The Greatest Ski Train Rides in the World: Epic Journeys to the Slopes
There’s something undeniably magical about boarding a train bound for the mountains, where mountain peaks, snowy covered valleys, and alpine villages zip by your window. Ski trains combine sophisticated travel with stunning vistas, delivering you to alpine gems. Forget cramped flights or icy roads—these rail journeys are as much about the ride as the destination. From Switzerland’s engineering marvels to Norway’s fjord-framed tracks, here are five of the greatest ski train rides in the world, each a gateway to unforgettable powder days.
1. Glacier Express: Switzerland’s Alpine Masterpiece
Route: Zermatt to St. Moritz
Why It’s Great: Dubbed the “slowest express train in the world,” the Glacier Express takes eight hours to wind through 291 bridges and 91 tunnels, serving up a visual feast of the Swiss Alps. Panoramic windows frame the Rhine Gorge (Switzerland’s Grand Canyon), the soaring Oberalp Pass at 2,033m, and the iconic Landwasser Viaduct—a UNESCO World Heritage marvel. Snowy peaks, ancient monasteries, and glaciers glide by as you sip hot chocolate in plush comfort.
Ski Destinations: Zermatt, home to the Matterhorn and 360km of pistes, offers everything from beginner runs to off-piste challenges. St. Moritz, with 350km of interconnected slopes, is a playground for skiers and hosts winter polo on frozen lakes.
Pro Tip: Book panoramic seats through the Glacier Express website (fares start at ~CHF 150 one-way in winter). Reserve 3-6 months early for peak season, and consider a Swiss Travel Pass for flexibility.
Vibe: A luxurious, slow-burn journey through alpine wonderlands—perfect for soaking in the scenery before ripping up the slopes.
2. Bernina Express: A UNESCO Journey Through the Alps
Route: Chur to Tirano (Switzerland to Italy)
Why It’s Great: Another Swiss stunner, the Bernina Express is a UNESCO World Heritage route that climbs the Bernina Pass, offering cinematic views of the Morteratsch Glacier, spiral viaducts, and turquoise alpine lakes. The red train snakes through 55 tunnels and 196 bridges, with snow covered peaks dominating the horizon. It’s a four-hour masterclass in alpine engineering and natural beauty, blending Swiss precision with Italian flair.
Ski Destinations: St. Moritz boasts 87 championship runs, while nearby Pontresina offers glacier skiing and long seasons.
Pro Tip: Included in the Swiss Travel Pass, but seat reservations (~CHF 20) are a must. Book via Rhaetian Railway and aim for window seats on the right for the best views.
Vibe: A compact yet epic ride, ideal for skiers who want history, scenery, and world-class slopes in one trip.
3. GoldenPass Express: Switzerland’s Riviera-to-Mountains Gem
Route: Interlaken to Montreux
Why It’s Great: Launched in 2023, the GoldenPass Express is a high-tech marvel with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing terraced vineyards, Lake Geneva, and glacier-capped peaks. This medieval trade route turned luxury rail journey links the Bernese Oberland’s snowy highlands with Montreux’s Riviera charm. The seamless gauge-switching tech (no train changes!) makes it a smooth ride through Switzerland’s postcard-perfect landscapes.
Ski Destinations: Interlaken connects to the Jungfrau region’s 213km of runs, including family-friendly slopes at Grindelwald. Gstaad, reachable en route, offers 200km of pistes beloved by celebrities and beginners alike.
Pro Tip: Premium seats (~CHF 50) include Champagne service—book at GoldenPass. Pair with a half-day ski pass for a quick slope hit.
Vibe: Modern luxury meets alpine tradition, with a touch of glamour for skiers who love variety.
4. Bergen–Oslo Scenic Train Ride: Norway’s Fjord and Snow Odyssey
Route: Bergen to Oslo
Why It’s Great: Norway’s Bergen–Oslo line is one of Europe’s most scenic rail journeys, stretching 496km through fjords, frozen waterfalls, and the Hardangervidda Plateau—Europe’s highest mountain plateau. The seven-hour ride climbs to 1,237m at Finse, a snowbound outpost with Nordic skiing trails. Dramatic gorges and coastal vistas make every moment Instagram-worthy, especially in winter’s icy glow.
Ski Destinations: Voss, accessible via a short connection, is a freeride haven with 40km of slopes and cross-country trails. Geilo, another stop, offers 45km of family-friendly runs and a grand old hotel, Dr. Holms (occupied by German troops during the Second World War).
Pro Tip: Book through VY (~NOK 300-600 one-way); the “Minipris” fare saves cash if booked early. Bring a thermos for cozy vibes at Finse’s ski-in/ski-out station.
Vibe: A rugged, Nordic adventure for skiers craving fjord views and uncrowded trails.
5. Winter Park Express: America’s Rocky Mountain Revival
Route: Denver to Winter Park (Colorado, USA)
Why It’s Great: Revived in 2017, the Winter Park Express is America’s premier ski train, climbing the Rockies through the 6-mile Moffat Tunnel under the Continental Divide. The two-hour journey reveals aspen groves, powder fields, and jagged peaks, dropping you steps from the lifts. Double-decker cars with oversized windows maximize the snowy spectacle, making it a favorite for Denverites escaping to the slopes.
Ski Destinations: Winter Park Resort, with 3,000+ acres and 166 trails, caters to all levels, from bunny hills to expert-only cirques.
Pro Tip: Runs weekends from December through March; tickets (One-way fares start at $19 and are half price for kids under 12) include free ski carriage. For the 2025-26 season, they are kicking off on December 19 and run Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through January 4; regular season starts on January 8, 2026, and runs Thursday-Sunday through March 29. Book via Amtrak and arrive early for Union Station’s craft coffee.
Vibe: A quick, budget-friendly escape with big-mountain energy—perfect for a day trip or weekend shred.
Why Ski Trains Are the Ultimate Winter Adventure
These trains aren’t just transport—they’re an experience. They’re about as stress-free (no icy roads or airport chaos) as you can get, and they are designed to let you savor the journey. Many offer ski racks, dining cars, and panoramic windows, turning travel time into a highlight. Plus, you’ll arrive slope-side, ready to carve without the hassle.
Planning Tips:
- Book Early: Winter seats sell out fast, especially on Swiss routes (3-6 months in advance is ideal).
- Check Passes: Swiss Travel Pass or JR Pass (for other regions) can save on fares.
- Pack Smart: Most trains have ski storage, but confirm policies when booking.
- Layer Up: Cabins are cozy, but stations can be chilly—dress for the mountains.
I have personally ridden on many of these trains, and the experience is sublime. Enjoying an espresso in a window seat, getting whisked along to a far-off ski village is an experience I sincerely hope all of you enjoy one day.
