Question about the Coast Starlight

[CTBob]

We're looking at possibly taking the Coast Starlight one-way between Seattle and LAX at the end of January. It doesn't matter which way, so what direction will have the better scenery during the short winter daylight hours? I wish I could take all my trips in late June when the days are longest but sadly that's not possible. Also, which side of the train is better, the windows facing the east or the west? Thanks!

 

[Cal H]

I’v only rode the LAX to Oakland. I would want to ride this section northbound and sitting on the west side for the views.
Headed northbound you would definitely get the best ocean view during daylight hours, headed south you might miss out on a lot of it.
The CS has an observation car so if you plan to stay in there for a lot of the trip I wouldn’t worry too much about an assigned seat on either side.
Enjoy the trip, it’s beautiful!