Train Rides - Where are the best in the country?

[Buckeye Riveter]

Wow! I never expected such varied responses when I posted the question. Another ride that I enjoy is the Algoma Central heading north from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Of course, I get off and go fishing at Tatnall Camp.

[tgovebaker]

If you've got an afternoon to kill, take the Zephyr out of Oakland up to Truckee. This beautiful route is the old SP mainline through the Sierras and it has some spectacular scenery, particularly in the winter. If you've got more time, take it all the way to Denver. The train itself isn't exactly spectacular, but the the crew is friendly, the service excellent, and the scenery -- the Sierras, Wasatch, and Rockies, the big desert, Moffat Tunnel, etc. -- is well worth the two day trip.

[Dave45681]

I don't have a lot of other experiences to compare it to, but I thought the East Broad Top Railroad trip was nice when I went during the TCA Convention last summer.

I was sitting in one of the uncovered cars right behind the engine. Got a slight shower of soot, but not too bad. Made the experience that more memorable than if I had sat in one of the covered cars. They let you get out in the middle when the train turns around in a wye. Good photo opportunity to get pics of the train at that point.

Also, as mentioned on the web site below, there's also a trolley museum (with ride available) right next to this, so it's a 2 fer in terms of travel.

http://www.ebtrr.com/

-Dave

[Anonymous]

Here's a tip for the Strasburg, PA RR. Pay a few $ extra for the open-window observation car (the yellow one that was used in the movie "Hello Dolly"). Since the locomotive goes in reverse for the first half of the 45 min. trip, it will be "in your face". The return trip will give you the experience of riding on a observation platform. And, of course, the TCA Museum, PRR Museum, and the Choo Choo Barn's fabulous layout is right there. A stay at the Red Caboose Motel is great, but they require a 2 night minimum in-season because it is so popular. Joe

[Anonymous]

The Amtrak Surfliner from San Diego to San Luis Obispo along the old Daylight Route.

[Anonymous]

On the East Coast I'll second the Cass Scenic RR. It's unusual in that it uses gear-driven steam locos exclusively (mostly Sheas) and can be remarkably cold at altitude even if it's only cool in the valleys.

Also recommend the Western Maryland Scenic RR which may be in it's FINAL SEASON unless someone finds a way to save it. Steam some days, diesel others. You can read about the efforts to kill it over in the OGR forum "Prototype" section. It needs our support. www.wmsr.com/