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Southwest Chief: Desert Panorama from Chicago to LA
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Published in Travel and Leisure on Sunday, February 15th 2026 at 12:58 GMT by Travel + LeisureLocales: Colorado, Washington, New York, West Virginia, Alaska, UNITED STATES
Southwest Chief, stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, provides a 40-hour panorama of deserts, mesas, and small-town America. Stops in Albuquerque, Flagstaff, and Barstow offer opportunities to explore the unique culture and landscapes of the Southwest.
For those drawn to the Deep South, the City of New Orleans route, a 27-hour journey from Chicago to New Orleans, presents a captivating tapestry of rolling hills, farmland, and historic towns. Memphis, Jackson, and Meridian act as cultural gateways along the way.
The West Coast beckons with two standout options. The Coast Starlight, renowned as one of the most beautiful train rides in the U.S. (approximately 35 hours from Seattle to Los Angeles), hugs the Pacific coastline, offering breathtaking ocean, mountain, and forest views. The Empire Builder (Chicago to Seattle, roughly 46 hours) plunges into the heart of the American Northwest, delivering stunning vistas of the Rocky and Cascade Mountains.
Beyond these long-haul options, shorter, equally captivating journeys are gaining popularity. The Adirondack (New York City to Montreal - 11 hours) provides a picturesque escape through the scenic Adirondack Mountains and along Lake Champlain. The Cardinal (New York City to Chicago - 26 hours) winds through the Appalachian Mountains, showcasing stunning river views. For sun-seekers, the Silver Star (New York City to Miami - 29 hours) provides a warm escape through the heart of the South and along the Florida coastline.
The Sunset Limited (New Orleans to Los Angeles - 48 hours) caters to those seeking desert landscapes and dramatic sunsets, while the Cascades (Eugene, Oregon to Vancouver, BC - 11 hours) offers lush greenery and Pacific Northwest charm. The Palmetto (New York City to Savannah, Georgia - 20 hours) explores the historic landscapes of the Southeast.
This renewed interest in winter rail travel isn't just about the scenery. Passengers are increasingly seeking a more sustainable and relaxing mode of transportation. Trains offer ample space to move around, onboard dining and lounge cars, and the opportunity to truly disconnect and enjoy the journey. Many routes also offer unique experiences, such as themed excursions and partnerships with local businesses, enhancing the overall travel experience.
The future of winter rail travel looks bright. Amtrak is continuously investing in its infrastructure and rolling stock, and with a growing awareness of the benefits of slow travel, we can expect to see even more people opting to embrace the magic of winter on the rails.
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas-bus-train-scenic-winter-train-rides-us-11903367 ]
