Above It All In Auburn. Amtrak Train 5 (California Zephyr) had an extra and colorful addition to the head end, seen passing over Interstate 80 in Auburn, California on the afternoon of Friday, March 25, 2022. AMTK 90221 (F40NPCU, Salutes Out Veterans, formerly AMTK 221, F40PH) is 3rd out, behind P42DCs 202 and 45. NPCU means "Non Powered Cab Unit", as this former engine now only functions as a cab control car. It was with the consist from Chicago, Ilinois to Emeryville, California. The Placer County Museum/historic Auburn Courthouse is seen on the right of the photo, with its dome rising above the Auburn Historic District.
California-bound rail travelers from the east have three choices to reach the Golden State: California Zephyr, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited/Texas Eagle. A look back through the years including the now-defunct Desert Wind