California Zephyr
Overview
Operated by Amtrak, the California Zephyr travels 2,438 miles (3,924 km) in approximately 52 hours between Chicago and Emeryville, where passengers can connect by bus to San Francisco. Along the way, the train crosses the plains of Illinois and Iowa, the Rocky Mountains, the deserts of Utah and Nevada, and the Sierra Nevada before reaching California.
Along the Route
Moffat Tunnel: after leaving Denver, the train climbs into the Rocky Mountains, reaches an elevation of more than 9,000 feet (2,800 meters), and crosses the Continental Divide through the Moffat Tunnel. Opened in 1928, the railway tunnel is approximately 6.2 miles (10 km) long and runs parallel to a water tunnel. Colorado Canyons: the railway follows the Colorado River through areas such as Byers Canyon, Gore Canyon, and Glenwood Canyon. Some sections are far from nearby roads, allowing passengers to experience the landscape from a perspective unique to the railway. Donner Pass: in the Sierra Nevada, the route follows sections of the Truckee River and passes near Donner Lake. The region is closely connected to the history of westward expansion and the development of the transcontinental railroad in the United States. Sightseer Lounge: the observation car features large windows and seats facing the scenery. Both Coach and Roomette passengers can use it, especially while crossing the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada.
Travel Guide
Time at Stations: most stops last only long enough for passengers to board and leave the train. At some stations, fresh-air stops may last between 10 and 20 minutes, while longer operational stops can occur in cities such as Denver and Salt Lake City. Stop durations vary, so passengers should follow the crew’s instructions and remain close to the train. Coach Class: Coach offers wide reclining seats, shared restrooms, and access to the Sightseer Lounge. Passengers sleep in their seats, do not have access to showers, and normally purchase meals separately. Roomette: a Roomette accommodates up to two passengers in a private compartment that converts into two beds at night. It includes main meals in the dining car and access to shared showers. Food and Drinks: passengers may bring their own food, but public refrigerators and microwaves are not available. Alcohol brought aboard by passengers is subject to specific rules and generally may only be consumed inside private sleeping accommodations. The train also has a Café Car offering snacks and drinks. Traditional Dining is included for sleeping-car passengers. Coach passengers may be able to purchase meals in the dining car, depending on the current policy and table availability.
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