The classic American road trip will never be the same, thanks to constant concerns over oil production and rising fuel costs. It’s time to take a vacation away from those frets and fears by exploring via train. Amtrak has fantastic deals and routes that offer unique views you can’t see anywhere else. (And train travel is almost 20% more efficient than car or plane travel, which means a lower carbon footprint).

Out of San Francisco, Amtrak has 4 different routes that take riders everywhere from southern California, the Pacific Northwest, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and beyond.

1) California Zephyr: Leaving the Amtrak station in Emeryville, this train runs all the way to Chicago with a host of beautiful destinations in-between. For a quick day trip, get off in Sacramento and explore the state’s capital and its many monuments. For a weekend getaway, stop off in Reno, Nevada or Provo, Utah for priceless scenery and restaurants with unique fair. For a long weekend, head all the way to Denver, Colorado, which has an extensive public transportation system that allows you to explore all of Denver’s neighborhoods.

2) Capital Corridor: for business or pleasure in Northern California, this is the train to take. The line begins in San Jose, runs up through Fremont and Hayward to Oakland and Emeryville. Hoping on at either station, the Capital Corridor will take you through Richmond and Davis to Sacramento and one to Auburn. Auburn is well worth a visit, thanks to the Auburn State Recreation Area – a 35,000 park along the American River. The city itself features a host of historical attractions and is a quaint place to spend a quiet weekend.

3) Coast Starlight: all the majesty of the Pacific Northwest is accessible along this line. Starting in Los Angles and stopping in Oakland, the Coast Starlight runs through Eugene and Portland, Oregon and on to Olympia, Tacoma and finishing in Seattle, Washington. Numerous national parks and state recreation areas await you along the Coast Starlight. Hiking, skiing, snowboarding, wine tasting, cycling, white water rafting – these are just a few of the hundreds of outdoor activities you can enjoy thanks to a short train trip up north.

4) San Joaquins: a sweet trip through California’s central valley will add a little variety to your vacation plans. Jump on in either Oakland or Emeryville and travel through Richmond to Martinez. Get off here and you can take a motorcoach to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom for endless fun. The park features endless encounters with wildlife, including opportunities to feed dolphin, sea lions and sharks. Rides for kids, families and down right thrill seekers are ever-present, along with numerous animal performances and unique events.