[Mountain_Skies]

The US has a huge rail system with tons of capacity. It uses it for moving cargo, which makes much of the US economy possible. If cargo is moved off of the rail system to make room for passenger service, that cargo will go on trucks on the roads. Heavy cargo on trucks driving over roads is not a good outcome.

That said, trains are a nice way of seeing the country. Because the rail system is mainly for cargo, passenger service in most places is not good for time sensitive travel. It is great for sightseeing. This route being overnight is disappointing as it takes away the sightseeing but maybe they've found some available slots during the night between cargo loads.

Anyone who has a chance to travel between Portland and Vancouver by train should take it. You get views of the coast not available by road. Just be sure to get a seat on the side of the train that faces the ocean or you're going to have to enjoy seeing lots and lots of trees.