Mini Trip Report - Metra UP North Line, Evanston to Chicago-Ogilvie

I've spent a fair bit of time in Chicago, and I've used a good chunk of the CTA's network. However, I've always been intrigued by the city's separate commuter rail network known as Metra. While out in Evanston in March, we realized there was a great opportunity to ride Metra a few stops back into the city and check it out. Metra is a very quirky system made up of what used to be several private rail lines. This line, now known as Union Pacific North, was originally operated by the Chicago & North Western railway. C&NW eventually merged into Union Pacific, and in 1984, the line became part of the newly-formed Metra network. However, unlike most commuter lines, UP still operates the trains. The rolling stock is also very cool--1960s vintage Pullman cars that are just about in mint condition. The layout of the cars is just bizarre with atrium-style seating and a huge vestibule in the center. This trip may have been short, but I loved it and I hope you enjoy it too.

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