Fall is in full swing, and that means now is the perfect time to seek out quintessential autumnal experiences like leaf peeping and pumpkin patch wandering. While shoulder season offers excellent opportunities to find international travel deals, it’s also an ideal time to explore more of the United States—and a new study provides perfect domestic trip inspiration for railroad enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As colorful foliage transforms landscapes across the country, scenic train rides offer unique vantage points to experience autumn’s spectacular display from the comfort of historic railcars.
Japan Rail Pass released a comprehensive report identifying the best autumn train journeys in the world, using data compiled from Tripadvisor reviews, Instagram hashtags, and seasonal weather data. By analyzing all of these factors, researchers created a definitive ranking of the best train rides featuring the clearest skies and most idyllic experiences for fall travelers.
America’s Top Fall Train Ride: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad claimed the top spot in the study, scoring an impressive 9.08 out of 10 on the JR Pass scale. This remarkable achievement positions this American treasure as the world’s premier autumn train journey.
The train route winds through Colorado and New Mexico traversing the majestic San Juan Mountains. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, the railroad dates back to the mining boom days of the 1880s, preserving a vital piece of American Western history. The 64-mile train route aboard an authentic steam train crosses the border between Colorado and New Mexico an impressive 11 times during the journey.
What Makes This Train Journey Special
On the official website for the train ride, the experience promises “zigzagging along canyon walls, burrowing through two tunnels, and steaming over 137-foot Cascade Trestle.” The dramatic scenic railway includes breathtaking views of wildflowers, striking geologic formations, and abundant wildlife including deer, antelope, elk, fox, eagles, and occasionally even bears.
With an average rating of 4.48 out of 5, the reviews for the experience are overwhelmingly positive from passengers who’ve experienced this historic railroad. “The weather was perfect, and we absolutely enjoyed every moment of our train ride,” one customer wrote on Tripadvisor, capturing the sentiment shared by countless visitors.
Open-Air Experience and Affordable Pricing
One of the biggest appeals of the train ride is the open carriages along the route, which allow passengers to sit and fully enjoy the crisp fall air and panoramic mountain views. Unlike enclosed train cars, these open-air options provide unobstructed photography opportunities and immersive sensory experiences.
The rides are also remarkably affordable for such a premium experience. Six-hour train rides start at just $115 per person for Coach seating and increase to $205 for Deluxe or $275 for Parlor seating. The full train experience runs for seven hours and 45 minutes, starting at $135 per person—exceptional value for a full day of scenic travel through some of America’s most spectacular terrain.
Planning Your Cumbres & Toltec Journey
The Cumbres & Toltec operates from late May through mid-October, making it perfectly positioned to showcase peak fall foliage in the Colorado and New Mexico mountains. September and early October typically offer the most vibrant autumn colors, though exact timing varies based on elevation and weather patterns.
Passengers can board from either Antonito, Colorado, or Chama, New Mexico, with various journey options available. The most popular choice is the through trip from one terminus to the other, with motorcoach return transportation included. Half-day trips are also available for travelers with limited time.
Given the train’s popularity, especially during peak autumn travel season, advance reservations are strongly recommended. Weekend departures and mid-October dates (peak foliage time) tend to sell out weeks in advance.
Top Five Fall Train Journeys Worldwide
The rest of the JR Pass top five train routes include one in Japan, two in Europe, and one more in the U.S. These selections represent the pinnacle of autumn train travel experiences around the globe.
1. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, U.S., Colorado/New Mexico
As detailed above, this National Historic Landmark offers unparalleled fall scenery through the American Southwest mountains, combining historical authenticity with natural beauty.
2. Tren de Sóller, Spain, Palma de Mallorca to Soller
This vintage wooden train in Spain travels through the stunning Serra de Tramuntana mountains, offering Mediterranean autumn landscapes characterized by olive groves, citrus orchards, and dramatic coastal views. The historic railway has operated since 1912 and provides a charming step back in time.
3. GoldenPass Line, Switzerland, Montreux to Interlaken
Switzerland’s GoldenPass Line ranks among the world’s most scenic railway routes, connecting Lake Geneva to the Bernese Oberland. Fall travel on this route showcases Alpine meadows transitioning to autumn colors, with snow-capped peaks providing dramatic backdrops. The journey passes through chocolate-box villages and alongside pristine mountain lakes.
4. Oigawa Railway, Japan, Shizuoka Prefecture
This Japanese railway in Shizuoka Prefecture offers unique views of Mount Fuji framed by autumn foliage. The line operates vintage steam trains through tea plantations and mountain valleys, where maple trees create spectacular red and gold displays during fall season. The railway also provides access to traditional hot spring towns.
5. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, U.S., Georgia
Another American entry rounds out the top five. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in northern Georgia travels through the Chattahoochee National Forest, showcasing the legendary Blue Ridge Mountains autumn display. The 26-mile round trip journey from Blue Ridge to McCaysville offers intimate views of fall foliage, river valleys, and historic trestle bridges.
Why Train Travel is Perfect for Fall
Scenic train journeys offer distinct advantages for autumn travel compared to other transportation methods. The elevated perspective provides panoramic views impossible to achieve from ground-level roads. The leisurely pace allows passengers to fully absorb changing landscapes without the stress of driving mountain roads.
Train travel also eliminates concerns about parking, navigation, or missing scenic viewpoints while focusing on the road. Many historic railroads incorporate dining cars or allow passengers to bring their own refreshments, creating picnic opportunities while viewing spectacular scenery.
The shoulder season timing of fall train journeys often means fewer crowds compared to summer peak travel, more comfortable temperatures for open carriage experiences, and lower accommodation costs in destination towns.
Photography Tips for Train Journeys
For photographers hoping to capture the fall scenery during their train ride, consider these recommendations:
Secure window seats on the side facing the most dramatic scenery—research your specific route beforehand to determine optimal placement. Open carriages offer the best photography opportunities without window glare or reflections.
Use fast shutter speeds to compensate for train movement. A minimum of 1/500 second prevents motion blur in most situations. Increase ISO settings as needed to maintain fast shutter speeds, especially in shaded canyon areas.
Bring a lens cloth to remove any dust or spray that accumulates during the journey. Wide-angle lenses capture expansive landscape vistas, while telephoto lenses allow you to isolate wildlife or distant mountain details.
Combining Train Travel with Fall Activities
Many scenic railway destinations offer additional autumn experiences beyond the train journey itself. Colorado and New Mexico towns along the Cumbres & Toltec route provide access to hiking trails, historic mining towns, art galleries, and local cuisine.
Consider extending your visit to explore nearby national forests or state parks where hiking and leaf peeping opportunities abound. Many communities host autumn festivals, farmers markets, and cultural events during peak foliage season.
The Blue Ridge region of Georgia is renowned for apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and mountain craft traditions. Switzerland offers world-class hiking trails and charming Alpine villages worth exploring beyond the train journey.
Booking Your Fall Train Adventure
For the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and other popular autumn train journeys, advance planning is essential. Major routes often release their seasonal schedules in early spring, allowing forward-thinking travelers to secure prime dates.
Consider weekday departures when possible, as weekend trains tend to be more crowded and may sell out faster. Early-season autumn trips (September) typically encounter fewer crowds than peak foliage periods in mid-October.
Package deals combining train tickets with local hotel accommodations and activities sometimes offer better value than booking components separately. Many railway companies partner with nearby lodging establishments to create convenient multi-day experiences.
Environmental Benefits of Train Travel
Choosing train travel for your autumn vacation also represents an environmentally conscious decision. Trains produce significantly lower carbon emissions per passenger mile compared to private automobiles or air travel.
Historic railroads like the Cumbres & Toltec actively work to balance tourism with environmental preservation, maintaining routes through sensitive ecosystems while educating passengers about conservation efforts. Many modern scenic railways have implemented sustainability initiatives including waste reduction programs and habitat protection measures.
By selecting train-based fall trips, travelers support preservation of historic transportation infrastructure while enjoying one of the most sustainable ways to experience natural beauty.
Making the Most of Shoulder Season Travel
Fall travel during shoulder season extends beyond just finding deals on international trips. Domestic travel within the U.S. offers incredible value and fewer crowds at iconic destinations.
The combination of pleasant weather, spectacular natural displays, and reduced tourist traffic makes autumn an ideal time for scenic train rides and regional exploration. Hotel rates in mountain towns typically drop after summer peak season, and restaurants and attractions operate with shorter wait times.
Shoulder season also allows for more spontaneous travel planning since accommodation availability is generally better than during summer months. This flexibility enables travelers to time visits based on real-time foliage reports rather than committing to dates months in advance.
Discover more seasonal travel guides, scenic journey recommendations, and adventure planning inspiration at The Inspiring Insight—where we showcase the most memorable ways to experience nature’s spectacular transformations throughout the year.
