Riding the Rails

Has anyone done any train traveling on Amtrak recently?  My Amtrak trips consist mainly of covering the Washington to New York route. I have been an avid Eurailpass fan.

My current travel plan involves covering several of my remaining 'bucket list' states across the northern tier of the country - Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dalota, and Montana. Planning to avail myself of the US Rail Pass which sounds like a good deal. However, the spontaneity of European train travel is missing - the US pass requires advance planning and reservations. Oh, well, better than missing the trip.  So, if anyone has any insights on this trip or any other US train journeys - hope you'll share.

Here's hoping this will be a train dream come true - very soon!