I didn't think so. I don't recall the speed exactly, but I think we were going about 40 or so.
Just found an employee handbook at a train show last weekend, I could (and probably should) look up the speed limits.
The train is popular because it reallyis more convenient than driving. You don't have to worry about parking, entrance fees or congestion on the roads. The train drops you off at the beautiful station, right in the center of the areas visitors wanna go to.
We did a package deal, drove down from Vegas from the flight, stayed overnight in their hotel ay Williams, boarded the train, stayed overnight (at a corner balcony room at El Tovar, an amazing experience and worth every penny) and took the train back the next afternoon.
Back then, you rode steam one way and diesels the other. It was off season, so we asked to change our departure behind steam. Got back sooner and rode behind steam each way.
My wife, who's not a huge train fan, loved it and has said she'd like to go back with snow on the ground, doing the exact same trip.
