Why trains are the new 'it' way to travel

Trains are making a comeback in the US as people look for pretty views and greener ways to travel, rail industry experts say. You won't zip along like Japan's bullet trains, but US rail trips let you take it slow and soak in the sights on the way to places like Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon.

If you take the Aurora Winter Train from Anchorage to Fairbanks, you'll see the amazing lights in the sky. The California Zephyr is a great ride from Chicago to San Francisco, with some spectacular mountain views along the way. 

If you are someone who is interested in seeing the Pacific, the Coast Starlight will take you from LA all the way up to Seattle. You can also enjoy a train ride to the Grand Canyon from Williams, Arizona right to the South Rim.

Lots of these trains have old-school cars fixed up nicely, with glass domes on top for stunning views. If you want to eat something delicious, some trains have dining cars serving up tasty food.

More people are choosing trains because they're worried about the planet. The government says trains can produce far less pollution than cars or planes on some trips.

Some folks ride for days, others just hop on for a quick trip. Whatever suits you. Prices vary widely. You might snag a deal or end up spending big if you're feeling fancy.

Popular routes fill up fast, so don't wait to book your ticket. Seats fill up quickly, especially when the leaves change or during summer vacation. They also suggest opting for routes that offer stops at national parks or historic towns to combine sightseeing with the rail journey.