Eight years ago in 2018 I took my first long distance train trip. I hopped on in Washington DC and three days later I was in San Francisco. I traveled through West Virginia passing rundown houses, rusty trucks and cars, and abandoned store fronts. This state felt very poor. Heading next through Ohio and Indiana to Chicago. From Chicago the trip started to change. An observation car was added. Sitting up above the landscape it was easier to see across the meadows, fields and down into the valleys. I road coach, sleeping in the seat which reclined and was quite comfortable. I had brought along snacks, dried fruit, and protein bars. I was able to get hot food from the Cafe Car.
Leaving Chicago the train passed through the pastures of Iowa, the fields of Nebraska and on to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. There is a section going through the mountains where no cars or buses go. The only way to experience the beauty of the mountains is by train.
My favorite state was Utah. What a surprise. I had never heard anyone talk about the amazing colors of the very different rock formations. There is no other state quite like Utah.
I am getting ready for another train trip. This time I will be rambling through 34 states. My trip will take 20 days. Heading out of Chicago my journey will first take me west to Washington state, then south to Sacramento, back east to Iowa. Heading southwest to Los Angeles, and then journeying through the south. Once I get to Georgia the train travels north to New York and then back to Chicago.
My essay for March is about my train adventure from 2018. Check back and I will try to keep you updated on my 2026 adventure.
Sunny River Writings 
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