4 Amtrak National Parks Vacations to Take with Dad

Whether he’s your dad, grandfather, uncle, brother, or another important man in your life, why not create an epic adventure through America’s national parks on Amtrak Vacations? We’ve hand-picked four of our most popular trips to experience these national treasures along with the comfort and excitement of traveling the United States by rail, guaranteed to create memories to last a lifetime. 

1. Grand National Parks of the Southwest: Bryce and Zion to the Grand Canyon

Incredible panoramic vistas, mysterious and soul-stirring arches, formations, and mesmerizing sandstone domes—this Amtrak National Parks vacation visits all the parks that make up Utah’s “Mighty Five”:

• Arches National Park
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Canyonlands National Park
• Capitol Reef National Park
• Zion National Park

In addition to the picturesque trails, wildlife, and exquisite beauty of these National Parks, you’ll also have time to enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, the arts and culture of the Southwest, Wild West-era buildings, and of course the views from onboard the train!

2. Yellowstone to Yosemite by Rail – Teddy Roosevelt Trail

If the Dad in your life has dreams of exploring the West like the 26th President of the United States, we’ve got just the trip for him. Voyage from Chicago and ride Amtrak’s famed California Zephyr train before transferring to three nights at America’s first national park, Yellowstone. Tour the park before heading westward again, wrapping up this grand adventure in the Bay Area among the giant sequoias of Yosemite National Park.

3. Glacier National Park Express

Explore among the pine trees and northern reaches of the continental U.S. onboard the Empire Builder with this 10-day jaunt – perfect for dads who love history but also want some fresh air, enjoying our most popular destination. From the gleaming architecture of two of America’s great cities to Glacier's towering peaks and verdant greenery, Dad’s guaranteed to love this trip.

4. Peaks to Pacific Journey

Travel from the “Mile High City” to the “City by the Bay” with truly spectacular stops on the way:

• Rocky Mountain National Park – a full-day tour of this national treasure, which is celebrated for its abundance of wildlife and incredible mountain views
• Salt Lake City – enjoy the scenery onboard Amtrak’s California Zephyr as you travel to Salt Lake City, where you’ll see the many splendid sights during your narrated tour, including the 1,700 square miles Great Salt Lake, the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi River.
• Yellowstone National Park – a full-day tour of the lower loop includes Old Faithful Geyser, the Old Faithful Inn, and Isa Lake on the Continental Divide, among many other incredible sights.s
• Yosemite National Park – hike, shop, and explore the park during your day-trip to Yosemite, which offers stunning scenery, including the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains

All four of these Amtrak National Parks vacations are a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Get started planning your dream vacation today by checking out our latest deals!