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Me and my Dad might take that trip, Long time ago we did it but only to Reno. Anyone here been on a Amtrak from Cali to Chicago?? If so, tell me what its like!
Posts: 56 | From: Sonoma CA USA | Registered: Nov 2000
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Well, no, but I did Chicago - Emeryville last May on number 5, does that count?
What's it like, you ask. Well, it's like a VERY long train ride. Aside from coast to coast on the Sunset, it has to be the longest ride in the system.
The scenery is terrific and if you're into that, you will enjoy the ride a lot. But, I have to say, that by the second day, I was about sceneried out as far as slow canyon running is concerned and yearned for a stretch of wide open throttle 8 operation. Maybe it's just because I've done that trip three times in the last few years.
I had no complaints about the food or on board service, both were just fine. It's good track most of the way and the ride is sweet.
If you can, get a sleeper, it makes the trip super fabulous.
All in all, I think I like the Empire Builder route best because there is some mountain running, but lots of galloping across the open spaces of Montana and North Dakota which I find interesting.
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I did it in two parts, Denver to Chicago and then Emeryville to Denver (via Seattle). The Denver to Chicago bit is rather boring for most of the trip, apart from crossing the Mississippi and approaching Chicago. The Emeryville to Denver is a *lot* more interesting in terms of scenery - mountains, gorges, rivers, tunnels, etc. As for service, the coach car service is on the poor side and the dining car gets very busy - so get your reservations in early!
PS Miller - The Texas Eagle is slighter further than the California Zephyr.
Posts: 2426 | From: Apple Valley, CA | Registered: Sep 2000
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I rode the California Zephyr from Emeryville to Chicago in the summer of 99. It was great! The first day's scenery is much better than the second's. So enjoy it while it lasts. The food and sleeping accomodations were awsome. It is a very nice trip.
Posts: 34 | From: Biloxi, MS USA | Registered: Aug 2000
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My family took the Zephyr from Emeryville (Oakland) to Denver and back last August. We had a blast. The scenery was awesome. The food ranged from OK to excellent, depending on the meal. The service was terrific all the way around. We had an air conditioning problem on the eastbound trip, but it really wasn't too hot and our attendant arranged refunds (not travel vouchers) on the sleeper portion of our fare for that leg. That's my kind of service.
------------------ Trust God, love your neighbor, and never mistake opinion for truth. -Mr. Toy
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