This Lesser-Known Amtrak Route Showcases Beautiful, Southern Fall Foliage

Train rides through fall foliage are a New England specialty, from the Adirondack line in New York to scenic trips through the White Mountains. But as the last leaves flutter from the trees up north, you can make the most of the season by heading south, where autumn extends long into November. A four-hour trip on Amtrak's Heartland Flyer takes you from Oklahoma to Texas, offering sweeping views of colorful foliage scattered across the Arbuckle Mountains and gentle hills.

One of Amtrak's lesser-known lines, the Heartland Flyer is a relaxing way to shuttle between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth. Along the line, passengers can expect to spot fiery maples and red oaks glowing in early to mid-November. The towns along the way host plenty of seasonal celebrations to keep the fall spirit alive. And this reasonably priced trip has an average cost of $32.

Oklahoma City is one of the most budget-friendly places in the South and the perfect spot to start your fall journey. You can enjoy spooky thrills at Fright Fest, wander through a sea of pumpkins at The Museum of Pumpkinville in the Myriad Botanical Garden, and join families trick-or-treating among animals during Haunt the Zoo.

Make sure to get a window seat so you can take in the fall colors as the train glides past hills and plains. Several small towns along the way are worth a stop, including Ardmore, with its classic small-town charm. Main Street is dotted with boutiques and restaurants, and the town hosts the Oklahoma Pecan Festival on the first weekend of November, where you can find everything from pecan tree carvings to flavored craft beer. The following weekend, the Fall Festival fills the town with locally made handicrafts and mouthwatering Amish baked goods.

Hop back on board for more scenic views before rolling into Gainesville, where the festivities continue. Arrive on November 1 to celebrate Día De Los Muertos with music, dance, and fun costumes. Alternatively, visit on November 22 to sip your way through town with the Wine & Country Festival, showcasing local producers and live music. The great thing about arriving by train is that you won't have to drive after your tastings.

Your trip ends in Fort Worth, home to America's largest haunted house: an unforgettable finale to a fall journey on the Heartland Express. In late October, the Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering & Western Swing Fest brings authentic cowboy and girl culture to life, complete with chuck wagons and lively two-stepping. More culture comes to town in the shape of the Lone Star Film Festival in early November, celebrating local moviemakers. Lastly, if your train ride has left you wanting even more foliage views, head over to the Fort Worth Botanic Garden for colorful trees and a chance to catch the Fall Japanese Festival in early November.