Its been a while, but I enjoyed traveling Amtrak when it was going the same place I was. The train isn't the best deal here for point-to-point travel, since trips are long, the plane is faster, and fares aren't that much less. Amtrak does offer passes, though ( pass information) and, like Eurail and Britrail passes, you can get a better deal buying them before you get to the states.

BTW, the train comes right through Albuquerque, and the guest room is always available for Mudcatters.