train cruise in california

Want a Relaxing Alternative to a California Road Trip? Hop on a Train.

From rides through redwood forests to wine country, these train trips through california offer plenty of adventure..

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The Pacific Surfliner takes travelers 351 miles along the California coast, but other trains explore different parts of the state.

Photo by Cory Woodruff/Shutterstock

With a coastline over 1,000 miles long north to south, California is an enormous and geographically diverse state, well known for scenic road trips . But consider exploring the state in a different way to remove the stress of potential gridlock in car traffic and gain a novel perspective: by train .

The state’s railroad offerings include historic journeys through redwood forests, luxurious wine trains, and Amtrak routes along the vibrant Pacific coastline and beyond. Here are five of the most scenic train rides to take in California.

1. Pacific Surfliner

• Where: San Diego to San Luis Obispo

Amtrak’s iconic Pacific Surfliner offers a 351-mile trip through San Diego , Orange, Los Angeles , Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties, with stretches of the route abutting the Pacific coastline in Southern California.

Head from San Diego through Anaheim (a useful port of call for Disneyland), then up through L.A.’s historic and lively downtown environment. Next is Santa Barbara—the so-called American Riviera for its coastal views, fine wines, and film festivals. The end of the line to the north is San Luis Obispo, known for outdoor activities, farm-to-table dining, and world-class wineries.

How to do it

• Book a trip: pacificsurfliner.com

The Pacific Surfliner route offers five daily round-trip services between Santa Barbara and San Diego, and 13 between San Diego and Los Angeles. Prices start at $16 for a single leg of the journey. Many stations are within walking distance of key attractions; various transit providers also offer free bus connections to Pacific Surfliner passengers .

Extend the trip with a longer stay in downtown Los Angeles, which has abundant hotel options, including the historic Hotel Figueroa , one of the city’s oldest; it opened nearly a century ago as lodging for professional women travelers, a rarity for the era. The Spanish adobe-style building has 268 rooms and suites and offers a lively, creative scene with top-notch food and drink outlets.

2. Coast Starlight

• Where: San Diego to Seattle

Up for a long haul on Amtrak? Take the famous Coast Starlight all the way through California (with the possibility of continuing to Oregon and Washington). The entire 35-hour route goes from Los Angeles to Seattle with views of snow-peaked mountains, green forests and valleys, and stretches of the Pacific Ocean, too. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful train trips in the country.

• Book a trip: amtrak.com/coast-starlight-train

Travel the entire route, and the Coast Starlight will be a starting cost of about $100 to $150, or closer to $200 for a business-class seat. There’s also the option to sleep aboard, with the cost of a roomette about $700, or a family room about $1,300—which includes meals, water, and coffee.

3. Napa Valley Wine Train

• Where: Napa Valley

Visiting California’s wineries in Napa can be a nuisance and potential hazard by car. Instead, hop aboard the private Napa Valley Wine train , a 36-mile winetasting loop with wine and artisanal food cooked to order on board.

The train includes vintage Pullman rail cars restored with mahogany paneling, brass accents, etched glass partitions, and posh armchair seating that evokes the glamorous rail travel of the Gilded Age.

• Book a trip: winetrain.com

Choose from three- or six-hour daytime journeys or a two-hour dinner ride. The new “Tasting on the Rails” trip launches in May, with tickets starting at $395. The experience will include a three-hour journey aboard the 1915 Pullman Lounge car, complete with an observation platform exclusive to guests of this experience, as well as a seven-course meal and seven wine pairings from the valley.

The wine train is located in downtown Napa , which is only a 15-minute walk from the Andaz Napa . The Hyatt property offers 141 guest rooms, with hardwood hickory floors and midcentury furnishings. The hotel bar, the Mercantile Terrace, has a bar menu and firepits with a convivial atmosphere.

The Skunk Train offers two journeys year-round: the Wolf Tree Turn and and Pudding Creek Express.

Photo by photosgenius/Shutterstock

4. Skunk Train

• Where: Mendocino

This train goes back to the 1880s, when it ran along the Fort Bragg Railroad to make transporting lumber easier in Northern California’s Mendocino County . That was the genesis of what is now commonly known as the Skunk Train (for the pungent fumes it once emitted). Now, it offers dreamy rides through the majestic redwoods with a heavy dose of nostalgia; the views have remained largely unchanged since its original days.

• Book a trip: skunktrain.com

The train offers an array of trips starting at $50. The seven-mile round-trip Pudding Express departs from the Fort Bragg depot and runs along the estuary of the same name, where blue herons, ospreys, egrets, and more wildlife all make their homes.

Or spend a unique day on the tracks by railbike: These are nearly silent, electric-powered two-person railbikes that breeze along the serene track. Prices start at $265 per bike.

5. River Fox Train

• Where: Sacramento

Originally built in 1911 by Northern Electric Co., the River Fox Train now offers an opportunity for visitors to explore the Sacramento River along a 10-mile stretch of track through Yolo County’s countryside. Theme rides range from beer and wine experiences to murder mystery trips to holiday excursions. Think riverfront views and ivy-draped woodlands. And like its sister Skunk Train in Mendocino County, this track also offers the whimsical railbike experience.

• Book a trip: riverfoxtrain.com

Prices for the train start at $59 for adults and $29 for kids. Railbikes start at $109, which covers two riders midweek. The train boards in West Sacramento. Make a trip of it with a stay at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento, with curated political art throughout and architecture from George Selland, the first state architect of California.

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11 Scenic Train Rides In California That Are RIDICULOUSLY Beautiful

California has some of the most beautiful scenery in the entire country.

And one of the best ways to enjoy that scenery is aboard a train!

Luckily, California has many different scenic train rides to choose from.

The only problem?

It’s hard to know which is best!

That’s why, in this guide, we’ve done all the hard work for you and come up with the ultimate list of the best train rides in California.

Some take you through towering redwood forests and others go deep into the mountains.

There’s a ton of variety but the one thing they ALL share in common is the beautiful views!

Let’s get started…

1. Pacific Surfliner

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Josh (@coasterjosh3001)

The Pacific Surfliner train ride is a beautiful 351-mile journey that takes you from San Luis Obispo in central California to San Diego in the south. 

Along the way, you’ll get to see stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, especially between Los Angeles and San Diego, where the train runs right along the SoCal coastline. 

It’s truly breathtaking!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pacific Surfliner (@pacificsurfliner)

The route also passes through other major cities like Santa Barbara where you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of its famous pier and beaches. 

The Pacific Surfliner is actually one of Amtrak’s busiest routes in the entire United States!

This really shows how much people love this scenic trip. 

If you ride the entire length, it takes roughly 5 hours and 45 minutes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Drone Booth (@thedronebooth)

Whilst aboard the train, you’ll witness California’s diverse landscapes from the Mediterranean-style scenery of Santa Barbara to the sandy beaches in the south.

It’s also really easy to sit back and relax as this train is known for its comfortable seats and large windows.

At certain times of the year, you might even be able spot migrating whales in the ocean from your seat!

2. Coast Starlight

The Coast Starlight train stretches from Seattle, Washington, all the way down to Los Angeles, California.

The entire route takes 35 hours.

While it travels through several states, its path through California is arguably the most scenic as it offers incredible views of the Pacific coast, especially near Santa Barbara. 

This train takes riders through the lush forests of the Pacific Northwest, down through the scenic valleys of California and along the beautiful coastline.

It’s mesmerizing.

You’ll even pass through the dramatic snow-capped mountains of the Cascade Range.

The Coast Starlight is particularly known for its observation cars which have large windows that are perfect for taking in the stunning landscapes. 

A highlight of the trip is witnessing the towering Mount Shasta along the way.

This 4,321m volcano is truly a sight to behold.

The train also passes by the San Francisco Bay Area and offers views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from a distance. 

You’ll also travel through the famous wine country of California which provides a glimpse of the vineyard-filled landscapes. 

The Coast Starlight isn’t just about the views though, it also has a rich and interesting history.

This train has actually served as a vital link between the north and south of the West Coast since 1971. 

Onboard, you’ll find multiple options for private rooms if you plan on staying overnight and dining. 

3. Santa Cruz Beach Train

The Santa Cruz Beach Train is a fun and unique train ride that takes passengers from the historic Roaring Camp in Felton, all the way to the sunny Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 

It takes approximately 1 hour each way.

This special train journey takes you through the towering redwood forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains which offers a shaded escape before reaching the sunny coastline. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Roaring Camp Railroads (@roaringcamp)

Along the way, the train even crosses several old wooden bridges and trestles that were originally built in 1909!

This really makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. 

The train chugs along the same routes that were once used to transport lumber out of the mountains over a hundred years ago. It’s pretty historic!

In fact, the Santa Cruz Beach Train actually operates on one of the oldest and most historic rail lines in the whole of California.

It originally opened back in 1875.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @ventura_county_railfan

You’ll also get the chance to catch glimpses of wildlife and native plants as you make your way through the forest. 

Once the train descends from the mountains, it arrives at the vibrant Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk which is famous for its amusement park that sits right on the beach. 

You can choose from open-air or enclosed passenger cars, depending on the season.

Please note that this train is seasonal and does stop running at certain times of year. Check the current schedule here .

4. Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train is a unique experience that takes you on a journey through the beautiful Napa Valley in California which is famous for its wine production. 

This train ride starts in the historic town of Napa and travels north to St. Helena, winding through the heart of the wine country.

It’s a 36-mile round trip.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of vineyards stretching out on both sides with the rolling hills of Napa Valley in the background. 

The train itself is a collection of vintage rail cars that have been restored to their early 20th-century elegance.

It makes you feel like you’re traveling back in time. 

A fun fact about the Napa Valley Wine Train is that it runs on tracks that were originally built in the 1860s to bring guests to the hot springs of Calistoga. 

While on board, you can even enjoy gourmet meals that are prepared in the train’s own kitchen.

The dishes are designed to complement the local wines. 

Speaking of wine, the train also offers tastings of some of the world’s best wines.

They’re all sourced directly from the Napa Valley vineyards you pass by!

The journey not only showcases the scenic beauty of the region but also aims to educate passengers about the history of winemaking in Napa Valley. 

You’ll learn so many things you didn’t know before!

For those interested in more than just the ride, there are stops along the way where passengers can disembark for winery tours and tastings. 

5. Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tenaya at Yosemite (@tenayaatyosemite)

The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is a historic steam train that takes passengers on a scenic journey through the Sierra National Forest.

It’s located just 10 minutes from the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. 

This exciting ride starts and ends at the historic Sugar Pine Railroad station and lasts around an hour.

You’ll be able to learn about the area’s rich logging history.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Yosemite | Madera County (@yosemitemadera)

As the train chugs along the tracks, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of towering pine trees and rugged mountain landscapes.

It’s one of the most scenic train rides in California.

One of the coolest things about this train is that it runs on a narrow gauge railway which was commonly used for logging trains in the early 1900s. 

Along the way, the knowledgeable guides will share tons of fun facts and stories about the loggers who worked in these mountains and the history of the railroad itself. 

It’s all super interesting stuff!

The journey takes you past sites where giant logs were once hauled down the mountain, giving you a glimpse into the past. 

Plus, the steam engines that pull the train are historic themselves.

Some date back over a century and have been lovingly restored. 

For something even more unique, the railroad also offers moonlight rides that include a campfire and storytelling under the stars.

They also have a gold panning activity!

Please note that this train is seasonal and only runs from April through to November. Check the current schedule here .

6. Skunk Train

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit California | Travel + Fun Things to Do (@visitcalifornia)

The Skunk Train is a famous train ride in California that takes passengers through the heart of the redwood forests. 

The train offers several different routes but most begin at either Fort Bragg, on the Mendocino coast, or Willits.

Most rides last between 1 and 2 hours.

This train got its unique name from the original gas-powered motorcars it used which actually smelled like skunks! 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jennifer Valle (@poohsnuggle)

As the train moves along the tracks, you’ll be surrounded by ancient redwoods.

These are actually some of the tallest and oldest trees in the world. 

The journey also takes you across wooden trestle bridges and through tunnels carved out of the mountain.

It offers a glimpse into the impressive engineering feats of the early 1900s. 

Along the way, the conductors will share stories and fun facts about the train’s history and the surrounding forest. 

One interesting point is that the railroad was originally built for logging and played a crucial role in the development of the area.

It actually began running back in 1885!

Now, the Skunk Train offers a variety of experiences including railbike rides where guests can actually pedal along the tracks on specially designed bikes. 

7. River Fox Train

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Sacramento (@visitsacramento)

The River Fox Train is an exciting adventure on rails that takes place in the heart of California, near Sacramento. 

This train journey starts and ends in West Sacramento, taking passengers along the scenic Sacramento River.

The entire length is around 10-miles.

As it travels, you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful views of the river, lush farmland and the rolling countryside.

It’s truly stunning.

The train ride offers a variety of themed journeys.

Choose from murder mystery, beer and wine-tasting rides, and more.

For kids and families, there are special events like the Great Train Robbery and the Magical Christmas Train which bring stories to life with interactive entertainment. 

The train operates on tracks that have been a part of California’s railroad history for over a century.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by River Fox Train (@sacramentoriverfoxtrain)

Along the way, you might even catch glimpses of local wildlife, like birds and deer.

Keep your eyes peeled!

The River Fox Train also passes through several historic areas which give a peek into the past of the region’s towns and industries. 

8. California Zephyr

The California Zephyr is an amazing train ride that takes passengers on a journey across the United States.

It runs all the way from Chicago to Emeryville in California, which is located just outside of San Francisco. 

If you rode the entire length, it would take approximately 51 hours (one-way) so you’ll definitely want to set aside a couple of days for this epic train ride!

During its journey through California, the train offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains which are especially breathtaking. 

You’ll also be able to watch as the landscape changes from the high desert plains in Nevada to the lush, green slopes of the Sierra Nevadas. 

One of the highlights of the trip is crossing the Donner Pass which is famous for its history and spectacular scenery as well as crossing through the heart of the Rockies.

The train also travels through tunnels and over bridges which gives you a close-up look at the rugged terrain and natural beauty of the area. 

The California Zephyr is known for its comfortable observation cars which have large windows that are perfect for sightseeing. 

There are also private rooms available if you’ll be staying overnight.

You’ll also be able to learn about the history of the railroad and the regions you pass through, thanks to informative talks by the train staff. 

This train route is one of the most scenic in North America and offers views that can’t be seen from the highway. It’s bucket-list worthy, that’s for sure!

The journey through California ends in Emeryville but travelers can easily reach San Francisco and other Bay Area cities by bus or ferry.

9. Redwood Forest Steam Train

The Redwood Forest Steam Train is a magical journey that takes you through the towering redwood forests of California. 

This adventure starts and ends at the Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton, near the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. It lasts approximately 75 minutes.

As the steam train chugs along, you’ll be surrounded by ancient redwoods which are some of the tallest trees in the world. 

The journey feels like stepping back in time, as the train is powered by a real steam engine, just like the ones used over a hundred years ago. 

In fact, their oldest steam engine dates back to 1890!

Along the way, the train conductor shares tons of fun facts and stories about the forest and the history of the railroad. 

This train ride is not just about the trees though, it also offers breathtaking views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the chance to see local wildlife. 

The track winds through the forest, over trestle bridges and through a tunnel carved out of the mountain. It even takes you up to the summit of Bear Mountain!

The Roaring Camp Railroads were originally built to transport lumber out of the mountains.

Today, the train ride is a way for people to learn about and appreciate the beauty of the redwood forest. 

10. Niles Canyon Railway

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Niles Canyon Railway (@nilescanyonrailway)

The Niles Canyon Railway is a special train ride that takes you on a trip through the beautiful Niles Canyon in California. 

This journey starts and ends in Sunol.

It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes round trip.

As the train moves along the track, you’ll get to see the stunning scenery of the canyon including its green hills and the flowing Alameda Creek. 

This area is not just pretty, it’s also full of history!

The railway follows a part of the original Transcontinental Railroad which was actually the first rail line that connected the east coast to the west coast of the United States. 

During the ride, you’ll get to learn about the history of the railway and the region through stories told by the train’s crew. 

The train itself is made up of historic cars and locomotives that have been carefully restored to their former glory.

They’re a sight to behold.

Riding the Niles Canyon Railway gives you a sense of what travel was like in the past. 

In addition to regular rides, the railway also offers special themed trips throughout the year.

11. Amtrak Capitol Corridor

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The Amtrak Capitol Corridor is a popular 168-mile train ride that connects Northern California cities from San Jose to Auburn. 

This train journey starts in the busy tech hub of San Jose and ends in the historic city of Auburn, traveling through beautiful landscapes and important cities along the way. 

The Capitol Corridor passes through the state’s capital, Sacramento, where you’ll get the chance to learn about California’s rich history. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Joseph Blackwell (@joseph_the_train_master)

The route also offers views of the San Francisco Bay Area.

You’ll be treated to glimpses of the water and cityscapes. 

The Capitol Corridor is not just used for long trips, it’s actually also used by daily commuters going to work or school. 

Along the way, you’ll get to see the rolling hills of Northern California and the lush farmland of the Central Valley. 

The Capitol Corridor does make stops in key cities, including Oakland and Berkeley, so feel free to hop off whenever you like to enjoy some attractions and activities. 

This train service is a great way for travelers to explore multiple cities without the stress of driving!

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Train Travel: Seeing Southern California on the Pacific Surfliner

Get a unique view of California by traveling down the coast on Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner and explore the towns along the way.

December 18, 2022

As you sit back in a train and watch the multitudinous landscapes pass by while enjoying the company of great friends, it’s difficult not to be swept away. There is something nostalgic about train rides that evokes a sense of simpler times. As you cruise along the Southern California coastline aboard the Pacific Surfliner , it becomes clear that the experience has more to do with the journey than the destination. 

While a trip to San Diego may take longer by train, the ability to skip L.A. traffic, avoid long airport security lines, or let go of the focus that long road trips require is well worth the additional time. Listening to the rhythmic sounds of the train chugging along redefines relaxation in a way that must be experienced to be believed; it could very well be the white noise you need from the fast-paced reality we all claim as our own.

Everything You Need To Know About The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner departs from San Luis Obispo and passes through Santa Barbara , Glendale , and Los Angeles before arriving at its final destination, San Diego . If you’re taking a direct train from San Luis Obispo to San Diego it will take between nine and ten hours to make it to your final destination . Depending on what time you plan on arriving in America's Finest City, you have a few options to choose from as the Pacific Surfliner schedule is pretty flexible. The earliest train moves from SLO at 3:45 a.m. and arrives in San Diego at 1:35 p.m., while the last one leaves at 3:40 p.m. and arrives at 1:35 a.m. So crack open that book you have been wanting to get to for months, pick up your phone only to capture the moments, and get to know old friends (or yourself) a little better while aboard the train.

When it comes to prices, Pacific Surfliner tickets taking you from SLO all the way to San Diego cost between $61 and $76. Prices vary, of course, depending on where you get on the train and where you get off. With so many stations, though, getting on and off the train in any city you desire is easy to do. After all, spending some time in the awesome cities in between allows you to have the ultimate California train trip experience. Here’s every stop you need to make along the way, and what to do at each.

First Stop: San Luis Obispo 

Before boarding the train and leaving the city behind, check out a few of the unique San Luis Obispo attractions . Bubblegum Alley is a must-see spot for adventurous souls; the 70-foot walls of the famed alleyway are lined with chewed gum from the hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. If you want to leave your own mark, choose your favorite color of gum and get to chewing. After visiting this interesting attraction, grab a cup of coffee at a neighboring cafe, savor a slice of cake at the Madonna Inn, or check out the local art galleries before heading to nearby beaches. At San Luis Obispo beaches you can go surfing, rent a kayak, or lounge on the sand before your train arrives and the real trip begins.

Second Stop: Santa Barbara

Spend some time in this coastal gem to walk around the historic mission, visit the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo, and relax on the city’s best beaches . However, an especially unique item is experiencing the Eat This, Shoot That food tours offered in Santa Barbara and Solvang; for the best of Santa Barbara’s most delectable secrets go for the Funk Zone tour. While you’re in the area, you’ll also want to explore the nearby Channel Islands. Kayaking through the islands is considered one of the coolest things to do in Santa Barbara, especially since it’s also the best way to discover the unique fauna and flora of the area . Santa Barbara’s charming hotels and laid-back lifestyle make it an easy place to stay for a day or two, so plan your Pacific Surfliner schedule accordingly to ensure you don’t miss out on all that Santa Barbara has to offer.

Third Stop: Ventura

Next on your Pacific Surfliner stops list is the charming beach town of Ventura . Catch some waves at Surfers Point to meet the locals and see why this town is among the best in the state. The palm trees and coastal views provide the quintessential California vibes, inspiring residents and visitors alike to break out their longboards and paddleboards and spend every moment possible outside. You can head into the local bike shops to pick up your very own beach cruiser. This mode of transportation will allow you to immerse yourself in the rest of the cities along the way and will be a great reminder of your time in the quaint town of Ventura. Pro tip : Reserve space for a bicycle when you plan your Pacific Sufrlined beach  trip so your desired train can accommodate it.

Fourth Stop: Los Angeles

While there are many worthy stops between Ventura and San Diego, Los Angeles is one of the most iconic cities in the state and is definitely worth exploring over a day or two. Whether you’re an LA native, first-timer, or frequent visitor, there’s plenty you haven’t yet discovered. The art galleries , eateries, and boutiques here are one of a kind, making it easy to fill an entire weekend with different experiences. From shopping in Beverly Hills and celebrity spotting to going on the best Hollywood hikes and catching some waves in Santa Monica , there are infinite possibilities in Los Angeles .

Fifth Stop: San Diego

You have finally arrived at the last destination on your Pacific Surfliner adventure: Santa Fe Depot (which is centrally located in downtown San Diego and a short drive away from Balboa Park , Seaport Village, and Waterfront Park). You can also take the ferry over to Coronado island to wander around the charming boutiques, spend a night at the historic Hotel del Coronado , play a round of golf, and enjoy some much-needed relaxation time at the beach. 

The journey home is sure to be as beautiful as the train ride to San Diego, whether you decide to make multiple stops along the way or to go back directly. And luckily, there are plenty more train trips—including the Coast Starlight, which ventures to Seattle, and the California Zephyr, which heads halfway across the country to Chicago—that give you an opportunity to see other parts of the state as well.

Disclaimer:  California.com  is not receiving any type of compensation for reviewing any of the products or services mentioned in this article.

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The 9 Best Train Rides in Northern California

Northern California is a railroad buff’s paradise, as there are many steam and diesel locomotives still in operation today. Your choices range from luxurious dinner trains through Napa Valley Wine Country to relaxing trips through the California Redwoods . For railroad fans who want a behind the scenes look, there are museums where you can view massive locomotives and almost every other kind of railroad equipment.

The California State Railroad

BenFranske/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0

The California State Railroad Museum is located in Sacramento. Excursion trains run through Old Sacramento in April through September. The Museum's other train option, Sacramento Southern Railroad runs a 6-mile loop along the levees of the Sacramento River. The locomotives can be either steam or diesel, depending on the tour, and the rolling stock consists of vintage passenger coaches and converted freight cars.

Check the California State Railroad Museum Foundation website for information about special excursion trains, such as the Halloween Spookomotive Train Ride in October and The Polar Express in November and December.

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park

 A Yee/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

Railtown 1897 State Historic Park is located in Jamestown, in the heart of California's Gold Country . The park features a preserved roundhouse and locomotive repair shop, both of which are still functional and guided tours are available. 

Many movies and TV shows have been filmed at "The Movie Railroad," including High Noon , ​ Unforgiven , Death Valley Days , and Petticoat Junction .

Steam-powered excursion trains run every weekend from April to October. Trains depart the Railtown Depot on the hour for a 6-mile run through the Sierra foothills. Special and seasonal trains, such as Santa's Starlight Express, operate at other times during the year. 

Western Pacific Railroad Museum

 Paul Sullivan/Flickr/CC BY-ND 2.0

The Western Pacific Railroad Museum in Portola houses a large collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and a collection of items from the historic rail line. Among the collection is the UP 6946, the largest diesel locomotive ever built, and historic equipment from the famous California Zephyr. The Museum is a great "hands-on" place for kids, with touching and exploring encouraged.

Train rides are conducted on diesel locomotives, and there are also special seasonal trains, such as the Santa Train in December. 

Sacramento River Train

Jack Snell/Flickr/CC BY-ND 2.0

The Sacramento River Train offers a number of options for 28-mile, 3-hour trips along the Sacramento River. Trains board in Woodland, just north of Sacramento. Depending on the trip you choose, this excursion train offers brunch, lunch, and dinner in two dining cars.

There are numerous special trains throughout the year - check the website for the calendar and trip details . 

Napa Valley Wine Train

The Napa Valley Wine Train is the height of luxury and takes riders on a trip to St. Helena and back, and of course, stopping at wineries along the way. The views are wonderful, and each guests’ ticket includes a four-course meal. The train offers special events such as “Rock the Rails” where they bring in popular musical acts to perform on the train and private twilight tours as well.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Ian Gratton/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0

This tiny railroad spans only 4 miles, but what it lacks in distance, it makes up with gorgeous vintage steam trains bustling through majestic redwoods. 

Sierra Railroad Dinner Train

Drew Jacksich/Wikimedia Commons

Fancy a murder mystery dinner? How about brunch? The Sierra Railroad Dinner Train is located between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park and offers a wide variety of themed train rides through the beautiful Central Valley countryside. 

Fort Bragg Skunk Train

The name may not appeal to everyone, but the Fort Bragg Skunk Train has plenty of family-friendly, nature-themed train rides that can last up to four hours. 

Roaring Camp Railroads

If you have dreams of spending some time at the beach, ride the Roaring Camp Railroad from the Santa Cruz Mountains, through Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, all the way down to the famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . 

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1. Wild West Day Trip to Virginia City from Tahoe with Train Ride

2. Santa Barbara 1-Day via Amtrak Starlight Coastal&car tour from LA

3. Yosemite and Glacier Point Tour from San Francisco by Amtrak

4. California Coast Big Sur Monterey to Los Angeles - 2 Day

5. Central Downtown LA Tour

6. Napa Valley Wine Train Tour Glamorous Dining Experience

7. San Francisco City Half-Day Private Custom Tour

8. LA in a Day Tour: Hollywood, DTLA & Santa Monica

9. Private Elegant & Sophisticated Wine Food Pairing Experience from San Francisco

10. The San Diego to LA in A Day Tour

11. Private Napa Wine Train Glamorous Dining Experience from San Francisco

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Daytrippen.com

Your Trip Starts Here

Top 10 California Train Trips

by DayTrippen

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Napa Valley Wine Train

Napa Valley Wine Train has been in operation since 1989. The wine train can carry nearly 400 passengers through Napa Valley and usually makes two daily trips. A 1950s-era diesel engine pulls the Napa Valley Wine Train and travels adjacent to Highway 29 on a 3-hour trip through the valley. The train station is located at 1275 McKinstry Street, Napa, CA.

Roaring Camp Railroad Santa Cruz

Roaring Camp Railroad offers two different tours to suit your tastes. The Roaring Camp & Big Trees is a steam-powered narrow-gauge line using Shay and Heisler locomotives. Starting at the Roaring Camp depot in Felton, California, the line runs steep winding grades through the redwood forest to the top of nearby Bear Mountain. 5401 Graham Hill Road, Felton, CA.

Fillmore and Western Railway

(Under new owners, no train excursions are scheduled yet) Fillmore and Western Railway winds through the Heritage Valley, offering views of miles of orange, lemon, and avocado groves. The halfway point stopover is the town of Santa Paula, where passengers can enjoy lunch and explore before the return train trip. Fillmore & Western Railway 351 Santa Clara, Fillmore, California.

Amtrak Pacific Surfliner

The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner travels along the California coast from San Luis Obispo and ends in San Diego. Some sections of the trip are inland. However, there are many sections where the train travels adjacent to the Pacific. Oceanview areas of the trip include Point Conception, Gaviota Coast, Santa Barbara Coast, North, and Central San Diego County coast.

Fort Bragg Skunk Train

The Fort Bragg Redwood Company originally built the Fort Bragg Skunk Train as the Fort Bragg Railroad in 1885. Today, the Skunk Train takes passengers on a seven-mile round trip. The train lets passengers enjoy beautiful Northern California scenery with views of redwood trees.

Poway-Midland Railway

While this trip may be short, it’s worth checking out Poway-Midland Railroad. Visitors can ride on a vintage 1907 Baldwin Steam Locomotive during the summer and holiday weekends. The rest of the year, the Poway-Midland Railroad uses a Los Angeles Yellow Trolley Car for trips around the park.  On special occasions, a 1950 Fairmont Speeder can be seen rolling along the track.

Pacific Southwest Railway Campo

Pacific Southwest Railway takes passengers on a 12-mile round-trip journey and the old San Diego & Arizona Railway track. A Diesel-electric locomotive pulls vintage passenger cars over this historic railroad route. There is also an excellent museum on-site with rolling stock and railroad artifacts. This train is a little off the beaten path, but worth the effort it takes to get there.

Niles Canyon Railway Sunol, California

Niles Canyon Railroad operates along a portion of the First Transcontinental Railroad constructed in the 1860s. The railway runs excursions on Sundays year-round, usually every week during the summer and less frequently during the winter. Niles Canyon Railroad also operates special train excursions during the year, including wine-tasting trains, beer-tasting trains, holiday excursions, and summer school trains.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad. The Sierra National Forest’s majestic woods provide the backdrop for the narrow gauge journey back in time. The two steam locomotives operate daily during the summer months. Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad 56001 Hwy 41, Fish Camp, CA 93623.

Sacramento River Fox Train

Pulled by a diesel locomotive, the Sacramento River Train features two dining cars, a club car, a concession car, and two open-air cars. The Sacramento River Fox Train runs from West Sacramento 10 miles to the outskirts of Woodland and back.

Fun places to ride trains in Nevada

Southern califonia railway museum, roaring camp railroads santa cruz.

Rode ’em all!

Great Job Ken

We will add a few more trains to the list.

Thanks for visiting Daytrippen.com

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• Dinner Trains

California Dinner Train Rides (2024): A Complete Guide

Last revised: December 4, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

California is one of the great states to discover heritage railroads and museums aimed at highlighting its history with trains. 

The options are numerous and some of the state's most notable include the California State Railroad Museum, California Western Railroad ("The Skunk Train"), Knott's Berry Farm, Napa Valley Wine Train, Niles Canyon Railway, RailGiants Train Museum, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, Roaring Camp Railroads, Sacramento River Fox Train, Sierra Railroad, Western Pacific Railroad Museum, and the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.

California Tourist Trains and Museums

Most of these organizations offer excursions, although not all.  In addition, while many now provide some type of food service aboard their trains this amenity is still offered only on select runs.

California's history with trains did not begin until the Arcata & Mad River Railroad was formed in 1854, although this was a local operation only.  In actuality, it wasn't until the completion of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific in 1869 at Promontory Summit, Utah, opening the first Transcontinental Railroad to the west coast at Sacramento, did the state's involvement with the iron horse begin in earnest.

By 1920, more than 8,000 route miles of track served California, much of which was comprised of the Southern Pacific, Union Pacific, and Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe (Santa Fe).  

Until Amtrak began service on May 1, 1971 one could take a several famous trains from Chicago to Los Angeles/San Francisco with names like the City of San Francisco , San Francisco Chief , City of Los Angeles , California Zephyr , and others.  These trains are still fondly remembered today. 

The information included here highlights those organizations running dinner trains, or offering some type of food service.

Napa Valley Wine Train

Perhaps the best dinner train experience you can enjoy throughout the country-wide is the Napa Valley Wine Train.  They host a wide range of dinner options (including wine) aboard their train which operates through the beautiful Napa Valley region. 

The Napa Valley Wine Train launched operations on September 16, 1989 over 18 miles a former Southern Pacific branch between Napa and Calistoga.  The line was acquired for $2.5 million and quickly grew in popularity due to the scenery through local wineries and upscale accommodations.

Since trains began running, the railroad has slowly added more services and has now hosted more than 2 million riders.

Roaring Camp Railroad

The Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad operates the " Starlight Evening Dinner Train Party " during select dates that features a steak dinner, train ride, and live entertainment. 

What became the Roaring Camp & Big Trees Narrow Gauge Railroad began as the dream of F. Norman Clark who wanted to bring back the majestic steam locomotive.

His idea began in the late 1950s when steam was all but gone from main line railroads. Eventually, Clark located a 2-Truck Shay in Dixiana, Virginia and acquired nearly 200 acres of property on the Big Trees Ranch in Santa Cruz County.  Clark would go on to construct a 3-mile line with some grades at over 9%. 

The railroad remains a very popular excursion, offering the only chance to ride a train through a virgin stand of giant redwood trees.

River Fox Train

The River Fox Train (previously known as the S acramento RiverTrain ), based in West Sacramento, features upscale dinner train packages offering entertainment with your meal during the three-hour trip.  They also provide special trains and events throughout the year. 

The railroad operates about 10 miles of track from Woodland to Sacramento over property that was formerly part of the Sacramento Northern Railway, an electrified interurban.  Trains board at West Sacramento along the Sacramento River, heading west to Woodland before returning.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

During select times throughout the operating season the railroad operates specials known as the Moonlight Special , which feature dinner at the station, a train ride, and live entertainment.

They also offer a Mother's Day Brunch train; before your trip you can enjoy coffee or hot cocoa and afterwards partake in a quick bite to eat.

This narrow-gauge operation, operates 4 miles of ex-Madera Sugar Pine Lumber Company trackage near Fish Camp, California in the Sierra National Forest. It all began in 1961 thanks to the vision of Rudy Stauffer who rebuilt part of the network.

Today, railroad is well known for its use of rare, geared Shay steam locomotives that historically were used in the transportation of logs and lumber.

Sacramento River Train

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives. 

It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website. 

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

© Copyright 2007-2024 American-Rails.com. All written content, photos, and videos copyright American-Rails.com (unless otherwise noted).

• Excursion Train Rides

Excursion trains are back!

California State Parks and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation invested a combined $1.8 million toward the replacement of approximately 1,000 feet of mainline south of Capitol Mall along the Old Sacramento Waterfront in the summer of 2023. With the work complete and the main line reopened, we are rolling into our 40th anniversary season!

Ticket Information

Ticket prices will be as follows:

Adult: $18. Youth (6-17): $10. Child (under 6): Free.

FIRST CLASS

Note: First Class service begins in April.

Adult: $28. Youth (6-17): $20. Child (under 6): Free.

Museum members ride free in coach. In first class, the member fare is $15 and the youth fare is $12.

Additional Information

Tickets may be purchased or picked up from the Central Pacific Passenger Station at the corner of Front and J streets in Old Sacramento. Click here for a google maps link.

Accessibility

Due to the historic nature of the coaches, all passengers must be able to climb a narrow set of stairs to board the coaches. Due to limited aisle widths, wheelchairs, mobility devices, and strollers are not permitted on the coaches. Temporary storage for devices is provided at the passenger station. Should you have any questions regarding accessibility, please call the Membership Office at (916) 445-5995.

Ride In First Class Style

Enjoy a scenic, 50-minute ride along the Sacramento River and sit back in luxury and air-conditioned comfort as you are served refreshments in first class style. Each operating day we will be pulling one of our three elegant first class cars. Learn about our first class cars below.

The El Dorado

This handsome 1920s lounge car offers large windows and comfortable seating. The car is divided into two sections select either the Parlor or Lounge. Passengers in both locations are free to move about the car and step off onto the observation platform for a beautiful view of the Sacramento River.

The French Quarter

This beautifully restored car was inspired by the New Orleans French Quarter, with wrought iron balconies and a “Sunset pink” painted ceiling studded with stars. Complete with its own serving bar, the French Quarter has large windows and a variety of seating combinations including four small dining table booths for seating of four guests; settees and lounge-style chairs.

The Audubon Dining Car

The Dining Car is known as the “Audubon” because of the hand-painted reproductions of bird illustrations by the artist/naturalist John James Audubon. Groups of four passengers are seated around a small dining table.

About The Sacramento Southern Railroad

Since 1984, more than one million guests have taken a ride aboard the Sacramento Southern Railroad, served by all-volunteer crews fully trained and certified under Federal Railroad Administration regulations. Each spring, the Sacramento Southern Railroad takes center stage as visitors enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of authentic locomotives as they roll along the levees of the Sacramento River. Appealing to all ages, the experience offers guests the chance to experience train travel from an earlier era.

Perhaps the most dynamic way to experience railroading is to actually ride a train, as many visitors to the California State Railroad Museum can attest. Since 1982, excursion trains have been a popular offering along the Sacramento waterfront and a rewarding activity for those involved in the myriad, related tasks of construction and refurbishment, operation and maintenance. But what has it taken to get to this point, and where does the name "Sacramento Southern Railroad" come from anyway?

Click here to read about the history of the Sacramento Southern Railroad

Mother’s Day Train

Boba Tea Train

Murder Mystery Train

River Fox Refresher

Old Vine Express

Laugh Trax Comedy Night

Pumpkin Patch Express

• Group Excursions
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Your Escape is Now Boarding

From our exclusive Railbikes and Murder Mystery Dinners, to Refreshing Beer and Wine Trains, to Holiday Trains for kids, we truly have something for everyone! So, come depart from the ordinary, just minutes from Downtown Sacramento!

Railbikes for Adventurers

Ride the rails on a unique railroad biking experience!

Two-Seater Railbike 10 miles roundtrip

This Mother’s Day, celebrate Mom aboard the River Fox with a brunch!

2 Hour Train Ride Brunch and Welcome Mimosa

Sip on something sweet in Sacramento.

1.5 Hour Experience Boba Tastings Included

A “Who done it?” experience unlike any other.

2.5 Hour Experience Charcuterie, Drinks, & Dessert

All aboard for a Refreshing Ride through the Yolo Countryside!

2 Hour Experience Beer, Wine or Mimosas

Enjoy a guided flight of five specially chosen wines, led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through a whirlwind of tastes and aromas.

Paired Wine Experience Food & Drinks

Get ready to Tiki the rails with the River Fox Express to pure Hawaiian paradise on wheels!

2 Hour Experience Food & Drinks

Enjoy an evening filled with humor, wit, and endless laughter as the River Fox Refresher transforms into a rolling comedy club.

2-Hour Train Ride with Live Comedy with drink options at checkout.

Celebrate the fall harvest, find a perfect pumpkin, and trick or treat on board! Costumes are encouraged.

1 Hour Train Ride 1 Hour Fall Festival

Boarding Location

18095 County Road 117

West Sacramento CA 95691

Reviews / Testimonials

We went on the Magical Christmas Train and it was the best holiday train we have tried. It was worth the drive from the Bay Area and we will return next year. – Sophia

This is such a fun and unique experience and the staff is so amazing and hardworking to make sure their guests have a great time! Would recommend it over and over! – Maddy

Wow! What an amazing experience! The Beer Train was so much fun. Our group had a great time, drinking and dancing the night away to Dj Chaz! Highly recommend the beer train! We will definitely be doing it again! – Andrea

Metro train collides with bus in downtown Los Angeles, injuring more than 50, 2 seriously

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At least 55 people were hurt, two seriously, when a Metro light rail train and a University of Southern California shuttle bus collided Tuesday along a busy thoroughfare in downtown Los Angeles, officials said.

The crash happened shortly before noon along Exposition Boulevard, near the USC campus and Natural History Museum, according to the LA Fire Department.

Two victims were hospitalized with serious injuries and 16 others were transported in fair condition, the department said. Another 37 people were treated at the scene.

Dave Sotero, a spokesperson for LA Metro, said the bus crossed into the path of an E Line train. The light rail line runs from East Los Angeles to downtown Santa Monica mostly along streets, and not all of the crossings have gates.

Genesis Hernandez was transferring from a Metro bus to catch the E Line to Santa Monica, where she attends college when “all of a sudden I just saw a bunch of ambulances going by,” she recalled.

The 19-year-old was able to view the crash scene from a platform at the Expo/Vermont Metro station. “The bus definitely got crunched on its front end,” she said. “The train didn’t look too damaged.”

Television news footage showed the left side of the red and white bus smashed against the first car of the train. The front section of the bus had significant damage.

The Starcraft 40-passenger bus was traveling westbound on Exposition Boulevard with only the driver and one passenger aboard when the collision occurred, according to a statement from USC Transportation. The bus driver and passenger were the two most severely injured, according to fire department officials.

There were more than 150 passengers on the Santa Monica-bound Metro train, officials said.

Sotero said the Los Angeles Police Department would be in charge of the investigation.

“Metro offers its sympathy to those injured in the accident,” Sotero said in an email.

Exposition Boulevard was closed in both directions during the initial investigation. Metro said its train service would be limited and buses would be used to get passengers through the crash area.

__ Associated Press writer Christopher Weber in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

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Florence in California: Carnival launches new Italian-style cruise ship

Carnival Cruise Line is bringing a touch of Italy to Southern California.

The line launched Carnival Firenze, inspired by its namesake city, this week. The vessel sailed its maiden voyage from its Long Beach homeport on Thursday.

“We carry more guests than any other cruise line from California, and now this ship is giving us the opportunity to offer more fun to more people sailing from Long Beach,” Christine Duffy, the line’s president, said in a news release . “The recipe combining this ship’s beautiful Italian theming with the familiarity of our friendly team’s hospitality is, in a word, perfecto!”

The ship is the second in the Carnival Fun Italian Style concept after sister ship Carnival Venezia joined the fleet last summer. Both were originally part of Costa Cruises – also owned by parent company Carnival Corp. – before being rehomed.

Where will Carnival Firenze sail?

The roughly 5,000-guest ship will offer Baja Mexico and Mexican Riviera cruises ranging from three to seven days. Stops include destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Catalina Island.

What can guests expect ?

Built in 2020, Firenze was refurbished this year to add Carnival-specific touches. Those include staple venues like the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse and JavaBlue Cafe.

But the line leans into the ship’s Italian motif. The ship’s atrium was designed with Florence’s Piazza del Duomo in mind, and the Lido deck takes influence from the Italian Riviera. There’s even a replica of Michelangelo’s David on board that used to be on Carnival Pride (the real sculpture is in Florence’s Accademia Gallery).

The theme extends to the food and drink options, with eateries like Italian specialty restaurant Il Viaggio, Mexican-Italian fusion venue Tomodoro and La Strada Grill serving Italian street food. Frizzante specializes in bubbly drinks, and passengers can sip craft cocktails and Italian coffee at Amari.

Other features include the WaterWorks water park and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

How long should I take a cruise?: Here's how short and long cruises compare

How much does Carnival Firenze cost?

Prices vary based on sailing date and other factors, but a five-day Mexican Riviera cruise departing on May 30 now starts at $409 per person based on double occupancy, according to Carnival’s website . The fare includes much of the food on the ship, drinks like regular coffee and iced tea and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Multiple passengers injured as Metro train collides with USC bus near Exposition Park

Two people are hospitalized in serious condition.

EXPOSITION PARK, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Two people were seriously injured and dozens of others had minor injuries after a Metro train with more than 150 passengers on board collided with a USC bus in the Exposition Park area Tuesday, authorities said.

The incident was reported just before noon on Exposition Boulevard near Watt Way, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Two people on the USC shuttle were seriously injured and were transported by ambulance to a local hospital, fire officials say. They were awake and talking and considered to be in stable condition.

Sixteen passengers on the Metro train had injuries that were less severe but required treatment at local hospitals.

At least 37 people were treated and released on scene.

"This is what we call walking wounded," said LAFD Capt. Adam Van Gerpen. "They were able to walk off the train. We set up triage areas where our paramedics and EMTs were able to evaluate them."

Officials say there were more than 150 onboard the Metro train.

"I got thrown from my chair to the other chair," said Arlene Hayes, a passenger on the Metro train. "My whole left side is sore."

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

According to a statement from Metro, the USC shuttle bus crossed into the path of the southbound Metro E Line train at Watt Way and Exposition Boulevard.

"Metro offers its sympathies to those injured during this accident," said the agency in the statement.

The front portion of the bus appeared to have significant damage, while the train's front windshield was cracked.

Exposition Boulevard was closed in both directions between Figueroa and Bill Robertson Lane. Metro said it's currently single tracking between 23rd St. Station and Vermont Station until further notice.

A bus bridge was also set up to help Metro passengers get through the area as the damaged train remained on the tracks.

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Breaking News

California climbers train for Mt. Everest from the comfort of their own beds

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Graham Cooper sleeps with his head in a bag.

Not just any bag. This one has a hose attached to a motor that slowly lowers the oxygen level to mimic, as faithfully as possible, the agonies of fitful sleep at extreme altitude: headaches, dry mouth, cerebral malaise.

“It’s not all bad,” Cooper insisted, nodding to the humming motor. “That’s like white noise.”

Cooper, 54, an Oakland biotech executive who has handled finance for a number of companies, including one that sold for $7 billion, isn’t a masochist, exactly. He’s acclimatizing, in the bedroom of his second home near Lake Tahoe, for an attempt to climb Mt. Everest in May.

He has signed up with an Olympic Valley-based guide service whose founder, Adrian Ballinger, is breaking with decades of tradition to create what he believes are better and more ethical ways to climb the world’s tallest mountain.

Ballinger said he was appalled by the risks, filth and ballooning crowds on the traditional southern trek up the mountain in Nepal. That’s the route familiar from countless documentaries and books, including the 1997 classic “Into Thin Air.”

So he decided to take clients up on the north side, a journey that starts in Tibet.

“It’s colder, the route is more difficult, and the bureaucracy of dealing with China and getting the permits is a complete nightmare,” Ballinger said. “But despite those things, the Chinese are attempting to regulate, so once you get on the mountain, it’s safer, it’s cleaner, and it’s much less busy.”

Ballinger is also pioneering a technique he calls “rapid ascent,” which cuts the duration of the expedition roughly in half: from about two months to about one. That suits his clients, who usually have more spare money than time. And it buys Ballinger more time to spend at home with his wife and newborn son.

The catch? You have to spend a few months before the trip with your head in the bag.

“It’s not great, I’m not gonna lie,” Ballinger said with a laugh, but the technology is improving.

“Hypoxic tents,” as they’re called, have been used by other endurance athletes for years. In their original form, they would cover a client’s entire bed. That led to difficult conversations with spouses and partners about the necessity of sleeping at progressively higher simulated altitudes until they reached the height of Everest’s base camp, roughly 18,000 feet, where there’s about half the oxygen available at sea level.

As you can imagine, some clients wound up relegated to a couch with their bizarre-looking contraptions.

Cooper, who used one of the enormous old tents preparing for a 2015 trip to climb the highest peaks in Antarctica and South America, confessed he had no luck sweet-talking Hilary, his wife of 28 years, into sharing the adventure. He got bounced to a guest room.

“It was a lonely boy-in-the-bubble experience,” he said. But he has fond memories of the looks on his kids’ faces as they trooped into his little dungeon to kiss him good night.

This time around, “the bag,” as he calls it, covers just his head and upper torso and takes up about a quarter of the bed. Hilary sleeps next to him, Cooper said, and she finds the hum of the motor surprisingly soothing.

It goes without saying that the luxury of acclimatizing at home, in bed, with your partner curled up beside you, represents a profound break from the usual manner of preparing to ascend what is still one of the world’s deadliest mountains .

The traditional method starts in Kathmandu, at nearly 5,000 feet, where climbers spend a few days getting over jet lag. That’s usually followed by a quick flight to the small mountain town of Lukla, at just over 9,300 feet. The airport there — perched on a narrow Himalayan shelf surrounded by towering peaks, with a steep drop-off at the end of the runway — is regarded as one of the trickiest places in the world to land an airplane.

From there, climbers begin a long, deliberately slow 10-ish-day hike to base camp. The point is to give the body time to gradually adjust to the lack of oxygen.

Ballinger cuts nearly two weeks from his trips by driving his bedroom-acclimatized clients from the airport in Lhasa, Tibet, straight up to the northern route’s base camp, which is also at about 18,000 feet.

For some old-school purists, eliminating the long walk borders on sacrilege, said Will Cockrell, a journalist whose recent book, “Everest, Inc.,” explores the evolution of commercial guiding on the mountain. “They’ll say, ‘You’re not a real climber; you’re not a real nature lover,’” Cockrell said.

But since the arrival of big commercial expeditions on Everest in the mid-1990s — complete with Sherpas to install climbing ropes, chefs to cook meals in camp, team doctors to monitor health, and guides to accompany clients every step of the way — Mt. Everest has ceased to be a classic off-the-grid mountaineering challenge.

“It has come to represent something completely different,” Cockrell said, “something crazy to do to shake up your life, like running an Ironman.”

Ballinger makes no apologies. “We’re not old school, we don’t spend a lot of time sitting around drinking whiskey and playing cards,” he said.

That suits his clients, who “tend to be pretty type A, pretty high performing in everything they do,” Ballinger said.

They’d better be. His company, Alpenglow Expeditions , charges $165,000 (before tip) for a private climb, meaning one professionally certified guide per client, and $98,000 for a group climb with three clients per guide.

“We’re proudly expensive,” Ballinger said. “I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about what it takes to run a trip safely and ethically, and this is what it takes.”

Climbing from the north side, as Ballinger does, avoids the huge crowds who flock to the southern base camp from all over the world every May, the prime climbing season on Everest, to wait for a brief window of good weather to try to make it to the summit.

Anyone who has even loosely followed events on Mt. Everest in recent years is probably familiar with the terrifying “conga line” photos of climbers stuck in the world’s highest traffic jam.

It forms just below the summit on the southern route, at the last technical obstacle, a nearly vertical 40-foot rock wall called the Hillary Step. It’s on a ridge with a 10,000-foot drop to the climber’s right and an 8,000-foot drop to the left. So, when exhausted and inexperienced climbers inevitably struggle there, everybody else waits in a single file, hanging onto a fixed rope, while the bottled oxygen they need to survive at that altitude slowly drains away.

Worse is the Khumbu Icefall, a glacier just above the southern base camp. It’s best known for wide spine-tingling crevasses spanned by flimsy-looking aluminum ladders lashed together with rope. Climbers have to walk across those ladders, wearing big boots and crampons, as they make multiple trips back and forth to advanced camps to acclimatize before finally heading for the summit.

As dangerous as it is for the mostly foreign climbers and guides, the odds are even worse for the local Sherpas, who regularly traverse the Khumbu ferrying equipment — tents, food, oxygen canisters — for the climbing teams. Last year, the deadliest climbing season in Everest history, three Sherpas were killed in the Khumbu when a towering block of ice collapsed and buried them.

In six seasons climbing the southern route, from 2009 to 2014, Ballinger said he passed through the Khumbu 38 times and had two close calls. While nobody on his teams lost their lives there, he helped recover the bodies of other climbers who had not been so lucky.

Finally, he did the math and concluded there was no way he could get through a whole career — 20 or 30 years — without losing someone he was responsible for in the Khumbu.

“I just couldn’t do it anymore,” Ballinger said. “I just couldn’t justify the risk.”

Ballinger’s data-driven approach and stellar track record were enough to win over Cooper.

And he has been willing to wait.

He was ready to climb Everest four years ago, but when China shut down expeditions to its side of the mountain in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ballinger stuck to his principles and refused to resume climbing with the crowds in Nepal. This is the first year since the pandemic that the Chinese side has been open.

The Alpenglow team, which includes 26 clients, guides and Sherpas hoping to reach the summit, were originally scheduled to begin their expedition in late April. After a late permitting change from the Chinese government, that date has been pushed back to May 7.

Cooper has competed in the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii 11 times and has won the legendary Western States Endurance Run, a 100-mile ultra-marathon. He is not a man accustomed to sitting around. “I’m feeling ready and anxious to get going,” he texted a reporter last week.

When not trying to sleep in his hypoxic tent, Cooper has spent his training days in Tahoe on back-country skis doing laps up and down a mountain, his 3-year-old dog, a Vizsla named “Busy,” at his heels. Indoors, he straps on a hypoxic mask hooked to the same motor he uses for the sleeping tent and rides a stationary bike an hour at a time. Or climbs a StairMaster. Or throws on his mountaineering boots and a heavy backpack and trudges up and down slopes.

“I’m addicted to doing this kind of stuff,” said Cooper, who ran his first marathon when he was 13. “I just feel like a fundamentally happier person when I’m training.”

After a trust fall left him paralyzed, climber scales 3,000-foot El Capitan using only his arms

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Ballinger leads clients on bucket list climbs all around the globe. Many of the treks present more interesting technical challenges than Everest. Almost all of them feel like wild outposts compared with the circus vibe on Everest’s south side.

Still, he gets poetic when he describes why so many clients are drawn to the world’s tallest summit.

“Because it’s so hard,” he said. It takes incredible fitness, mental fortitude and a heavy dose of luck to make it to the top. And no matter how many precautions you take, there’s that uncontrollable element of risk.

“It’s not just a battle for success, it’s a battle for survival up there,” Ballinger said. “That’s something that many of us have not experienced otherwise. I think that really captures people.”

More to Read

Letters to the Editor: Permits won’t deter hikers who have no business on Mt. Baldy

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Editorial: Winter permits for Mt. Baldy could save lives of hikers — and rescuers

March 11, 2024

‘Craziest thing you can do’: Why are so many adventure seekers warming up to ice climbing?

Jan. 23, 2024

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Jack Dolan is an investigative reporter for the Los Angeles Times. A winner of numerous national awards, he has twice been named a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize.

Brian van der Brug has been a staff photojournalist at the Los Angeles Times since 1997.

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At least 55 hurt after a University of Southern California bus and a train collide in L.A.

LOS ANGELES — At least 55 people were hurt, two seriously, when a Metro light rail train and a University of Southern California shuttle bus collided Tuesday along a busy thoroughfare in downtown Los Angeles, officials said.

The crash happened shortly before noon along Exposition Boulevard, near the USC campus and Natural History Museum, according to the L.A. Fire Department.

Two victims were hospitalized with serious injuries and 16 others were transported in fair condition, the department said. Another 37 people were treated at the scene.

Dave Sotero, a spokesperson for L.A. Metro, said the bus crossed into the path of an E Line train. The light rail line runs from East Los Angeles to downtown Santa Monica mostly along streets, and not all of the crossings have gates.

Genesis Hernandez was transferring from a Metro bus to catch the E Line to Santa Monica, where she attends college when “all of a sudden I just saw a bunch of ambulances going by,” she recalled.

The 19-year-old was able to view the crash scene from a platform at the Expo/Vermont Metro station. “The bus definitely got crunched on its front end,” she said. “The train didn’t look too damaged.”

Television news footage showed the left side of the red and white bus smashed against the first car of the train. The front section of the bus had significant damage.

The Starcraft 40-passenger bus was traveling westbound on Exposition Boulevard with only the driver and one passenger aboard when the collision occurred, according to a statement from USC Transportation. The bus driver and passenger were the two most severely injured, according to fire department officials.

There were more than 150 passengers on the Santa Monica-bound Metro train, officials said.

Sotero said the Los Angeles Police Department would be in charge of the investigation.

“Metro offers its sympathy to those injured in the accident,” Sotero said in an email.

Exposition Boulevard was closed in both directions during the initial investigation. Metro said its train service would be limited and buses would be used to get passengers through the crash area.

The Associated Press

Famous white killer whale ‘Frosty’ spotted off California coast: ‘Very special encounter’

Whales, including 'frosty,' spotted off california coast.

In a video, passengers are seen watching in awe as the killer whales cruise near and underneath the boat in Newport Beach, California. (Credit: Capt. Dani, @NewportCoastalAdventure, @NewportWhales)

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. - An incredibly rare pod of killer whales was spotted off the coast of Newport Beach in California on Monday, including a rare glimpse of a white killer whale calf named Frosty .

Jessica Roam, an education and communications Manager at Newport Landing and Davey’s Locker Whale Watching, confirmed the sighting to FOX Television Stations. 

"Our whale-watching boat the Catallac was the first to spot the famous killer whale pod about nine miles off the coast of Newport Beach this morning during one of our morning whale-watching cruises," Roam told FOX on April 29.

Frosty is a 4-year-old calf and is considered a unique killer whale due to its genetic condition, which causes the whale’s pigment to be a much lighter color than most killer whales. The last time the whale watching company spotted Frosty was about one year ago in April 2023.

The whales were spotted on April 29 in Newport Beach, California. (Credit: Delaney Trowbridge, @NewportCoastalAdventure, @NewportWhales)

In a video, uploaded by the boating company, passengers watch "in awe" as the killer whales cruise near and underneath the boat. 

The boat’s captain, Dani Fasser said he and his passengers were "extremely lucky" to locate the pod of several whales.

"We were watching a pair of giant fin whales, and all of a sudden, she [a passenger] saw puffs in the distance, which were definitely not a dolphin. Turns out it was KILLER WHALES!," Fasser said in a statement. "They were extremely excited to be the first to spot them this morning!"

The famous white whale has been nicknamed Frosty by the public. (Credit: Delaney Trowbridge, @NewportCoastalAdventure, @NewportWhales)

According to Newport Landing and Davey’s Locker Whale Watching, the whales were feeding on a beach-ball-sized chuck of an unknown animal and were passing it back and forth. 

"Sightings of killer whales are few and far between along the Southern California coastline, so it was a very special encounter," Roam continued. 

RELATED: Watch these dolphins steal the show for whale watchers in California

This particular pod has been previously sighted as far north as British Columbia. Their last reported sighting was in Morro Bay in October 2022. 

Newport Landing and Davey’s Locker Whale Watching operate daily whale-watching tours out of the Newport Beach harbor in California.

This story was reported from Los Angeles.

Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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