Two Amtrak trains traveling between St. Louis and Kansas City are part of the "Trails and Rails" program where Amtrak passengers learn about the natural and cultural heritage of the nation's parks. It is a partnership between the National Park Service and Amtrak.
As Amtrak's westbound Kansas City Mule and the eastbound Ann Rutledge trace the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the historic Missouri River between Washington and Jefferson City, the program is designed to attract sightseers who are not traditional visitors to national parks.
"As they follow along the Missouri River, which opened up the west, riders will learn about the many stories of Missouri history, with a special focus on the famous expedition and its impact on the development of the west," said Gary Easton, Superinten-dent of the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial. "We are excited about expanding our role as educators away from the traditional park setting through this outstanding outreach program."
Each train's service car is transformed into a mobile classroom as a park ranger and two volunteers interact with the passengers. They also carry a traveling trunk that holds various traveling displays, handouts and other reading material for passengers.
Anne McGinnis, Amtrak Zone Manager, said there was an opportunity for the program because of the train routes along the Lewis and Clark trail and the route features "incredible" views of the Missouri River.
"I knew there was tie-in and we really wanted to put an education program on the train," McGinnis said.
Planning for the program, began about two years ago when Amtrak and various historical groups in St. Louis began writing scripts and collaborating on how the program would be set up.
"Trails and Rails" began in June and was originally scheduled to go through Labor Day. However, McGinnis said Amtrak is looking to continue the program through November.
McGinnis said Amtrak is planning the program for next year as well and hopes it will begin earlier in the spring.
The westbound Kansas City Mule leaves St. Louis at 7:30 a.m. daily and arrives in Kansas City at 1:10 p.m. The eastbound Ann Rutledge leaves Kansas City at 7:35 a.m. and arrives in St. Louis at 1:15 p.m.
Area stations include 600 S. Grand Ave., in Independence; 2200 Main St., in Kansas City and 220 S. Main St. in Lee's Summit. Other cities along the route include Kirkwood, Washington, Hermann, Jefferson City, Sedalia and Warrensburg.
For more information about Amtrak's Kansas City Mule, Ann Rutledge and other passenger trains, including schedules, fares and reservations, visit Amtrak's Web site at www.amtrak.com or call 1-800-USA-RAIL.
