Olympia is the capital city of the state of Washington, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is situated at the southern end of Puget Sound, a deep inlet of the Pacific Ocean. The city has a rich history, dating back to the indigenous peoples who first inhabited the area thousands of years ago. Olympia was named after the nearby Olympic Mountains, which were named by British Captain George Vancouver during his exploration of the region in 1792.

As a major transportation hub, Olympia has played a significant role in the freight industry. The city is served by several major highways, including Interstate 5, which connects it to Seattle and Portland. The Port of Olympia, located on Budd Inlet, provides a vital link for shipping goods to and from the region. The port handles a wide range of cargo, including lumber, automobiles, and other bulk commodities. Additionally, Olympia is a major rail hub, with multiple rail lines passing through the city, facilitating the transportation of freight by train.

Pocatello is a city located in southeastern Idaho, known as the "Gateway to the Northwest." It is situated at the junction of two major freight transportation routes: Interstate 15 and Interstate 86. This strategic location has made Pocatello an important hub for freight transportation in the region.

One interesting fact about Pocatello is its rich railroad history. The city was once a major railroad center, with several rail lines converging in the area. The Union Pacific Railroad, one of the largest freight railroads in the United States, still operates a major rail yard in Pocatello. The rail yard serves as a crucial hub for freight transportation, handling various types of cargo and facilitating the movement of goods across the country.

Another fascinating aspect of Pocatello's freight transportation history is its connection to the Oregon Trail. The city was an important stop along the trail, where pioneers would rest and resupply before continuing their journey westward. The Oregon Trail played a significant role in the development of transportation and trade in the region, and Pocatello's location made it a crucial point of connection between the trail and the growing railroad network.