SP's "Daylights" (Trains): Consist, Route, Timetable
Last revised: February 24, 2025
By: Adam Burns
The Daylight, Southern Pacific’s original train that later became an entire fleet, was one of the most successful and
recognized streamliners of all time even rivaling the Santa Fe’s legendary Super Chief.
Interestingly, however, only one was a long distance train as the rest were regional runs which served several different Californian cities.
The popularity of the train remained incredibly high for many years even through the early 1960s. However, by the latter half of that decade the Southern Pacific began greatly reducing services and amenities on its fleet as patronage declined.
By that time the railroad grew increasingly disinterested in operating passenger trains resulting in its fabled Daylight fleet coming to an unceremonious end in the early 1970s.
Today, a version of this successful fleet remains under Amtrak as the popular Coast Starlight. In addition, Southern Pacific 4-8-4 #4449 remains operable as does a handful of original Daylight cars.
Much like the Pennsylvania Railroad was an institution to its home state of Pennsylvania, so too was the Southern Pacific in California.
Southern Pacific PA-1 #6056 leads the northbound "Coast Daylight" through San Jose, California, circa 1956. Gordon Glattenberg photo. American-Rails.com collection.History
Also just like the Pennsy, the Southern Pacific (also referred to affectionately as the “Espee” by railfans and historians after its SP reporting marks) has such a history that entire libraries of books could be written on the differing aspects of the railroad.
The SP was by far our country’s single largest classic railroad (i.e., before the modern-day merger movement began in the 1950s), spanning over 15,000 miles and reaching from the stretches of northwest Oregon to southeast Louisiana!
The Southern Pacific has a whole host of renowned achievements it is credited with, far too many to go into detail here.
However, to name a few it had three important main lines which continue as important arteries under Union Pacific today, the Overland Route (San Francisco to the Midwest), the Golden State Route (the Southwest to Kansas City), and the Sunset Route (the Pacific Coast to the Gulf Coast).
Locomotives
The Southern Pacific’s famed Daylight has its beginnings dating back to early 1937 when on March 21st it was inaugurated as an all-streamlined passenger train serving Los Angeles and San Francisco. Up front was a Golden State, 4-8-4 steam locomotive built by the Lima Locomotive Works.
These 4-8-4s were listed as Espee’s GS-2 class and featured handsome streamlining that would become legendary. The livery, which would also go down in history as one of the all-time classics, chosen for the train was designed by the railroad’s own Charles Eggleston of red, orange, and black.
"Southern Pacific's Train #98, 'The Coast Daylight' is heading South (Railroad East) out of San Jose, California (just north of Curtner Avenue) on New Year's Day, 1967. Today, Highway 87 is on the far side of the track." - Drew JacksichWhat made the train so successful was as much of the
route it followed as the amenities aboard. Views along the way from
San Francisco included the Santa Clara Valley in all of its splendor,
surf-side along the Pacific Ocean, and the Santa Margarita Range.
Essentially, many of the best views that California had to offer could be witnessed right outside the windows of the Daylight. While the views outside were spectacular, the services inside were just as good.
A Southern Pacific E9A, along with a pair of E7's, hustle train #98, the southbound "Coast Daylight," over the Santa Clara River at Oxnard, California, circa 1956. Gordon Glattenberg photo. American-Rails.com collection.The SP spared no expensive on the train, and it showed. Aside from the incredible outdoor views the train’s keynote feature was an articulated, two or three-car diner-tavern-lounge that offered open, unimpeded space between all three cars due to a new design feature from Pullman-Standard.
1952 Consist
This design removed the bulkheads between cars and created an open walkway space between them to look as if all three were one. On top of all of this the train was entirely air-conditioned, a rare treat in the late 1930s.
1958 Consist
According to the Southern Pacific's 1938 timetable the Daylight, listed as Trains #98 (southbound) and #99 (northbound), left San Francisco's 3rd Street Station at 8:15 am and arrive in Los Angeles by 6 pm that evening, clipping the Pacific coastline most of the way.
The train also offered connecting service via Oakland and Fruitvale to San Jose. There were other experiences like it, especially if you loved the beach and warm weather. The train carried an average train speed of nearly 50 mph and could complete its trip in under 10 hours.
Timetable (April 27, 1952)
It was an extraordinarily popular train that within a few years of its inauguration had the highest ridership numbers in the country. Demand for the train became so high by the late 1930s that the Southern Pacific simply had no way to meet the need.
Timetable (July, 1938)
| Read Down Time/Leave (Train #98) | Milepost | Location | Read Up Time/Arrive (Train #99) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:15 AM (Dp) | 0.0 | 6:00 PM (Ar) | |
| 9:08 AM (Ar) | 47 | 5:02 PM (Dp) | |
| Time/Leave (Train #250/Connection) | Milepost | Location | Time/Arrive (Train #255/Connection) |
| 7:00 AM (Dp) | 0.0 | 7:32 PM (Ar) | |
| 7:30 AM | 4 | 7:00 PM | |
| 7:39 AM | 7 | 6:52 PM | |
| 7:47 AM | 10 | 6:42 PM | |
| 8:55 AM (Ar) | 10 | 5:08 PM (Dp) | |
| Time/Leave (Train #98) | Milepost | Location | Time/Arrive (Train #99) |
| 9:10 AM (Dp) | 47 | 5:00 PM (Ar) | |
| 10:32 AM | 115 | 3:39 PM | |
| 1:07 PM (Ar) | 248 | 12:58 PM (Dp) | |
| 1:12 PM (Dp) | 248 | 12:53 PM (Ar) | |
| 3:35 PM (Ar) | 367 | 10:35 AM (Dp) | |
| 3:38 PM (Dp) | 367 | 10:32 AM (Ar) | |
| 5:38 PM | 465 | 8:39 AM | |
| 6:00 PM (Ar) | 471 | 8:15 AM (Dp) |
As it waited for new equipment to arrive from Pullman-Standard the SP launched a second Daylight using mostly older, heavyweight equipment.
When the railroad finally did receive its new equipment it setup three San Francisco – Los Angeles runs of the train called the Morning Daylight, Noon Daylight, and Night Daylight.
Quickly realizing it was on to something the Southern Pacific decided to launch an entire fleet offering regional service to many California cities.
These trains included the Lark (which served LA – San Francisco at night it was adorned in an interesting, but catchy two-tone gray livery), San Joaquin Daylight (Oakland – Los Angeles), and the Sacramento Daylight (Sacramento – Lathrop).
Southern Pacific PA-2 #6041 leads the first section of train #98, the southbound "Coast Daylight," past the station at Carpinteria, California, circa 1956. Gordon Glattenberg photo. American-Rails.com collection.Final Years
The fleet remained very successful through the early 1960s but even Southern Pacific, with its vast array of popular and extravagant passenger trains, could not compete with the age of the automobile and super-fast jet airliner. In addition, the railroad was growing increasingly disinterested in handling such services.
Most of the SP’s fleet had disappeared by the time of Amtrak in 1971, although its original, now named the Coast Daylight remained and was initially kept under Amtrak although was eventually terminated in favor of the Coast Starlight.
This new train now operates over the Southern Pacific’s old tracks between LA and Portland, following virtually the same route as the Shasta Daylight and is today one of Amtrak’s most popular trains.
Sources
- Johnston, Bob and Welsh, Joe. Art Of The Streamliner, The. New York: Andover Junction Publications, 2001.
- Schafer, Mike. Classic American Railroads. Osceola: MBI Publishing, 1996.
- Schafer, Mike and Welsh, Joe. Streamliners, History of a Railroad Icon. St. Paul: MBI Publishing, 2003.
- Solomon, Brian. Southern Pacific Railroad. St. Paul: Voyageur Press, 2007.
- Solomon, Brian. Streamliners: Locomotives And Trains In The Age Of Speed And Style. Minneapolis: Voyageur Press, 2015.
- Yenne, Bill. History Of The Southern Pacific, The. New York: Bonanza Books, 1988.
Recent Articles
-
Northwestern Steel & Wire: 1936 - 2001
May 26, 26 10:52 PM
Northwestern Steel & Wire was a major steel manufacturer located in Sterling, Illinois operating from 1936-2001. It was also well known for its extensive industrial railroad, operating steam until 198… -
Amtrak Timetables (May, 1972)
May 26, 26 12:32 PM
Presented here is Amtrak's complete timetable listing from the May, 1972 edition of "The Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Georgia 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:22 PM
Nestled within its lush hills and historic towns, the Peach State offers unforgettable train rides that channel the spirit of the Wild West. -
New Hampshire Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:17 PM
Climb aboard Granite State Railway's Firecracker Trains—a patriotic, family-friendly fireworks spectacular rolling right through the heart of New Hampshire's Lakes Region. -
Utah Independence Day Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:14 PM
Every July, as America celebrates its birthday, the Heber Valley Railroad in Heber City, Utah, rolls out a special tradition: the Freedom Train. -
North Carolina "Wild West" Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:12 PM
North Carolina, a state known for its diverse landscapes ranging from serene beaches to majestic mountains, offers a unique blend of history and adventure through its Wild West train rides. -
Pennsylvania 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 26, 26 12:00 PM
The Keystone State is home to a variety of historical attractions, but few experiences can rival the excitement and nostalgia of a Wild West train ride. -
Maine "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:46 AM
This year for Father's Day, why not trade the conventional gifts and barbeque in for something exceptional—a scenic train ride across the beautiful state of Maine. -
Minnesota "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 26, 26 11:43 AM
If you're in Minnesota and looking for a unique way to spend this day with your dad, consider taking a scenic train ride. -
Pennsylvania Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:58 AM
Pennsylvania’s rich railroad heritage comes alive every Independence Day, but 2026—the nation’s semiquincentennial—offers extra patriotic flair. -
Ohio 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:40 AM
For those enamored with tales of the Old West, Ohio's railroad experiences offer a unique blend of history, adventure, and natural beauty. -
New York 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:37 AM
Join us as we explore wild west train rides in New York, bringing history to life and offering a memorable escape to another era. -
Kentucky "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:34 AM
Kentucky offers a variety of historic and scenic train excursions that provide an unforgettable way to honor and spend quality time with fathers. -
Kansas "Father's Day" Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:33 AM
In this guide, we'll explore some of the best train rides available for Father's Day in Kansas. -
Vermont Independence Day Train Rides
May 25, 26 11:21 AM
On Independence Day, elements come together to offer a unique experience in Vermont: train rides that combine scenic beauty with patriotic celebrations. -
Georgia Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 12:26 PM
As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special. -
Illinois Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:58 AM
As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa… -
Alabama Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:55 AM
For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train. -
Ohio Independence Day Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:47 AM
In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio. -
Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:45 AM
Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round. -
Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:29 AM
In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides. -
Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:27 AM
Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides. -
Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide
May 24, 26 11:25 AM
Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides. -
Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:23 AM
If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State. -
Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 24, 26 11:21 AM
For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train? -
South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:51 PM
While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac… -
Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:49 PM
If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp… -
Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:47 PM
This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. -
Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:46 PM
Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train. -
Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:43 PM
With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train. -
California 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:41 PM
Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips. -
Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 12:40 PM
Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail. -
Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 23, 26 11:56 AM
Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards. -
Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"
May 23, 26 11:54 AM
Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026. -
NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"
May 22, 26 11:15 PM
On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell". -
Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit
May 22, 26 12:01 PM
With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear… -
Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:36 AM
The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes. -
Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:31 AM
Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue. -
Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:29 AM
Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day! -
North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:26 AM
Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day. -
Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:25 AM
This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas. -
New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides
May 22, 26 11:22 AM
This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati… -
The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train
May 22, 26 11:11 AM
In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour. -
Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)
May 21, 26 11:56 PM
Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways." -
Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)
May 21, 26 11:12 PM
These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings. -
Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)
May 21, 26 10:54 PM
Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions. -
The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety
May 21, 26 10:44 PM
In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with… -
Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"
May 21, 26 06:08 PM
The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985. -
North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:43 PM
One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal. -
Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides
May 21, 26 12:42 PM
While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour…
%20out%20of%20San%20Jose%2C%20California%20(just%20north%20of%20Curtner%20Avenue)%20on%20New%20Year's%20Day%2C%201967.%20Today%2C%20Highway%2087%20is%20on%20the%20far%20side%20of%20the%20track.%22%20-%20Drew%20Jacksich){kind=link}
