Via Magazine September/October 2024

An orange Grand Canyon Railway car at dusk.
Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks on the rails in Utah.

The ultimate form of slow travel, railways allow you to sit back and watch the world pass by, as scenic towns give way to open valleys, rolling foothills, and rising mountain vistas. You’ll find a lot to love about train travel, from superliner cars with sightseeing lounges to sit-down dining cars and en suite sleeper cars. 

Downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, skyline at dusk.

The West’s state capitals aren’t just about politics. They’re also some of the most vibrant, surprising, and enjoyable travel destinations anywhere. Rich history, inspiring art, outdoor fun, delicious food and drink—these seven Western capitals dazzle.

Listen to This Issue’s Podcast Episode

Listen Now

Amtrak's Empire Builder train on a forested railroad track.

Hosts Michelle Donati and Mitti Hicks hop on a train and discover why a slower pace of travel has big benefits, from sights not seen by car or air to the freedom to roam while the landscapes change around you.

Adventures in the West

Cart Creek Bridge over the water at Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area.

Follow scenic byways in southwestern Wyoming and northwestern Utah for colorful canyons, volcanic rock formations, and wandering wildlife.

Biosphere 2 at sunset in Oracle, Arizona

Just outside Tucson, this singular enclave feels worlds away with its unique blend of art, science, and scenery.

Scenic autumn landscape in Grand Tetons from Oxbow Bend

Forgo the crowds and find your own quiet pocket of autumnal magic.

Smart Tips

A family poses with characters from Toy Story at Disneyland Resort.

Via readers share how they make their time—and money—well spent at Disneyland.

A calculator and two car key remotes placed on a table in a new car dealership.

Negative car equity is reaching record highs due to a shifting car market.

Member News

AAA Mountain West Group's new president and CEO, Marshall L. Doney.

AAA Mountain West Group’s new President and CEO, Marshall L. Doney, talks innovation, savings, and a road map to the future.

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