The train route, called Amtrak Cascades, links 18 cities in the region along a nearly 500-mile track that stretches from Eugene, Oregon, to Vancouver, British Columbia. The first stop south of Vancouver is Bellingham, a bayside city tucked into a coastal mountain setting replete with ski resorts, hiking, arts, theater and whale-watching operations. From there, the train stops in woodsy Mount Vernon, villagey Stanwood, Everett and the waterfront arts community of Edmonds before reaching the main station in Seattle. From there, the train connects Tukwila, Tacoma, Olympia, Centralia, Kelso and, finally, the "Washington version" Vancouver before leaving the state for parts south.
Laptop outlets and free Wi-Fi make it easy to keep in touch from the tracks. Take in the views from the second-level observation cars, then head down to the bistro for coffee, pastries and regional cuisine. An abbreviated bar offers wine and local microbrews to passengers over the age of 21.
The Cascades train is a dozen cars long, accommodating around 250 passengers when the train is full -- which, generally speaking, it isn't. Business Class seats offer a little more breathing room, free newspapers and priority boarding, but seating is first-come first-served in all cabins. The Cascades route offers no overnight accommodation, but that's a moot point since the entire route is just over 10 hours long.
Passengers traveling across the border between the United States and Canada are subject to inspection by officials of both countries. U.S. citizens must bring valid international travel documentation -- typically, a passport or passport card -- and declare to U.S. Border inspectors any fruit, vegetables, plants, animals, meats or animal products in their possession.
