dps (12/14/82)
Just went on a vacation trip as follows Portland-Ogden-Denver on the Pioneer (AMTRAK on UP) Denver-Salt Lake City on the Rio Grande Zephyr (DRGW) SLC-Los Angeles on the Desert Wind (AMTRAK on UP-ATSF) Los Angeles-Santa Ana and return, the San Diegan (AMTRAK on ATSF) Los Angeles-Portland on the Coast Starlight (AMTRAK on SP) COMMENTS: RGZ a wonderful experience! Winter Park beautiful with first major snowfall, though snow was thin most other places (and absent in Denver) Ride this train while you can. DRGW will not be able to replace cars when they wear out. If DRGW and SP merge, expect this train to be axed whatever the condition of the cars. Last domes active in the west!!!! Smoothest track: DRGW; going heavily into welded rail. Worst track: SP. UP only a little bit better, and the trains are running fast (80 mph). Jury still out on ATSF as the San Diegan covers many switches (which are not too comfortable) and my southbound coach apparently had a bum suspension (terrific side thrust on the bumps). Cajon pass is smooth, though. Superliners: very comfortable, but on bad track the sway can make it difficult to walk down the aisle. Use your hands on the seatbacks, not your hips. The economy bedroom is very comfortable for one person. Small overnight bags can go under the lower berth, but I put my bag on the upper berth. Not so good if someone is with you -- they might object to the weight on their ankles. Upper level views are good, lounge is nice (but if you're a non-smoker, expect to hold your breath). No forward view (that's what made a dome so great). Coach seats comfortable, but contoured to a specific length back. long distant coaches have reclining, legrests, footrests, and lots of legroom. ~v I enjoyed myself muchly, especially as I fell between crowds (too long after T-day, too long before Christmas).