The Reno Tahoe Experience takes a video train ride. National Train Day, held on May 8th around the country, drew national attention to rail travel, and put a spotlight on a new local push for Reno-to-Truckee round trip day trips aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr.

The first ever Reno/Sparks Railroad Days was held at the downtown Reno Amtrak Train Station, a charming 1910-era building sandwiched between Harrah's and the National Bowling Stadium just above the 'trench' that the railway runs through. As the Galena High School jazz band played to welcome travelers arriving from the east, Tim Elam and Michael Stearns, both train travel buffs and owners of Zephyr Adventures of Reno, were busy drumming up interest for Reno/Sparks Railroad Days and their own intitative - scenic and historic day trips aboard the train between Reno and Truckee.

Their concept, which they hope will appeal both as a visitor attraction as well as to locals, revolves around the little-known fact that you can catch a train in Reno at 8:30am, ride it an hour up to Truckee, spend the better part of the day in Truckee, or  Palisades Tahoe, Northstar, or North Lake Tahoe, and be back to Reno in time for dinner or an Aces game.

The "european style mini-vacation" offers a relaxing scenic ride in both directions, and a chance to see the beauty of the Sierra from a different perspective. Historic Downtown Truckee provides a central basecamp for a day of exploring the region, and is a great place to grab lunch, stroll the shops, or discover the brand new Truckee Train Museum, which opened on National Train Day.

Zephyr Adventures is working with partners in Reno, Truckee and North Lake Tahoe to provide a seamless tour experience for visitors. For those who know the area, the trip is just as enjoyable, and a great way to spend a day in our spectacular region.

For more information, visit www.zephyradventuresreno.com.