Amtrak's California Zephyr Traveling 2,438 miles across the heart of America, the California Zephyr connects Chicago to the San Francisco Bay Area, passing through Omaha, Denver, Salt Lake City, and Reno. The journey is celebrated for its panoramic views, notably the Rocky Mountains' upper Colorado River valley and the Sierra Nevada. The California Zephyr route, the longest daily service offered by Amtrak and second only to the Texas Eagle's triweekly service in overall length, requires about 51

Happy 75th, California Zephyr! On this day in 1949, the California Zephyr made its first trip between Chicago and the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether riding the iconic train then or now — passengers travel nearly 2,500 miles through the stunning scenery and unusual landscapes that define the American West. | Amtrak