Trails and Rails, a popular partnership between Amtrak and the National Park Service, is back for another summer season. On the program, passengers of select Amtrak routes are treated to Park Rangers and volunteers who offer an overview of the history and ecology of the national park along the route.
The program is intended to help educate people about national parks. Not just for the park’s natural landscapes but the heritage and cultural significance of the parks. The Coast Starlight, which runs on the coast of California, is included in the program.
Between San Jose and Paso Robles, riders can learn about the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historical Trail as they watch breathtaking coast views pass by. The trail is 1200 miles, passing through 3 different states and two countries. The route follows the path of the Juan Bautista De Anza Expedition in the 18th century. The trail marks many important cultural sites, exploring a complex history along the way. The railroad we know today was then built along the same path over 100 years later.
Riders on the Coast Starlight will be able to learn more about the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historical Trail during the trip between San Jose and Paso Robles. The Trails and Rails program for the Coast Starlite is currently operating through September on Saturday trips.
Trails and Rails is a nationwide program, although it started in New Orleans aboard the Sunset Limited. The partnership was a success, and by 2000, it had gone national. While the program sadly had to be paused in 2020 due to the pandemic, it’s been able to make a full comeback in recent years. Other routes included in the program are the Northeast Regional, Empire Builder, Adirondack Empire Service, and many more. Each train has its different dates for when the program is available, so be sure to check the schedule if you want to check out a different route.