Some routes, of course, are superior to others, serving up memorable views from the observation car—or a private roomette.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park might be crowded, but that’s only because it’s wonderful. Here’s why—and a guide to ...

A weathered sign in the Minnesota River Valley proudly proclaims: “World’s Oldest Rock.” Erected in 1975, it marks a 3.8-billion-year-old gneiss — or so scientists thought.