11 U.S. National Parks Accessible by Train

Travelers interested in visiting U.S. national parks without the need for a personal vehicle have a unique option: several parks can be reached by train. This travel style offers the chance to enjoy a scenic journey that connects urban centers directly to protected natural areas, reducing the stress of driving and parking. For some, it’s also an environmentally considerate choice, lowering the trip’s carbon footprint. Arriving by rail provides a different perspective, allowing travelers to take in changing landscapes before stepping into the park itself. We’ve based this list on transportation options, park accessibility, and our team’s experiences. It reflects our research and is unavoidably subjective.

1. Glacier National Park, Montana

Morning sunlight filters through tall pines as the Empire Builder train glides into West Glacier station. For over a century, rail has delivered visitors directly into the heart of Montana’s wilderness, where rugged peaks and reflective lakes wait just steps from the platform.

Glacier National Park features seasonal free shuttles connecting train stations to major points along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, including trailheads and lodges. The station’s proximity allows travelers to bypass rental cars, especially in summer, making the journey more accessible.

Many visitors recommend booking train tickets well in advance during peak months. Early planning ensures both a seat on the train and access to park shuttle schedules, which can fill quickly. This rail-to-trail connection is valued for its blend of convenience and scenery.

2. Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Riding the Grand Canyon Railway feels like stepping back in time, complete with vintage railcars and expansive desert vistas. The train departs from Williams, Arizona, after travelers arrive on Amtrak’s Southwest Chief, bridging the gap between small town and world-famous rim.

The South Rim’s train depot is only a short walk to the canyon’s edge. For many, this route removes the need for long drives or parking reservations, streamlining access during high season. It’s a practical option for families or groups wishing to avoid crowded roads.

Tickets for both Amtrak and the Grand Canyon Railway should be coordinated to ensure smooth transfers. Staying overnight in Williams can provide flexibility and reduce travel stress, especially when connecting between rail services and park entry.

3. Yosemite National Park, California

Arriving at Merced via Amtrak San Joaquins, travelers are just a YARTS bus ride away from Yosemite National Park’s gates. This modern transit link is praised for its reliability and the chance to skip winding mountain roads.

Connections to Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and other popular areas are possible through coordinated shuttle and bus schedules. The service operates year-round, though frequency and routes may vary with the seasons, especially in winter months.

Many experienced travelers recommend checking the latest YARTS schedules in advance and purchasing combo train-bus tickets when possible. This route has become a mainstay for international and urban visitors seeking a car-free park experience.

4. New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia

Few places blend Appalachian history and recreation quite like New River Gorge, now accessible via Amtrak’s Cardinal service. The Thurmond, Prince, and Hinton stations serve as gateways, each nestled within a landscape of river gorges and old-growth forests.

Adventurers often step off directly into opportunities for hiking, whitewater rafting, and climbing. The rail line follows the river’s path, providing impressive views even before arrival. Public buses or local taxis can assist with reaching trailheads and visitor centers.

Planning is vital, as train schedules are limited and stations are unstaffed. Checking current Cardinal timetables and arranging local connections in advance will help ensure a smooth and flexible trip.

5. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

For those seeking a blend of history and nature near Cleveland, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a standout. Riders can board in town or connect via Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited, then hop off at park stops to explore miles of hiking and biking trails.

The train route follows the river, revealing meadows, forests, and the occasional deer. National Park Service rangers sometimes join rides, offering commentary and educational programs for all ages.

Schedules fluctuate seasonally, so checking the latest train times is recommended. The rail experience provides a flexible, low-impact way to explore the region’s diverse landscapes throughout the year.

6. Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri

Located in downtown St. Louis, Gateway Arch National Park is one of the few parks where urban rail delivers travelers almost to the front door. Amtrak’s Missouri River Runner, Texas Eagle, and Lincoln Service all serve the city’s historic Union Station.

The Gateway Arch stands as both a monument and a museum, chronicling America’s westward expansion. Visitors can stroll landscaped grounds, take a tram to the top, or explore nearby riverfront attractions.

Arriving by train means avoiding downtown parking challenges and enjoying walkable access to park highlights. Local MetroLink light rail offers further city connections for those extending their stay beyond the park itself.

7. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Travelers can reach Shenandoah National Park by taking Amtrak’s Cardinal or Crescent lines to Charlottesville, Virginia. While there’s no regular public shuttle directly into the park in 2025, visitors can arrange rideshares, private shuttles, or guided tours from town to Skyline Drive and popular trailheads.

The park’s ridge-top vistas and seasonal wildflower displays make it a year-round draw, with autumn foliage especially popular. Many rail passengers combine their visit with time exploring Charlottesville’s historic sites and downtown dining.

Advance planning is important, coordinate transport before arrival to avoid last-minute delays. This rail-plus-transfer option suits those seeking a relaxed trip without driving the I-81 corridor.

8. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Denver’s Union Station acts as the eastern gateway for visitors heading to Rocky Mountain National Park by rail. Amtrak’s California Zephyr delivers passengers to the city, followed by a regional bus to Estes Park and the park’s entrance.

While the rail connection requires a transfer, it offers a lower-stress alternative to navigating Denver’s highways. This route is particularly appreciated during busy summer months when park roads are congested and parking is limited.

Advance reservations for both train and bus services are recommended. Travelers should check for seasonal changes in bus frequency and consider overnight options in Denver or Estes Park for greater flexibility.

9. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, California

The journey to Sequoia and Kings Canyon by train begins in Fresno, served by Amtrak’s San Joaquins. From there, the seasonal Sequoia Shuttle transports visitors directly to the park’s giant trees and high country trails.

This connection is often highlighted in travel forums for its convenience, especially during summer when shuttle frequencies are highest. Travelers can relax en route and avoid the winding mountain drive that challenges many first-time visitors.

Shuttle reservations are required and can fill up, particularly on weekends and holidays. Planning trips around shuttle availability is essential to making the most of this train-to-park route.

10. Everglades National Park, Florida

Reaching Everglades National Park by train involves taking Amtrak’s Silver Star to Miami, then connecting via pre-booked tour operators or private transfers to park entrances such as Shark Valley or the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center.

While there’s no fixed public transit route into the park from the station, Miami’s tour providers offer day trips that include transportation, guided airboat rides, and wildlife viewing. The park’s unique wetlands ecosystem offers sightings of alligators, wading birds, and more, especially during the winter dry season.

Booking tours or transfers in advance is strongly recommended, as same-day availability can be limited during peak months. This approach works well for travelers wanting to experience the Everglades without renting a car.

11. Acadia National Park, Maine

Reaching Acadia by rail involves a scenic ride on the Amtrak Downeaster to Brunswick, Maine, then a transfer to Concord Coach Lines for the final leg to Bar Harbor. The park’s Island Explorer bus system connects visitors to trailheads, carriage roads, and coastal overlooks once on Mount Desert Island.

This route is especially popular in summer and fall, when coastal Maine’s landscapes are at their most inviting. Travelers appreciate the car-free flexibility, which allows easy movement between park highlights and the town of Bar Harbor.

Coordinating train and bus schedules is essential for a smooth trip. Booking combo tickets and monitoring seasonal service changes can help prevent lengthy layovers or missed connections.