California Zephyr (Amtrak Scenic Train)

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Attraction · Emeryville, California

Amtrak's California Zephyr runs every day between Chicago Union Station and Emeryville, California, across the bay from San Francisco. The full ride is about 2,438 miles and takes about 52 hours, with two nights on board. On the current schedule the westbound train leaves Chicago at 2:00 PM and reaches Emeryville around 5:00 PM two days later; eastbound leaves Emeryville at 8:25 AM. Times can change, so check amtrak.com. Main stops: Chicago, Omaha, Denver, Glenwood Springs, Grand Junction, Salt Lake City, Reno, Truckee, Sacramento, Emeryville. You can also ride just one part, like Denver to Glenwood Springs. What you'll see: the Rocky Mountains and the Moffat Tunnel, the Colorado River through Gore, Byers and Glenwood Canyons, Utah's desert cliffs, and the Sierra Nevada past Donner Lake. The Sightseer Lounge car has big windows for the views. Where you sit: a Coach seat or a private room. A Roomette has two seats that turn into two beds (shared restroom and shower). A Bedroom is twice the size, with its own restroom and shower. A Family Room fits 2 adults and 2 kids (ages 2-12). Private rooms include meals. How to book: amtrak.com, the Amtrak app, or 1-800-872-7245. From Emeryville, Amtrak buses go to San Francisco. Kosher & Shabbos tips: • The regular dining car menu is not kosher-certified. Amtrak says sealed kosher meals, made under rabbinical supervision, are available on overnight trains if you call 1-800-872-7245 at least 72 hours before the train leaves its first station. Ask which hechsher. • You may bring your own food to eat at your seat or in your room. Staff can't heat or refrigerate it, so pack a cooler and extra food in case of delays. • Two nights on board, and trains are sometimes late: pick dates so you are not on the train on Shabbos. A westbound train leaving Chicago Wednesday is due Friday around 5 PM, which in winter is after candle-lighting. Ask your Rav.

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