advertised as a “vintage” rail tour, so I guess that we can’t complain. However, the lounge car was very comfortable and roomy with the bar attendant very bright and friendly. In fact all the numerous staff were helpful and sociable. The food was terrific throughout the journey and although only two courses, was sufficient and extremely tasty. The off train excursions were also interesting and well organised. I elected to visit both the Goulburn Roundhouse Museum and the Junee Roundhouse Museum, which I enjoyed very much. The stroll around Coolamon and Griffith was nice with plenty of time to brose through the shops. Piccolo’s Family Farm was an informative experience and Di Bortello’s Vineyard a wonder of beauty to behold. I would have liked more time to explore The Temora Railway Museum, but I appreciated Simon’s lesson on working the signal box levers. Temora’s Aviation Museum was a highlight of the tour with many old war planes that I grew up hearing about. The last minute add on excursions in Bowral were terrific with the trees of Retford Park a visual blessing, the lunch at Centennial Vineyard delicious and the visit to The Fairground Follies a musical standout. Suggestions: A more complete coverage of the excursions in the advertising brochures to attract more clients. A Public Address system throughout the train to advise of line side points of interest as the train passes (e.g. Bethungra Spiral); although the texting information system worked well. A better-regulated air conditioning system to the cabins would be appreciated, as most people found it too cold in their cabins. All in all a most enjoyable experience and I would thoroughly recommend this or similar tours to all and sundry. Glenn A. Rose 5th April, 2022

Thanks Glenn & Merilyn for your very fair review, it was a pleasure to have you onboard and we hope to see you again at some stage in the future! Regards, Simon & Danielle

Excellent customer service, from check in, to daily sms alert for next day schedule. Besides, train cartridge supervisor, will check the needs for every clients under her wing, any doubts etc. As a client, we can see the service teams are closely knitted so as the food catering. I will recommend anyone in joining any of their vintage train trips.

Thanks Virginia, we really enjoyed having you on board our train :)

What a wonderful experience to travel on the Golden West Tour! NOVEMBER 2020. The organisation by Simon and Danielle was 100% The off train tours were interesting and travelling on the Ansett bus was a treat. Meals were delicious and the staff were able to manage different sittings ( due to covid restrictions). I would highly recommend Vintage Rail Journeys to anyone who wants to see NSW and sleep on the " old Southern Aurora".

Thanks Scott! Can't wait to welcome you both on board again in March :)

The "Aurora Australis" is a credit to the enthusiasm, commitment & dedication of its owners Simon & Danielle. The several carriages have been restored with a meticulous eye to detail, resulting in 60-odd year old carriages being close to the original (the complement of carriages even includes "survivors" from the horrific 1969 Violet Town crash). The staff were simply magnificent (most being ex-Qantas, unemployed thanks to Covid); they handled every problem with enthusiasm & a smile. And there were a good mix of teething problems - not unexpected given we were on close to the first journey (to the Riverina) on a train designed for simple overnight trips and not for 5-day "live in " trips. That said, we too kept smiling, despite some disappointing changes to the route & overnight stabling locations, some water issues with the shower & toilet (apparently linked to the function & capacity of the retrofitted waste retainer tanks) and the odd problem with cabin temperature & air circulation. Travellers with limited mobility might be challenged a little by the size & layout of the ensuite and perhaps gaining access to the top bunk (has no safety rail). Meals are good (verging on excellent sometimes) but not "MasterChef-inspired" and beers & wines are reasonably priced (although the wine list is limited e.g. no riesling or chardonnay). We would be unlikely to look to a repeat trip but would recommend particularly to train enthusiasts who embark on such a trip recognising there will be the odd hiccup - it's certainly not the Ghan or Indian-Pacific, both of which we've been on several times.

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These Are The Most Scenic Rail Journeys In North America

Posted: September 21, 2023 | Last updated: September 21, 2023

Unmissable rail experiences

California Zephyr, Chicago, Illinois to San Francisco, California

Often dubbed the ultimate cross-country rail trip by enthusiasts, this epic 2,438-mile (3,924km), 51-hour journey between Chicago and San Francisco is undeniably breathtaking. From the majestic mountain ranges of the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada to the bright-red hues of Utah’s deserts and the seemingly endless plains of Nebraska, expect fabulous scenery from start to finish. 

What’s more, there are plenty of options to experience it. Coach seats start at around $142 for the full trip – you’ll have to make do with a reclining seat for this price – while roomettes start at around $680 (although prices vary depending when you’re traveling and how many people there are). Travelers in private rooms also have access to flexible dining that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and a wide selection of drinks. Trains usually depart daily, but check the website for updates.

Rocky Mountaineer, Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah

Launched in August 2021, the Rocky Mountaineer’s exciting new route takes passengers on a two-day excursion between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah, including an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. The Rockies to the Red Rocks journey is an extravagant one and doesn’t come cheap, starting at $1,395 for a one-way trip. All packages include gourmet meals, access to opulent lounge carriages and accommodation in Moab, Glenwood Springs and Denver. 

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While it would be easy to focus on all the luxuries found inside, the real highlight of this journey is the incredible landscapes to be found outside – which include Ruby Canyon, Mount Logan and Mount Garfield. To maximize the views, the train only runs during the day and features oversized windows and glass-domed coaches. There are also options to start or end in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas if you’d like a little time to explore these destinations.

City of New Orleans, Chicago, Illinois to New Orleans, Louisiana

Amtrak’s City of New Orleans  is a popular choice for those wishing to explore the rich history and culture of Chicago, Memphis and New Orleans. Trains typically leave the Windy City at 8pm, trundling through Illinois and Kentucky by night and gliding into Tennessee as the sun rises. Be sure to stop off in Memphis to wander through the homeland of blues, rock n’ roll and soul music, as well as paying a visit to Elvis’ former home.

The Canadian, Vancouver to Jasper, Canada

VIA Rail’s overnight service between Vancouver and Jasper certainly doesn't scrimp on impressive scenery. What’s more, it’s a fraction of the price of the famous Rocky Mountaineer service. The 19-hour trip starts at reasonable C$156 (US$122) per passenger for a reclining seat in Economy, or C$527 (US$413) for a two-person cabin in Sleeper Class.

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Trains depart Vancouver at 3pm each day, gliding away from the city’s gleaming skyscrapers and towards British Columbia’s breathtaking mountains and lakes. Stopping at Kamloops just after midnight, the journey continues along through eastern BC and into Alberta (be sure to wake up early to see the Rockies at sunrise). Finally, you’ll arrive in Jasper at 11am the following day. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes, this laid-back town is the ideal base for exploring the Rockies and Jasper National Park.

Discover Canada's most jaw-dropping views

The Ocean, Montréal to Halifax, Canada

Many visitors flock to western Canada for its big-name national parks and hulking mountains, but the east coast is stunning in an entirely different way. Seeing the delights of this charming region is easy on board VIA Rail’s The Ocean . Beginning at 7pm in Montréal, the journey whisks you alongside the Lac Saint-Pierre, before passing through New Brunswick by night and then onto the picturesque lakes of Nova Scotia. Finally, you’ll arrive in Halifax at 5.51pm the following day.

Napa Valley Wine Train, Napa to St Helena, California

What could be better than drifting past emerald-green vineyards with a glass of wine in hand? Perhaps doing so on one of Napa Valley Wine Train's  unique vintage carriages, which travel on a 36-mile (58km) there-and-back trip from Downtown Napa to St Helena on an original 1864 rail line. The carriages, with their opulent velvet-upholstered seats, mahogany paneling and brass, have been sensitively restored to evoke the glamor of vintage train travel.

Offering the perfect combination of history, stunning landscapes and (of course) great wine, there's a range of packages on offer, from half-a-day winery tours with tastings to on-board dining experiences and special events, like the Murder Mystery dinner theater option. As you might expect, food and wine options aboard are ultra-opulent, with most packages offering multi-course gourmet meals and complimentary private-label wines. Needless to say, all of this doesn’t come cheap – prices are only available on application. 

Sky Railway, Santa Fe, New Mexico

Skirting through some of New Mexico’s finest scenery, the tantalizingly named Sky Railway is just as fantasy-filled as you’d imagine. The journey is made all the more enticing by the fact this 141-year old heritage route was recently saved by a group of rail enthusiasts ( Game of Thrones author George RR Martin among them). Since its revival in late 2021, it’s been given a new lease of life as a family-friendly adventure trip.

Denali Star, Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska

Ditch the car and opt for a more climate-friendly journey through one of America’s most beautiful (and least-visited) national parks. The Alaska Railroad's flagship train  Denali Star embarks on a 12-hour ride between Anchorage and Fairbanks via Wasilla, Talkeetna and Denali. Along the 365-mile (587km) route, the train rushes past rivers and mountains and offers expansive panoramas of Hurricane Gulch from the top of a 296-foot (90.2m) bridge.

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Copper Canyon train, Los Mochis to Chihuahua City, Mexico

This nine-hour trip between Los Mochis, Sinaloa and Chihuahua City, Chihuahua, has rightly gained a reputation as one of the most epic rail journeys in the world. The famous Copper Canyon through which it travels is nothing short of magical: think dramatic gorges, towering peaks and historic colonial towns. It’s possible to travel in both directions, but we’d advise setting off from Los Mochis so you get to see the most stunning scenery (much of which is at the beginning of the route) before the sun sets. 

Mount Washington Cog Railway, Mount Washington, New Hampshire

Dubbed “the first mountain-climbing cog railway in the world”, this one-of-a-kind route traverses the steep summit of Mount Washington, reaching a 37% gradient at certain points. Located in the gorgeous Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, in the heart of the White Mountains, the National Historic Engineering Landmark is certainly a fun way to discover rural New England. 

Georgetown Loop Railroad, Georgetown to Silver Plume, Colorado

Want to travel across this terrifying-looking railroad? While we admit the aptly named Devil's Gate High Bridge, which features a 100-foot (30m) drop over Clear Creek, isn’t for the faint-hearted, this thrilling experience is at the top of many rail buffs’ wish lists. It’s no surprise that when it was completed back in 1884, this circular railroad connecting Georgetown and Silver Plume was seen as an engineering marvel and attracted visitors from all over.

Grand Canyon Railway, Williams to Grand Canyon Village, Arizona

It’s been a favorite road trip destination for decades, but you might not have thought to visit the Grand Canyon by rail. Yet this underrated (and surprisingly affordable) excursion has to be one of the most beautiful train journeys on the planet. Beginning in Williams, a small town 30 miles (48km) west of Flagstaff, Grand Canyon Railway meanders through ponderosa pine forests and open prairie, stopping at Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim before heading back to Williams.

Jose Cuervo Express, Guadalajara to Tequila, Mexico

Tequila fans need look no further: we’ve found the perfect train for you. Traveling the 11-hour journey between Guadalajara and the town of Tequila, the Jose Cuervo Express allows you to taste a wide variety of tequilas while whizzing past endless agave fields, all in a highly luxurious setting. Along the way, guests will also tour a distillery to discover how the spirit is made, wander the historic streets of Tequila and see an agave harvesting demonstration.

Trains depart from Guadalajara every Saturday and passengers can choose between four carriages: Express, Premium Plus, Diamond or Elite (pictured). On this luxury option, enjoy a large adults-only lounge and open bar providing a range of tequila cocktails, with decor inspired by the old-school glamor of the Orient Express. Tickets start at around 2,590 Mexican pesos ($128). 

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White Pass & Yukon route, Skagway, Alaska to White Pass summit, Canada

Want to feel like you’re on top of the world? A journey on the unforgettable White Pass & Yukon , which climbs nearly 3,000 feet (914m) from Skagway, Alaska to White Pass Summit in Canada’s Yukon territory, should do the trick. The 40-mile (64km), 2.5-hour round trip also takes place on a historic railroad dating back to 1898, when it was built to give greater access to mines at the time of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Today’s travelers can enjoy the ride from a range of vintage train carriages, kitted out with balconies to allow for optimum sightseeing and picture-taking. Among the incredible sights you’ll see are Bridal Veil Falls, Inspiration Point and Dead Horse Gulch – so named because some 3,000 horses tragically died here while traversing the Chilkoot Trail before the railroad was built. Between April and October each year there are several departures a week, with tickets starting at C$134 ($105) for adults and C$67 ($53) for children.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Durango to Silverton, Colorado

Often listed as one of the world’s greatest routes, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a unique journey through America’s history. Original coal-fired locomotives from the 1880s follow in the tracks of countless miners, cowboys and gunslingers from the Old West, giving an insight into what train travel was like some 140 years ago. In fact, the railroad has even been listed as a National Historic Landmark to protect its heritage. 

On the 45-mile (72km) trip, the train crosses the Animas River five times and winds its way through canyons in the stark wilderness of the San Juan National Forest. Travelers pass farmlands, old stagecoach roads and the brooding Tacoma Power Plant along the way. There are four classes to choose from during the summer season from May through to October, with prices starting at $94.

Ethan Allen Express, Burlington, Vermont to New York City

We can't think of a much better way to experience gorgeous fall colors than this. The Ethan Allen Express , which was launched by Amtrak just ahead of fall, takes passengers on a leisurely seven-hour journey between Burlington, Vermont and New York, stopping at Rutland and Albany along the way. The scenery you'll pass is incredible, from idyllic New England countryside as you pass through the Hudson Valley to the historic college towns and maple tree forests of Vermont.

You could sit back and soak up the scenery all day, but if you wish to break up the route there are plenty of worthwhile stops. Be sure to take some time exploring Saratoga Springs, where horse-racing, elegant Victorian architecture and plenty of independent shops and restaurants await. Outdoorsy types should make a beeline for Rutland, which offers skiing opportunities by winter and gorgeous hiking year-round. 

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