RailsNW: Train Blog

We invite you to ride on a special trip to Portola, CA to join in on the fun and excitement at the 28th annual Portola Railroad Days Festival in the beautiful Feather River Canyon of the High Sierra. Travel onboard a private charter 14 car train departing from Emeryville with stops to pick-up passengers in Martinez, Davis, and Sacramento. After departing Sacramento, the train swings onto the former Western Pacific Route. This route has been used for freight only traffic since 1970. Only a few private charters have been approved to travel in the Feather River Canyon since then. 

This will be the first time a charter train has run directly to Portola, for the annual Portola Railroad Days Festival. The three day tour is packed full of exciting fun for the entire family and railfans wanting the unforgettable experience of traversing the Feather River Canyon. We are offering several classes of tickets for every budget with roundtrip fares starting at only $348 for adults and $178 for children. Come join the party! 

A PBS TV crew will be filming a segment of their popular and long running “Tracks Ahead” program. They will include the Portola Railroad Days Festival, Western Pacific Railroad Museum and will travel onboard our train August 20 Emeryville to Portola to capture this exciting train ride in the Feather River Canyon.

See video from last year’s ride along the Feather River Route:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_HTdZ60EZY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UmS828Ur1C0
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQNSKa9t3T0

This trip is already 49% full.  Contact us ASAP to secure space on this unique opportunity.

1-800-717-0108 | info@railsnw.com

Full trip description:  http://www.traintrips.biz/domes-to-railroad-days-2010-1.html

1. What is the best time to travel through the Canadian Rockies?
Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, every season offers its own unique advantages. June is ‘Springtime in the Rockies’ with snow on the mountaintops and flowers beginning to bloom. April, May ,and October offer tremendous cost savings.  July and August are the most likely months to have warm sunny weather and thus have the most travelers.

2. How far do we travel on the Rocky Mountaineer?
About 450 kilometres (280 miles) each day—all in daylight. You can look forward to spending two full relaxing days onboard the Rocky Mountaineer.

3. Does the Rocky Mountaineer have sleeper cars?
No. All daylight rail tours through the Canadian Rockies are scheduled to show you all of the spectacular scenery. After a day onboard the train, you overnight in either Kamloops or Quesnel, British Columbia.

4. How can I get updated information on your tours?
Our most updated information can be found at:  http://www.railsnw.com/tours/rocky/rocky01nf.htm or by calling 1-800-717-0108.

5. What are the advantages to travelling these routes by rail?
There are many unique features to rail travel. You will enjoy an extremely comfortable seat with ample legroom and have the freedom to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air while in the vestibules. Combined with attentive service and outstanding commentary, this type of leisurely paced travel will ensure that you know you are on vacation. One of the greatest advantages, however, is the ability to travel through areas simply not accessible by foot, car, or motorcoach. The routes you will travel on are described as engineering marvels and you will follow rushing rivers, pass beside towering waterfalls, and ride through spectacular river canyons. To truly appreciate the nature and scenery in this part of the world, the Rocky Mountaineer offers the very best vantage point.

6. What speed does the train travel?
The advantage of the train is that we are able to slow down at the most scenic areas to offer you the best viewing and camera opportunities. While there are areas the train reaches up to 90kph (60mph), the average speed is approximately 50 kph (30mph).

7. Is smoking permitted on the train and in the hotel rooms?
To ensure the preservation of the fragile environment of the areas in which we travel and for the comfort of all guests and employees, there is no smoking onboard Rocky Mountaineer. This includes the vestibules between the coaches and restroom facilities. The hotels do have limited smoking rooms available so please make sure you indicate your preference when you book your tour.

8. Are souvenirs available for purchase?
A full range of souvenirs are available for purchase onboard the Rocky Mountaineer.
9. How long has Rocky Mountaineer been in business?
2010 represents the twentieth year of operation. Rocky Mountaineer welcomed the one-millionth guest onboard in 2008. 

10. Is Rocky Mountaineer more than the train trip?
Indeed! The two-day all daylight Rocky Mountaineer train trip is only one part of what we can offer. We are also a vacation provider offering sightseeing, attractions, hotels, rental cars, and meal plans. We offer one stop shopping and can assist in every aspect of planning your Canadian travel experience.

11. Why does the Rocky Mountaineer only operate between April and October?
We offer all daylight tours meaning you stay overnight in comfortable accommodation in Kamloops and Quesnel, the halfway points of the rail journeys. Travelling during this time of the year ensures that we take full advantage of the daylight hours and the spectacular scenery during the time of year when the regions show their full colours.

12. What is the “Ice Explorer” described in the tour itineraries?
The Ice Explorer is an ice and snow terrain vehicle specially designed to tour the icy slopes of the Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefield, offering a 5-kilometre (3-mile) round-trip journey including commentary on the formation of glaciers.

13. What is the GST?
The Goods and Services Tax is applicable to all purchases made in Canada.

Before you Travel

1. What will the weather be like and what should I pack?
Temperatures vary significantly depending on location, time of day, and season, from a low of 10°C (50° F) to a high of 30° C (90° F). Kamloops and Quesnel, in particular, may be very warm in the summer. Plan to bring a sweater and slacks as well as lightweight summer wear. Pack sturdy comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk in the mountains. Flat-soled shoes should be worn on the train. Comfortable, casual attire is welcomed on the Rocky Mountaineer and many of our guests carry their sunglasses with them onboard the train. In spring and fall, include a light coat or warm jacket if you’re travelling to high altitudes.

2. Are you able to handle special group requests?
Absolutely! If you are looking for a customized itinerary for a group of 10 or more, we can provide you with an opportunity to offer your group a unique and memorable experience.

3. Can children travel on the Rocky Mountaineer?
Yes. However, the Rocky Mountaineer trip is a minimum of two 9-hour days onboard the train, which may be long for some children.

4. Do your facilities accommodate people with special needs and/or disabilities?
Rocky Mountaineer will make every effort to meet any special needs, including the requirements of our disabled guests.  Some of the Rocky Mountaineer coaches are wheelchair accessible.  GoldLeaf Dome Coaches have elevators for guests who have problems using the spiral staircase.  Please inform us at the time of booking if any assistance is required.

 5. Can I arrange for a car rental or hotel in Vancouver or Calgary?
Absolutely! We would be happy to help you arrange for your car rental needs. As well, we can arrange for further sightseeing excursions and extra hotel nights in Canada’s West – everything you need to make your Rocky Mountaineer vacation the best ever.

6. What currency should I carry when travelling in Canada and on the train?
The currency used in Canada is Canadian dollars. Transactions onboard the train may be paid with travellers checks, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, JCB, and Diner’s Card. We can also accept US currency at close to the current exchange rate, but we recommend that conversion to Canadian dollars take place prior to the train departure.

7. Am I able to bring my pet along?
Please note that all pets or animals (excluding guide dogs) are prohibited from travelling onboard the Rocky Mountaineer.

8. Should I plan connecting transportation on the day of the Rocky Mountaineer’s arrival?
Passenger rail travel in Canada is subject to unforeseen delays. While the Rocky Mountaineer is treated as a priority by the railways it uses, occasional delays do occur. For that reason, we ask that you please do NOT arrange connecting transportation on the day of your scheduled arrival in any destination.

10. Passport Requirements
Please be advised that effective January 23, 2007, all passengers including Canadian and U.S. citizens will be required to present a valid passport when travelling by air between Canada and the United States.  Foreign nationals should contact their governments for further details.

Onboard Experience

1. What wildlife will I see?
There are wonderful opportunities for viewing wildlife from the train and during your stay in the Canadian Rockies including bear, elk, deer, moose, bald eagles, osprey, salmon, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. However, “wildlife are wild” and as such, sightings are never guaranteed. If you do come into contact with animals please act responsibly, maintain a safe distance, and never feed any wild animals.

2. Are we able to move within the Rocky Mountaineer?
One of the advantages of train travel is the spacious room afforded to all guests. RedLeaf Service guests are able to move through their own coach and enjoy fresh-air vestibules. Access to the two levels onboard the GoldLeaf dome coaches is limited to those guests riding in GoldLeaf Service.

3. Are both the RedLeaf and GoldLeaf coaches accessible by wheelchair?
We do have wheelchair facilities for both services. There are areas where a wheelchair can be secured in place and have very easy access to the wheelchair accessible washrooms. Wheelchair lifters are available at all stations and the GoldLeaf dome coaches are equipped with interior ADA-style elevators. All we ask is that we are informed at the time of booking of the extent of the disability so we can ensure that all plans are in place to ensure the vacation experience is a pleasant one.

4. Can I use my laptop computer and cell phone on the train?
We do not have plugs at the seats for laptop use. Depending on your battery life, we suggest that you charge you computer at night during your hotel stays for use onboard the train. It goes without saying that you will have a better chance of seeing all the scenery without working on your laptop computer. Throughout much of the train route, the train will be out of cell phone range, however, cell phones may be easily used in the major areas that our tours visit.

5. Can you address my dietary concerns onboard the train?
Absolutely. All we ask is that you provide your booking agent or Rocky Mountaineer with 72 hours notice regarding your specific need. We will do everything possible to make your trip on the train memorable.

6. Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included in prices (unless indicated) for Onboard attendants, driver-guides, transfers, hotel porterage or Red Cap porters. You may, however, choose to recognize good service in a tangible manner at your discretion.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad takes you on a 24-mile journey through the 1,000 foot deep Royal Gorge located near Canon City Colorado, only45 miles from Colorado Springs or Pueblo.  You will ride alongside the raging Arkansas River where you’ll have the opportunity to observe Bald Eagles, Blue Heron, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, Mule Deer, and flora native to the gorge. Trains depart up to 4-times daily at: 9:30, 12:30, 3:30 and 7:00 pm (dinner, murder mystery and winemaker’s dinner trains).

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad delivers a breathtaking 2-hour scenic and historic train ride on the most famous portion of the former Denver & Rio Grande Western train line. All passengers have access to one of our open-air observation cars for the best views of the Royal Gorge. Talk to someone who has ridden the Royal Gorge Route Railroad through the Royal Gorge and you’re likely to hear the same comments time and time again from: “This railroad is breathtaking” or “There is no better way to experience the Royal Gorge” to simply “WOW!”  

Since 1879, Colorado’s oldest scenic line combines Colorado history, excitement, excellent service, and delicious food & entertainment.  For further information and reservations:  http://www.railsnw.com/Tours/royal_gorge_route/royal_gorge_route-route.htm#royal

** Please note that the Royal Gorge Route Railroad makes a wonderful start point for an independant driving train tour of Colorado.  You can continue onwards to Alamosa for the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad, Chama or Antonito for the Cumbres and Toltec, or Durango for the train to Silverton.  RailsNW can customize any itinerary in this area, contact us at 1-800-717-0108 or info@railsnw.com **

Travel back through time aboard the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad with our 1916 Baldwin 2–8–0, Mountain Thunder or our restored diesel engine. As you climb through the spectacular scenery of the Allegheny Mountains, a narrator will be aboard to provide you with information about the scenery, history, and culture along the route.  The restored early 20th century rolling stock steams through the mountains of Western Maryland on a stunning 32 mile round trip between Cumberland and Frostburg from May through December. More than three hundred years of American history are tied together by a ribbon of steel that thrills riders of all ages.Regular Scenic Excursions depart at 11:30 AM from Cumberland, Maryland. The train returns at approximately 3:00 PM. There will be a 1 1/2 hour layover in Frostburg where you may enjoy lunch, watch crew turn the engine on a turntable, investigate the shops and restaurants on Frostburg’s Main Street, and visit the Thrasher Carriage Museum. 

The Overlander is a journey through the heart of the North Island, traveling between Auckland – New Zealand’s largest city and home of the Sky Tower,and Wellington – New Zealand’s arts and culture capital. Along the way, pass the Central North Island ski towns of National Park and Ohakune, popular with young and old alike. You also see fantastic views of New Zealand farmland, the volcanic plateau, Mount Ruapehu, the world famous Raurimu Spiral, and stunning river gorges – all from the train’s panoramic windows or open air viewing decks allowing you the best possible views.

The TranzAlpine travels between Christchurch and Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you’ll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. Your train then climbs into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth – a great base for visits to Punakaiki and the always popular glaciers.  An open air viewing carriage allows you to get even closer to the stunning scenery and provides many opportunities to photograph your favorite spots. There’s a lot to look forward to!  Our journey is 223.8 kilometers long and takes just four and a half hours. There are 16 tunnels and 5 viaducts, the highest being the Staircase standing at 73 meters.

The TranzCoastal travels between the delightful port of Picton and Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city. This journey is a scenic feast, with the Kaikoura mountain ranges on one side of your train and the rugged Pacific Ocean coastline on the other. Along the way you pass though the village of Kaikoura, where you can break your journey to take in the whale watching or dare to get closer and swim with the dolphins.

Travel through some of New Zealand’s finest horticultural and farmland areas, and see amazing wildlife such as dolphins, seals and penguins from the comfort of your carriage. 

The TranzCoastal travels through 22 tunnels and crosses 175 bridges, one of them being New Zealand’s only road-rail bridge. As on The TranzAlpine, The TranzCoastal includes an open air viewing carriage where all your senses are awakened with the clean, fresh, sea air.

Learn more and book online at:

http://www.railsnw.com/tours/newzealand/newzealand.htm#nz

This flood was no match for this train. Lets go surfing! This video footage was shot in Bueno Aires.

RAILROAD HISTORY: Brief History of the Ferromex “Chepe” Railroad

In 1872, Albert K. Owen, an American engineer, was hired by a group of American investors to locate and design a railbed that would link the United States Midwest with the Pacific Coast. He discovered Topolobampo Bay and visualized the greatest potential this railroad would offer by becoming the shortest route to the Orient.

In May 1873, Owen’s plan to build a railroad from Norfolk, Virginia to Topolobampo Bay was approved in the Governor’s Convention of the Southern States.

In 1881 the “Texas-Topolobampo and Pacific Railroad and Telegraph Co.”was formed and Mexican concessions for colonization were granted.

In November 1886, 150 colonists arrived from California to join the Topolobampo Cooperative Colony. This Colony grew to an estimated maximum of 1,500 Americans, mainly time they started irrigation and sugar cane farming.

In 1900, Arthur E. Stillwell from Kansas City, Mexican President Porfirio Diaz, Governor Ahumada of Chihuahua, Enrique C. Creel, from Chihuahua, and others organized the “Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railroad Co.” and construction started. An interesting anecdote is that Pancho Villa worked as contractor in this line.

In March of 1902 the first rail was laid in Mexico.

In 1912 contruction was stopped by the Revolution.

In 1928 the line between Ojinaga and Chihuahua was completed and sold to the Santa Fe System. This same year Santa Fe sold its rights to Benjamin F. Johnston, founder of Los Mochis.

In 1930 the line was opened to Creel, Chihuahua.

In 1937 Benjamin F. Johnston died.

In 1940 the Mexican government bought from the Johnston family the Kansas City, Mexico and Orient Railroad. Rehabilitation and construction of the grades, tunnels and bridges began.

In 1958 construction peaked in the mountain division. In 1961 rail laying greatly increased.

Nearly one hundred million dollars and 90 years later, the line was finally opened on the 23rd of November, 1961 by the President of Mexico Lic. Adolfo López Mateos.

The longest continuously operating steam train railroad in the Pacific Northwest, the Mt Rainier Scenic Railroad is the result of one man’s passion to preserve a colorful slice of America’s heritage.  As a young man, Tom Murray Jr. first heard the unforgettable sound of geared locomotives working on the steep wooded hillsides of his father’s timber holdings.  Mr. Murray was a hands-on witness to the closing days of steam locomotive logging in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains.  He resolved to do whatever he could to save for posterity some of the relics of that unique and colorful experience.  

In February, 1980 the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific Railroad (more commonly known as the Milwaukee Road) shut down their lines in Washington including their 66-mile branch from Tacoma to Morton.  The rail line was acquired by Weyerhaeuser Timber Company, and a deal was soon struck between Tom Murray Jr. and good friend George Weyerhaeuser giving the newly formed Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad access to a portion of the line for tourist train service.  The following year, steam trains that had been stored and rebuilt on Murray property in Tacoma were hauling passenger trains between Elbe and Mineral Lake.  Twenty-five plus years later, the steam trains continue to run through the foothills of Mt. Rainier to the benefit and enjoyment of kids young and old alike.

Last year brought the return of the Rayonier #2, a Willamette geared locomotive:  http://www.mrsr.com/willamette.html  and at present, work transpires to restore the Rayonier #70:  http://www.mrsr.com/rayonier70.html.  Mt Rainier Scenic Railroad was recently voted the the Best Railroad in Washington State for Evening Magazine’s ‘The Best of Western Washington and Northwest Escapes’:  http://best.king5.com/winners/northwest-escapes/4261/arts-and-entertainment/train-ride. The Nisqually River bridge has been repaired and service will be from Elbe, WA in 2010:  3 departures both Saturday and Sunday May through October at 10:30, 1, and 3:30:  www.mrsr.com.

RailsNW is pleased to present one of the first trips out on the newly reopened line from Elbe, WA across the Nisqually River bridge. Our exclusive charter onboard the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad will feature two steam locomotives- a doubleheader- as we take you past Mineral and Divide to a turnaround at one of the largest wooden trestles in the Northwest. We expect to feature both the Rayonier #2, a Willamette geared engine which just returned to service last summer, as well as another of the MRSR collection. If it completes its restoration in time, we may be taking out the Rayonier #70, a Baldwin 2-8-2 rod locomotive; backup is most likely the Hillcrest Lumber #10, a Climax geared engine, but final motive power is at the discretion of railroad personnel.

A minimum of three photo runbys have been scheduled and more will be added if time permits. A full catered BBQ meal is included on the return trip to complete your day at the Mineral Lake pavillion. An open car will be part of our consist to enjoy the fresh air and unparalleled views. As this trip is limited to less than 100 passengers, we highly recommend making your reservations ASAP.

When:  12 June 2010; Cost:  $85 per person

News from Down Under:

Australian’s Queensland Rail has recently announced a repeat of their 20% discount promotion for Single and Twin First Class Sleepers on the Spirit of the Outback between Brisbane and Longreach as well as Queenslander Class on the Sunlander along the coast between Brisbane and Cairns; valid for travel 01Oct2010-31March2011.

In addition, Great Southern Railway is also offering a FREE upgrade to Gold service accommodations onboard the Ghan and Indian Pacific when booking by 31March2010 for travel to complete by 31August 2010 (recently extended!). GSR promotion requires purchase of 2 hotel nights in one of those cities plus one full-day motorcoach excursion.

A new railpass will soon be available in Queensland- the Queensland Explorer Pass will offer unlimited economy seat train travel for 3 or 6 months within the state of Queensland, Australia. Prices start at $351 AUD for 3 months and $495 for 6 month validity.

Please contact jill@railsnw.com or 1-800-717-0108 X115 for details on hotels and tours available for the free upgrade promotion, or to book the Queenslander Explorer Railpass.

For information about rail travel in Australia, visit: http://www.railsnw.com/tours/australia/australia.htm#au

1911 was a big year for Tillamook County, for that was the year modern rail transportation arrived. The Pacific Railroad and Navigation Company (otherwise known as the ‘Punk, Rotten and Nasty’), incorporated in October 1905, punched a rail line through the Coast Range and down the Salmonberry Canyon, ultimately meeting up with the other end of the line under construction from Tillamook northward through Bay City, Garibaldi, Rockaway Beach and Wheeler.  The first train from Portland arrived in Tillamook in October 1911, and soon tourists were flocking to the beach.

Nearly 100 years later, the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad continues to operate regular passenger services to enjoy the spectactular Oregon Coastline between Garibaldi and Rockaway Beach at a leisurely speed of only 8 mph.  Ride Thurs-Monday Memorial Day through the end of September, www.ocsr.net.

OCSR is the brain child of President Scott Wickert. It has been his vision of a steam railroad and a logging/antique railroad equipment museum that has brought the group together. His goal is simply to keep these pieces of history available for the public to learn from and to appreciate.  In 2002 Scott Wickert entered an agreement with the Port of Tillamook Bay RR (POTB) to bring his steam locomotive, CLC #2, to Tillamook to begin steam train operations in 2003.  The geared Heisler locomotive celebrates its 100th birthday in 2010!

RailsNW will also run again our popular excursion on the OCSR up to Wheeler on Saturday, July 24th:  the one and only Oregon Coast Crawler will take you on an amazing 5 hour journey.  Originating in Garibaldi, we make a leisurely trip up the Oregon Coast affording fantastic panoramic views of both Tillamook and Nehalem Bays. Our vintage train stops for a waterside picnic lunch (prepared for us of locally made ingredients by the Blue Heron Creamery) and free time at Wheeler as well as an afternoon snack and beach stop in Rockaway Beach.  A minimum of three photo runbys have been scheduled and more will be added if time permits

After our lunch stop during which we service the engine we do it all again in reverse from Wheeler, allowing for different sightseeing opportunities on the return trip. No other railroad in North America offers the range of scenery found on the Tillamook Branch Line, and no train in recent years has made it possible to experience it all behind steam power.
An open car will be part of our consist to enjoy the fresh air and unparalleled views.

As this trip is limited to less than 100 passengers, we highly recommend making your reservations ASAP. Feel free to call us at 503-292-5055 if you have any questions.  More information and online reservations can be found here:  http://www.railsnw.com/tours/charter/garibaldi_steam/garibaldi_steam.htm