John,
I encourage you to make your trip, but don't let age get in the way of a trip if at all possible.
I travel 450 miles round trip to SVRy about 2 to 3 times per month. I work the EFD and volunteer on the train in any position needed. I have been Hostling which includes servicing the locomotive from the pit, and climbing into and cleaning the firebox. We are short of volunteers this season due to many factors, consequently I spend a lot of time as Engineer/Fireman.
Oh, BTW, I turned 70 last February. I try not to let my age slow me down, but it does, a little anyway. I am nearly 100% recovered from knee replacement surgery (I'm really glad I did it). Today I plan to take my catamaran to a nearby lake and do some 'flying the hull' sailing.
dan