So I’ve been kind of in lurk mode lately around the forum as I’ve been trying to sort and process the 1500+ images that I came back with from Alaska. Add in some other shoots like the DNC Trains and the Rocky Mountain Balloon Festival, and I’ve been a pretty busy guy!
I’ve finally gotten around to posting the shots I took on the White Pass and Yukon – probably the excursion I was most looking forward to on my Alaskan Cruise. Riding that line has changed my perception on tourist railroads. I had always considered the Durango and Silverton as the most scenic line I had had the opportunity to ride on. I do not believe that is the case anymore! The variety and immensity of the WP&Y has made me reconsider my position and put them at the top of that list now. It’s not that the D&S is lacking in scenery (most assuredly not!), but it just can’t compare to the WP&Y for me.
There are a lot of options for riding the White Pass & Yukon. I elected to ride as much of the line as possible – between Skagway, AK and Carcross, YT. The line actually runs to White Horse, YT but that segment is currently not in operation. Because of the length of the Skagway-Carcross trip, and the schedule of the cruise ships that the railroad has to accomodate, the train operates one way daily and passengers are bused the opposite direction. I was bused to Carcross and rode the train back from there. We had a very good stew lunch (followed up with Apple Pie w/ a slice of Cheddar Cheese) at Bennett Lake.
Alas, I was there on a weekday, so I didn’t get to see #73, the road’s sole operating steam locomotive (They run steam on the weekends). The GE and ALCo power almost made up for it, though. I had forgotten just how acoustically pleasing an ALCo could be. The 6-251s burble, snort and smoke just as well as their bigger brethren. Maybe even better!
It really was a fantastic trip, and one that I certainly hope to do again someday.
This brings back memories. I rode the WPYR in 1998. That was an amazing experience. I was able to stand between the cars and video all around and especially below. I don’t know if they allow you to do that today. The scenery was fantastic. I really liked the way the scenery changed as we climbed altitude, Skagway to ?.. I forget the name of the town at the end of the trip in the Canadian side. What really got to me was thinking how the poor saps walked up this trail in terrible conditions to try to get rich. Very few did .
All I can say is you have to have been on this railway to really appreciate it. I’m planning to go again in the next year or 2.
This does indeed bring back memories. I arrived in Skagway also aboard a Princess ship and rode the White Pass but only as far as the pass. Here is a link to my version of the story, Gold Rush Narrow Gauge
Chad - Yeah, I’ve been keeping myself busy, so I haven’t been around here too much. What’s new in your corner of the world? Do you have any operating steam out that way yet? Theoretically, the Loop should have #12 up and running just in time for fall color. I’m keeping my fingers crossed, but not holding my breath!
Tom - They do allow you to ride out on the platforms of the cars. Of course, this proved to be a point of grievance for me. I was the only soul to brave the cold and the rain for the entire duration of the trip. However, every time we were coming up to one of the scenic shots on the line, everyone would come out and crowd the platforms and then return to the warm dry inside. I had several shots ruined in this manner, and wish that my fellow riders would have either stayed out of my shots, or joined me for the whole trip. There were two in particular that did their best to get in front of my camera any time something scenic came up. [banghead]
Glen - I really enjoyed your photo essay. We were also on a Princess ship, the MS Sapphire Princess. I think she’s a sister ship to the Diamond Princess that was in your trip report.
Charlie - Thanks for all of the great comments in my gallery! It certainly helped clear up some things for me that I had forgotten or didn’t know! Thanks again!
The personal that work the W.P. & Y are very friendly.
I was totally shocked when they said that the prospectors were required to have ONE TON of supplies per person to cross the Canada border. They use to carry it up the mountain side.
Talking to one of the emploryees in White Horse. I got a ride on one of their motor cars (50 Feet) but it was a ride I really appreciate. NOONE around to take pictures or video.
I remembered (in 2001 returned home 5 days before 09/11) they had about three running steam engines.
If you want another very good senic and very pleasant steam train. Ride the Cumber and Toltec. Besure to ride it from Chama N. M. to Antonito CO. Steeper grade. Plus you send your day in the C & T yard.
Thanks for the personal recollections. As for the C&TS, that’s one of the lines that I try to do at least once a year! I’ll probably be headed down that way in late September for some fall color.
Well, I don’t get to spend much time in “my corner”, but I was there last weekend. My dad and his sisiter came out to Ely and we spent a couple hours checking things out (at the NN). 40 was back together and sitting in the shop, looking ready to go but quite cold. 93 is also in the shop without driveing wheels and tender. Word has it that it might be a few months before 93 is back in action.