Capitol Limited rail lines when it was B&O

[chwood01]

Hi Guys,

Does the Amtrak Capitol Limited use the same rail lines (Washington to Harpers Ferry) as the previous B&O train by the same name did?

AND,

When riding that train is it possible to see the Great Falls of the Potomac River, about 15 to 20 miles west of D.C.? On this question I'm principally interested in the B&O train.

Thanks a lot guys,

Charles

[Deggesty]

Welcome to the forums. We hope to hear from you more, whether you are seeking information or sharing your knowledge.

Yes, Amtrak's Capitol Limited uses the former B&O rails between Washington and a point just east of Pittsburgh; someone with more knowledge of the area than I have can tell you just where the route diverges to make use of the former PRR between Pittsburgh and Cleveland (the junction with the former NYC is right at the station).

As to seeing the Great Falls of the Potomac, I have the impression that it is extremely difficult to see them from a train, since the line goes through Rockville.

[R.N. Nelson]

The original B&O route that Amtrak uses does not get close to  the Potomac River until Point of Rocks, which is not far from where the line crosses the bridge over the river into Harpers Ferry  It later crosses the river several times prior to Cumberland.

The railroad is about 15 miles east of Great Falls

 

Norman

 

[BaltACD]

The Capitol Limited follows the route of the B&O's Capitol Limited from Washington to Braddock, PA; then if follows the Original Capitol Limited route (pre P&LE trackage rights) from Braddock on the P&W subdivision (prior to trackage rights on the P&LE that were obtained in the late 30's - The Capitol Limited used the P&W subdivision all the way to New Castle, PA via Bakerstown and Zelienople)  to a point known a Field where there is a connection with the NS that carries the train to the former PRR station in Pittsburgh.  The train uses the NS from Pittsburgh to Chicago, via Cleveland.

[chwood01]

Thanks for the feedback. I had gone through all of the Capitol Limited YouTube videos and didn't see Great Falls so not surprised at your answer.

 

Charles

[chwood01]

Thanks Norman,

App[reciate the information, but was hoping the falls would be visible.

 

Charles