The Coast Starlight is a scenic Amtrak train route that travels between Los Angeles, California, and Seattle, Washington. As one of the most picturesque train journeys in North America, it offers passengers expansive views and unique destinations along the Pacific Coast. Here are some of the best views and destinations you can experience aboard the Coast Starlight:

1.The Santa Barbara Coastline – Departing from Los Angeles, one of the first stunning coastal views passengers enjoy is that of Santa Barbara. The tracks hug the shoreline, offering expansive views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean and sandy beaches.

2.San Luis Obispo and the Cuesta Grade – The train winds through delicate curves as it ascends the Cuesta Grade north of San Luis Obispo. This gives passengers captivating sights of rolling hills, vineyards, and oak-studded landscapes unique to Central California.

3.Pismo Beach Views – While not stopping in Pismo Beach itself, travelers are treated to a distant view of this classic beach town, including its famed pier stretching into the vast ocean.

4.Salinas Valley – Often referred to as “The Salad Bowl of the World” due to its rich agriculture, passengers will be able to view endless fields and farmlands that contribute significantly to the United States’ fresh produce.

5.San Francisco Bay Area – Though the train travels inland through much of the Bay Area, it grants vistas of marshlands and suburban sceneries before making a stop at Oakland’s historic station. From here, travelers can venture into San Francisco to explore iconic sights like Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

6.Mt. Shasta – Perhaps one of the most breathtaking views is Mount Shasta in Northern California. On a clear day, this imposing volcano looms over the landscape providing an awe-inspiring backdrop for travelers.

7.Columbia River Gorge – As it crosses into Oregon, passengers will enjoy views of one of the Pacific Northwest’s most dramatic natural features – Columbia River Gorge characterized by its steep basalt cliffs and a multitude of cascading waterfalls.

8.Puget Sound – Approaching Seattle, the route skirts Puget Sound giving picturesque vistas of this vast inlet alongside lush forests and occasional glimpses of Olympic Mountains in Washington State.

Throughout its journey, Coast Starlight stops at several captivating destinations such as San Jose with its tech-savvy Silicon Valley allure; Sacramento, California’s capital rich with Gold Rush history; Portland with its quirky urban charm; and finally Seattle where Pike Place Market and space Needle await eager explorers.

Each scenery component adds to the tapestry that makes up this legendary rail experience – an unforgettable encapsulation of West Coast natural beauty and cultural hotspots.