The Longest Train Route In America Offers A Scenic Cross-Country Journey

Frequently described as one of the most beautiful train rides in North America, Amtrak's California Zephyr winds its way through cinematic landscapes on the longest continuous train route in the U.S. At 2,438 miles long, the sleeper train transports you from the iconic marbled hall of Union Station in Chicago to Emeryville, just across the bay from San Francisco, and vice versa. It passes through seven states and stops at over 30 stations along the way. Taking around 52 hours, you'll have plenty of time to soak up the scenery whether you complete the route in one go or break it into sections. Popular stopovers in Salt Lake City, Denver, and Sacramento are just a few of the highlights on a journey that crosses almost two-thirds of the country through the Midwest to the West Coast.

Originally launched in 1949, the California Zephyr was named after the original streamliner trains that became famous for their sleek design and panoramic dome cars. Today, the route has become a classic American rail trip and is on many a train enthusiast's bucket list. The scenery is every bit as impressive as the journey itself, as you pass from one side of the country to the other. Boredom will be the last thing on your mind as you watch the sunrise over the Nebraska plains or marvel at the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and people watch as passengers from all walks of life come and go.

Rolling along at a steady average speed of around 50 mph gives you plenty of time to appreciate the ever-changing scenery. The top speed is roughly 80 mph, but that soon drops as it climbs and curves through the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada. Departing daily in both directions, the east-to-west route pulls out of Chicago into miles upon miles of mostly flat farmlands before crossing the Mississippi River into Iowa.

The first night is spent crossing the vast open plains of Nebraska, but the view takes a more dramatic turn the next morning. Shortly after Denver, where you can plan a visit to one of the most popular national parks from a scenic Amtrak train, the California Zephyr climbs up into the Rockies, passing through remote mountain scenery and reaching a height of 9,270 feet. After going through the historic Moffat Tunnel that cuts through the Continental Divide, the tracks follow the sheer cliffs and thundering rapids of the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon.

Many travelers consider the Denver to Glenwood Springs section the highlight of the trip. Although you may have to scramble for space in the Sightseer Lounge observation car for the best views, so remember to book a seat in advance. The second night is spent crossing the deserts of Utah before climbing once again into the steep mountain passes of the Sierra Nevada in California. The peaks, forests, and lakes gradually fade as you make your way into the Bay Area and watch the famous San Francisco skyline come into view before pulling into Emeryville Station.

Spending more than two days on a train means comfort is a must, and the California Zephyr has a range of accommodation options to suit your budget. Ticket prices vary depending on when you travel and how far you book in advance. For budget travelers or passengers only doing shorter sections, the cheapest option is to take coach seats. Tickets start around $200, which includes large reclining seats, footrests, tray tables, and overhead luggage storage. Showers and meals aren't included, but you do have access to the café car for snacks and drinks.

Other accommodation includes roomettes, which can sleep two but are ideal for solo travelers and start from around $800 in the off-season. There are also bedrooms, family rooms, and accessible rooms for passengers with disabilities starting from around $1,500. Meals are included with sleeper accommodation as well as lounge access at certain stations, but they are limited and need to be booked several months in advance, especially during summer. The Amtrak Guest Rewards loyalty scheme is worth looking into if you're a frequent rail traveler. Similar to frequent flyer schemes, you earn points for each dollar spent, which can later be used for cabin upgrades or free train journeys.

One thing that may surprise you is the lack of Wi-Fi onboard. But this means you can switch off and just enjoy the ride, or strike up a conversation with your fellow passengers. There are power outlets with all seats and rooms, so if you want to catch up on your favorite series come nightfall, make sure you download it in advance. Another plus is that pets are allowed on the California Zephyr, but you should check beforehand to avoid any common train travel mistakes.