Train tours are a wonderful way to see some beautiful scenery in a relatively stress-free environment. You can recline in your spacious, comfortable seat and let the ever-changing landscapes roll by, while the rhythmic sound of the train’s wheels melts away your worries. Best of all, train vacations leave all the planning, driving, meals and details to someone else, so all the train traveler needs to do is to enjoy the experience!
Train tours are quite affordable, too. Train vacations can take you to (and through) some of the most scenic regions in the United States, for much less than it costs to travel by air and rent a car once you get there. And train vacations have professional tour directors to take care of your every need, from start to finish. With all that train tours have going for them, they are a great choice for everyone from families and couples, to singles and retired folks alike.
This 7 day/6 night train vacation includes sightseeing tours in Seattle, Washington; Mt. Rainier; Hood River; Columbia Gorge; and Mt. St. Helens, including the Blast Zone. You’ll board the Cascade train for a scenic West Coast rail journey south along the Puget Sound, then take a motorcoach tour along the shores of the Columbia River, a railway tour that glides past orchards, country cottages, wineries and local farms, and lastly, a historic journey on the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad, the longest continuously operating steam train railroad in the Pacific Northwest. (Departure dates: June 19 or June 26; August 28, 2009).
This short but sweet overnight train tour begins with a rail journey from Seattle, Washington to Portland, Oregon for the renowned Rose Festival. You’ll enjoy a delicious luncheon cruise along the Williamette River the first day. The next day, you can wander among the gorgeous floats of the Grand Floral Parade to see the incredible craftsmanship up close and learn how the floats are made, then relax in reserved seats to watch the spectacular floral parade. This 2-day train trip is very popular and sells out every year, so book early! (June 5-6, 2009).
Great Train Escapes “Trains Across Scenic Colorado”
Experience five scenic rail journeys along historic routes of the Old West on this fascinating 8 day/7 night train vacation. You’ll take a breathtaking “railway ride to the clouds” on the world’s highest cog railroad, Pikes Peak; ride the Royal Gorge Scenic Railway and watch rafters battle the rapids 20 feet below you; travel by a coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive on the same tracks that the miners, cowboys and settlers used a century ago; wind through the remote wildness of the San Juan National Forest, and experience the rugged beauty of the Rockies as a classic narrow-gauge steam train chugs up and down the canyon past abandoned gold mines and shafts. (Departure dates: June 20; Sept. 19 or Sept. 26, 2009).
Alki Tours “Rail Trip to Crater Lake, Rogue River and Ashland, Oregon”
This fun 5-day train tour is an innovative mix of railway travel, nature, water thrills, farming and culture. You’ll head south from Seattle on a relaxing rail journey to the awe-inspiring Crater Lake, where you’ll tour the rim while learning all about this deep blue lake’s violent volcanic past. The following day features an exhilarating jet-boat ride on the Rogue River through Hellsgate. Next it’s off to Ashland for an intriguing farm-to-table tour where you can see how the local folk live and taste crisp fruit, mellow cheese and delectable wines. Finally, you’ll enjoy a riveting Shakespearean play at the renowned Angus Bowmer Theatre before taking the return train trip to Seattle. (July 16 – 20, 2009)
These are just a few of the many great train tours available to travelers who want to try something new and different for their next vacation. But once you see how relaxing and enjoyable train travel can be, you will almost certainly want to ride the rails again and again.
