Watch Great American Scenic Railroads: Continental Divide & Donner Summit

Great American Scenic Railroads: Continental Divide & Donner Summit is a captivating documentary film that showcases the magnificent terrain of the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada region, which are traversed by the Union Pacific Railroad. The film is a journey down the rails, featuring stunning visuals of the majestic mountains, deep canyons, and raging rivers that make up these iconic American landscapes. The trains' rolling thunder provides a soothing soundtrack that is perfectly synced with the stunning visuals that the film superbly delivers.

Narrated by Miles O'Keeffe, Great American Scenic Railroads: Continental Divide & Donner Summit is a beautifully observed documentary that tells the story of the early railroad pioneers, who constructed the Union Pacific Railroad, a vital artery that links the east and west coasts of the United States. Through a combination of historical research and stunning footage of the region's scenic beauty, the film takes the audience on an unforgettable voyage across the continent.

The film starts with a brief introduction to the Union Pacific Railroad, which stretches over 1,000 miles of track and includes some of the highest and most challenging routes in the world. After the introduction, the film begins with a journey from Cheyenne, Wyoming, through the Rocky Mountains, and on to Denver, Colorado, where we learn about the early railroading pioneers and their determination to conquer the mountains.

The journey continues through the Continental Divide, where the Rockies and the Sierra Nevada meet, and the terrain becomes even more challenging. Here we see how the Union Pacific Railroad, with its innovative engineering and imaginative routing, overcame the obstacles to take passengers and cargo across the rugged terrain through spectacular passes and high peaks.

Finally, the film takes us to Donner Summit, where the Union Pacific Railroad conquered the highest point on the railroad, just west of the Sierra Nevada. The filmmakers take us through the tunnels, that sometimes go for many miles, chiselled through the heart of the mountains, and the grandeur of Castle Peak, standing majestically in the background.

The intricate shots of the Amtrak and Union Pacific trains running parallel to the snow-covered mountain ranges are exceptional, and the aerial shots add a grandeur to the already stunning visuals. The footage of the classic steam locomotives, including the Big Boy engine, is well placed and gives the audience a perspective on how the railroads operated in the past.

The film also sheds light on how the Union Pacific Railroad worked tirelessly to preserve the environment and its surroundings. The effort adds a dimension to the film, with an emphasis on the environmental concerns of modern times.

The soundtrack of the film is well thought out and enhances the film's beauty to create an immersive experience for viewers. From the steam-powered locomotives' powerful blasts and the clattering of their wheels to the stunning compositions throughout the film, the sound design brings a rich texture to the visual feast.

Overall, Great American Scenic Railroads: Continental Divide & Donner Summit is a powerful and enjoyable documentary that blends history, scenery, and technology. The film celebrates America's scenic beauty while paying tribute to the intrepid railroading pioneers and the workers who made the railroads a reality. With its incredible visuals, lively sound design, and educational insights, this movie is a must-watch for train enthusiasts and anyone who loves Americana. Whether a railroad enthusiast or not, the film provides stunning aerial views of the region that are sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. A thoroughly engaging and entertaining offering!