Taking the train to the pigroast from Portland Oregon

[Howdy]

I have the joy of attending this years pigroast  8) and will take the train from Portland to Chicago, then rent a car to the pigroast.  If you need something transported and it will fit in my baggage, smiley_horserider let me know and hopefully we can get it there.

[petefrom bearswamp]

Look forward to meeting you!

[WmFritz]

That will be a relaxing trip to Chicago. Hope you get a window seat through the Rockies.

[pine]

Curious as to why the train?  Have not taken the train for something like that for a long time. 
How does it compare cost wise to flying?  Are you a non flyer or just want to see the world as it goes by the window?  It sure would be a scenic way to do the trip if someone had the time to do it.
How many train connections do you have to swap out or is it one train the whole way with no changes?
Three day trip?

Someday maybe I could do something like you are doing.

[Howdy]

The adventure of train travel far out ways the speed of flying over the country.  I have the time and want to enjoy the trip so why not meet people along the way and see this beautiful land close up. I have flown high above and seen nothing so this trip is all about people, scenery, and pleasure.  It is the same train from Portland to Chicago, 47 hours +- and it encourages people to meet one another.  Cost: $174 each way vs flying at around $220 so it balances out with the added expense of meals. 

If I could afford it, I would drive across America but when factoring in fuel, lodging, meals, possible repairs, and extras the trip would be around $3000 and take at least 2 weeks driving around 500 miles a day. While it would allow me to explore the flavors of small towns and seek local diners where you are greeted by friends you have yet to meet, I (my wife) feel it would not be wise to try this kind of trip.  Something about my inability to remain alert when driving long distances. 

Don't wait until you are unable to do it, get out and see the country while you still are able.  Bank up those memories while banishing wishful dreams now.  Even if it is only for a couple of days it would be better than never doing anything while wishing you could. 

[Raider Bill]

I have the joy of attending this years pigroast  8) and will take the train from Portland to Chicago, then rent a car to the pigroast.  If you need something transported and it will fit in my baggage, smiley_horserider let me know and hopefully we can get it there.

Didn't weed just get legalized in Oregon? :D

[beenthere]

 :D :D :D

That'll wake up the sniffer dogs along the way...  ;)

[Magicman]

I do not need anything, but I admire the trip that you have mapped out, and the reason for a train.  See you at the PR.   ;D

[sawguy21]

That will be a great way to see the country, you will be able to relax and enjoy the ride.  8)

[WmFritz]

You could bring the train as far as Flint from Chicago, but then you would miss the scenic ride along the Lake in SW Michigan.

[trapper]

Make sure you go thru wi and the up of mi on the way to the pig roast or on the way back to chicago. About 650 miles that way.I am 150 mi north of chicago, beenthere about 90 mi west of me and chet about 200 mi north of me.
We are leaving friday morning for the pigroast, about 10 hours.

[Howdy]

Getting on the train Sunday (tomorrow) and coming yous guyes way. Better lock up your tattoo parlors and get ready for me.  My wife says I should not plan on eating any fresh Tuna or Chicken as it will not be found except in a can. 

Whoo Hoo, to the Pigroast thanks to Logrite,
TTTT HHHH  AAAA  NNNN KKKK      YYYY OOOO UUUU 

[4x4American]

How many days is the train trip?  I've not ate canned chicken before!

[beenthere]

The route of the Empire Builder and times shown here.
Click the + sign on the map in upper right, and the station stops are listed across northern US route.

http://www.amtrak.com/empire-builder-train

IIRC it is three days.

[4x4American]

Looks like an awesome trip!