Just back in Illinois from a layout delivery to Chico, CA. As long as I had the time, I decided to take the California Zephyr back to Illinois. I know that I am preaching to the choir here, but what a wonderful way to travel and see the country. I have taken that train several times in the past, all the way back to
1957, and while many things have changed, it is still a great way to go. Connection from Chico was a little difficult; while Amtrak left from a train station, the trip was by bus to Sacramento. From there, on the Zephyr, the crew was hospitable, food was OK, and meeting folks in the dinner and club car was a joy. A few notable differences from the 'old' days (not to far back) was the joining of the train from Las Vegas and Portland, OR in Salt Lake City (perhaps Ogden). Now it is just one train from the San Francisco Vicinity through to Chicago. The Desert Wind that used to go to Las Vegas is no more, and the Portland train has been route via the Empire Builder to the north (I think) Of course, earlier on, pryor to Amtrak, there was the change from the Western Pacific to the Rio Grande, to the CB&Q. So, while there are still a few trains to ride, I recommend everyone give it a try.Don Cardiff Model Railroad Design Kaneville, IL
Modeling tip: Except for Kansas, the world is not flat.