USA by Rail, Fifth Edition (Bradt Rail Guides) [Paperback]

John Pitt (Author)

Book Description

Series: Bradt Rail Guides | Publication Date: August 1, 2003

Ever since they came on the scene, American trains have had a strong hold on the popular imagination, inspiring countless stories, songs, scandals, films, and legends. Attracted by the pace of life and an ever-changing view, more and more people are discovering the joys of taking to the rails to cross this vast continent in comfort. This new edition of a best-selling Bradt title provides up-to-date timetables, information on rail passes, and background travel information for 25 long-distance rail journeys in the United States plus an additional 12 routes in Canada. Over 500 destinations are covered, including attractions such as the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls, Yellowstone Park, and Disney World--all accessible by rail--and details of 100 steam railways and museums. Sightseeing and attractions in 38 major cities on rail routes are also provided for the complete traveler's companion.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"An excellent publication. Essential reading."
--Today's Railways

From the Back Cover

This fifth edition of USA by Rail features fully updated information on how to get the most out of rail travel across North America. John Pitt¿s comprehensive guide covers 25 long-distance train journeys across the United States, and 12 in Canada, taking in such highlights as the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and Disney world. Experience the vast continent of North America in comfort with an every-changing view and the perfect companion: USA by Rail.
Inside you will find: up-to-date timetables and rail pass information; sightseeing and accommodation in 38 major cities; 100 steam railways and museums; area maps and route plans; 37 long-distance routes in the USA and Canada.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 408 pages
• Publisher: Bradt Travel Guides; 5th edition (August 1, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1841620696
• ISBN-13: 978-1841620695
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.3 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (36 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,862,292 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

61 of 62 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent guide in every way, June 23, 2000

By 

Anna (Ryme Intrinseca, England) - See all my reviews

This review is from: USA by Rail (Paperback)

An excellent book which tells you all you need to know. I travelled all over North America by train last summer and found "USA by Rail" terrifically useful, especially for its clear and detailed route guides. These add so much to a journey by telling you in advance what to look out for and explaining the background to the things you are seeing. The chapter for visitors from overseas was very helpful and there's fascinating information about railroad history as well as lots of practical tips for finding accommodation, booking tickets and making reservations. The previous reviewer must have been looking at an earlier version of the book because I found the third edition (published last year) to be fully up to date so far as Amtrak routes are concerned. This edition also has a competition inside to win free rail passes. I can recommend USA by Rail to anyone visiting North America and thinking of travelling by train as it will add hugely to your enjoyment and understanding. An inspiring read in every way.

49 of 51 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Detailed information along all of Amtrak and VIArail routes, September 3, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: USA by Rail, 2nd Edition (Paperback)

This is the book I'd take along on a rail journey although I also own Jim Loomis book (which I rate a 5 star). Every route (some are out of date) is reviewed with meticulous attention to all of the sights along the way. There are many good traveling hints for foreign travelers, too. While the style of writing is on the dry side (hence the 4 stars rating), the information is excellent. I do not consider this book as redundant if one already has the Loomis book...rather....its information is complementary since this book is much much more detailed regarding what is to be seen. Loomis gives more emphasis to train riding in general. I would recommend this book as the one of choice for foreigners already familiar with trains.

39 of 40 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best guide while on the train, April 22, 2003

By 

Garry Rosam (Traverse City, Mi United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: USA by Rail, 4th (Bradt Rail Guides) (Paperback)

My yearly travel on Amtrak starts with the most recent copy of this book. I have traveled every Amtrak route and for knowing what to look for and when, it's indispensible. I might have missed some of the best sites or picture opportunities had I not had this companion by my side. Easy to read and with times to look out of which side of the train you're ready to see some of the most interesting sites of this beautiful country and also capture them on film. I read ahead and highlight the sites I'm most interested in, then just have to look for my highlights as I travel. I discovered this book by accident, now I won't leave home without it.