Travel Story 5 by Jain

 

Zephyr Story Day 5 All Aboard

Saturday, November 29th

Our train was scheduled to depart at 2:43 p.m., but since it originated in Chicago—a full 24-hour journey away—we were surprised to learn it was on time again. Thanksgiving is the busiest time of the year for Amtrak and arriving on schedule is a real holiday miracle.

 

We kicked off the day with a hearty breakfast, well, ok yummy pastries at the popular local café Blue Bird, an old timey place with quiet reading nooks that had a cozy local vibe. It was satisfying enough to tide us over until dinner aboard the train.

 

After our so-called breakfast, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll along the riverwalk and around the railway station across the street from our hotel. The weather was brisk but dry, and the sun was out, making for a pleasant stroll.

 

Glenwood train station is a historic depot built in 1904 and fits into Glenwood old town character and gets my vote for the cutest train station I have ever been in. Ok maybe cute isn’t fitting but charming would be. As we board the train our cabin attendant Rita says, “You must be Mr. and Mrs. Gunsauls. Welcome aboard.” We are shocked!

 

After settling into our bedroom compartment, we made our way to the cafe car for a glass of vino. The café is closed with a sign that reads, “Be back in ten minutes.”  We sat down and started playing cards. When the café attendant returns, she lays down the rules, “No playing cards, no games, no eating unless it is food purchased from the train, no this and no that, no nothing.” Then she says, “And now get in line if you want to buy a drink or food.” I started laughing cause just her going berserk has probably increased the Amtrak liquor sales.

  

At dinner we are seated with Julie and her mom, Jeanette. Julie used to be a film production assistant in Hollywood but now has a job with the City of Roseville as a location scout, securing film locations. They are both fun and entertaining and we enjoyed the time discussing Hollywood stars. 

 

The next 2 and a half hours, Glenwood Springs to Green River are the top highlights of the entire Zephyr route.  Amtrak partners with the National Park Service volunteers that dish out stories and fun tidbits and make the trip landscapes rolling past your window more interesting. On this trip the only narration was made by fellow passengers in the form of “ooh’s” and “ahh’s”.

 

While we wouldn’t see Provo or Salt Lake City in daylight, we did see clear views of Winnemucca and the Nevada landscape during the morning. Jay bravely took a shower and said the water was hot, the controls were a little tricky but a satisfying experience. I opted just to lay in bed and drink my coffee.  

 

Our arrival in Reno was originally scheduled for 9:13 a.m. We rolled in at 8:45. Another pleasant surprise. All in all, it was a short trip—but one that left us feeling relaxed and refreshed.

 

Thank you for coming along.