Noelle, a steam locomotive enthusiast, chronicles the unprecedented cross-country tour of Big Boy, Union Pacific's massive retired steam engine, which drew massive crowds and media frenzy as it traveled east to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. The tour sparked intense fan engagement, social media obsession, and even dangerous overcrowding incidents, culminating in a major event at Altoona, Pennsylvania's historically significant Horseshoe Curve.
Amtrak's new Airo trains will debut on the Cascades route on Sept. 30, with two trainsets making four daily trips between Vancouver, Seattle, Portland, and Eugene. Manufactured by Siemens Mobility, the trains feature upgraded seating, accessible bathrooms, power outlets, and USB-C chargers, with six additional trainsets expected by early 2027 as part of Amtrak's largest fleet replacement program in its 50-year history.