My Most Adventurous Train Ride and the Wild Adventures Along the Feather River Route

For many people, train rides are a comfortable and predictable form of travel. However, my most adventurous train ride was far from regular and scheduled. It involved unexpected obstacles, close calls, and even a young fugitive on the run. Let me take you on this wild journey through the Feather River Canyon.

The Excursion Special

During one of the wettest seasons, a special excursion train operated by Union Pacific (UP) along the Feather River Route from Portola to Fremont, via the Feather River Canyon, became a thrilling adventure. The rain was so intense that freight traffic was being held up, but UP decided to proceed with the excursion special. This decision set the stage for a ride filled with excitement and challenges.

Obstacles on the Track

Several times, our train encountered challenges on the track due to large rock and mudslides. To ensure our safety, a road-railer preceded our train. The crew on board the road-railer used heavy equipment to clear the obstructions. One of these slides was particularly big, and for a moment, the staff considered backing up all the way to Portola and arranging buses to Fremont. However, common sense prevailed, and we continued with caution.

Adventure Amidst Challenging Conditions

While the train ride was adventurous, the views along the Feather River Canyon were equally breathtaking. The area is known for its rugged beauty and natural wonders. As we traveled through the canyon, we were reminded of the power of nature. Meanwhile, within the train, passengers shared stories, retold jokes, and even drank the beer and liquor provided by the Amtrak. Despite the delays caused by the natural obstacles, the camaraderie and humor among the passengers kept spirits high.

A Disruptive Encounter

One notable misadventure occurred when we encountered someone walking on the tracks. The person tried to dodge the train at the last moment, but it was too late, and they were injured. This event disrupted our journey, and we stopped for several hours while the injured person was treated. The experience was a stark reminder of the importance of following the rules and respecting the environment.

Wild Tales of Train Travel

While my train ride was filled with excitement and unexpected challenges, I have encountered other notable instances of misadventures on train rides. For example, in my days as a transport engineering student, I had the opportunity to drive the prototype Newcastle Metro vehicle on its test track. Although I managed to avoid a collision, the experience taught me the importance of adhering to safety protocols.

Train Travel and Misconduct

Train travel also offers a unique opportunity to deal with misbehavior. Unlike planes, trains can communicate with law enforcement to intercept misbehaving passengers. For instance, on one occasion, a fugitive was found onboard, and the train had to be stopped to conduct a manhunt. Despite the chaotic situation, the train conductor and attendants managed to maintain order and ensure the safety of all passengers. The sheriff's deputies had to chase down the fugitive just before the state line, bringing the train to a halt for nearly 30 minutes. This unexpected event added to the adventures of the day.

Conclusion

While train travel can be a relaxing and convenient way to travel, my journey along the Feather River Route in the Union Pacific excursion special showed that it can also be filled with excitement, challenges, and unexpected encounters. Whether it's dealing with the unpredictable weather or encountering misbehaving passengers, train travel can offer a wild and memorable ride. If you're ever looking for an adventurous travel experience, consider taking a train ride through the Feather River Canyon!