height of steps, boarding train. Height ofg steps

Fran · Mar 4, 2006

I am traveling by Amtrak in april. I have difficulty climbing up and down steps (train and etc.), so I need to know the height of step getting on to train as well as height of steps when going to upper level. Can someone help me.

Thanks ever so much.

battalion51 · Mar 4, 2006

Well it's about that of a normal staircase going up, it is a bit of a tight turn, so you might consider switching levels while the train is stopped at a station or something like that. The step to get on board is not bad, they have a yellow box (called a step box) that they pull out at the station to close the gap between the floor and the ground. Only the Conductors and Car Attendants have to deal with the big drop.

sechs · Mar 5, 2006

I presume from your question, that you'll be traveling on a train with bilevel cars.

You can probably get a seat or room on the lower level, generally avoiding going up and down the stairs aboard the train. The step up from the platform is unavoidable.

Fran · Mar 5, 2006

Thanks for info, what I am really concerned about is the heighth of steps. Would it be more than 4 to 6 inches between steps. I do fine on most steps, but some are really high from one step to another-like 6-8 inches. I would be more comfortable if I knew in advance so I can make better travel plans. Thanks again. I had a choice of lower level but prefer the upper area as once I am up there I only have to go down one time.

I can do some stairs here at home, unless they are more than 6-8 inches or so.

Thanks again

battalion51 · Mar 5, 2006

I'm pretty sure that they are in the 5-6" range, but I haven't exactly taken a ruler to them either.

GG-1 · Mar 5, 2006

Aloha

I think you can relax. Stairs are built to standards. My being an electrician may make me wrong but I seem to remember it is a 6" rise and an 8" tread. If you can deal with most steps you will be fine just take your time. My work, age, and weight mave messed up my knees, but the trip is worth the inconvience of a few stairs.

Make yourself comfortable and go last you will be fine.