5 Most Stunning Train Rides in California
Last Updated on August 22, 2025
Why are there so many railroads in California?
After the Gold Rush brought waves of newcomers, railroads were built to move both people and resources across California. Some of the earliest included the Sacramento Valley Railroad, the Central Pacific Railroad, and the Napa Valley Railroad.
While many of those lines were later shut down or absorbed into larger networks, a few routes remain in operation today. This history has created a lasting nostalgia for seeing California’s natural scenery by rail, and excursion trains have become some of the state’s most popular attractions.
Scenic Train Rides in California
Want to try out the California train ride experience for yourself? Here are some of the most beautiful, scenic train rides in California I’ve been on:
Roaring Camp Railroad
- Location: 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, California
- Goes through: Roaring Camp in Felton to Bear Mountain
- Tickets: From $26 – $80 for different train events, see more here
Roaring Camp Railroad
Picture this: a vintage train chugging its way through towering redwood trees, with sunlight streaming through the branches. The Roaring Camp Railroad in Santa Cruz County brings you just that, and it’s definitely one of the most scenic train rides in California. It’s a peaceful, 75-minute ride that brings you back to a simpler time.Â
The trains use steam engines from the 1890s, originally built for logging, and much of the authentic machinery is still intact with modern safety updates. Today, they carry travelers instead of timber, making it a nostalgic day trip for families, couples, or anyone who loves nature and history.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
- Location: 56001 CA-41, Fish Camp, California
- Goes through: The Sierra National Forest
- Tickets: From $31 – $110 for different train tours, see more here
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is a dream for anyone looking to experience scenic train rides in California. This historic train winds through a magical forest near Yosemite National Park, with towering pines and bursts of color during the fall season. If you’re lucky enough to catch it in fall, you’ll find a gorgeous of red, yellow, and orange trees.Â
The ride lasts about an hour, making it a great option for families or anyone short on time. Dress for the weather, especially in the cooler months, as temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains.
Napa Valley Wine Train
- Location: 1275 McKinstry St, Napa, California
- Goes through: Downtown Napa to St. Helena
- Tickets: From $200 – $600 for different train tours, see more here
Napa Valley Wine Train
The Napa Valley Wine Train is a luxurious journey through California’s most famous wine region, combining breathtaking views with world-class dining. From rolling vineyards to charming winery stops, every stretch of the ride is like stepping into a postcard. Onboard, you can enjoy anything from a multi-course gourmet meal to afternoon tea or curated wine tastings, all while soaking in the serene beauty of Napa Valley.
The train offers several experiences ranging from two to six hours, so you can pick one that fits your schedule. Typically, however, it takes around 3 hours to get to St. Helena. Advance reservations are also highly recommended, especially for popular options like the dinner train.Â
The World-Famous Skunk Train
- Location: Fort Bragg and Willits
- Goes through: Through the Pudding Creek Estuary and/or the Coastal Mountain Range and Noyo River Canyon
- Tickets: From $50 – $570 for different train tours, see more here
The Skunk Train
The World Famous Skunk Train has been running for over 100 years through Mendocino’s redwoods, ferns, and untouched forest. Check out my Mendocino post for more amazing things to do there!
The train offers several ride options, from classic train rides to railbike excursions and special holiday-themed events. It operates year-round, and it’s a good idea to book ahead, especially during peak seasons or for themed rides.
There are two departure points: Willits, a 2-hour trip through the Coastal Mountain Range and Noyo River Canyon with a stop at Wolf Tree, and Fort Bragg, a shorter 1-hour ride along the Pudding Creek Estuary on some of California’s earliest tracks.
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner
- Location: San Diego to San Luis Obispo
- Goes through: The coastline from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, including Solana Beach, Anaheim, and Santa Barbara
- Tickets: See full price lists here
Amtrak Pacific Surfliner
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner is not only one of the most scenic train rides in California, it’s also the only non-recreational ride on this list. Running from San Diego to San Luis Obispo, this route has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, golden beaches, and charming coastal towns. It’s especially breathtaking in spring when wildflowers are in bloom, adding splashes of color to the already gorgeous landscapes.Â
The Surfliner is a full-service train, offering reserved seating, free Wi-Fi, and a café car. To get the best views, try booking a window seat on the west side of the train. Tickets are flexible, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy travel seasons. Since this is a travel train rather than a tour one, there will be plenty of other passengers looking for the best seats!
