Amtrak reveals hidden beauty of national parks
There’s something special about traveling by train — sightseeing without distraction while comfortably ensconced in a window seat overlooking the outside world as it passes by in all its scenic glory. And undoubtedly one of the best reasons for train travel is the ability to experience places that would otherwise be off-limits — with views of some of America’s most picturesque national parks awaiting travelers along Amtrak train routes. [thetravel.com]
Roll out of Seattle on a Vancouver discovery tour
A bald eagle coasted alongside the speeding train — Amtrak No. 516 en route from Seattle to Vancouver, B.C., on a recent Friday morning — the bird’s wings spread wide as it rode the wind. Passenger trains have been chugging along the waters off Washington state and British Columbia since early in the 20th century, but Amtrak paused the Cascades route at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. This fall, service finally resumed. [seattletimes.com]
DC’s new Silver Line stops are daycation hubs
With the completion of the second phase of Metro’s Silver Line, Washingtonians now have expanded rail service to exciting new destinations. Yes, there’s Dulles International Airport — but there are also plenty of places to go along the line that make for an easy and accessible “daycation” experience. Along this stretch of rail, you’ll find hiking and camping, a lazy river, rooftop putt-putt golf, indoor climbing and ropes courses, mountain biking, and one of Northern Virginia’s best breweries. [dcist.com]
Get back on track with an easy-going rail break
Although often overlooked for other modes of transit — namely, planes and automobiles — trains allow for a kind of romance that never goes out of style. Amtrak covers the United States from sea to shining sea, so you can just look out the window and enjoy the ride — without airport hassles, gas station bathrooms or traffic. Even better, numerous Amtrak trains wind their way through picture-perfect towns with luxury hotels, stunning scenery and noteworthy attractions so you can embark on a car-free getaway. [forbes.com]
