I find myself in need of taking a round trip from Chicago to LaCrosse, WI in late July and am faced with a decision between flying to Minneapolis and driving back to LaCrosse then driving back to Minneapolis for a flight back to Chicago (time consuming and expensive), or driving approx. ten hours round trip (about $80 in gas and a very sore ***) or taking Metra from Aurora to CUS then Amtrak 7/8 round trip, I have decided on Amtrak.
What I would appreciate would be any recommendations on what to look for in the way of scenery, etc., or any suggestions on train activities (i.e. lounge cars, etc.) for my trip.
Thanks.[:D]
Because. Lots of train related activites.
I’ve only been as far as the Dells on this line, but suspect that most of the scenery will be out of the west (left) side of the northbound train.
And, of course, out of the front window of your inbound Dinky.
OK, thanks for the invitation…however I only have an evening in LaCrosse. I live in Aurora, IL about 35 miles west of Chicago and on the famous BNSF triple track main line “racetrack” which I would guess (no disrespect to Duluth intended here) has many more trains than Duluth ever had or ever will (over one hundred per day, sometimes significantly more). I do need to get to Duluth on business some day in the future so I will no doubt take you up on your invitation…some day.
I know I was just putting it out there on te notion you werent gonna be coming my way. lol
l"ve been to Wisconsin Dells, and I would have to agree with Carl- the best scenery in town would be to the west, including a good view of the dam separating the upper from the lower Dells. If they have to stop there to pick up or drop off passengers, you’ll get a nice long look at it, too. Other than that, I couldn’t tell you much more. I’ve been through La Crosse many times, but not anywhere near the Amtrak Station or the line that it comes in on.
Take a run up river on the Wisconsin side to a place called Trempealeau, where the BNSF double mains run along the Mighty Mississip, and take yer camera.
Acid, Cannabis and Guinness.
Jim,
Once upon a time my uncle had some property up by Camp Douglas, WI. My cousin and I went railfanning all along the CP from the Dells to LaCrosse. It seems to me that the area from Camp Douglas west to around Sparta was really spectacular, scenery wise. Of course we were there in autumn, and there was a lot of color. It should still be pretty, though.
As for on train activities, I’ve always enjoyed hanging out in the top of the lounge car on my treks between Denver and Naperville. I guess I should that I enjoy it until they turn on the movie. It really detracts from the atmosphere. When the movie isn’t on, people are usually fairly chatty and it’s a great way to watch the scenery whiz by. When the movie’s on, it’s generally too loud, and just annoys me.
Technically, you’re not supposed to bring your own food to the lounge car or dining car, but I’ve always snuck a snack or two in. I also patronize the dining car, but usually for breakfast or lunch as some of the supper items can get a little pricey.
At any rate, hope you have a good trip!
I would take the Train to LaCrosse or Minniapolis, the scenery is very good along the River.
