What a thrill to finally experience a short "test" ride on the Cascades from Portland to Centralia and return. Speed was so impressive, as was the small spacing between freight trains we met. Crew was so very courteous and helpful. We are an elderly couple, and the crew went out of their way to help us. Business class was very comfortable, bathrooms were clean and spacious.
From now on we will only take the Cascades from Portland to Tacoma to visit our daughter.
A close friend is the rail volunteer expert on the Empire Builder, and he has been convincing us to convert to rail travel where ever possible. WE WILL!
QUESTIONS: Who is the speaker on the PA system - is it some one in the cab? Where/who is the dispatcher located?