Sometimes the journey is just as important as the destination. Such is the case for passengers who step aboard these 10 trains — nominated by a panel of travel experts and voted as the best by readers — offering gorgeous scenery and memorable rides.

Each route promises an unforgettable experience filled with beautiful landscapes and unique regional charm. Whether you're traversing majestic mountains, winding through lush forests, or gliding along rushing rivers, these train rides offer a captivating way to take in the diverse beauty of the country.

No. 10: Skunk Train
Fort Bragg, California

The California Western Railroad, known as the Skunk Train, got its start hauling lumber in Mendocino County; today, it's the towering evergreens tucked within the Noyo River Canyon and lining the Pudding Creek Estuary that steal the spotlight. Departing from Fort Bragg and Willits, each journey blends rich history with breathtaking scenery. Whether you're touring the historic engine house, riding an electric-assist Railbike, or enjoying a drink at the Glen Blair Bar that’s accessible only by rail, the Skunk Train promises an unforgettable adventure for all ages.gment and a deeper understanding of your own decision-making process – skills that translate directly to leading teams through uncertainty.

No. 9: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Bryson City, North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, based in Bryson City, North Carolina, takes passengers on a journey through valleys, inside curving tunnels, and across magnificent gorges. Year-round excursions take place on steam- or diesel-powered locomotives, with diverse themes and packages to choose from.

No. 8: Georgetown Loop Railroad
Georgetown, Colorado

Completed in 1884, Colorado's historic narrow-gauge Georgetown Loop now operates a mix of diesel-electric and steam engines from Georgetown to Silver Plume. On the 75-minute round-trip route, passengers can ride in box cars with bench seating that is open in the summer or fully enclosed parlor cars during the holiday season. Optional silver mine guided walking tours during the summer take visitors deep into Leavenworth Mountain for a glimpse of working in a 19th-century mine.

No. 7: The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Manitou Springs, Colorado

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the world's highest cog railroad, reaching a height of 14,115 feet. This 9-mile journey takes passengers to the top of Pikes Peak, traveling along Ruxton Creek and through Deer Park along the way.

No. 6: Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
Romney, West Virginia

Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad offers a series of unforgettable journeys, the most popular being the three-hour journey along the South Branch of the Potomac River through West Virginia's stunning Trough — a narrow mountain valley that's home to a canyon full of Bald Eagle habitats. Passengers choose from five levels of dining and seating. There's also a sunset ride through the Allegheny Mountains, and a nine-hour trip across three West Virginia counties. On the latter route, riders have a layover in rural Petersburg, where they can explore the quaint Appalachian town's shops and restaurants.

No. 5: Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad
Abilene, Kansas

This charming heritage railroad offers two distinct experiences: the Flint Hills Express excursion train and the popular dinner train known as the Smoky Valley Limited. Both journeys take passengers on a two-hour round trip from the historic Abilene station through the rolling Smoky Hill River Valley. Passengers ride in antique cars and enjoy a stop at the Hoffman Mill and Country Store in Enterprise, Kansas. Excursions offers glimpses of prairie wildflowers, working farms, and historic sites, including President Eisenhower's boyhood home.

No. 4: Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
Cumberland, Maryland

Take in gorgeous views of the Allegheny Mountains on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. The original railroad began operating in 1852, and currently boasts the second-largest continuously operating steam locomotive in the world. Helmstetter's Curve, an iron truss bridge, and a 914-foot tunnel make this train a truly special experience.

No. 3: Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico

One of the most authentic steam-operated railroads in existence, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs for 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado, passing through the San Juan Mountains and the scenic Conejos Valley along the way. This moving National Historic Landmark represents one of New Mexico's most spectacular day trips.

No. 2: East Broad Top Railroad
Rockhill Furnace, Pennsylvania

East Broad Top Railroad traces its roots back to 1872, and it's the only three-foot gauge common carrier railroad still left east of the Rocky Mountains. Excursions carry passengers on a 9-mile round trip ride through undulating hills, pastoral scenery, and forests. Guided tours and special events, like Christmas in Coal Country and PEANUTS The Great Pumpkin Patch Express, offer a different train ride experience.

No. 1: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Durango, Colorado

The historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad once hauled silver and gold between these two Colorado towns. Today, visitors can hop aboard for this nine-hour round-trip journey through some of Colorado's most impressive scenery, with a stop in Silverton to explore the historic mining town.