As the fall colors begin to show, #8 slices through the S-curves on its way to La Crosse, WI. (Canon EOS20D, 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM)

Nothing like a dome car to catch your attention at the end of Amtrak's Empire Builder, making a station stop at Columbus, Wisconsin. Car is owned by Northern Sky Charters in Milwaukee, painted in... (more)

Amtrak 79 works the Empire Builder solo tonight as it finishes its first of may victories over the passes to Chicago.

#8 pulls into La Crosse. (Canon EOS20D, 16-35mm f/2.8L USM)

The Empire Builder is stopped for refueling and a windshield wiper change. This extended station stop allows the passengers to get out and stretch their legs.

Amtrak #8 climbs the hill towards Rockland after passing CP 199 sitting in the siding at Bangor. (Canon EOS20D, 300mm f/4.0L IS USM)

The Empire Builder wails it's horn as this guy drives down the wrong side of the road to beat the train, just so he/she can wait in line for the ferry. The person is not even looking!

Amtrak #8 rounds the S-curves coming into Dakota, MN. Wonder what that engine hit to mess up the front like that? (Canon EOS20D, 300mm f/4.0L IS USM)

East bound Empire Builder nearing the Illinois state line.

Canon EOS20D, 300mm f/4.0L IS USM)

Canon EOS20D, 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

Victory - according to AMTRAK. (Canon EOS20D, 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM)

Amtrak #8 blasts through downtown West Salem after leaving La Crosse, WI minutes earlier. (Canon EOS 20D, 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM)

After weeks of photo sessions, the sun is in the right position for the daily Empire Builder.

The eastbound Builder streaks along the Pudget Sound.