Horseshoe Curve/Altoona questions

[chatanuga]

I'm planning on taking a vacation this summer. Last time was 1990 while in high school, and that was with my parents. Anyways, I figured it was time I took one, and the first place that came to mind was the Altoona/Horseshoe Curve area (haven't been there since 1985). Anyways, I've got a few questions that hopefully somebody can help me with to help me plan my trip.

When is the best time to visit the Curve? Do certain days of the week have more trains than others?

What scanner channels should I have in my scanner while there?

I'm planning on being in the area about four days/three nights. Are there any good places near the tracks in the Altoona/Gallitzen area to spend the night that have decent prices? Also, are there any good places to eat (wanting to avoid fast food except maybe at lunch) around?

What's the best way to get to Gallitzen (the tunnels), the Curve itself, and the museum (maybe even the Alto area) in Altoona if I'm coming from the west on I-70?

Kevin
[e-mail]
http://chatanuga.org/RailPage.html

[JoeKoh]

Hi
kevin you might want to check around in the colum to the right of the forums section(resources) that can give you alot of information.have a safe trip.
joe

[Modelcar]

Kevin: You can find quite a bit of info by going to "Google" and type in" Horseshoe Curve, Altoona, Pa. You will find various websites that have info you are seeking.

My experience in visiting the Curve is there are better times than others to find a good supply of trains going by but sorry, don't have that info at my fingertips. One item...There is a loud speaker system up at the viewing site that relates the info you pick up on your scanner when a train is approaching.

You might check on a motel I believe it's called "Tunnel Inn" and it's right at the entrance to the Gallitzin Tunnels...That then, would not be too far from the Horseshoe Curve either. It is especially for railfans. I believe they have a website too. Traveling on US RT. 22 in the area there are signs directing one to the tunnels and Horseshoe Curve. I've visited the sites mentioned several times and for a railfan I believe it is worth the effort to go take a look.

QM,

[Modelcar]

Kevin: Go to "railhotels.com" for lodging info.

QM

[kschmidt]

Kevin,

When I was out there several years ago I stayed a couple of nights in Altoona. I think it was at a Super 8 Motel, nice accomodations and decent price. I do remember one nice place to eat. I know that there is an Outback Steakhouse in Altoona. First time I ever ate there. Very good food, a little pricey but not bad. Don't forget to visit the Railroader Memorial Museum in Altoona. A lot of nice diaramas and displays.

Keith Schmidt
www.geocities.com/kaschmidt626/index.html

[RudyRockvilleMD]

The best days to visit the Altoon/Horseshoe Curve area is toward the end of the week when it is busier. However, you only have access to the curve when the visitor's center is open.

The last time I was in Altoona NS was using 160.800, however it would be well to have the other ex Conrail Channels, 160.860, 160.980, and 161.070 active in your scanner.

Nearby to Altoona to the west are other interesting locations such as Gallitzin, Lilly, Summerhill, and South Fork.