travel from Chicago a San Francisco in train It is possible thanks to longest railway route USA. The protagonist is the California Zephyra historic service that connects the heart of the country with the west coast through mountains, deserts and great plains.
While most travelers opt for the plane to cover that distance in a few hours, The Zephyr proposes to dedicate almost two full days to the trip and make the journey a central part of the experience. It is not a quick option, but it is one of the most beautiful tourist options in the USA.
With daily departures and more than seven decades of history, this train has become a classic of American rail tourism and a must-see for those who want to get to know the country from a different perspective.
What is the route of the California Zephyr like?
The journey begins in Chicago and advances westwards across the agricultural plains of Nebraskaa typical postcard from the Midwest. In this first section, the train allows you to see how the urban landscape slowly fades away until it gives way to open fields and small rural towns.
The arrival to Denver It works as a breaking point in the journey. From there, the Zephyr goes into the Rockies and begins one of the most impressive segments of the trip, with long climbs, tight curves and open views over rivers and canyons.
The tunnel crossing Moffatat almost 3,000 meters high in Colorado, marks the highest point of the route. Upon exiting the tunnel, the train follows the course of the Colorado River for hours, which will later shape the Grand Canyon.
After crossing Utah y Nevadathe train still la Sierra Nevada. After that crossing, the landscape changes again and the forests, fertile valleys and cities of Californiauntil reaching Emeryvillein front of the san francisco bay.
One of the great differentials of California Zephyr It’s your panoramic carwith huge windows that allow you to follow the route almost as if it were a moving viewpoint.
The crossing of Moffat tunnelalmost 3,000 meters high in Coloradomarks the highest point of the route. Upon exiting the tunnel, the train accompanies the course of the Colorado Riverwhich will later shape the Grand Canyon.
Duration, frequency and experience on board
EThe complete tour of California Zephyr lasts approximately 52 hoursthat is, just over two days of continuous travel. The service operates every day, which makes planning easier and allows the itinerary to be adapted to different types of trips.
On board, passengers can choose reclining seats o private cabinsdepending on the budget and the level of comfort sought. There is a dining car, service snacks and common spaces designed to spend long hours traveling without it becoming monotonous.
Opened in 1949 y relaunched by Amtrak in the 1970she California Zephyr He is a direct heir to the golden age of the railroad in the United States.
