Revisiting Train Travel on Around Dusty Roads

Returning to My Travel Roots

Let’s harken back to the early days of Around Dusty Roads. When I first launched this blog, it was meant to be a place to share my trips, vacations, and travel experiences—my little corner of the internet where I could relive adventures and maybe inspire a few of you along the way. Over time, as life shifted and travel slowed, the blog naturally evolved into a “bit of everything” space. That’s what happens when you stop hopping on planes and start navigating retirement budgets instead.

I’ve certainly slowed down, and while I adjust to new spending habits, travel has taken a back seat. But as my recent posts have shown, I can still wander in my mind. And who knows—maybe someday I’ll get back to exploring in person.

Let’s Talk Train Vacations

Today, I want to toss the ball back to you, my friendly readers. What do you think of train vacations?

My sister and I once took a 7‑day Amtrak trip to San Antonio, Texas, and New Orleans, Louisiana. It was interesting—quirky in places, scenic in others—and I’d absolutely try something like that again. I’ve also long dreamed of riding the Coast Starlight down California’s coastline between Seattle and Los Angeles. Then again, I’d be just as happy driving it so I could stop and explore every overlook and beach town along the way.

The Rocky Mountaineer: A Bucket‑List Ride

Another rail adventure that has lived rent‑free in my imagination is a journey across the Canadian Rockies. There are several trains that make the trip, but the one I hear about most often is the Rocky Mountaineer.

Their ads paint quite a picture:
“With routes to Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise, the Rocky Mountaineer train winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, showcasing untouched terrain you can only see by rail.”

From what I’ve learned, the Rocky Mountaineer offers two levels of service. GoldLeaf features a full double‑dome glass car with an outdoor viewing platform, while SilverLeaf offers oversized panoramic windows and gourmet meals served at your seat. Both are daylight‑only journeys, which means you never miss the scenery—towering peaks, turquoise rivers, and valleys that look like they were sketched by an artist with a very generous imagination.

The downside? The price tag. It looks every bit as expensive as an Alaska cruise, maybe more. And I’m curious about the comfort level. When we took the train in Alaska, they packed us in so tightly it felt like strangers were practically sitting in our laps. Our Texas trip was more comfortable—we even had a tiny sleeping car, but at least it was ours.

Sugar Cane Field- View Form the train 2015

Your Turn, Readers

So, dear readers, have any of you taken the Rocky Mountaineer? Was it worth the splurge? How crowded did it feel? Did the scenery live up to the hype?

I’d love to hear your experiences and thoughts. After all, even if I’m not traveling much these days, your stories help keep the wanderlust alive.