36 Hours from Los Angeles to Seattle on the Coast Starlight Train

[@garyhinchey4086]

The most realistic assessment of a trip I have ever seen

[@ticklefritz5406]

Except for the fits of anger off camera.

[@parplus2556]

The worst part is the non-working dining car. I would not mind the delays if I can get extra meals out of it.

[@ryanpollie3216]

I was on that train too. Fortunately i got off in Martinez. All the long distance Amtrak routs have been explored my me. Delays are part of the experience, do not take Amtrack if you lack the capacity to accept or tolerate delay. Enjoy the exposure to many parts of the USA you most likely will never see again. I find it fun to just see new things...

[@mrtriffid]

". . . do not take Amtrack if you lack the capacity to accept or tolerate delay." In other words, don't take Amtrack if you expect normal, on-time train service. Remember when running the trains on time used to be the DEFINITION of reliability?!?!?

[@robertclark8546]

Can't happen as long as freight trains run the tracks ​@@mrtriffid

[@IceLynne]

That's a great attitude but a lot of people aren't aware of the realities of traveling on Amtrak. I think they should be more open and honest in a way where people do understand. My father takes Amtrak from NE Texas to Southern California and sometimes there's huge delays and sometimes none! lol Those freight trains are usually the problem.

[@kovie9162]

@@mrtriffid Long distance trains can't be compared to local or intercity trains of 4-5 hours tops. People take these for a vacation, not to get somewhere on time.

[@seanmcelroy4764]

That's a good place to get off my hometown Martinez

[@phillaroe6107]

I made this trip, LA to Seattle, riding coach the entire trip. I found sleeping in the coach seats very comfortable. The trip was in January and true to Amtrack there were several long delays, one waiting for snow removal crossing the mountains in Oregon and another waiting for repair of a cracked rail. A great ride as long as you are not in a hurry!

[@zoobaby2003]

Exactly!! Anyone ridding Amtrak needs to know they can’t be anywhere in a hurry!! I mistakenly thought I could do a trip even a day after my train was supposed to arrive…..I arrived to my destination at 2 am with the event starting at 10am….it doesn’t mater because I expected this!!

[@rebeccaboudreau7589]

Took my son on this for his high school graduation and 18th birthday gift. He’s ASD and always loved trains. I’ve never seen him so sociable! We loved the trip - food was good. Cool seeing the backlots in la, but the northern stretches were the most picturesque

[@donnelljones4400]

The two of you are amazing with such beautiful and optimistic attitudes in the midst of multiple unexpected events. You turned lemon into lemonade and with smiles. Thank you for sharing this experience.

[@misteruhl4575]

What I heard was a lot of whining! If getting some place quickly is the priority, what are you doing on a train?

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

Exactly!

[@squalli1297]

Your journey on Amtrak is a true testament of what can go wrong. Whenever I decide to ride Amtrak's long-distance trains, I give myself an extra day between connections (trains, planes, or cruises). Trains can be delayed by 10 hours or more due to equipment failures, derailments, accidents, or weather. Amtrak's objective is to get passengers to their destinations safely. One thing I've noticed is some travelers have no regard for others in Sightseer Lounge Cars by taking up space all day long although everyone's been asked to limit their time to 1-2 hours during daylight hours-particularly while going through scenic areas.

[@auser1922]

Confront them and ask if they are aware of how this works.

[@greggross8856]

Lounge Car hogging is a definite issue. It's why I tend to take in the views from my roomette or the dining car.

[@mrtriffid]

I just have to shake my head at people who make apologies for a national disgrace like this! 😖

[@greggross8856]

@@mrtriffid there is no reason to “apologize“ for stating facts. Congress has been trying to strangle AMTRAK’s funding almost since its inception. Despite this, it has more than doubled its ridership between 1972, its first full year in operation, and the start of the pandemic. All facts, which you can verify yourself if you care to. Can AMTRAK do and be better? Absolutely. But not while the very governmental body that created it tries to sabotage it at almost every turn.

[@eile4219]

36 hours is just too much for me either way. Consider I used to take train from tokyo to kyoto for 6 hours.

[@gustavomacuil7457]

I feel so fortunate...I was on this same train from Seattle to L.A. and train was spot on in time. I was also lucky to see Washington and Oregon during full day and the views were amazing!

[@_D1886]

I did this reverse trip, Seattle to LA, in 2022 and miraculously we arrived into LA 10 minutes early. I couldn't believe it. I was expecting to be multiple hours late! Props to you guys for remaining so positive and upbeat.

[@bearyylovessyouu]

Wow! I remember I took the trip and a couple I met completely missed their flight back to the East Coast because the train was delayed by 12+ hours Mechanical issues and freight traffic can really mess things up. Felt so bad for them. My husband and I did the Orlando to NYC and was delayed over 24 hours. He has since refused to get on an Amtrak :(

[@reryro1266]

​@@bearyylovessyouuWow! They completely missed their flight?! Not just partially missed it?

[@brentjennings3267]

Once in a lifetime experience!

[@jeannettelee2806]

Amtrak is for people who have time and patience. Enjoying America inch by inch.

[@brentjennings3267]

Well said. Travelers need to be aware AMTRAK will always be delayed because they do own the trackage.

[@dcrisp8888]

😂

[@Sonia-pd9bl]

And rest for us!!

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

It sounds wonderful until it isn’t

[@zoobaby2003]

@@DeannaSmith-oj3kjMeh, I’ve been on MANY delayed trains, that’s what you expect!! So far, the main reason my trains have been delayed is because of people of the tracks with 2 cases resulting in injury and death, causing police involvement aka homicide. My last Amtrak trip delay was caused by a freak of nature (with a bolder falling down a hill and could have derailed us!!) I will still ride with them again!

[@beatrizboggs9090]

I was 18 years old, having completed my first year of college when I took 3 Amtrak trains from San Diego to Miami, Florida. The first train was the best. I also spent many hours on the observation deck. We went through Colorado, New Mexico to Chicago where I changed to my second train. Met many people. From Chicago to Washington DC where I took the last train to Miami. By myself. It took 5 days total. And I paid $200 for a seat. It was hard to sleep with the stops and the noise. But it was an experience I will never forget nor repeat.

[@tinaprice4948]

So from watching alot of train videos it is always a good idea to bring alot of snacks and something to read

[@Xx-ib6bf]

Yes, agreed. Healthy, hearty food packed as meals can be delayed by hours (4-6 +), according to the videos.

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

Just boils down to be prepared and plan ahead

[@mikemecklenborg5412]

I'm here in McCall, Idaho on vacation watching this video and its 3:00 in the morning. Maintaining a good attitude and going with the flow will make life more interesting. My attitude would likely be half and half because I like exploring new things. I used to meet my girlfriend from 1993-1996 at Shasta Koa Campground near the town of Shasta when I was stationed in Point Mugu, Ca and she lived on Whidbey Island in Washington State. She is now my wife and weve been together for 34 years. Our experiences have been unique as well in life but exploring the world with a partner is nice. Its interesting that as modern as our country is to other countries that we such an antiquated train system.

[@debbylou5729]

You mean the ‘countries’ that are the size of states, if not smaller?

[@andybarr6751]

@@debbylou5729 What states do we have that have a great passenger rail system?

[@debbylou5729]

@@andybarr6751 none. Why would they? You clearly don’t understand the distances involved

[@jillenethurman3804]

McCall Idaho I lived in Idaho forever McCall is a very pretty place I hope you enjoyed your vacation in beautiful Idaho

[@sallyjohansson6045]

We call it Mount Shasta, even though it’s the city, not precisely the mountain. It’s short for City of Mount Shasta. Helps avoid confusing it with Shasta Lake, Shasta county and Lake Shasta which are many miles south of us. Glad romance blossomed at the KOA.

[@bohemia74]

I really enjoyed this video because both Josh and Amy are great on camera. Great video!

[@ck4426]

I cannot believe they only offered you 20% off of a future trip! Absolutely inexcusable! I rode Amtrak twice a month for 13 years and I could literally write a book about all of the nightmares I went through. I’m so thankful I don’t have to depend on Amtrak anymore! I’m thankful you showed the reality of riding Amtrak.

[@Tonymanero1960]

I was super excited about Amtrak's USA Rail Pass about 4 years ago.I bought a total of 5 of them over a 2 year period.Even giving them the benefit of the doubt I finally realized that Amtrak sucks.

[@RobertoAHenderson]

MAYBE YOU SHOULD HAVE WRITTEN THAT BOOK LONG AGO AND SPARED US THE NIGHTMARES.

[@CassandraMooree]

@@RobertoAHenderson😭

[@ticklefritz5406]

You say things like "a perfect storm" and "everything that could have gone wrong went wrong." Truth is, this is exactly what traveling by Amtrak is always like.

[@gregbrown6430]

Amtrak: Yesterday’s train tomorrow!

[@jeanruecker4591]

No, it isn't. Delays, yes, because the freights take priority, but the dining car problem was a fluke.

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

Lol

[@zoobaby2003]

@@jeanruecker4591 I was just delayed 6 hours heading the opposite direction, had the entire power cut off from my cabin and then could tell when my cabin train was jacked up (to remove the bolder) because I was sliding off the bed! All I could do was laugh and say “of course we’re delayed!!! At least we didn’t hit someone on the tracks this time!!” Something that has happened to me at least 3 times while riding the Pacific Surfliner!! When you hit somebody, you are there for HOURS due to police investigations.

[@beaubows]

I’m so sorry about the trip but love yalls positivity despite the circumstances!! 😅

[@dsr8223]

Somewhere, there's a KZbinr editing his video about his Amtrak journey that starts off with his having to sleep in the Seattle terminal because his evening train that was supposed to have arrived at 7:50 PM didn't get there until 5:00 AM...

[@LAbee333]

Oh that's sounds miserable... So sorry that happened to you

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

Some hotels will give you a special rate in situations like this where you can go lie down, shower etc. there are many hotels near Seattle Amtrak station, worth looking in to

[@BonjourEva805]

Appreciated your honest review of Coast Starlight. We’ve heard of others having a similar experience. Sad that it seems to be common rather than a one-off. But my husband and I applaud the positive spirit you both showed in dealing with all the disappointments/setbacks. 👍🏼

[@martharunstheworld]

It's VERY common!!!

[@dfa3366]

One thing to expect about long distance Amtrak travel is to expect delays. Freight trains have priority and if they are delayed Amtrak is delayed. Your trip delays was at that extreme level. I did that trip years ago and we got in 3 hrs late. And with limited meal service that adds to the experience. Imagine those in coach.

[@neutrino78x]

Yeah a couple hours is more typical, people need to understand that a nine hour delay is not the typical experience. I would never go more than five hours or so in a coach seat. Those chairs are comfortable but not nearly as much as being able to lie down and go to sleep. 🙂

[@jaynedee4577]

I’ve traveled Amtrak several times. One journey from Minneapolis/St Paul to Seattle was not very enjoyable but at a later date took another Amtrak train adventure and it was fun and fabulous. Soon I’ll be taking the Starlight to Seattle from Palm Desert. Your delays were incredibly long- one never knows how the train ride will shake out. Thanks for your enjoyable video!

[@steveshama5960]

Get back on the rails! I've been on all Amtrak routes and have been delayed but nothing as dramatic as yours. I think the Amtrak "universe" wanted to test your resolve. There is nothing so romantic as traveling thru the US on Amtrak, even weight the delays. If you don't make exact plans for the end of your trip, you'll enjoy the ride so much more. Enjoy the journey, as they say. That's what it is all about.And how was Seattle? A lovely city I have been to many times. . See you again...on the rails.

[@adrianmedina5204]

This is the most "glass-half-full" video I've ever seen on youtube :)

[@sandrabrown6326]

So glad to see this. We have been talking about taking this trip, not so sure now.

[@jeanruecker4591]

Their experience is NOT typical. There will be delays for freight trains, but the Coast Starlight is a great ride. We've never had that kind of multiple, long time delays. Our only long time one was an accident caused by another train ramming ours that was not the fault of Amtrak. The food is great, views fantastic and the staff always wonderful. Please try it.

[@donnamcduffie8457]

We've done thus trip several times over the years, Portland to LA round trip, and have had delays, but nothing as horrible as your experience. 😮 We enjoyed the food and our bedroom. Did it last December, the snow thru the Cascades was beautiful. Sunrise on Mt Shasta is always amazing. Thanks for all your videos!

[@richardharmon647]

The shots you got of Mount Shasta were just incredible. This is one of my favorite travel channels on KZbin. I like the fact that you're not only go to interesting places and do videography but your narration is excellent.

[@UTHookEmHorns73]

I have traveled on Amtrak across the country (Houston to PA - R/T & Houston to Southern CA to PA to Houston) twice, & we never had anywhere near the issues y'all had. The occasional delays are to be expected, but nowhere near the extent that y'all experienced in your video. I've even watched numerous videos on KZbin of people taking the Coast Starlight, & they never have any problems. Y'all were just an anomaly, & please don't let it turn you off from riding Amtrak in the future. Seriously, y'all were just part of an extremely rare case. I am glad that you noticed how amazing the Amtrak staff are on the train. We've always had nothing but absolutely amazing staff in our trips, & from watching tons of Amtrak KZbin videos, the majority have had nothing but great staff onboard. Thank you for sharing your crazy experience & unbelievably extremely (can't express that enough) rare Amtrak experience, & I truly hope that you don't allow it to keep you from taking Amtrak in future.

[@shimaohana]

Same. We love train travel. We’ve done the exact trip from LA to Seattle and back to LA and had a blast. I’d do the trip again in a heartbeat.

[@jdo333]

it's because ur in the sane state of Texas.....they are in the beautiful but differently run state of California.....all those delays were because they had to stop many times to let the rare chanteeze beetles to cross the tracks, and to decrease the amount of electricity to be used at any given time, and to..........🤭

[@KraftyGals]

Josh and Amy❤️Love watching you both on trips together…this one was the Best.

[@ltlgrama2332]

Can't believe that in 1987 my daughter and I took that train ride from L.A. to San Francisco. It was an credible journey. Long time ago so no problems with train. Views fantastic both mountains and ocean. Food good too. We just chose coach seats. No regrets. Aloha 🌺

[@lexiness1221]

Nopety nope nope. This is why I watch your channel, you’re honest. I’ve been thinking of one of these trips and you helped me not waste money. I wouldn’t have handled it as well as you guys. ❤

[@neutrino78x]

I don't know, I would still recommend it. Of course, if you want to go to Seattle for a weekend, like for a concert, the best and fastest way is to fly. Even if we had a maglev train it would still be slower than flying. 🙂 But there are views you just can't get any other way. Freight delays are common, but it's usually only a couple hours late. Fire on the train is very rare. 🙂 I take short distance Amtrak quite often, like to go from San Jose, where I live, to Sacramento. It takes three hours, about the same time as driving. Long distance, I would only do it to make the train journey itself the vacation. It's "the scenic route". 🙂

[@sarahreesnes8540]

@@neutrino78x I was thinking the same. Maybe take a trip within Ca, but no further☺️

[@neutrino78x]

@@sarahreesnes8540 well, don't let this video dissuade you too much. The reason you have so many positive reviews for Amtrak long distance is that USUALLY it's a good experience. Just remember, it's the scenic route....in no way are the long distance trains competition for flying, or even driving, at least, not if you take them end to end. 🙂 A lot of people get on it in coach to take it short distances, such as Portland to Eugene, or San Jose to Salinas, or Vancouver, WA to Seattle. Like with Vancouver to Seattle, the frequent and faster train is Amtrak Cascades, but if you're scheduling the trip and the Coast Starlight matches up with your schedule, why not (they go the same route in that area)? btw driving from Eugene, OR to Seattle, WA is 4 hours 50 minutes driving, and 6 hours 20 minutes on Amtrak Cascades. It's one of those "corridor routes" that's comparable to driving, and you definitely don't need a room on those! :-) I very much recommend riding Coast Starlight the whole way, for the scenery, as long as you have time, and you can afford one of the rooms. 1200 (round trip) isn't that much if you only do it once a year. 🙂 Trust me, fire in the galley or other failure in the galley is very rare on this train (I've never experienced it, this is the only time I've heard of it happening), and delays are usually more like 2 or 3 hours, not 9 hours. 🙂 Sorry to reply by writing the bible lol 🙂

[@RobertoAHenderson]

I WAS BORN AND RAISED AROUND TRAINS, AND EVEN IN THE THIRD WORLD COUNTRY I COME FROM, THIS SHITTY EXPERIENCE IS THE EXCEPTION RATHER THAN THE AMTRAK RULE IT IS.

[@andreajohnson1796]

Awesome, been there several times, better than riding the bus Thanks for sharing

[@suethatcher8966]

We loved this episode. We laughed and laughed. You guys took all the adversity in stride which allowed us to enjoy it. The only thing missing would be watching Pops try to get into the upper bunk. 😂

[@Katmai_Bear_480]

Not with his claustrophobia! This whole trip would have been a nightmare!

[@martinronquillo7638]

I did this trip in coach for $300. Sleep was pretty miserable even with ear plugs. There was a delay at one point that was about 5 hours. That said it is an amazing trip with memorable views!

[@lrbtechie]

Watching this has definitely lessened my desire to travel by train. I would go stir crazy with that much down time in such a small space!

[@travelvideos]

24:30 that's what wine is for. They should have collected entire bottle instead of glass.

[@bostonphotographer20]

@@travelvideos Wine in a plastic cup. Ugh

[@bostonphotographer20]

@@rayb.6537 It's a fricken joke. Get over it.

[@bobmirror7164]

One can walk around nearly the whole train and there is room for eBikes and lots of luggage. Better than a bus.

[@cherylbjurstrom6412]

Give it another try. Chicago to Boston is beautiful. We look at all experiences as an adventure.

[@petebanks9570]

as a novice traveler , may i offer this advice , embrace the suck because many will never be able to experience even the worst of times . I have flown in planes where the seat was broken or no seat at all and yet this was an amazing flight . Unforeseen challenges happen and no trip is ever perfect . Live the life and Love your people

[@ladygoodday]

My husband and I rode the SW Chief , LA to Chicago, round trip. We never laughed so much! Constant delays, but thank goodness the dining car was operating. I slept well, but my poor husband woke up every time they pulled the horn and the ding, ding, ding while going through train crossings😂 He said never again!

[@lauracarstiou3505]

I did that trip solo and it was thrilling seeing all the country. I had my own mini room food was great. It used to bê include If you had a sleeper ticket and l pigged out

[@jamessobredo7847]

OMG... I feel so sad and sorry to hear this account. I took took the train cross country, "several years ago," and I was much younger then so I was okay. However, now that I am older, I would be very unhappy if all these delays occurred, especially give how expensive the tickets are.

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

Have an open mind and make the best of it.

[@Elle0704]

Thank you for showing the ups and downs. If you’re traveling with someone who needs regularity with meals/snacks, such as Diabetics or ASD- preparedness helps our party have an enjoyable journey. Having a sack lunch in the mom purse isn’t a big deal- but knowing you need it is. Mucho thanks.

[@cheriebuss193]

Wow ! A train ride has been on my bucket list. I can check this off now, not only because of all the miss haps ,but because I feel like I was there. You guys do a great job of capturing your travels. Thank you for sharing. I admire your positive outlook in spite of all that went wrong. That 20 percent was not near enough. Again thank you . I love watching . Hope you keep it up. Pack an extra book, Amie, in case there is a next time time.

[@lauriepfalzer3115]

This route is notorious for running hours late. Not surprised by your experience.

[@Snatcher42]

Crazy delays are common on Amtrak because of sharing the track with freight. Don't plan anything time-sensitive and enjoy the journey. The dining car is a problem, though. Same thing happened to me on this train in June. Seems the Coast Starlight needs a new kitchen!

[@jameshepburn4631]

Make it the trifecta. My wife and I had a big delay when the Coast Starlight had a fire in the middle of the Vandenberg Air Force Base about half way between Santa Barbara and San Luis Opispo. The fire department from Vandenberg put out the fire and did a lengthy inspection before the train got moving again. Same trip had a wheel bearing on one of the cars lock up With the usual delays for passing freights we got to Seattle about six hours late and the rental car place had already closed for the night. I thought we’d lose our reservation but the next morning the rental car place (National) was very understanding about Amtrak running late. Can’t let one bad trip discourage you. Have made quite a few long & short trips on Amtrak, they’re usually OK.

[@rachelh-j5006]

I would think the freight trains have priority over Amtrak. Maybe if Amtrak had it's own, well, track, it would be a different adventure :)

[@saltyroe3179]

Back in early 1970s took California Zeffer from Denver to Oakland. We were with the Pacific Railroad Society and a car just for our group. Because we were rail fans we all ate in the dinning car and when we left Reno, the dinning car ran out of food. The conductor stopped the train in a small town in the Sierra Nevadas and took the chief of service to the grocery store where she bought bread and peanut butter and jelly so she could at least feed us something.

[@teacherteacake]

So glad I watched this. That is cray and not okay.

[@worldsightseer]

I have taken the Amtrak Coast Starlight trip from Los Angeles to Seattle many times, and have never experienced the delays you had, sorry you had such bad luck, especially not having the dining car, wow, that has never happened to me. Do not be discouraged with Amtrak, use your 20% credit and try another trip. The Los Angeles to Chicago trip is amazing, as well as the East Coast. I have traveled Amtrak as far as Boston and highly recommend rail travel. If you are in a hurry, and want to travel at a low price, I highly recommend flying, as I have flown to 120 countries around the world. However, I have done train trips in over 50 countries and I always enjoy unexpected delays as it adds flavor to the trip. This is just my humble opinion. ~ Dave T. San Diego, CA.

[@bostonphotographer20]

That's one of their main commuter lines, so I think they give it special attention.

[@auroranite]

You’re unusual in your travel expectations/ disappointments. Good for you, but most Expect far more standards from Amtrak.

[@ursinidaho]

This was timely as I have always entertained train travel. This was very interesting to see the train trip experience. Still an adventure, but hey, you have so many nice ones to balance it out, and you shared what you learned. Thanks!

[@DznyKyd]

I can’t even imagine what that trip would like in coach! I’ve been in coach overnight, it’s not great… but two nights and all the delays? My head would have exploded. 😮 wishing you much happier travels in the future.

[@Blakk_Wolf7]

Great video guys! I'm a lifelong die-hardtrain fanatic aka a rail fan so I've traveled a lot on Amtrak. Now I'm from NY while I've as yet to travel from Los Angeles to Seattle, but I've traveled to Philly, Delaware, Boston, Virginia, D.C., Chicago, Salt Lake City Utah, & Seattle. You guys should really think about going from Los Angeles to NY!

[@scenesfromoregon5821]

It's been a while since I traveled on Amtrak, largely because of experiences similar to yours. On two different trips on Empire Builder I was 24 hours late getting to my destination. I would have preferred to bale and rent a car but both times stick in the middle of nowhere. There is nothing more frustrating than the announcements that the length of the delay is "unknown ". Ack. Your ability to smile at the end was amazing! Hopefully you flew back to LA.

[@ItsBalakA]

I literally gasped when you said the price of that trip. 😮

[@warderandall2355]

Right? I wouldn't ride the train based on the price alone

[@jamessobredo7847]

Yep... me too. That is a lot of money for a very inefficient transportation system. But I've taken it before so I should not have been surprised. However, I still was. I am in Spain on a regular basis, and I travel between Madrid and Barcelona regularly and to other outlying cities. Spain's rail system is super affordable and reliable... and runs on time! I truly hope that we fix our rail system, which used to be the envy of the entire world... "once upon a time."

[@cristinelemler7696]

It's a lot but it varies quite a bit between coach and the sleeper car options. I just picked a random day in November and this same trip for two people in coach would be $236, roomette would be $718, bedroom $1,837, and family room $1,634. Coach isn't as comfortable and doesn't come with meals but much more affordable.

[@thomas6502]

+1

[@Porsche996driver]

@@cristinelemler7696 yeah I wouldn’t have a problem writing Coach except for the extra nine hour delay. That would be hard sitting in Coach at least if you have a room you can just really relax and sleep away some of the delay lol

[@laurak.donham8374]

I took the overnighter from Emeryville (Bay area) to bend Oregon. Had a 2.5+ hour delay stuck up in mountains, due to problems with another train. Surprised at how good the food in diner was. Found much less stressful than driving up route 5. I lived on Mendocino coast, so if you want scenic route driving route 1 and 101, beautiful trip, but stressful for people not used to cliff drops, fog, etc. delay got everyone out of the train and we ended up getting to know each other. So overall great trip. I was in business class, but would get a room for overnight, unless you are one of those people able to sleep upright in chairs.

[@emmawebb6955]

👋👋 I love your honesty and how politely your views give the situations you both faced through your travel from L.A. Union Station to Seattle WA. I've done that trip via car, plane, and train a few years back. Only thing mount Shasta, Klamath Falls regarding the forest woods was during the night dark and early morning coming into the cascade and several tunnels ... didn't have sleeper, we did coach. I thought you executed your presentation very well👏👏👏💯💯

[@trbarton743]

I’m originally from Portland Oregon & have used the train a number of times. I’m aware that freight trains have priority since there is no side rail long enough for them. Thanks for sharing your experience with us. Earlier this year I took Amtrak from San Francisco/Oakland to Reno & it was a great trip & luckily there was no serious delays. Sorry to hear about the dinning room problems. Glad that you handled things well. Thanks again!

[@jeanruecker4591]

We've taken the California Zepher too and enjoyed it.

[@stanfordholman5301]

CHICAGO TO EMERYVILLE on the California Zephyr is my favorite!!! Thanks for all your videos❤❤❤❤

[@user-di2on5gl2d]

I didn't have a good experience on that train this past April 😪.

[@mikeanderson1316]

Wow! An extra nine hours on Amtrak and all the great views at no charge😃 it sounds like a deal to me🤩 good thing they didn’t charge you double for the extra time. And just look at all the weight you lost by not eating. I’m retired and I don’t have anywhere to go would’ve been a great trip for me lol

[@CEEVM]

This was one of my favourite videos of yours ever ! I watched it 3 times, the adventure was just so real.

[@brianvirgin2995]

As a SoCal native transplanted to Norway for over 40 years, I'm sorry to hear your journey was so unfortunate. I also have to feel sorry for the crew. My train experiences here have been much better. But I appreciated all the amazing views you showed as they brought back countless memories

[@stephensanford4383]

There were many crews. In addition to crews assigned a specific part of the trip, relief crews take over if the assigned crew is on duty more than 12 hours. So you get delays waiting for relief crews on top of the other delays.

[@tracymiller2571]

Just wow! Can’t believe you experienced that🙃 I took my first ride on that route 2 years ago and it was amazing! Stayed in a roomette; had a great neighbor from the UK right across from me. We shared some meals together (and some cocktails that I brought along in case I made new friends) and still communicate. Since then have taken 3 more Amtrak rides to various places and none went nearly as well. But still fun for me. Love your upbeat spirit and humor during this ordeal!

[@jeffkelley4055]

80% voucher would be more like it. Now you need to ride the Via in Canada to make it all better

[@norwegianblue2017]

20% voucher is an insult. They had no dining car for the bulk of the trip and were nine hours late! Yeah, a 80% voucher or 50% refund should have been offered.

[@roxanneonthemove4187]

We have done the train from Oxnard to San Diego about 3 times trip to catch cruise ships and twice for returns. We have been really lucky since our first to rides had been on time, if they hadn’t, we would have missed our cruise. It was a big plus for getting to the cruise ship. Hop on the train until you get to downtown San Diego, then walk about 1/2 to the ship. No hassle of parking a car or flight or rental car. Being able move around is nice than the 3-3 1/2 hour ride in an automobile.

[@shortylucy]

I can't wait to do this trip. Roll with the punches is what we teach our kids, IF what happened to you happens to us, this will be a good lesrning experience, but if it all goes well, it will be an amazing experience! So excited!!

[@NotStrictlyDisney]

So glad you posted this video. My friend has been trying to convince me to take this same trip - no way!

[@davidcrawford219]

Thank you for the awesome tour. Thank you for being patient. 🎉

[@davidcrawford219]

Better than Oregon Trail conditions.

[@davidcrawford219]

Lewis & Clark territory 🎉

[@davidcrawford219]

So peaceful. 😍

[@jokeroneninesevenzero]

Very cool. I film Amtrak trains in Chatsworth, Simi Valley, and Moorpark. I have taken the Amtrak from Simi Valley to Oakland. It took nine hours. I enjoy filming them rather than riding them.

[@ericdavis1660]

I worked at The Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo back in the early 90s. Even then, Amtrak was a disastrous way to travel the Coast. You CANNOT rely on their schedule to make any plans. But, if you don't make reservations in these Coastal cities, you will find literally everything sold out when you do, finally, arrive... long after the charm of train-travel has worn away. Since Amtrak resorts to busing passengers much of the time anyway, I recommend looking into one of the many Coastal Bus Tours that show you the highlights, and keep faith with their customers' tight schedules.

[@kayokolindenberger3754]

Excellent video, but this definitely changed my mind about travelling long distance via train. Love watching your travel videos!

[@lucymartin1238]

Thanks for sharing! 😊 Totally an adventure. Yes, definitely give it another try. I took a trip to Flagstaff and no problem. I also heard many stories of delays. Fun experience

[@desertdara]

I took that same trip a while back and had a very different experience. Yes, there was a delay due to freight trains having priority on the tracks, but we arrived in Seattle much closer to the stated arrival time. I loved the whole trip and would do it again in a heartbeat! Sorry you had such a different experience. Give it another chance, won't you? Thanks for all your travelogs. I really enjoy them.

[@liberty_and_justice67]

Almost went on that trip. You changed my mind. Thank you🎉

[@margaretconnors1223]

I’m sorry you and Amy had such a bad experience on Amtrak but yes I think you should give it another chance!! I’ve traveled to Michigan a few times and was always on time!! And I also slept in coach (well) not actually slept it’s very noisy and people getting on and off!! So if you’re doing a long trip I wouldn’t suggest it!! But I always enjoy your videos!! You and pop can be quite entertaining!! But it’s nice to see Amy!! Keep safe and may God bless you all ❤❤❤❤

[@veronicaleon8075]

Have to commend your attitude. I really enjoyed this video. Thank you for not showing ugly frustration. I still want to try a train ride.

[@moishglukovsky]

Thanks for putting your feet up in the observation car where passengers put drinks and food while relaxing. Very thoughtful!

[@mariegarside8830]

Yucky !

[@richardharmon647]

Thanks for being a troll!

[@TommyRockKW]

I'm in no hurry but keep the booze flowing !

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

Absolutely

[@craftyshenanigans]

Wow, so sad for the train system! I’ve been wanting to do this route but now I’m not so sure! Thanks for sharing your… adventure? Malfunction? Mishaps? lol… I don’t know what to call it but for sure it was a trip! 😂 Glad you finally made it!

[@mrkeiths48]

Much appreciation for you in sharing this experience. I want to ride the trains now that I am retired, and I know there will be delays and unexpected problems associated with this mode of transportation. My biggest fear is broken hotel reservations and even worse, not having a place to stay because of delays. Thanks for your video, I hope there were some highlights to your trip.

[@candacemeifert-polk7383]

I took Amtrack from Denver to Roseville , California a few years back , riding in coach. The overnight was bad because we stopped in Salt Lake City very late and the people that got on and sat behind me and talked ALL night. No sleep for me. The train was pretty dirty. I had to use antibacterial wipes to clean everything when I first got on. The food was ok, but not great. I loved the observation car. The coffee was great. The views were worth it. I would do it again but get a sleeper car. You see things you cannot see in a car road trip.

[@bearyylovessyouu]

Dont forget how filthy the bathrooms get!!!! They do not clean them once they are en route on coach. It's horrific.

[@fredhazen5032]

It’s good that you kept a good attitude with smiles on your faces. I’m sure it was frustrating, but, from experience, this will be a trip you will laugh about and cherish in years to come. I took the train from Portland to L.A. several years ago when my s son got out of the Marine Corp. he met me there and then we drove back to Portland together. My favorite part of my trip was dinner in the dining Car south of San Francisco , watching the sunset over the ocean. I also enjoyed the friendliness of everybody aboard. FYI, I took the budget plan and slept in one of the coach seats. It was ok for one night. I wouldn’t want to do it more than one night, though. Thanks for taking us along!

[@_Dana_B]

Haha, 10 - 12 days! 😂Seems serene at times, but I'll stick to the 3-hour flight, lol. "...The beautiful surroundings..." (Then pans over to Amy!) Not sure if that was intentional, but it was cute! 🥰

[@JanieKeen]

Yes, try it again. The diner car is great. I took the same trip.

[@judycohentx]

I took the California Zephyr from Chicago to Grand Junction, CO this summer. Do to a variety of circumstances (brake trouble, the crew maxing out the hours they could work and having to park the train until a new crew could be brought in, torrential rains, tunnel trouble near Winterpark, CO) we were almost 12 hours late getting into Grand Junction. It was the middle of the night instead of mid-afternoon. Never again.

[@johnchedsey1306]

Oh, that's a shame. The train trip through the Colorado mountains is outstanding in the day time.

[@Tailsnpaws]

Wow! What a cool adventure. All those crazy delays just add to the memories. They maybe sour ones now, but you will both smile when looking back on this trip. We love you guys and have to say that Amy is becoming our favorite co-host on your channel. We love Pops too, but Amy and you together complement each other so well. Her smile Is captivating. Stay safe and keep ‘em coming.

[@cme98]

Dude. Its not like they went to Europe. They were booted by a oil train which has priority over paying passengers because well… its oil. And booted by a dilapidated dining car that should have been a priority on the Presidents infrastructure plan, but noooooo. Oil is the priority. They didnt even offer a bus, they used to offer bus rides instead of delays so that people could at least see the scenery. This is worse than Light Rail in Seattle building a train route on a floating bridge. Ever see a train float on by? Neither has anyone in Seattle the project is done but the Feds refuse to issue a safety approval. Lol true story. What happens if the train derails? They put claws on the train to hold onto the rail. I kid u not. If it derails well, i suppose it rolls off the boat, oops i mean the “floating bridge.” Its now a floating train. Google it. 💯

[@Tailsnpaws]

@@cme98 you stopped me at “Dude.” 🤪

[@jenniferselvig7177]

Wow, that was PAINFUL.. Thanks for sharing your journey. This summer we toured a portion of the East Coast riding Amtrak between DC to Philly; Philly to NYC; NYC to Boston. The trains were always on time, clean and comfy in coach. The views were the nicest between NYC and Boston.

[@samanthajones9323]

Twenty five years ago, my husband and I took the same train on our honeymoon , we booked a room on the 2nd level, we had the most beautiful experience. Our food was included. So, If anyone is interested, I suggest you experience it for yourself.

[@thomas6502]

Thanks. This is a trip we've wanted to take as well... very much appreciate you guys sharing your experience!

[@mandatoe]

Traveling on Amtrak = "Well at least we have a good story now."

[@Allofthemonkeys]

I always travel with a book, I got stuck in the Rockies last May in a late snowstorm when the highway was closed. I was glad to find a hotel and chill until the road opened back up.

[@popshiking]

I don’t think I could have kept as positive an attitude as you and Amie did.

[@beverlycoleman1916]

Thank you so much for this video!! So sorry to hear you and Amy has such a horrible experience on your trip to Seattle!! However, many thanks for the heads up. I have been dreaming and thinking about taking a nice luxury train ride to CA. Several months ago, I contacted Amtrack to ask some questions about the sleeper cars and to book the reservation. Consequently, Amtrack never returned my calls or followed up with me at all. So I took that as a sign NOT to continue with the trip plans, boy I’m so glad I followed my intuition!!😮

[@JFiti6]

I really appreciated this video. I’ve always romanticized this trip and it’s been on my bucket list. But knowing how impatient I can be at times, I see now that if I was on the train with you guys and experienced all the delays and issues that you did, I would be beyond pissed. With that said, I appreciated watching your patience and optimism.

[@bmolitor615]

An essential component of Amtrak trips is the thumbing yer nose at other modes of transport with their schedules and so on - a train traveler in tune with the realities of Amtrak is someone who absolutely has oodles of extra time and flexibility to be spare - both commodities in short supply. So kick back and lord it up!

[@Vincehunting336]

Such beautiful US west coastal. Thanks for sharing! Best!

[@GenealogyGrandmother]

Sure felt bad that Amy and you had such a bad experience on your break away from the twins. You look cramped in that cabin and definately answered by question about a train trip, I do not want to be uncomfortable when on vacation. Thank you for giving me an honest look at train travel. Thanks!

[@CaptSteveCPA]

I recently took the Coast Starlight train #14 from Sacramento to Albany, OR. A 14 hour leg of the same train as your video. This leg begins at midnight so everyone is sleeping for the next 6 hours. The coach seats are wide and very comfortable. I’m 6’2” & 165 lbs. They recline similar to a lazy boy recliner so sleeping is easy. The stewards discourage conversation suggesting those who want to talk or make calls to move to the observatory cars. My trip was round trip and I thoroughly enjoyed my trip. I’m planning another for Christmas season when snow will cover most of the route. 🚂

[@julesTerrier-j3m]

Stifling a giggle after you told us the price was *chef's kiss*

[@thereseember2800]

You both have wonderful attitudes. It’d be worth it to book the private bathroom and shower. I once took a round-trip Amtrack trip from Simi Valley to San Diego. The trip there felt exciting the entire way, but the return trip felt like an eternity with endless, exhausting stops. I was beyond fatigued from it & did not want to repeat that experience. On a 6-hour train trip from Switzerland to Italy, there was an undisciplined 3-year-old that was screaming bloody murder the entire way. It’s something to consider re/ train trips.

[@ehmmmjay9907]

I'm sure it sucked for you guys but I'd love to see more train videos!

[@Orangeshebert]

Been thinking about this trip. Happy to hear about your experience. I tend to be exacting so now know I will pack an extra dose of patience.

[@garyhinchey4086]

Josh and Amy what a train trip from hell, they should have comped you at least half for that miserable trip was that cost one way or round trip? My wife and I have been thinking about this trip for the past 5 years, I felt your frustration the entire trip after your first delay.

[@SharonGoewert]

You came through my neighorhood in the San Fernando Valley Thank you for this video!

[@DixieJensenBrown]

Here have a train trip for 3 days to see fall colours... heard very beautiful... often advertised on my phone, I live in Central Ontario, Canada... Have ridden on train before no delays booked from Chapleau to Barrie. It was faster than by car... I thought made awesome time... Enjoyed scenery♡

[@ghtaboma]

We were considering this trip, but you cured us of that idea, and saved us a lot of money!

[@jeanruecker4591]

Please understand that this trip they took was NOT the normal Coast Starlight. We've never had that delay or the mechanical problems they had. Ridden it over the years multiple times.

[@DeannaSmith-oj3kj]

Right!

[@FranciscoRodriguez-ly9so]

My parents have taken this route a few times and they absolutely love it. They do the coach seats. According to them the seats recline almost all the way back and there is a curtain that you can wrap around your seating area. I would never do it though. The train is almost as expensive as an airplane ticket. And a flight from LAX to SeaTac is max 3 hours.

[@swooshdave]

Almost as expensive as a plane? Maybe if you fly first class.