Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Enjoy this feature length Christmas Special on the California Zephyr, as I take a roomette across the USA from Chicago to San Francisco (OK, well Emeryville!). I hope you have all had a super restful Christmas. Thanks so much for following me this year and here's to a successful 2022 for us all!
I like that. I think it's easy to forget how big the US is and from talking to people around the world I see their perspective tends to be based on their world and size. It's just hard to comprehend the size and how it's easy to judge a country based on just a few loud people and a couple large cities.
@@Ved000000 we only have it in the northeast. They limit themselves to 85-88 mph on the BNSF tracks in Nebraska and Colorado, at 90 they start outrunning the signals- arriving at the crossing before they activate.
@@Ved000000 "Imagine not having high-speed rail." Too slow. For example this train journey we see in this video, right. From Chicago to Emeryville is 2,118 miles. That's 3,408 kilometers. Wheel on rail HSR typically craps out at 200 MPH (300 km/hr), so you're looking at 11.36 hours on HSR. The average speed of the TGV in France in "revenue service" (normal operation as opposed to special configuration to win a world record) is only 173 mph, or 278 km/hr, so the TGV would take 12.25 hours. Whereas flying is only 4 hours, 40 minutes. Like the others said, you have to realize the vast scale of the USA, Canada and Australia. This is why none of those three countries have nationwide wheel on rail HSR like you see in France. At best, it would compete with driving....but we would still need aircraft for people who need to get across the country in a reasonable period of time. HSR would just take too long and would be a waste of federal funds.
i’m from california, and a lot of people on the east and west coasts make fun that the midwest is boring - but i adore the midwest. the flatness, the farms, the way industrialization has shaped these small towns. the midwest is one of the truest pictures of what americana is. i also think it’s beautiful, seeing the sunset over miles and miles of farmland.
Ugh. It seems YOU are the one casting judgement here. I have nothing against the mid-west, but being from the mid-west doesn't make someone more American that being from New York or California, or the deep south, or Alaska, or Hawaii. We're all Americans. Our country was founded in the ideal that all men are created equal, and, yeah, we haven't always lived up to that, but all the more reason that you should consider that before you declare that one region is "true Americana" more than others.
We took the Zephyr 12-24 to 12-26. We got stuck in Truckee/Donner Pass area. Finally got to Emeryville 13 hours late. Then we took the Coast Starlight on 12/27 to LAX. It was late and instead of arriving about 9:30pm, we got to LAX about 3am. The Amtrak employees are worth their weight in gold. Patience like I have never seen. Bless them.
As a person who has criss-crossed the US and Canada several times, I can attest to the absolute openness and grandeur of most of North America. This trip is on my bucket list!
Love this video Paul, thank you. As a disabled wheelchair bound man in his 60's this my only means of seeing what travel is like. You Jeb, Noel and Sam keep my sane, thank you.
Fabulous video....I have done this trip many times and other Amtrak trip since 1962. It has not changed. Amtrak is a time portal to enjoy for ever. I wish that I could have worked for them decades ago. I recommend Amtrak to anyone I know as it allows the world to stop and focus on the simpler things in life. Bravo.
Thank you very much for these glimpses of a travelling life experience. I take much vicarious pleasure in them. I love a long railway journey - there's a particular feeling that I don't get in a car, plane or boat. You can almost touch people's lives, get a brief glimpse through a window and feel something of their own world. Good health to you.
My wife and I took this (bedroom for us) as part of our honeymoon back in 2009. Our travel agent kept trying to talk us out of it because it would eat up travel time. That’s precisely why we wanted it. Awesome video, Paul! Thank you for your channel!
Your videos, Paul , are so fascinating that I only ,on average, need 2/3 cups of strong coffee to see them through to the end. Thanks, on behalf of the; 'I thought I'd never be able to get to sleep again in my life society of insomniacs. x
I've done this trip and it's wonderful. Yes, getting outside your comfort zone by meeting fellow passengers over meals is a great part of the experience. I still laugh how they call them "fresh air stops" and then all the smokers light up as soon as they step off. :P
On my last trip east we almost left a kid who was stinking up the toilets smoking weed at Galesburg. I think we would have left him if not for the old lady with a walker trying to get back on. The conductor had a talk with him and some of his buddies later on. The toilet was so bad with the stench of weed I opened the door and nearly puked.
We just did this "bucket list" trip in November, from near Boston to Emeryville, round trip. It was so awesome I just want to do it again. Thanks for your excellent videography and narration. I'll be sharing with my friends who wanted to see our (poor) pictures. It brings back great memories!
My family and I went to the USA back in 2011 and one of my priorities was to take this train. Due to flooding and other numerous delays, we went across the Rockies in the darkness. That was meant to be the highlight of the journey. Got to Salt Lake City and all trains westbound were canceled. You have provided a great insight into a train lovers train journey. Thank you. I’m from Australia and I still haven’t been on the Indian Pacific or the Ghan but hopefully one day…
As a visiting Brit, in 2012 my Dad and I took the Zephyr from Chicago in 2012 in late Feb. The Rockies by train are some the best scenery I have seen. We then rented a car in CA, and headed back on the Southwest Chief, stopping for a week in NM. Also an amazing journey. These are must do journeys and great value.
Brought back memories, i rode it in Jan of 1967, they must have reworked the route thru the feather river canyon, when i went it was 1 track hugging the escarpment in many places. Thanks for the mems.
After a long Christmas weekend I want to relax a little on youtube and then there is a new Paul Lucas railroad trip report. That’s just perfect! Thanks Paul!
One of the best Amtrak travelogues I’ve seen. We’ve taken the Southwest Chief 3 times and the Coast Starlight once. Zephyr on our list. Two suggestions 1-shower early to insure plenty of hot water. 2-photography, if using a DSLR, bring a rubber lens cap so you can keep the lens right up to the window there by eliminating glare & reflection from all the windows .
I've done the Denver - Emeryville leg of this trip and it's one of the best travel experiences I have had. I just spend two days watching the amazing scenery of West Coast America pass by in all its glory. Well recommended
This is the best way to start my day! Thanks, Paul. I was particularly looking forward to this Zephyr video from you and, as usual, you did not disappoint in the amazing amount of information, superb and thorough coverage and your signature expertise from beginning to end! I hope you had a most Merry Christmas and that 2022 bring you countless safe, healthy, joyous journeys!
@@Paul_Lucas the only problem with Amtrak is that their long distance trains always runs hours late if you're not boarding the train at the beginning I rode the City of New Orleans from Memphis TN to Jackson MS and are rental pick up car was later than the train arriving so to me flying is more faster than a train if you have alot of vacation time away from work.
Thanks for this, it reminded me of a great trip we took back with the kids in 2008. Dubai to NYC with Emirates, Lake Shore Ltd to Chicago, Zephyr to Emeryville, Coastal Starlight to LA, LA to NYC on AA, followed by Emirates back to Dubai on the 380, which had only entered service that week. It sounds bizarre but the highlight of the trip was getting off a battered old AA 767 on to the brand spanking new Emirates 380
Wife and I took the New Orleans to Chicago and return 2 days later, it was a surprise for her for our Anniversary. We are looking into the California Zephyr as we have w grown grandchildren in San Diego area. Had a chance to transfer with my job to either Grand Junction, CO or Louisiana as I was so tired of the cold and snowy conditions.
Hello Paul, as a simple Brit living in Korea and unable to travel easily, I want to thank you for taking me on so many wonderful trips this year. Your videos have kept me inspired and informed, not many go to the efforts you do to provide reviews but also the insight you put in. Wishing you all the best for 2022 and hope to see more content.
Well, this was a treat. I live in downtown Denver in a condo which overlooks Union Station. (Yes, it’s a bit noisy but very convenient for most daily necessities.) I have never taken the Zephyr so was fascinated by your experience and observations so I thank you sincerely for publishing!
I take Amtrak's Empire Builder semi-regularly between my university in Minnesota and my home in Chicago and I had no idea you could request specific roomettes over the phone. I've never actually been put in the roomette shown on my ticket, they always have a different one ready for me. I'm also very surprised they had you board only 10 minutes before departure. For the Empire Builder, boarding has always been 45 minutes before in my experience.
This is really an excellently edited and paced video that covers a lot of information and scenery. I enjoyed this very much and I am inspired to try this trip myself.
Save a day and go to and/or from Denver to Emeryville. That extra time from Denver to Chicago is boring. I wouldn't do that part again unless I had to be in Chicago.
Getting on at Denver is good, but I would get off at Sacramento, which has interesting things to see. Stay there for a day or two, rent a car and drive around the Sierra's. It's an amazing, unique journey. It shouldn't take much selling.
The California zephyr was the first long distance train I ever took. Went from Davis, CA to Denver, CO. Beautiful 😍. And you passed my hometown and where I currently live!
I rode it going east in October 2021, I also had a Roomette. It was a gorgeous trip that I would recommend to everyone! Your video is making me so very nostalgic, and excited for another trip!
Happy New Year, Paul! One thing I might add, you can bring all the food and bevs (non-alcoholic) on Amtrak that you can carry! No TSA to deal with! I have taken the Wolverine from Detroit to Chicago several times, and always bring snacks and drinks with me!
Great job.I took this train in the 50's as the Overland Express I think.Best was your telling us the cost.....Most reviewers fail to mention that....Keep up the good work....b
I've taken this trip a bunch of times over the years, going back to the pre-Superliner days, and I agree it is probably Amtrak's best route. (Though the two other Chicago-west coast long haul routes are pretty good too.) The last time I took it was with my wife in a roomette and we were fine in terms of the amount of space. I think if you're with someone you don't mind touching every once in a while, it's totally ok. Still plenty of legroom and room to sleep, and obviously on Amtrak you can walk around the train and stretch out. I also agree that there is something fundamentally different about long-haul trains in the US vs. the rest of the world. I haven't yet taken European long-hauls but I have taken night trains in Asia and while that was fun too, it's almost a rushed experience compared to a 2-day Amtrak train. On Amtrak there is a *lot* of time to just sit and contemplate, or do whatever you want. On long-hauls in smaller countries, I feel like you're always *doing* something, or sleeping, and there's no time to really just relax and unwind. I actually prefer Amtrak.
I agree. Riding a long distance train across America and Canada is a great way to get plenty of Rest and Relaxation on a vacation... If you are in such a hurry, FLY! As for the one outlet, bring a power strip!
Legally speaking Amtrak has priority over the freight trains, but their is a catch. The fine for making a passenger train isn't much more than the access fee the railroads get for hosting Amtrak trains, which is cost plus a bonus for on time performance. Part of the deal the railroads for for giving up their passenger trains was the Amtrak trains got track access at cost and most of the old railways passenger equipment. But, since the fine is so low and there isn't a consequence (pending FRA rules on OTP) most of the railroads don't care about making the trains late. Union Pacific (Zephyr and Starlight), Canadian National (City of New Orleans) and CSX (NYC Florida services) are the worst about passenger trains. Canadian Pacific (Empire Builder east of St. Paul) and BNSF (Builder west of St. Paul and the Southwest Chief) are the better two with OTP.
The truth is..... it is much easier to stop a short passenger train than it is to stop a very long freight train. Furthermore the dispatchers work for the freight railroads. They know who puts butter on their bread, and it isn't Amtrak...
On the i took a amtrack train my train was 2 hours late due to csx had to 3 long coal cars down the main line from Richmond to Washington cause Richmond Virginia is the major hub of trains and csx runs the main lines
One tidbit- The BNSF hosts the CZ from Chicago to Denver. Before Amtrak the CZ was handled by the CB&Q, the Rio Grande and the Western Pacific. I remember riding the CZ in the 70s before welded rail. You could hardly walk down the aisles the ride was so bad.
I am scheduled to take the Zephry from Chicago to Salt Lake City on April 5th starting from Washington DC on Monday to Chicago. This video showed me what to expect in the roomette, and along the way. Thank you
Paul, what a wonderful California Zephyr story you tell. I took this trip last March and every point you made about the journey matches my takeaway as well.
I was pondering doing this trip across America and this video was 100% superb, so much information, so much excitement, and some great camera work. Thank you so much, I will be booking this trip! (I am a Brit living in Canada so your British accent and enthusiasm was great!)
Thanks Paul! We've done the Coast Starlight (LA to Seattle) about 4 times to visit family up there. There are 3 of us (Husband and daughter and I) and having 2 roomettes across from each other is great. (Calling to reserve it this way of course!) You get access to both sides of the train and a bit of extra space. I have yet to take an eastbound train, but I look forward to the Zephyr or the Empire Builder or even the southern routes! I can't wait to plan another trip! Happy New Year all!
I’ve taken this exact trip twice. We were 9 hours late the first time, 14 hours late the second. But in my roomette it was bearable. The scenery was better than any of Amtrak’s other cross country routes. Thanks for your video!
If you are in such a hurry, FLY! I always book my Amtrak journeys to get to my destination a day before I need to be there... Actually I do that when I fly too...
I had a 12+ hour wait for the Zephyr in Grand Junction one time (was headed home to California) due to flooding west of Chicago. Had a great time exploring Grand Junction. Love traiin travel but have learned not to make any plans for when I get where I'm going. Thanks for this trip down memory lane.
Paul, this is one of your best videos (and that’s saying a lot because I think all your videos are terrific). Thank you for making my day brighter, and I will definitely take this train ride on your suggestion!!!
Interesting video of a great trip. Wife and i took the Cal Zephyr Denver to Sacramento a few years ago - the station had renovation planned and the track arrangements didn't require a backing movement - that was all in the future. So - your video through the mountains was a trip down memory lane, and a nice one. Oh - another Old West character who died in (and is buried at) Glenwood Springs was John "Doc" Holliday, participant in the famous OK Corral gunfight, with the Earp brothers.
Great video, Paul. My wife and I have taken the Empire Builder on a few round trips between Seattle (near where we live in Washington State) and Chicago, a two-night trip (2,205 miles) like that of the California Zephyr. In case you and any of your followers are not aware, Sleeper Class passengers passing through Union Station in Chicago have access to a spacious, beautifully appointed and equipped private shower located within the Sleeper Class Lounge. I don't remember how I learned about it, but on our last trip through Chicago, awaiting a connection to Amtrak's Capitol Limited to Washington DC, I spoke to a Lounge attendant, got put on a list, and in only a few minutes was called to say that the shower was available. Though I'm grateful for the understandably cramped shower on the train, the Sleeper Class Lounge shower in Union Station can provide a wonderfully refreshing ending to a long trip!
Cannot emphasize enough how good your video reviews are! From the informative to the calming yet humorous voice, why haven’t you your own travel program yet?! Superb!
I love this trip in winter. The convenience store in Grand Junction used to sell a great guidebook for the Zephyr's route. If it's still available, it adds a lot to the trip, and I'd recommend it to anyone taking the Zephyr. Thanks for this wonderful and evocative special on my favorite train trip.
back in ;2002, I took this train from chicago to sacramento. the old lounge was tired then, and they had no refreshments available. I had a roomette. and the scenery in january was beautiful.
I literally just saw simply rail's review of this train and i prayed you would do it one day too (i'm not very active on instagram so i wasn't up to date with your journeys) and you did! How awesome! Love your reviews paul, keep it up!
thanks Paul, travel is so restrictive at present and until the world gets back to normal I rely on your wonderful videos to remind me what I am missing.. thanks again
Love and respect from a fan in China! It is a hash period of time at this moment for not being able to travel abroad because of the COVID pandemic, but your videoes, especially how you combine those spectacular views with your touching narration do make my days when under quarantine! Hopes that someday I can step on these Amtrack trains as well!
What a wonderful way to spend my break today! I grew up in Colorado and took that train many times from Denver to Glenwood Springs. I also took the "Winter Park Ski Train" often. Thank you so much for this gift!
Wonderful video! You’ve really put work into the tidbits and history along your travels, and it helps your viewers come along on the journey. Safe travels and belated welcome to Northern California!
19:45 -20:20 This footage is such a prime example of why you are able to make these reviews an art while providing some hybrid like: info-tainment, I’d call it. Who thinks to capture the terminus (just learned that here!) or that it would be possible while limited to a camera? But here, the camera goes from limitation to asset.
Good job! I just took the California Zephyr from Denver to Reno. I was in 531-5, the "family room" at the back of the car. I was with my cousin to go see my brother in Reno. We flew back to Denver but the Zephyr is something that people must experience, we cannot explain the value of the train, you must see it for yourself!
Excellent work on this, Paul! I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you for mentioning the tip info, as well. I have seen a few riders who think that “meals included” is a excuse to not tip. Shameful. And I also chuckled along when the announcement came on about the large Prius! 🤣 I have always loved the sense of humor the Amtrak staff seem to share - especially from the cafe car attendants. I did the Zephyr in the other direction a few years back but starting out in Sacramento. I stayed on the riverfront aboard the Delta Queen in the old town section where the California State Railroad Museum is located. Next time ‘round you may wish to check it out - it is an amazing place to visit!
Thanks a million for posting this wonderful video! It brought back such sweet memories!!! I did this trip in a roomette from Emeryville to Denver in January 2019. I had such an amazing time. As you said the scenery was stunningly beautiful. The food was plentiful and generally good. Above all else, the leisurely pace, and the lack of wifi, enabled me to meet up with all sorts of awesome people whom I would otherwise never meet. One of whom even stayed in touch and became one of my best mates in America! All thanks to California Zephyr!
What a wonderful long railway journey this was. You almost have to become two people when you travel solo this way. Person 1 I want to see all the sights and run around town every time the train stops! The other.... you need to be responsible and stay near the train...so your not left behind. This was a very enjoyable video.
Merry Christmas! Thanks for such a fun video - especially the last part - "must be a humongous car", indeed rofl :D This is a trip that's on my bucket list, so thank again for the updated vid :) All the best for 2022 :D
This is pretty standard footfall for Amtrak stations. They’re large buildings with relatively few trains and there are no international trains from Chicago Union. Domestic US travel is back to almost 100% of pre-pandemic levels!
Paul! I was also on the CZ for this trip, and was so excited to share the train with you. I said hey in the observation car and told you I’ve been waiting to see this video since I discovered your channel!
Sensational content. What fabulous viewing on Boxing Day night. Such a well constructed video. Top notch and truly an inspiration to be as pioneering as you in your adventures.
Happy holiday to you and your family, Paul. This was a fantastic video, I really appreciate how in depth you get with your review. While it probably won’t happen until I retire and my kids are grown up, I do plan on making this journey. Until then, your videos will help me get my fix.
I’m so envious of your amazing trips. Your videos are so well put together. I’m a Brit and in 2009 travelled 2,400 miles across America by car with an American friend. We had to miss out The Rockies due to an avalanche which was a big disappointment so this video showed me what we missed.
Thank you for you time and effort putting this together Paul. I miss my cross county Amtrak adventures. May have to do it again someday. I would only travel in a roomette and I quite enjoyed to food on board. But then again, my last trip was over 10 years ago.
@@ronclark9724 I liked the fish I got on my last trip in 17. Got sat with an older couple and a girl from Australia. It was welcome after my aunt's funeral in November, after grandma's that June.
What a memory-filled way to start the day! Grew up right along the BNSF line you started out of Chicago on and you actually showed a few clips of my town at the ~5:55 mark! I’ve done this trip a few times but not since pre-COVID….time to do it again I suppose. Your reviews are the best on RUclips and this was extra special, thank you!
Wow I just calculated that the government subsidises each trip Amtrak makes by about $2700! That’s insane. Also having one power point is ridiculous. That should be a priority to upgrade for a long trip. Enjoyed the video thanks.
All transportation everywhere in every country is subsidized in some way by government. How much would an airline ticket in the US cost if the airlines (who don't pay a penny for air traffic control) had to foot the bill for air traffic control? Not to mention if the airlines had to own and operate all the airports the burden of which local governments shoulder? (The airlines paying gate rentals is nothing compared to the costs of financing, owning, and operating an airport.) The Army Corps of Engineers maintains our inland waterways, and the Coast Guard manages them. "User fees" (i.e., gasoline taxes and vehicle-registration fees) only cover about 45% of the cost of just maintaining our highway system--let alone for building the highways in the first place. (The remainder of the annual federal highway system's budget is covered every year by general taxpayer dollars.) All of these forms of public subsidization make sense because a modern country needs transportation. Why is Amtrak always singled out for criticism on this point?
Going to do this trip in August from Australia with my 22 year old daughter, am really looking forward to it. Thanks for all of the really useful information in this video. Part of the joy of travel for me is the sense of anticipation….this has helped!
Amazing that you've never had an issue with the shower in over a dozen Amtrak trips, while I've yet to see a review of the "luxury" Caledonian Sleeper where the shower worked...
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Enjoy this feature length Christmas Special on the California Zephyr, as I take a roomette across the USA from Chicago to San Francisco (OK, well Emeryville!). I hope you have all had a super restful Christmas. Thanks so much for following me this year and here's to a successful 2022 for us all!
Merry Christmas and happy boxing day from Townsville Australia
I enjoyed it thanks. December 26th and it's been a quiet solo christmas so this video is a treat. *tips the driver*.
You too! Greetings from Kalamazoo Mi. !!!
Same to you Paul, this was amazing!
You passed my house in the dark the first evening leaving Illinois!
"Doing the full journey is like reading a whole book, and not just the 2 chapters you like best". What a great analogy!
I like that. I think it's easy to forget how big the US is and from talking to people around the world I see their perspective tends to be based on their world and size. It's just hard to comprehend the size and how it's easy to judge a country based on just a few loud people and a couple large cities.
Imagine not having high-speed rail. 😬
@@Ved000000 Don’t need to. Wide open roads that are mostly straight make driving long distances a real joy.
@@Ved000000 we only have it in the northeast.
They limit themselves to 85-88 mph on the BNSF tracks in Nebraska and Colorado, at 90 they start outrunning the signals- arriving at the crossing before they activate.
@@Ved000000
"Imagine not having high-speed rail."
Too slow. For example this train journey we see in this video, right. From Chicago to Emeryville is 2,118 miles. That's 3,408 kilometers.
Wheel on rail HSR typically craps out at 200 MPH (300 km/hr), so you're looking at 11.36 hours on HSR. The average speed of the TGV in France in "revenue service" (normal operation as opposed to special configuration to win a world record) is only 173 mph, or 278 km/hr, so the TGV would take 12.25 hours.
Whereas flying is only 4 hours, 40 minutes.
Like the others said, you have to realize the vast scale of the USA, Canada and Australia. This is why none of those three countries have nationwide wheel on rail HSR like you see in France. At best, it would compete with driving....but we would still need aircraft for people who need to get across the country in a reasonable period of time. HSR would just take too long and would be a waste of federal funds.
Amtrak is a national treasure. Do please ride the rails.
I am pleased how kind and thoughtful you are about the train staff.
Taking the Zephyr in 1954, as a 20 year old Sailor to Chicago has left me with many pleasant memories 😉
i’m from california, and a lot of people on the east and west coasts make fun that the midwest is boring - but i adore the midwest. the flatness, the farms, the way industrialization has shaped these small towns. the midwest is one of the truest pictures of what americana is. i also think it’s beautiful, seeing the sunset over miles and miles of farmland.
Chris, the Midwest isn't all flat, just not mountainous.
Ugh.
It's not americana, it's the US. America consists of way more than the us alone.
The Midwest is not flat but the planet is.
Ugh. It seems YOU are the one casting judgement here.
I have nothing against the mid-west, but being from the mid-west doesn't make someone more American that being from New York or California, or the deep south, or Alaska, or Hawaii.
We're all Americans.
Our country was founded in the ideal that all men are created equal, and, yeah, we haven't always lived up to that, but all the more reason that you should consider that before you declare that one region is "true Americana" more than others.
I took my son last year in this trip over the early summer, a beautiful and relaxing trip disconnected from phones and life!
We took the Zephyr 12-24 to 12-26. We got stuck in Truckee/Donner Pass area. Finally got to Emeryville 13 hours late. Then we took the Coast Starlight on 12/27 to LAX. It was late and instead of arriving about 9:30pm, we got to LAX about 3am. The Amtrak employees are worth their weight in gold. Patience like I have never seen. Bless them.
As a person who has criss-crossed the US and Canada several times, I can attest to the absolute openness and grandeur of most of North America. This trip is on my bucket list!
It’s the empire builder route that’s the best Colleen
Love this video Paul, thank you. As a disabled wheelchair bound man in his 60's this my only means of seeing what travel is like. You Jeb, Noel and Sam keep my sane, thank you.
❤️🌄Glad to hear that....😊🌄❤️
Fabulous video....I have done this trip many times and other Amtrak trip since 1962. It has not changed. Amtrak is a time portal to enjoy for ever. I wish that I could have worked for them decades ago. I recommend Amtrak to anyone I know as it allows the world to stop and focus on the simpler things in life. Bravo.
A wonderful journey Paul.
Thank you very much for these glimpses of a travelling life experience. I take much vicarious pleasure in them. I love a long railway journey - there's a particular feeling that I don't get in a car, plane or boat. You can almost touch people's lives, get a brief glimpse through a window and feel something of their own world.
Good health to you.
This sort of thing has for a long time been a bucket list item of mine.
My wife and I took this (bedroom for us) as part of our honeymoon back in 2009. Our travel agent kept trying to talk us out of it because it would eat up travel time. That’s precisely why we wanted it. Awesome video, Paul! Thank you for your channel!
We are doing the full route from Chicago to Emeryville in early February. Cannot wait!
Your videos, Paul , are so fascinating that I only ,on average, need 2/3 cups of strong coffee to see them through to the end.
Thanks, on behalf of the; 'I thought I'd never be able to get to sleep again in my life society of insomniacs. x
I've done this trip and it's wonderful. Yes, getting outside your comfort zone by meeting fellow passengers over meals is a great part of the experience. I still laugh how they call them "fresh air stops" and then all the smokers light up as soon as they step off. :P
On my last trip east we almost left a kid who was stinking up the toilets smoking weed at Galesburg.
I think we would have left him if not for the old lady with a walker trying to get back on.
The conductor had a talk with him and some of his buddies later on.
The toilet was so bad with the stench of weed I opened the door and nearly puked.
We just did this "bucket list" trip in November, from near Boston to Emeryville, round trip. It was so awesome I just want to do it again. Thanks for your excellent videography and narration. I'll be sharing with my friends who wanted to see our (poor) pictures. It brings back great memories!
Glad you had a super time!
@@Paul_Lucas I just signed up for the Southwest Chief and the Zephyr again!
I really these train videos more than the flight ones. This just seems so much more peaceful and relaxing!
My family and I went to the USA back in 2011 and one of my priorities was to take this train. Due to flooding and other numerous delays, we went across the Rockies in the darkness. That was meant to be the highlight of the journey. Got to Salt Lake City and all trains westbound were canceled. You have provided a great insight into a train lovers train journey. Thank you. I’m from Australia and I still haven’t been on the Indian Pacific or the Ghan but hopefully one day…
As a visiting Brit, in 2012 my Dad and I took the Zephyr from Chicago in 2012 in late Feb. The Rockies by train are some the best scenery I have seen. We then rented a car in CA, and headed back on the Southwest Chief, stopping for a week in NM. Also an amazing journey. These are must do journeys and great value.
Brought back memories, i rode it in Jan of 1967, they must have reworked the route thru the feather river canyon, when i went it was 1 track hugging the escarpment in many places. Thanks for the mems.
After a long Christmas weekend I want to relax a little on youtube and then there is a new Paul Lucas railroad trip report. That’s just perfect! Thanks Paul!
One of the best Amtrak travelogues I’ve seen. We’ve taken the Southwest Chief 3 times and the Coast Starlight once. Zephyr on our list. Two suggestions 1-shower early to insure plenty of hot water. 2-photography, if using a DSLR, bring a rubber lens cap so you can keep the lens right up to the window there by eliminating glare & reflection from all the windows .
I've done the Denver - Emeryville leg of this trip and it's one of the best travel experiences I have had. I just spend two days watching the amazing scenery of West Coast America pass by in all its glory. Well recommended
This is the best way to start my day! Thanks, Paul. I was particularly looking forward to this Zephyr video from you and, as usual, you did not disappoint in the amazing amount of information, superb and thorough coverage and your signature expertise from beginning to end! I hope you had a most Merry Christmas and that 2022 bring you countless safe, healthy, joyous journeys!
Thank you so much Jen! 😃 happy new year!
@@Paul_Lucas Greetings Paul hope you had a great Christmas I'm a big fan of your videos they are really fun to watch from Canada
@@Paul_Lucas It always worries me when you stop for a few minutes that you won't make it back on board in time haha !
@@Paul_Lucas the only problem with Amtrak is that their long distance trains always runs hours late if you're not boarding the train at the beginning I rode the City of New Orleans from Memphis TN to Jackson MS and are rental pick up car was later than the train arriving so to me flying is more faster than a train if you have alot of vacation time away from work.
Thanks for this, it reminded me of a great trip we took back with the kids in 2008. Dubai to NYC with Emirates, Lake Shore Ltd to Chicago, Zephyr to Emeryville, Coastal Starlight to LA, LA to NYC on AA, followed by Emirates back to Dubai on the 380, which had only entered service that week. It sounds bizarre but the highlight of the trip was getting off a battered old AA 767 on to the brand spanking new Emirates 380
Wife and I took the New Orleans to Chicago and return 2 days later, it was a surprise for her for our Anniversary. We are looking into the California Zephyr as we have w grown grandchildren in San Diego area. Had a chance to transfer with my job to either Grand Junction, CO or Louisiana as I was so tired of the cold and snowy conditions.
Hello Paul, as a simple Brit living in Korea and unable to travel easily, I want to thank you for taking me on so many wonderful trips this year. Your videos have kept me inspired and informed, not many go to the efforts you do to provide reviews but also the insight you put in. Wishing you all the best for 2022 and hope to see more content.
Thank you Tom! Same to you too 👍🏻
Well, this was a treat. I live in downtown Denver in a condo which overlooks Union Station. (Yes, it’s a bit noisy but very convenient for most daily necessities.) I have never taken the Zephyr so was fascinated by your experience and observations so I thank you sincerely for publishing!
I take Amtrak's Empire Builder semi-regularly between my university in Minnesota and my home in Chicago and I had no idea you could request specific roomettes over the phone. I've never actually been put in the roomette shown on my ticket, they always have a different one ready for me. I'm also very surprised they had you board only 10 minutes before departure. For the Empire Builder, boarding has always been 45 minutes before in my experience.
You cam request a specific room but they could have the car facing in either direction so it's still a coin flip which side of the train you'll be on.
This is really an excellently edited and paced video that covers a lot of information and scenery. I enjoyed this very much and I am inspired to try this trip myself.
Love the attention to detail in this video Paul. No BS, or extra stuff. Just a whole lotta train. Cheers
Now how the world should i pitch this trip to my wife. Lets fly to the US and take a 3 day trip over to the other side. Great video Paul. Loved it! 😁
Save a day and go to and/or from Denver to Emeryville. That extra time from Denver to Chicago is boring. I wouldn't do that part again unless I had to be in Chicago.
Agree with Al Hollywood - fly to Denver - train to Emeryville!
Getting on at Denver is good, but I would get off at Sacramento, which has interesting things to see. Stay there for a day or two, rent a car and drive around the Sierra's. It's an amazing, unique journey. It shouldn't take much selling.
The California zephyr was the first long distance train I ever took. Went from Davis, CA to Denver, CO. Beautiful 😍. And you passed my hometown and where I currently live!
Absolutely amazing video, Paul. Your narration is very well done........Nice !!!!!
I rode it going east in October 2021, I also had a Roomette. It was a gorgeous trip that I would recommend to everyone! Your video is making me so very nostalgic, and excited for another trip!
I was sad you didn't show the Stop in Ottumwa, IA. My hometown!
Happy New Year, Paul! One thing I might add, you can bring all the food and bevs (non-alcoholic) on Amtrak that you can carry! No TSA to deal with! I have taken the Wolverine from Detroit to Chicago several times, and always bring snacks and drinks with me!
My favorite creater on RUclips.
Thanks Paul
Thank you so much!
Your videos are always interesting, but your train videos are REALLY fascinating. Thanks, and I hope 2022 is a good year for you.
Perhaps because train travel is fascinating and air travel is simply endured!
Great job.I took this train in the 50's as the Overland Express I think.Best was your telling us the cost.....Most reviewers fail to mention that....Keep up the good work....b
I've taken this trip a bunch of times over the years, going back to the pre-Superliner days, and I agree it is probably Amtrak's best route. (Though the two other Chicago-west coast long haul routes are pretty good too.) The last time I took it was with my wife in a roomette and we were fine in terms of the amount of space. I think if you're with someone you don't mind touching every once in a while, it's totally ok. Still plenty of legroom and room to sleep, and obviously on Amtrak you can walk around the train and stretch out. I also agree that there is something fundamentally different about long-haul trains in the US vs. the rest of the world. I haven't yet taken European long-hauls but I have taken night trains in Asia and while that was fun too, it's almost a rushed experience compared to a 2-day Amtrak train. On Amtrak there is a *lot* of time to just sit and contemplate, or do whatever you want. On long-hauls in smaller countries, I feel like you're always *doing* something, or sleeping, and there's no time to really just relax and unwind. I actually prefer Amtrak.
I agree. Riding a long distance train across America and Canada is a great way to get plenty of Rest and Relaxation on a vacation... If you are in such a hurry, FLY! As for the one outlet, bring a power strip!
Have you tried India?
Food is far better on Euro long haul trains. Zephyr fare resembled Stouffers frozen dinners.
I dig the video, man.
The music is giving me serious “Boogie Nights” vibes.
Legally speaking Amtrak has priority over the freight trains, but their is a catch. The fine for making a passenger train isn't much more than the access fee the railroads get for hosting Amtrak trains, which is cost plus a bonus for on time performance. Part of the deal the railroads for for giving up their passenger trains was the Amtrak trains got track access at cost and most of the old railways passenger equipment. But, since the fine is so low and there isn't a consequence (pending FRA rules on OTP) most of the railroads don't care about making the trains late. Union Pacific (Zephyr and Starlight), Canadian National (City of New Orleans) and CSX (NYC Florida services) are the worst about passenger trains. Canadian Pacific (Empire Builder east of St. Paul) and BNSF (Builder west of St. Paul and the Southwest Chief) are the better two with OTP.
The truth is..... it is much easier to stop a short passenger train than it is to stop a very long freight train. Furthermore the dispatchers work for the freight railroads. They know who puts butter on their bread, and it isn't Amtrak...
I have to say, I took the CZ in October and we were into Chicago Union Station 20 minutes early!
@@alhollywood6486 You must have had a tailwind.
On the i took a amtrack train my train was 2 hours late due to csx had to 3 long coal cars down the main line from Richmond to Washington cause Richmond Virginia is the major hub of trains and csx runs the main lines
One tidbit- The BNSF hosts the CZ from Chicago to Denver. Before Amtrak the CZ was handled by the CB&Q, the Rio Grande and the Western Pacific. I remember riding the CZ in the 70s before welded rail. You could hardly walk down the aisles the ride was so bad.
I am scheduled to take the Zephry from Chicago to Salt Lake City on April 5th starting from Washington DC on Monday to Chicago. This video showed me what to expect in the roomette, and along the way. Thank you
Paul, what a wonderful California Zephyr story you tell. I took this trip last March and every point you made about the journey matches my takeaway as well.
Oh this is something I’ve been very excited to watch. Time to crack open that Xmas Terrys chocolate orange and relax 🤓
Merry Christmas Paul
Cheers mate, enjoy! Merry Christmas 🎅
This is one of my bucket list goals. Cross country trip from MD to CA. Gotta do this trip SOON!!
I was pondering doing this trip across America and this video was 100% superb, so much information, so much excitement, and some great camera work. Thank you so much, I will be booking this trip! (I am a Brit living in Canada so your British accent and enthusiasm was great!)
Thanks Paul! We've done the Coast Starlight (LA to Seattle) about 4 times to visit family up there. There are 3 of us (Husband and daughter and I) and having 2 roomettes across from each other is great. (Calling to reserve it this way of course!) You get access to both sides of the train and a bit of extra space. I have yet to take an eastbound train, but I look forward to the Zephyr or the Empire Builder or even the southern routes! I can't wait to plan another trip! Happy New Year all!
That shot at 34:42, of the moon shining on the water... just so mesmerizing.
I’ve taken this exact trip twice. We were 9 hours late the first time, 14 hours late the second. But in my roomette it was bearable. The scenery was better than any of Amtrak’s other cross country routes. Thanks for your video!
If you are in such a hurry, FLY! I always book my Amtrak journeys to get to my destination a day before I need to be there... Actually I do that when I fly too...
I guess I got lucky, we were 20 minutes early to Chicago coming from Emeryville back in October!
Which side would be better to book, the right or left?
I had a 12+ hour wait for the Zephyr in Grand Junction one time (was headed home to California) due to flooding west of Chicago. Had a great time exploring Grand Junction. Love traiin travel but have learned not to make any plans for when I get where I'm going. Thanks for this trip down memory lane.
Oof, that's worse than my record. 10+ hour delay due to wildfire when heading home to LA
Paul, this is one of your best videos (and that’s saying a lot because I think all your videos are terrific). Thank you for making my day brighter, and I will definitely take this train ride on your suggestion!!!
Interesting video of a great trip. Wife and i took the Cal Zephyr Denver to Sacramento a few years ago - the station had renovation planned and the track arrangements didn't require a backing movement - that was all in the future. So - your video through the mountains was a trip down memory lane, and a nice one. Oh - another Old West character who died in (and is buried at) Glenwood Springs was John "Doc" Holliday, participant in the famous OK Corral gunfight, with the Earp brothers.
Great video, Paul. My wife and I have taken the Empire Builder on a few round trips between Seattle (near where we live in Washington State) and Chicago, a two-night trip (2,205 miles) like that of the California Zephyr. In case you and any of your followers are not aware, Sleeper Class passengers passing through Union Station in Chicago have access to a spacious, beautifully appointed and equipped private shower located within the Sleeper Class Lounge. I don't remember how I learned about it, but on our last trip through Chicago, awaiting a connection to Amtrak's Capitol Limited to Washington DC, I spoke to a Lounge attendant, got put on a list, and in only a few minutes was called to say that the shower was available. Though I'm grateful for the understandably cramped shower on the train, the Sleeper Class Lounge shower in Union Station can provide a wonderfully refreshing ending to a long trip!
Cannot emphasize enough how good your video reviews are! From the informative to the calming yet humorous voice, why haven’t you your own travel program yet?! Superb!
I love this trip in winter. The convenience store in Grand Junction used to sell a great guidebook for the Zephyr's route. If it's still available, it adds a lot to the trip, and I'd recommend it to anyone taking the Zephyr. Thanks for this wonderful and evocative special on my favorite train trip.
Have done this trip three times, once in November and twice in March. Have to agree that it is spectacular.
back in ;2002, I took this train from chicago to sacramento. the old lounge was tired then, and they had no refreshments available. I had a roomette. and the scenery in january was beautiful.
This looks like a lot of fun. I have added it to my bucket list.
The California Zephyr follows parts of the original Transcontinental Railroad which got developed in the 1860s
What a treat to watch - I really enjoyed this! I took this trip about 40 years ago and now am looking forward to taking it again. Thanks Paul!
I literally just saw simply rail's review of this train and i prayed you would do it one day too (i'm not very active on instagram so i wasn't up to date with your journeys) and you did! How awesome! Love your reviews paul, keep it up!
I got a video of his train coming into Provo, Utah, last July.
thanks Paul, travel is so restrictive at present and until the world gets back to normal I rely on your wonderful videos to remind me what I am missing.. thanks again
Love and respect from a fan in China! It is a hash period of time at this moment for not being able to travel abroad because of the COVID pandemic, but your videoes, especially how you combine those spectacular views with your touching narration do make my days when under quarantine! Hopes that someday I can step on these Amtrack trains as well!
What a wonderful way to spend my break today! I grew up in Colorado and took that train many times from Denver to Glenwood Springs. I also took the "Winter Park Ski Train" often. Thank you so much for this gift!
Wonderful video! You’ve really put work into the tidbits and history along your travels, and it helps your viewers come along on the journey. Safe travels and belated welcome to Northern California!
I appreciate your highlighting the old Grand Junction station it has note worthy accents and needs to be preserved. Thanks for featuring this.
Upstairs at that Union Station looks like "The Untouchables". Downstairs looks like a Greyhound depot!
The baby carriage scene was shot here.
@@shimonsieskel4482 And people with their rolling suitcases hit every step hard and loud today too... I wonder where the film got the sound...
They probably dubbed in later
i"m going to take the zephyr this summer to move back home that is the best ride ever.
19:45 -20:20 This footage is such a prime example of why you are able to make these reviews an art while providing some hybrid like: info-tainment, I’d call it. Who thinks to capture the terminus (just learned that here!) or that it would be possible while limited to a camera? But here, the camera goes from limitation to asset.
Good job! I just took the California Zephyr from Denver to Reno. I was in 531-5, the "family room" at the back of the car. I was with my cousin to go see my brother in Reno. We flew back to Denver but the Zephyr is something that people must experience, we cannot explain the value of the train, you must see it for yourself!
Excellent work on this, Paul! I thoroughly enjoyed it! Thank you for mentioning the tip info, as well. I have seen a few riders who think that “meals included” is a excuse to not tip. Shameful. And I also chuckled along when the announcement came on about the large Prius! 🤣 I have always loved the sense of humor the Amtrak staff seem to share - especially from the cafe car attendants. I did the Zephyr in the other direction a few years back but starting out in Sacramento. I stayed on the riverfront aboard the Delta Queen in the old town section where the California State Railroad Museum is located. Next time ‘round you may wish to check it out - it is an amazing place to visit!
Thanks a million for posting this wonderful video! It brought back such sweet memories!!! I did this trip in a roomette from Emeryville to Denver in January 2019. I had such an amazing time. As you said the scenery was stunningly beautiful. The food was plentiful and generally good. Above all else, the leisurely pace, and the lack of wifi, enabled me to meet up with all sorts of awesome people whom I would otherwise never meet. One of whom even stayed in touch and became one of my best mates in America! All thanks to California Zephyr!
I wish amtrak had the funding it did to connect more of the midwest and great plains. We could really use it out here.
What a wonderful long railway journey this was. You almost have to become two people when you travel solo this way. Person 1 I want to see all the sights and run around town every time the train stops! The other.... you need to be responsible and stay near the train...so your not left behind. This was a very enjoyable video.
Merry Christmas! Thanks for such a fun video - especially the last part - "must be a humongous car", indeed rofl :D This is a trip that's on my bucket list, so thank again for the updated vid :) All the best for 2022 :D
I find it amazing these huge station buildings have so few people walking through them.
You heard about this global pandemic?
This is pretty standard footfall for Amtrak stations. They’re large buildings with relatively few trains and there are no international trains from Chicago Union. Domestic US travel is back to almost 100% of pre-pandemic levels!
Cheers Paul, I’m glad you get me. Greetings from an Airbus Pilot in Reading, 🇬🇧
Paul! I was also on the CZ for this trip, and was so excited to share the train with you. I said hey in the observation car and told you I’ve been waiting to see this video since I discovered your channel!
Cheers Andrew! Thanks for saying hello! 😃
@@Paul_Lucas Thanks for the great trip report. This just adds to the hundreds of photos and videos I took to document it!
Sensational content. What fabulous viewing on Boxing Day night. Such a well constructed video. Top notch and truly an inspiration to be as pioneering as you in your adventures.
Happy holiday to you and your family, Paul. This was a fantastic video, I really appreciate how in depth you get with your review. While it probably won’t happen until I retire and my kids are grown up, I do plan on making this journey. Until then, your videos will help me get my fix.
I’m so envious of your amazing trips. Your videos are so well put together. I’m a Brit and in 2009 travelled 2,400 miles across America by car with an American friend. We had to miss out The Rockies due to an avalanche which was a big disappointment so this video showed me what we missed.
Thank you for you time and effort putting this together Paul. I miss my cross county Amtrak adventures. May have to do it again someday. I would only travel in a roomette and I quite enjoyed to food on board. But then again, my last trip was over 10 years ago.
While the food in the diner isn't Gordon Ramsay five star cuisine, it is good diner food... Flat iron steak or a chicken breast ain't gruel...
@@ronclark9724 I liked the fish I got on my last trip in 17. Got sat with an older couple and a girl from Australia. It was welcome after my aunt's funeral in November, after grandma's that June.
@ 27:12 - It's the Colorado river, not the Fraser, which is in Canada.
Enjoyed this very much . Such a beautiful country. Never taken a train but I have driven across the country.
Please do... You see much more from a train when you aren't driving... When you drive you see a lot of pavement...
Your calming voice and explanation made this videos as spectacular as the scenic beauty you brought to us. Well done👍
Fantastic video Paul. You should try the Canadian version, the Rocky Mountineer. Happy Holidays 🎉🎊🍾🥂
I have...it's fabulous too!
I have been loooking forward to this video, and I was not disappointed. Thank you for a splendid trip report!
Fun fact, by law Amtrak gets priority over the freight traffic. The freight companies know this is not enforced and simply ignore it.
What a memory-filled way to start the day! Grew up right along the BNSF line you started out of Chicago on and you actually showed a few clips of my town at the ~5:55 mark! I’ve done this trip a few times but not since pre-COVID….time to do it again I suppose. Your reviews are the best on RUclips and this was extra special, thank you!
Damn you Paul!!!! This was a fantastic video….my bank account is going to take a hit next year because I’m going to have to do this trip now!!!
Boxing day 45 minute video! cheers, Paul.
Wow I just calculated that the government subsidises each trip Amtrak makes by about $2700! That’s insane. Also having one power point is ridiculous. That should be a priority to upgrade for a long trip. Enjoyed the video thanks.
All transportation everywhere in every country is subsidized in some way by government. How much would an airline ticket in the US cost if the airlines (who don't pay a penny for air traffic control) had to foot the bill for air traffic control? Not to mention if the airlines had to own and operate all the airports the burden of which local governments shoulder? (The airlines paying gate rentals is nothing compared to the costs of financing, owning, and operating an airport.) The Army Corps of Engineers maintains our inland waterways, and the Coast Guard manages them. "User fees" (i.e., gasoline taxes and vehicle-registration fees) only cover about 45% of the cost of just maintaining our highway system--let alone for building the highways in the first place. (The remainder of the annual federal highway system's budget is covered every year by general taxpayer dollars.) All of these forms of public subsidization make sense because a modern country needs transportation. Why is Amtrak always singled out for criticism on this point?
Going to do this trip in August from Australia with my 22 year old daughter, am really looking forward to it. Thanks for all of the really useful information in this video. Part of the joy of travel for me is the sense of anticipation….this has helped!
Amazing that you've never had an issue with the shower in over a dozen Amtrak trips, while I've yet to see a review of the "luxury" Caledonian Sleeper where the shower worked...
Paul, I've watched a lot of train travel videos. All were good but you're the best commentator yet. Jolly good show old man; keep it coming.
Been looking forward to this one. I don't know why, but your train ones are the only train trip reports I like. Something about how you present them.
Yes I've wanted to take this trip. God willing, if I'm very lucky, next year.