Western Railroad Discussion > Book Review: The Last Zephyr

The Last Zephyr,  By C. B. Blackforest, Alden Press, Golden, Colorado, 2023.

The Yellowstone National Park is famous for volcanic activity. Geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles show the molten activity beneath the surface. Geologists talk of the Yellowstone Caldera, and speculate the possibiity of a a future eruption the likes of which would dwarf all past eruptions. 

Such an eruption comes to pass, as The California Zephyr, with PV Silver Sky on the rear, enters the Moffat Tunnel. Protected by the mountain, and the steel doors at the tunnel portals, the 200 plus passengers and crew survive, only to find a new world of ash, heat, and toxic gassess outside. Can they make it back to Denver and safety, and some evidence of civilization?

An Amtrak conductor, the author weaves a dystopian tale of human ingenuity, railroading, and geology.

Rail enthusiasts in particular will enjoy this exciting adventure on the train, with accurate descriptions of today's travel and Amtrak operations.

How will a group of strangers cope with adversity and eventually cooperate?  The Last Zephyr is a fun read.

B&O Bill



 

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Party for retiring conductor/autghor  will be held aboard the Ski train on the 31st, i think Brad will run on the CZ a little longer, but am not sure.