The Overland Route is very pretty, but don't expect the same, in your face, dramatic scenery as the regular route. Lots of distant mountain views - while the deer and the antelope play near the train. Still, a very nice ride and MUCH, MUCH better than a bustitution.
We await your trip reports!
Except across the Wasatch through the Weber and Echo Canyons in Utah, where the mountains are not that distant.
When I took it in 1974 I was disappointed in it. Its not nearly as dramatic as the old DRG&W.
Unless you are on a "once-in-a lifetime" trip across the US, perhaps coming from overseas, etc., I consider riding any rare mileage detour a blessing....you get to see what few do, and of course, you always can go back anytime to see the regular route in the future.
The transcontinental railway offers many scenic vista's, as mentioned. And it is steeped in history. Passing thru towns like Laramie, Medicine Bow, Rawlins, Rock Springs, Green River, Fort Bridger, Evanston, and Ogden........climbing Sherman Hill and its tunnels, meeting endless freight trains at unbelievable frequencies, plenty to see!