prairies, the Joshua trees of the Mojave Desert and the saw-toothed peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the pounding surf of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans - is one of its greatest attractions, and there is no better way to enjoy it than by train. Pampered by helpful attendants, you can travel from coast to coast, explore the Rocky Mountains and ride alongside two oceans. You can cross rivers, lakes and deserts, often seeing places that cannot otherwise be visited. Through 30 chapters, 35 maps and 40 colour photos, Bradt's USA by Rail showcases 26 long-distance train journeys across the United States plus 12 in Canada. These are complemented by sightseeing highlights for 38 major cities among 500 featured destinations.