When the Rio Grande had narrow- and broad-gauge rail lines winding through dozens of Colorado canyons, it justifiably called itself the Scenic Line of the World. Even in later years when its only passenger train, other than the seasonal ski train, was the Rio Grande Zephyr, it could claim to be the most scenic line in America, though railroads in Switzerland would dispute the World part of the slogan. This cover photo shows a long train, probably the Exposition Flyer, along the Colorado River in one of the more sedate parts of the Moffat Tunnel route.
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Inside, reflecting wartime shortages, the table d’hôte dinner menu features just three entrées. These include Rio Grande’s famous mountain trout as well as fried chicken, but the third one — cold cuts and potato salad — seems especially meager. It also has two “standard dinners”: baked ham or fresh fish, with appropriate side dishes. A la carte has fish, eggs, and salad, but no more substantial entrées. Multiply prices by 14 to get today’s dollars.