America's Longest And Most Beautiful Train Ride Offers A Fun Way To Explore The US

There is an epic journey that crosses straight through the heart of America and requires very little planning and effort. No decision paralysis over itineraries, no fatigue from hours behind the wheel. All you have to worry about is deciding what to eat and which window to look out of. That's the experience of riding aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr route.

The California Zephyr has earned a reputation for being one of the most scenic Amtrak train routes in North America. It's also the longest Amtrak ride in terms of miles, and arguably the best California train journey to explore the Golden State. It transports riders across a full two-thirds of North America, spanning 2,438 miles total. In just over two days and two nights, passengers will travel between Chicago and Emeryville, about 10 miles outside downtown San Francisco, soaking in some of the most beautiful views in America from the comfort of a train car.

Amtrak offers several seating options aboard to suit a variety of budgets. Coach is the most budget-friendly experience, with wide recliner seats that have built-in reading lights and dedicated power outlets. If you're willing to splurge on extra comfort for this long-haul voyage, there are a range of First Class options, from private roomettes that convert daytime seating into compact beds at night, to full bedroom suites similar to hotel rooms, complete with a private bathroom and shower.

There is no shortage of sightseeing on Amtrak's most scenic route. The train climbs through the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains and Sierra Nevada Mountains, ventures through the historic Moffat Tunnel, cruises past the majestic Byers and Glenwood Canyons, along with many other natural wonders. As the train traverses the Rocky Mountains, it ascends to a maximum elevation of 9,270 feet. The Moffat Tunnel takes passengers 6.2 miles directly through the mountains.

Gore Canyon is one of the highlights of the California Zephyr train route for its tremendous and striking beauty. Gore Canyon runs 3 miles long on the Upper Colorado River. Its walls rise about 1,000 feet high, with expansive views of the class V whitewater rapids below. As the westbound train enters California, the scenery transforms into the vast landscape of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, a region dotted with breathtaking towns that are totally worth visiting. This includes sections such as Donner Pass, a historically significant mountain pass with a tragic backstory. In the colder months, this region becomes a winter wonderland, with endless evergreen trees covered in layers of snow.

Part of what will blow your mind on this journey is that there is no wifi on board. That's right, you will be spending roughly 51 hours unplugged and tuned into the magnificent landscapes unfolding outside your window. This also means that you'll need to do a bit of planning ahead of time to ensure you have a few options for how to spend your time. Consider packing a good book, or downloading a few podcasts and a couple of movies. 

The California Zephyr features Amtrak's signature Observation Car, which is accessible to all passengers. These special cars are found on the top of double-decker trains and are designed for maximum viewing, with floor-to-ceiling windows. There are single seats, double seats, family-style seating in the Observation Car, so you can enjoy solitude or social engagement, depending on how you feel. 

Another fabulous feature of the Zephyr route is the dining options. There's the Amtrak Cafe Car, which offers food and beverages to all passengers on board, from early morning to well past sundown. There's also traditional dining – complimentary for passengers in First Class, including room service. The Dining Car serves seasonal menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with dessert and wine. Passengers can make reservations for lunch and dinner, but traditional dining may not be offered for all seat classes. Those who book a private room also have a dedicated First Class attendant, who is there to support your comfort throughout the journey.