On a Tank of Gas: September

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Vintage Luxury

By Janis Dice

As the focus of a weekend getaway, or part of a longer vacation, a ride on the Shasta Sunset Dinner Train is a great appetizer. Toss in myriad outdoor adventures amid volcanic landscapes and forest scenery, and a journey to the Mt. Shasta area can become a feast.
    Steeped in local railroad history, the Mt. Shasta region is a place where train buffs and outdoor enthusiasts can find plenty to do and see. Lake Shasta, Lake Siskiyou and the McCloud River provide opportunities for fishing, boating, camping and swimming. Castle Crags State Park offers hiking trails, fishing and rock climbing. In Dunsmuir, there are several easy-to-reach waterfalls and access to the Sacramento River.
    After a day of exploring, a ride on the dinner train can provide a refined note.
    Running between Mt. Shasta City and the old lumber mill town of McCloud, the train travels the McCloud Railway, which was built in the 1890s. It loops around the southern slope of Mt. Shasta’s 14,162-foot peak, swaying through hairpin curves and clacking through pristine forests. Awesome mountain vistas tinged by the sun’s fading rays underscore a unique dining experience.
    Departing from McCloud Railway Station, guests are offered a taste of luxury within vintage dining cars. Raised mahogany paneling, antique brass fixtures, rich carpeting and plush upholstery create an elegant atmosphere for enjoying a sumptuous four-course meal during the three-hour ride.

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