Producer: Tim Walter
Locations: Cajon Pass, Sullivan’s Curve, Palmdale Cut-off…
Timeframe: 2019
Here is a current visit to world famous, Cajon Pass! The 14 miles, refers to the length. Operating freight traffic, is by Union Pacific and BNSF. Fans of the modern rail scene, are in for quite a treat.
As one would expect from Pentrex, all of the best known locations are included. Many others, as well.
A single DVD-R. Detailed Chapter Menu. On screen graphics. Preview section. Great picture and natural audio. Excellent post production.
A colorful, custom map is included. Only referenced a single time. Veteran Railfans already know this material. However, newer people likely would appreciate multiple references.
Veteran announcer Dave Drui handles a relaxed script. Informative, yet leaving plenty of space to listen to the trains. So, activate that soundbar!
The busiest railroad, mountain crossing, in the United States. This is the subtitle. Hits the nail on the head! There are 100 scheduled trains daily.
Blue Cut is where the San Andreas Fault is located. A blue CSX accentuates the bluish stone.
It takes quite awhile to change locations sometimes. However, no shortage of traffic.
For those unfamiliar with this part of the country. Note the dry riverbed. These can sometimes becoming raging torrents. Have no idea about this specific one.
Very little, in run through locomotives. Several Citirail units are seen.
An odd moment. Mention of this train breaking down later in the show, causing traffic problems. No further discussion.
A show highlight, is the cut to Cajon 1976 footage!
Big Boy 4014 rolls by, a single pass in 2019.
A couple of shots from a rare snowfall are another break, from the unit trains.
Amtrak Southwest Chief has a single rollby.
Almost missed it! A Chicago and NorthWestern unit, is in the middle of this lash-up.
Cajon Summit is acheived, at the end.
UP fans will want their flag on the summit. The 9068, is an SD70AH.
Note, this is the older BNSF livery. Santa Fe traditional style lettering. C44-9W.
While present day railroading, is not my wheelhouse. The combination of slow trains, and beautiful scenery has its own charm. Hearing the locomotives working hard is another positive.
The two hour length could have been edited down considerably. Certain locations, the camera is planted there, for far too long. Particularly, in the first hour. Unusual, as Pentrex normally picks up and moves!
For a show featuring the current railroad scene, special scenery is a must have. Everything else is repetitive. This show is well put together. Although, this era is not to my interest, it is a good show. Recommended, if you enjoy today’s railroading.
Rating: 4 Stars
American Train Video Reviews 