by Marisol Dayton

Created on: August 23, 2010

While Europe may be known for its history, impressive architecture and high speed rail travel, the United States was built on a stubborn pioneering spirit that lives on in a number of historic train trips.  Many of these trips take in the rugged beauty that exemplified life in the time of the pilgrims and in the Old West.  There is no better way to experience much of that history than by the very railways and restored coaches that once linked the Old West to the civilized cities of the Eastern United States.

-       Grand Canyon Railway

Before there were air tours, river rafting tours, roads and hiking – before the Grand Canyon became a national park and before Arizona was a state, the Grand Canyon Railway took visitors to stand on the South Rim and gaze in awe at this wonder of nature.  Many of the historic structures along the South Rim were built by the railway company. 

In 1989, Max and Thelma Biegert embarked on restoring the train to its original splendor, with a few modern conveniences.  The Grand Canyon Railway now offers rail only day trips to Grand Canyon National Park as well as vacation packages. 

The rail trips drop passengers steps away from the South Rim where visitors can explore on their own or take a guided Rim tour.  On the train, attendants provide historical narratives, musicians provide entertainment, and cowboys, sheriffs and train robbers recreate what train travel in the Old West might have been like. 

Vacation packages include the train ride as well as a stay in the Grand Canyon hotel and meals.  Options include class of service on board the train – coach or first class for families.  Adults only can select to ride in the Dome Coach with its spectacular views or in the opulent Parlor Car.  Packages are available for one, two or three nights, with a full day at Grand Canyon National Park and a wild west shootout on the first day.  

-       Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

This historic train has been in continuous operation for 128 years.  The line travels 45 miles each way from Durango to Silverton along a route initially laid to carry silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains but passengers soon discovered the real value of the ride was the awesome scenery. 

Today the line offers daily trips to Silverton in the summer and a half route to Cascade Station in the winter. 

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