With winter coming up, who doesn’t want to relax on a warm train with a cup of hot cocoa while viewing the snowy terrains of the USA? Winter scenic train rides allow the passengers to relax and enjoy some hot cocoa while watching snowy landscapes pass through their windows. A little history or Christmas light trekking through mountain peaks are some of the better shots, on these train rides that provide rest, amazing sights, and of course a bit of fun.
Now let’s look at some of the finest winter train journeys across the country that deliver enjoyable hot cocoa while focusing on the ride’s main attraction.
1. The Polar Express Train Ride – Various Locations
Feel the Christmas magic while enjoying The Polar Express train ride filled with festive decor, characters in costumes, and whipped cream-topped hot cocoa. It is achievable in Michigan, Arizona, and North Carolina.
The holiday trains have decorations, music, and in some cases, Santa can be seen. These are catered for young families and they are quite fast and in demand hence the need to book early. Remember to dress warmly and include a few blankets to increase comfort.
- Highlights: Holiday-themed decor, music, storytelling, and a visit from Santa. Some routes have snow-capped views depending on the location.
- Price: Ticket prices are $40 to $90 per person, with family and holiday packages sometimes available. Exact pricing varies by location.
2. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – Colorado
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad operates in the snowcapped San Juan Mountains providing a great winter adventure. It has operated since 1882 with the narrow gauge historic line and transports sensations of adventure through beautiful unspoiled nature during winter quite romantically.
Get a chance to sip the warm hot cocoa under the open-air cars while taking in the great views across Colorado’s beautiful mountains and plains. The hotter the cocoa, the more enjoyable it is with the mountain breeze. Blankets may be passed out by the staff but layers would be advisable if sitting outside to soak in the great views.
- Highlights: Vintage narrow-gauge train cars, open-air car viewing, snow-covered peaks, and scenic river views.
- Price: Tickets are approximately $100 to $150 for adults, with discounts for children.
3. The Mt. Hood Railroad – Oregon
Located in the Hood River Valley. Mt. Hood Railroad presents beautiful winter sights of snow-covered vineyards, a snow-filled park, many orchards, and the Mt Hood view. Known mainly for holiday trains, passengers love riding the train during winter and returning to beautiful landscapes along with the distant mountains while drinking hot chocolate.
As you take in the peaceful winter countryside, enjoy your favorite signature combinations such as salted caramel cocoa or peppermint mocha. With their scenic ride, couples and families get an opportunity to get the winter splendor of the Pacific Northwest.
- Highlights: Peppermint and salted caramel cocoa options, themed holiday decor, and peaceful countryside views.
- Price: Tickets range from $60 to $80 per adult and $40 to $60 for children, with special holiday rates.
4. The Grand Canyon Railway’s Polar Express – Arizona
In Williams, Arizona, the Grand Canyon Railway Polar Express gives children and families a glimpse of the North Pole and its festivities on a 90-minute train ride, complete with holiday decorations and characters, but with the best of Arizona’s raw beauty.
The train ride is like magic, especially with snow flurries adding to the mix, creating the excitement of a desert view. The holidays are filled with cinnamon and chocolate cookies and hot cocoa and the adventure will be cherished by kids forever.
- Highlights: Holiday-themed decor, Santa visits, snowy desert scenery, holiday cookies, and hot cocoa.
- Price: Ticket prices start at around $45 for children and $55 for adults, with holiday pricing sometimes higher.
Also Read: Warm Drinks and Travel: Perfect Pairings for Cold Weather Destinations
5. The White Pass & Yukon Route – Alaska
The White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad in Alaska is memorable during winter, with magnificent mountains, frozen rivers, and woodland draped in snow. Those searching for the picturesque winter scenery the region is known for will love this historic train ride.
The train makes it easy to enjoy a rich hot chocolate, perfect for the Alaskan winter as guests take in the breathtaking cold scenery, as this adds a sense of calm to a striking ride.
- Highlights: Dramatic views of snow-capped mountains, icy rivers, and historic bridges, all within vintage train cars.
- Price: Tickets basically range from $90 to $140 per person, depending on the season and ride package.
6. Amtrak’s Empire Builder – Chicago to Seattle
Amtrak’s Empire Builder allows passengers to experience the true beauty of the Northern states during winter as the train travels from Chicago to Seattle with incredible views of thick ingredients and mountains interlaced throughout the pure white caps of snow.
Regardless of the weather, the Empire Builder is one of the most scenic trains, with iconic landscapes perfect for enjoying a hot chocolate from the café car, or for sharing a thermos with your partner in the lounge car. This is an outstanding trip for both individuals and couples because it is both exciting and relaxing.
- Highlights: Panoramic lounge car views, diverse landscapes, and spectacular snow-dusted wilderness. The lounge car is a popular spot for watching the scenery.
- Price: Prices vary based on travel dates and accommodations, ranging from around $150 for a basic coach seat to $700 or more for private sleeping cabins.
Tips for Enjoying Hot Cocoa while on train rides
To make the most of these journeys filling up on cocoa, here are a few helpful tips:
- Stay Warm: While the interior is warm and inviting, the state of the open-air cars is quite the opposite, which is a little unpleasant. Dress comfortably, in layers, and anticipation of colder temperatures.
- Use a Reusable Mug: Many trains share cocoa in paper cups, and bringing one’s mug keeps the cocoa hot and is a good way to go green.
- Don’t forget to get the camera out: The winter scenery is so beautiful that it would be a shame not to capture some memories.
- Plan and book early: It is likely that other individuals wish to experience a scenic train ride in winter and with the holidays, it is better to plan ahead of time.
Taking a narrated landscape train ride in the winter months is the best way to enjoy the chilly season coupled with delicious hot cocoa and a cozy atmosphere. Such great sights and journeys come together worldwide in the beautiful snowy mountains of Colorado, the rolling valleys of Oregon and the wild windy cold state of Alaska will make for great winter memories.
