Favorite railfan locations and/or railroads

[emdgp92]

I was just wondering if you all had any favorite locations to watch/photograph trains. Let me tell you about mine.

1. Pittsburgh's PRR station. NS still runs many freights through the station, most of which can be easily photographed in the trainshed. I've also caught a few Amtrak trains down there as well.

2. Station Square (just across the river from downtown). The old P&LE station is another great place. Recently, CSX moved the tracks closer to the river, and installed some benches on the old platforms.

3. Grafton, WV. CSX has a large yard, which can be easily photographed from one of the parrallel (sp?) city streets. Lots of big GE and EMD engines show up from time to time, along with many coal trains.

I'm sure there are many others, but these 3 just stick out.

[eolafan]

My favorites are as follows:
1. BNSF Eola yard just east of Aurora and about 35 miles west of downtown Chicago, this is the end of the BNSF triple track "raceway" to and from Chicago. Lots of freight, Metra commuter and Amtrak trains.
2. Rochelle, IL railroad park where the "C&I" line of BNSF from Chicago to Minneapolis crosses the UP line from Chicago to Omaha, etc. This spot has been mentioned and written about several times in TRAINS. A whole lot of trains on both lines (somewhat more on UP than BNSF), freight only unless an Amtrak detour happens, a nice spot with a gazebo, grills for food, bathrooms, soda machines, and a scanner on all of the time with a speaker in the gazebo.
3. UP/Metra station in Geneva, IL on the same line mentioned above. Nice quiet spot to have a burger and enjoy the Metra trains and all UP freights coming and going on this line from Chicago (this is about thirty miles east of Rochelle on the same line).

[eolafan]

My favorites are as follows:
1. BNSF Eola yard just east of Aurora and about 35 miles west of downtown Chicago, this is the end of the BNSF triple track "raceway" to and from Chicago. Lots of freight, Metra commuter and Amtrak trains.
2. Rochelle, IL railroad park where the "C&I" line of BNSF from Chicago to Minneapolis crosses the UP line from Chicago to Omaha, etc. This spot has been mentioned and written about several times in TRAINS. A whole lot of trains on both lines (somewhat more on UP than BNSF), freight only unless an Amtrak detour happens, a nice spot with a gazebo, grills for food, bathrooms, soda machines, and a scanner on all of the time with a speaker in the gazebo.
3. UP/Metra station in Geneva, IL on the same line mentioned above. Nice quiet spot to have a burger and enjoy the Metra trains and all UP freights coming and going on this line from Chicago (this is about thirty miles east of Rochelle on the same line).

[JoeKoh]

Csx action around defiance ohio plenty of good spots and good places to eat.
also i'm within an hours drive of places like deshler hamler fostoria montpelier butler ftwayne toledo lima findlay.yes tim picnic areas with playgrounds are good for me and matt too
stay safe[:)]
joe

[JoeKoh]

Csx action around defiance ohio plenty of good spots and good places to eat.
also i'm within an hours drive of places like deshler hamler fostoria montpelier butler ftwayne toledo lima findlay.yes tim picnic areas with playgrounds are good for me and matt too
stay safe[:)]
joe

[Anonymous]

Any place were there is a play ground, picnic table and safe distance between the two. I have 2 small boy's so I am very limited as to were to go.
TIM A

[Anonymous]

Any place were there is a play ground, picnic table and safe distance between the two. I have 2 small boy's so I am very limited as to were to go.
TIM A

[csxns]

Marion NC CSX and NS Spencer NC all NS.

[csxns]

Marion NC CSX and NS Spencer NC all NS.

[Anonymous]

Dalton, GA, the busiest place in N. Georgia - NS and CSX at grade.

[Anonymous]

Dalton, GA, the busiest place in N. Georgia - NS and CSX at grade.

[RudyRockvilleMD]

Havre de Grace or Perryville, MD with either the Amtrak or the CSX bridges spanning the Susquehanna River. In Perryville the place to watch or photograph Amtrak trains is from the grounds of the VA Medical Center in the morning. CSX trains crossing the Susquehanna River may be photographed from the Perryville boat launch ramp downstream from the bridge or from the west bank of the Suquehanna River in Havre de Grace also in the morning. In the afternoon the best location for watching or photographing Amtrak trains is either the Jean S Roberts Park or the Canal Park in Havre de Grace.

[RudyRockvilleMD]

Havre de Grace or Perryville, MD with either the Amtrak or the CSX bridges spanning the Susquehanna River. In Perryville the place to watch or photograph Amtrak trains is from the grounds of the VA Medical Center in the morning. CSX trains crossing the Susquehanna River may be photographed from the Perryville boat launch ramp downstream from the bridge or from the west bank of the Suquehanna River in Havre de Grace also in the morning. In the afternoon the best location for watching or photographing Amtrak trains is either the Jean S Roberts Park or the Canal Park in Havre de Grace.

[Anonymous]

i still have to stick with Keddie Y N.Ca.. The old WP

[Anonymous]

i still have to stick with Keddie Y N.Ca.. The old WP

[rf16a]

My favorite spots are along the NS, ex PRR, in Pennsylvania such as:
Enola Yard, Lewistown at the Amtrak/PRR station, Tyrone, Altoona, the Brickyard, Horseshoe Curve (overgrown trees need trimming, curve needs to stay open year round for visitors), Gallitzin, the Station Inn in Cresson, Lilly, Cassandra, South Fork, Johnstown.

[rf16a]

My favorite spots are along the NS, ex PRR, in Pennsylvania such as:
Enola Yard, Lewistown at the Amtrak/PRR station, Tyrone, Altoona, the Brickyard, Horseshoe Curve (overgrown trees need trimming, curve needs to stay open year round for visitors), Gallitzin, the Station Inn in Cresson, Lilly, Cassandra, South Fork, Johnstown.

[sooblue]

My most favorite place to view trains was at a bridge in a golf course in Mpls.
The golf course name was Columbia and the RR was the Soo.
The bridge was located over the double main line out of the Shorham yard.
I don't think you could get a double stack train under the bridge it was that close. Because the trains going east were climbing grade the engines were pumping smoke out like no tomorrow. F-units and Alcos, when the engines went under the bridge the smoke would come up through the gaps in the board bridge deck.
We could feel the blast from the exhaust too. It was great!
And the noise, wow!!
I bet in the years that I and my friends spent on or in the girders under that bridge we inhaled enough smoke it's a wonder after 50 years were still alive!
Sooblue

[sooblue]

My most favorite place to view trains was at a bridge in a golf course in Mpls.
The golf course name was Columbia and the RR was the Soo.
The bridge was located over the double main line out of the Shorham yard.
I don't think you could get a double stack train under the bridge it was that close. Because the trains going east were climbing grade the engines were pumping smoke out like no tomorrow. F-units and Alcos, when the engines went under the bridge the smoke would come up through the gaps in the board bridge deck.
We could feel the blast from the exhaust too. It was great!
And the noise, wow!!
I bet in the years that I and my friends spent on or in the girders under that bridge we inhaled enough smoke it's a wonder after 50 years were still alive!
Sooblue

[CShaveRR]

There are some places--Horseshoe Curve; Russell, Kentucky; Durand, Michigan; Griffith, Indiana--that I consider to be "hallowed ground" because they were the sites of memorable experiences during my formative years as a train-watcher. None of these are probably what they used to be, and it might actually be painful to go back to some. One of the most heartbreaking things to befall me was the loss of Porter, Indiana, as a railfan haunt (it may not be as great in the post-Conrail era, anyway).

Anyone who knows me knows my favorite spot: Elmhurst, Illinois, on the UP. I get the same trains that Eolafan gets in Geneva, but more slowly (great for close observation of the rolling stock, which is important to me), and there are nearby places to grab a meal or a snack, and one of the best hobby shops in all of Chicagoland is just around the corner. I'm lucky enough to be able to put it on my route to work by detouring perhaps a mile off the shorter route. I could watch the same trains by going about six blocks from home, but the six or so miles to Elmhurst makes for a better experience for me.

For a change of scenery, LaGrange is also a great place, not too far from home. I also like Blue Island or Dolton, but don't get across town to see them very often.

Favorite railroad? Whichever one is providing the entertainment at the moment (or the pay, when I'm working!).

[CShaveRR]

There are some places--Horseshoe Curve; Russell, Kentucky; Durand, Michigan; Griffith, Indiana--that I consider to be "hallowed ground" because they were the sites of memorable experiences during my formative years as a train-watcher. None of these are probably what they used to be, and it might actually be painful to go back to some. One of the most heartbreaking things to befall me was the loss of Porter, Indiana, as a railfan haunt (it may not be as great in the post-Conrail era, anyway).

Anyone who knows me knows my favorite spot: Elmhurst, Illinois, on the UP. I get the same trains that Eolafan gets in Geneva, but more slowly (great for close observation of the rolling stock, which is important to me), and there are nearby places to grab a meal or a snack, and one of the best hobby shops in all of Chicagoland is just around the corner. I'm lucky enough to be able to put it on my route to work by detouring perhaps a mile off the shorter route. I could watch the same trains by going about six blocks from home, but the six or so miles to Elmhurst makes for a better experience for me.

For a change of scenery, LaGrange is also a great place, not too far from home. I also like Blue Island or Dolton, but don't get across town to see them very often.

Favorite railroad? Whichever one is providing the entertainment at the moment (or the pay, when I'm working!).

[Anonymous]

Two places (Chicago fans, listen up!):

1) DeVal interlocking in my home town of Des Plaines, Illinois. Three lines (UP Milwaukee Sub ex-C&NW freight cutoff from Proviso to Milwaukee; CN ex-WCL ex-Soo main line to Chicago; and UP/Metra ex-C&NW commuter operation) cross in a "triangle of diamonds", still worked from DeVal interlocking tower. About middling traffic density, and none too good photo angles, but just a nice place to go and railfan.

2) Brighton Park crossing (reachable via CTA's Orange Line.) Two lines - is it CN and NS? - cross here. Traffic density is rather high and the traffic is varied, and the location is clear from all angles for photos. What makes it interesting, though, is the method of operation. There is no interlocking! All trains must stop and receive a clear signal from the "switchtender." But that's not the half of it: the location is signaled by 11 original GRS 1904-patent swmaphores on brackets, worked by mechanical pipeline! Truly worth a visit for anyone who wants to see how it was done at the turn of the century.

Additionally, the BNSF "racetrack" never fails to please!

[Anonymous]

Two places (Chicago fans, listen up!):

1) DeVal interlocking in my home town of Des Plaines, Illinois. Three lines (UP Milwaukee Sub ex-C&NW freight cutoff from Proviso to Milwaukee; CN ex-WCL ex-Soo main line to Chicago; and UP/Metra ex-C&NW commuter operation) cross in a "triangle of diamonds", still worked from DeVal interlocking tower. About middling traffic density, and none too good photo angles, but just a nice place to go and railfan.

2) Brighton Park crossing (reachable via CTA's Orange Line.) Two lines - is it CN and NS? - cross here. Traffic density is rather high and the traffic is varied, and the location is clear from all angles for photos. What makes it interesting, though, is the method of operation. There is no interlocking! All trains must stop and receive a clear signal from the "switchtender." But that's not the half of it: the location is signaled by 11 original GRS 1904-patent swmaphores on brackets, worked by mechanical pipeline! Truly worth a visit for anyone who wants to see how it was done at the turn of the century.

Additionally, the BNSF "racetrack" never fails to please!

[BRAKIE]

These are located in Ohio.
Bellevue-NS /W&LE
Marion-NS /CSX
Frostoria NS /CSX
Willard CSX /Ashland Ry.
Winton Place-CSX NS I&O.
Russell, KY CSX
Huntington WVA CSX
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Favorite modern railroad is NS.My Favorite fallen flags C&O/N&W/Chessie
My favorite short lines is Ohio Central/R.J.Corman.Runners up is I&OC and Ashland Ry.

[BRAKIE]

These are located in Ohio.
Bellevue-NS /W&LE
Marion-NS /CSX
Frostoria NS /CSX
Willard CSX /Ashland Ry.
Winton Place-CSX NS I&O.
Russell, KY CSX
Huntington WVA CSX
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My Favorite modern railroad is NS.My Favorite fallen flags C&O/N&W/Chessie
My favorite short lines is Ohio Central/R.J.Corman.Runners up is I&OC and Ashland Ry.

[eolafan]

All of these responses to this issue reveal only one thing...THERE IS NO "BAD" PLACE TO WATCH TRAINS...ANY SPOT IS A GOOD SPOT AS LONG AS THERE ARE TRAINS THERE!

[eolafan]

All of these responses to this issue reveal only one thing...THERE IS NO "BAD" PLACE TO WATCH TRAINS...ANY SPOT IS A GOOD SPOT AS LONG AS THERE ARE TRAINS THERE!

[Anonymous]

I agree with eolafan, any place is a good place to watch trains... just as long I am the only train-nut at that location... sorry, but Rochelle Illinois has enough crazy train fans that it should be an asylum

[Anonymous]

I agree with eolafan, any place is a good place to watch trains... just as long I am the only train-nut at that location... sorry, but Rochelle Illinois has enough crazy train fans that it should be an asylum

[zardoz]

crschu0:
I know what you mean. Even though the term "fan" used in this context is a contraction of 'fanatic', I use the two terms to mean different things. Some people I meet at spots are real nice, regular sort of folks; those are the fans. Others are practically drooling on themselves when they see a train, dart into traffic to get across the street to get a picture, they drive crazily to get to another spot to take more pictures; these are the 'fanatics'. There is a BIG difference in the two.

[zardoz]

crschu0:
I know what you mean. Even though the term "fan" used in this context is a contraction of 'fanatic', I use the two terms to mean different things. Some people I meet at spots are real nice, regular sort of folks; those are the fans. Others are practically drooling on themselves when they see a train, dart into traffic to get across the street to get a picture, they drive crazily to get to another spot to take more pictures; these are the 'fanatics'. There is a BIG difference in the two.

[eolafan]

zardoz make a very valid point about the fanatics who endanger themselves and others with stupid moves to get a picture, etc. I always try and take the middle ground in such situations and ALWAYS try and stay very safe, no matter what.

[eolafan]

zardoz make a very valid point about the fanatics who endanger themselves and others with stupid moves to get a picture, etc. I always try and take the middle ground in such situations and ALWAYS try and stay very safe, no matter what.

[emdgp92]

I *totally* forgot about some of the other places I've been! I sometimes railfan the old MGA (formerly narrow gauge W&W, now NS) lines south of Pittsburgh. In the 10 years I've been heading down there, I've only seen one or two other fans along the line. There are quite a few places along the line to watch trains.

[emdgp92]

I *totally* forgot about some of the other places I've been! I sometimes railfan the old MGA (formerly narrow gauge W&W, now NS) lines south of Pittsburgh. In the 10 years I've been heading down there, I've only seen one or two other fans along the line. There are quite a few places along the line to watch trains.

[JoeKoh]

please also remember take pictures leave footprints.I've seen "fans"be litterbugs.
stay safe
joe and matt

[JoeKoh]

please also remember take pictures leave footprints.I've seen "fans"be litterbugs.
stay safe
joe and matt

[Dad Howe]

Alexandria, Virginia depot. Before Amtrak, two station tracks for passenger, two "outside" tracks for friehgt. Usually a train of some sort throught here nearly every fifteen minutes. Used to sit on the platform and watch. Loads of fun. Been years since I've been there. Rememebr sitting there as an R,F&P freight heading south came through on the southbound station track and began accelerating. Tail must have been doing 45-50 by the time it cleared the station. Talk about LOUD!!!

Dad Howe

[Dad Howe]

Alexandria, Virginia depot. Before Amtrak, two station tracks for passenger, two "outside" tracks for friehgt. Usually a train of some sort throught here nearly every fifteen minutes. Used to sit on the platform and watch. Loads of fun. Been years since I've been there. Rememebr sitting there as an R,F&P freight heading south came through on the southbound station track and began accelerating. Tail must have been doing 45-50 by the time it cleared the station. Talk about LOUD!!!

Dad Howe

[louisnash]

I get to railfan out our warehouse door at my workplace on the NS line in Northern KY. 8 Hours a day watching trains go by and taking photos when I have the chance.

My Favorite RR is the L&N.
My son is a Chessie fan.

Brian (KY)

[louisnash]

I get to railfan out our warehouse door at my workplace on the NS line in Northern KY. 8 Hours a day watching trains go by and taking photos when I have the chance.

My Favorite RR is the L&N.
My son is a Chessie fan.

Brian (KY)

[croteaudd]

Kearney, Nebraska. Pronounced car-nee. UP's triple-track main sometimes averages a train every 10 minutes for 24-hours. Nice parking lot trackside. Eating nearby.

[croteaudd]

Kearney, Nebraska. Pronounced car-nee. UP's triple-track main sometimes averages a train every 10 minutes for 24-hours. Nice parking lot trackside. Eating nearby.

[Anonymous]

The Riverfront Park at Chicamaga Dam in Chattanooga Tn is an excelent train waching spot.Traffic to and from Debutts yard can be very heavy in the afternoons,and the trains cross the Tn river here on a big double track bridge.Meets on the bridge are common and the trains are always slow so good photos are easy to get.Being a public park,as long as you stay clear of the NS's property you will not be bothered by any security.

[Anonymous]

The Riverfront Park at Chicamaga Dam in Chattanooga Tn is an excelent train waching spot.Traffic to and from Debutts yard can be very heavy in the afternoons,and the trains cross the Tn river here on a big double track bridge.Meets on the bridge are common and the trains are always slow so good photos are easy to get.Being a public park,as long as you stay clear of the NS's property you will not be bothered by any security.

[Anonymous]

I've loved trains for years, but just recently really began seeking out mainline action, so I haven't been to a lot of locations, but I spent a weekend in Fostoria, Ohio on the advice of a fellow rail fan I met at the Conrail Sterling Yard in Sterling Heights, Michigan. What a great spot. The Amtrak station is a great place to just kick back and watch the action roll by. I intended to get over to Deshler, but with all the action in Fostoria I never made it!

Ross

[Anonymous]

I've loved trains for years, but just recently really began seeking out mainline action, so I haven't been to a lot of locations, but I spent a weekend in Fostoria, Ohio on the advice of a fellow rail fan I met at the Conrail Sterling Yard in Sterling Heights, Michigan. What a great spot. The Amtrak station is a great place to just kick back and watch the action roll by. I intended to get over to Deshler, but with all the action in Fostoria I never made it!

Ross

[Anonymous]

The old AMTRAK station near Dewitt Yard in Syracuse,NY.There's usually plenty of actionand even if it rains the canopy on the platform is still there.On the main line of CSXalso the occasional NYSW andCN.

[Anonymous]

The old AMTRAK station near Dewitt Yard in Syracuse,NY.There's usually plenty of actionand even if it rains the canopy on the platform is still there.On the main line of CSXalso the occasional NYSW andCN.

[Anonymous]

Folkston Georgia. All CSX trains into and out of Florida for the NE and midwest pass thru Folkston. The town of Folkston is very friendly towards railfans and have built a viewing stand with a scanner set to CSX frequencies.

[Anonymous]

Folkston Georgia. All CSX trains into and out of Florida for the NE and midwest pass thru Folkston. The town of Folkston is very friendly towards railfans and have built a viewing stand with a scanner set to CSX frequencies.

[atl126]

My backyard 200 yards for Norfolk SOutherns main from bellevue to toledo which also has W&LE running almost every other day but not lately maybe one a week but a lot of freights my vaoirt to watch go by is the L21 never know whats gonna be leading the local laters andrew

[atl126]

My backyard 200 yards for Norfolk SOutherns main from bellevue to toledo which also has W&LE running almost every other day but not lately maybe one a week but a lot of freights my vaoirt to watch go by is the L21 never know whats gonna be leading the local laters andrew

[landry]

The Durand, Michigan, depot is my favorite place. Not only is Durand the "heart" of my favorite, fallen-flag Grand Trunk Western, but it is a safe, non-tresspassing environment. It has restrooms, the Michigan Railroad History Museum, and plenty of traffic. For mealtime, the Iron Horse Inn is a few blocks away, complete with photos of GTW steam on the wall.

[landry]

The Durand, Michigan, depot is my favorite place. Not only is Durand the "heart" of my favorite, fallen-flag Grand Trunk Western, but it is a safe, non-tresspassing environment. It has restrooms, the Michigan Railroad History Museum, and plenty of traffic. For mealtime, the Iron Horse Inn is a few blocks away, complete with photos of GTW steam on the wall.

[Anonymous]

[:)] I worked in Arlington, VA last summer. A good spot when you have to use Metro is Alexandria Station. Go the the King Street Metro Stn, on Blue / Yellow. Alexandria has Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express, CSX and NS. Good density of traffic in the evening. Good photo op from overpass south of stn and good from stn platform as well.

[Anonymous]

[:)] I worked in Arlington, VA last summer. A good spot when you have to use Metro is Alexandria Station. Go the the King Street Metro Stn, on Blue / Yellow. Alexandria has Amtrak, Virginia Railway Express, CSX and NS. Good density of traffic in the evening. Good photo op from overpass south of stn and good from stn platform as well.

[Anonymous]

Would have to be Wayne Junction in Dayton Ohio. Plenty of CSX, and NS come through. Then it would be Portsmouth Ohio for NS action and Clare Yard in Ciny Ohio. And can not forget Roanoke Virginia. Watch the action from the overpass, and from the Virginia Transportation Muesuem. Along with other spots.

[Anonymous]

Would have to be Wayne Junction in Dayton Ohio. Plenty of CSX, and NS come through. Then it would be Portsmouth Ohio for NS action and Clare Yard in Ciny Ohio. And can not forget Roanoke Virginia. Watch the action from the overpass, and from the Virginia Transportation Muesuem. Along with other spots.

[CG9602]

Well. . . . . let me list off a few quickies, as long as I'm here: The pedestrain bridge over Campus Dr. in Madison, WI ( when the WSOR is making the run to Prairie Du Chein), Prescott, WI, down by the Mississippi, and Grand Crossing, in the middle of La Crosse, WI

[CG9602]

Well. . . . . let me list off a few quickies, as long as I'm here: The pedestrain bridge over Campus Dr. in Madison, WI ( when the WSOR is making the run to Prairie Du Chein), Prescott, WI, down by the Mississippi, and Grand Crossing, in the middle of La Crosse, WI

[brilondon]

I agree with eolafan, there are no bad train watching spots as long as there are trains to watch. My favourite is on a bridge at the end of the Denfield sideroad just west of London, Ontario. The CN and CP mains pass under this bridge. This location has the main CN and CP lines from Toronto to Chicago pass under it. On a good day you could see up to 50 trains during the day. Amtrak and Via also pass under this bridge. Before railways cut back, you could see during the spring up to 80 trains per day!!!

[brilondon]

I agree with eolafan, there are no bad train watching spots as long as there are trains to watch. My favourite is on a bridge at the end of the Denfield sideroad just west of London, Ontario. The CN and CP mains pass under this bridge. This location has the main CN and CP lines from Toronto to Chicago pass under it. On a good day you could see up to 50 trains during the day. Amtrak and Via also pass under this bridge. Before railways cut back, you could see during the spring up to 80 trains per day!!!

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by powhatten

Would have to be Wayne Junction in Dayton Ohio. Plenty of CSX, and NS come through...

Say, powhatten - I live in a Dayton suburb and my grandson and I would love to visit a good spot - where in Dayton is Wayne Junction?

Thanks.

- Chuck Somerville

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by powhatten

Would have to be Wayne Junction in Dayton Ohio. Plenty of CSX, and NS come through...

Say, powhatten - I live in a Dayton suburb and my grandson and I would love to visit a good spot - where in Dayton is Wayne Junction?

Thanks.

- Chuck Somerville

[CP5415]

My favourite railfan spot is Lovekin on CP's Belleville Sub. There's an old wooden bridge that's still in use over CN's Kingston Sub that allows for good photography & video of both lines.

Gordon

[CP5415]

My favourite railfan spot is Lovekin on CP's Belleville Sub. There's an old wooden bridge that's still in use over CN's Kingston Sub that allows for good photography & video of both lines.

Gordon

[wcaudle]

Croteaudd is definetly on the mark here. I have rail-fanned old US 30 several times and absolutely love Kearney. There are plenty of nice smaller and less-expensive motels there, all within walking distance of the downtown area. Very friendly college and farming town of around 30,000 people. [8D]

QUOTE: Originally posted by croteaudd

Kearney, Nebraska. Pronounced car-nee. UP's triple-track main sometimes averages a train every 10 minutes for 24-hours. Nice parking lot trackside. Eating nearby.

[wcaudle]

Croteaudd is definetly on the mark here. I have rail-fanned old US 30 several times and absolutely love Kearney. There are plenty of nice smaller and less-expensive motels there, all within walking distance of the downtown area. Very friendly college and farming town of around 30,000 people. [8D]

QUOTE: Originally posted by croteaudd

Kearney, Nebraska. Pronounced car-nee. UP's triple-track main sometimes averages a train every 10 minutes for 24-hours. Nice parking lot trackside. Eating nearby.

[wcaudle]

Let me offer my dittos to those that say anywhere that trains roam is a great spot. I have seen Tehachapi Loop and Cajon Pass in CA, Hinkle to the Blue Mountains in OR, Vancouver WA junction, the Powder River Basin in WY, almost anywhere in Nebraska, Rochelle IL, Fostoria OH and Amarillo TX. Each location has a bundle of trains per day with very few, if any, disappointments. I have been able to visit several large yards, Hinkle OR, Barstow CA, and North Platte NE. America is covered by rail and, mixed with the seasons, can provide almost any setting for you.

[wcaudle]

Let me offer my dittos to those that say anywhere that trains roam is a great spot. I have seen Tehachapi Loop and Cajon Pass in CA, Hinkle to the Blue Mountains in OR, Vancouver WA junction, the Powder River Basin in WY, almost anywhere in Nebraska, Rochelle IL, Fostoria OH and Amarillo TX. Each location has a bundle of trains per day with very few, if any, disappointments. I have been able to visit several large yards, Hinkle OR, Barstow CA, and North Platte NE. America is covered by rail and, mixed with the seasons, can provide almost any setting for you.

[Anonymous]

Temple TX yard and shop
Ogles TX 2 mile strech of track
Haven't gone but, Dublin TX

[Anonymous]

Temple TX yard and shop
Ogles TX 2 mile strech of track
Haven't gone but, Dublin TX

[RAILFANUSA]

1. The Keddie Wye
2. Williams Loop
3. Tehachapi Loop
4. Cajon Pass
5. Amtrak Station in Martinez & nearby Ozol Yard
6. Stockton Tower
7. Horseshoe Curve
All of the above are in California except for Horseshoe Curve which is near Altoona, Pa., of course. ;^)

[RAILFANUSA]

1. The Keddie Wye
2. Williams Loop
3. Tehachapi Loop
4. Cajon Pass
5. Amtrak Station in Martinez & nearby Ozol Yard
6. Stockton Tower
7. Horseshoe Curve
All of the above are in California except for Horseshoe Curve which is near Altoona, Pa., of course. ;^)

[Anonymous]

I'm also a Californian and enjoy all the spots you mention.I'd like to add:
the Borders Coffee shop across from the Emeryville Amtrak station--UP, Amtrak, Amtrak California and ocasional BNSF
Point Pinole Park--there are .2 places where the UP (former SP) and BNSF mainlines come close together, possibilities of many double train shots--plus it's a lovely park--bring the family.
I live not far from Martinez, it's a great place another park to give access to great shots.
Point Richmond is a nice old railroad town, the farhest point west on the old Santa Fe. Lots of BNSF switching and industrial shots

James

[Anonymous]

I'm also a Californian and enjoy all the spots you mention.I'd like to add:
the Borders Coffee shop across from the Emeryville Amtrak station--UP, Amtrak, Amtrak California and ocasional BNSF
Point Pinole Park--there are .2 places where the UP (former SP) and BNSF mainlines come close together, possibilities of many double train shots--plus it's a lovely park--bring the family.
I live not far from Martinez, it's a great place another park to give access to great shots.
Point Richmond is a nice old railroad town, the farhest point west on the old Santa Fe. Lots of BNSF switching and industrial shots

James

[JPowell]

I have to agree with George23, but also have to add, just about anywhere's in the East Syracuse (Side Streets on the N side of the tracks) / Minoa (Central Ave area) where you will NOT be on CSX property (I like the pedestrian bridge at the East end of the yard)!

[JPowell]

I have to agree with George23, but also have to add, just about anywhere's in the East Syracuse (Side Streets on the N side of the tracks) / Minoa (Central Ave area) where you will NOT be on CSX property (I like the pedestrian bridge at the East end of the yard)!

[Anonymous]

Flatonia, Texas. Major E-W, N-S Union Pacific Interchange there. There's a really nice covered photo pavilion, and a nice long yard. I love it when the gravel trains come south, and make the turn west towards San Antonio. When they're loaded up, the flanges scream and bawl like a two year old. Engines and loads are so heavy the ground shakes. One train was so long and heavy that it had a helper on the back. Don't see that much around here.

mike

[Anonymous]

Flatonia, Texas. Major E-W, N-S Union Pacific Interchange there. There's a really nice covered photo pavilion, and a nice long yard. I love it when the gravel trains come south, and make the turn west towards San Antonio. When they're loaded up, the flanges scream and bawl like a two year old. Engines and loads are so heavy the ground shakes. One train was so long and heavy that it had a helper on the back. Don't see that much around here.

mike

[Anonymous]

Anywhere on the BNSF ractrack, Rochelle and Joliet

DOGGY

[Anonymous]

Anywhere on the BNSF ractrack, Rochelle and Joliet

DOGGY

[Anonymous]

Here is my list: Well, here in Chicago i like 18th St. overpass by Amtrak's yard, Franklin Park (usaully here every Sunday after work), BNSF racetrack, West Chicago, Fox River bridge in Geneva, and my birthplace of railfanning DeVal in Des Plaines. Other locations in IL are Rochelle, BNSF C&I Line (Oregon, Burke, Savanna), Woodland Jct., Galesburg. Leaving IL i like Bellevue, IA, Kate Shelly Bridge, LaFayette, IN, Twin Ports, and the MN iron range. And the list goes on...

[Anonymous]

Here is my list: Well, here in Chicago i like 18th St. overpass by Amtrak's yard, Franklin Park (usaully here every Sunday after work), BNSF racetrack, West Chicago, Fox River bridge in Geneva, and my birthplace of railfanning DeVal in Des Plaines. Other locations in IL are Rochelle, BNSF C&I Line (Oregon, Burke, Savanna), Woodland Jct., Galesburg. Leaving IL i like Bellevue, IA, Kate Shelly Bridge, LaFayette, IN, Twin Ports, and the MN iron range. And the list goes on...

[tree68]

The parking lot of Carousel Center mall, Syracuse - right next to the Chicago line, and RDC's to boot.

[tree68]

The parking lot of Carousel Center mall, Syracuse - right next to the Chicago line, and RDC's to boot.

[Anonymous]

I have several favorites:
1. Wyalusing State Park where the Burlington Northern crosses the Wisconsin River right before the Wisconsin jions the Mississippi. The photos taken of trains crossing the river at sunset are too numerous to count and have even appeared in international travel magazines! Best train count: 9 trains in 30 minutes!
2. Grand Junction in La Crosse, Wisconsin (and from the top of Granddad Bluff) has the heavy use transcon BN Line crossing the old Milwaukee Road (now CP). BN's yard is right there and there is always at least two trains waitng to cross the diamonds. Traffic includes BNSF, CP, Amtrak, UP, CN, as well as interchanging for DME, IMRL which are nearby. Best train count: 23 trains in 58 minutes! (Not including locals or yard traffic)
3. Laurel, Montana! Awesome mountain railroading. BN hands over transcon traffic to Montana Railink in the yard that runs parallel to the Main Street for miles! There's helper service and loco servicing, 1st generation Geeps, fuel tenders, and the Beartooth Mountains as a backdrop!
4. Naperville, Illinois (Not Rte 59!) The California Zepher, the busiest Commuter Line in the country, BNSF intermodal. A train every 15 minutes even at 3AM, and 15 trains in 15 minutes during afternoon commute!
5. Proctor Grade in Duluth watching 140 car ore trains struggle up a 2.2% grade from the docks! Also great because you can see ships bigger than the largest aircraft carriers (1,150ft long) being loaded with ore and coal over 1000 miles from the nearest ocean!
6. Maiden Rock, Wisconsin on Lake Pepin. (The location that inspired Longfellow to write "Song of the Hiawatha." This is a sentimental favorite because I grew up just up the hill. I remember hearing the loneful howl of the "Big Green Giants" echoing off the bluffs as they rumbled through the night. I especially remember standing in the park on the shores of the lake and waiting for those freshly painted Cascade Green engines to appear around the end of the bluff. And once one would appear, waiting and watching for 6 minutes (an enternity for a 6 year old) until suddenly the whole village would shudder and BN would announce her presence with a rush of wind, a blast of the horn, and air thick with diesel fumes! A scene once acted out by S4s and 05As, repeated over 50 times a day for over 100 years!
7. Red Wing. Milwaukee Road and the Hiawathas. Winding between the bluffs and the shores of the Mississippi here meant speeds of 127 mph across Wisconsin to make up the time! OF course that was the 30's and with jointed rail! Now the Empire Builder still manages to kick up the dirt at 90!

[Anonymous]

I have several favorites:
1. Wyalusing State Park where the Burlington Northern crosses the Wisconsin River right before the Wisconsin jions the Mississippi. The photos taken of trains crossing the river at sunset are too numerous to count and have even appeared in international travel magazines! Best train count: 9 trains in 30 minutes!
2. Grand Junction in La Crosse, Wisconsin (and from the top of Granddad Bluff) has the heavy use transcon BN Line crossing the old Milwaukee Road (now CP). BN's yard is right there and there is always at least two trains waitng to cross the diamonds. Traffic includes BNSF, CP, Amtrak, UP, CN, as well as interchanging for DME, IMRL which are nearby. Best train count: 23 trains in 58 minutes! (Not including locals or yard traffic)
3. Laurel, Montana! Awesome mountain railroading. BN hands over transcon traffic to Montana Railink in the yard that runs parallel to the Main Street for miles! There's helper service and loco servicing, 1st generation Geeps, fuel tenders, and the Beartooth Mountains as a backdrop!
4. Naperville, Illinois (Not Rte 59!) The California Zepher, the busiest Commuter Line in the country, BNSF intermodal. A train every 15 minutes even at 3AM, and 15 trains in 15 minutes during afternoon commute!
5. Proctor Grade in Duluth watching 140 car ore trains struggle up a 2.2% grade from the docks! Also great because you can see ships bigger than the largest aircraft carriers (1,150ft long) being loaded with ore and coal over 1000 miles from the nearest ocean!
6. Maiden Rock, Wisconsin on Lake Pepin. (The location that inspired Longfellow to write "Song of the Hiawatha." This is a sentimental favorite because I grew up just up the hill. I remember hearing the loneful howl of the "Big Green Giants" echoing off the bluffs as they rumbled through the night. I especially remember standing in the park on the shores of the lake and waiting for those freshly painted Cascade Green engines to appear around the end of the bluff. And once one would appear, waiting and watching for 6 minutes (an enternity for a 6 year old) until suddenly the whole village would shudder and BN would announce her presence with a rush of wind, a blast of the horn, and air thick with diesel fumes! A scene once acted out by S4s and 05As, repeated over 50 times a day for over 100 years!
7. Red Wing. Milwaukee Road and the Hiawathas. Winding between the bluffs and the shores of the Mississippi here meant speeds of 127 mph across Wisconsin to make up the time! OF course that was the 30's and with jointed rail! Now the Empire Builder still manages to kick up the dirt at 90!

[Anonymous]

I usually head down to Roberts Bank in Delta, BC.....
mostly because it is a 5 minute drive from my house.

Lots of CP coal and CP and CN intermodal, apparently BNSF sometimes makes an appearance with coal, but I have yet to see them.

It's on BC Rail's tracks, but I haven't seen any BC Rail power on it for years (might just be a coincidence).

Another good spot is in New Westminster by the Quay. There's a triple track there with CP, BNSF and Southern Railway of BC.

[Anonymous]

I usually head down to Roberts Bank in Delta, BC.....
mostly because it is a 5 minute drive from my house.

Lots of CP coal and CP and CN intermodal, apparently BNSF sometimes makes an appearance with coal, but I have yet to see them.

It's on BC Rail's tracks, but I haven't seen any BC Rail power on it for years (might just be a coincidence).

Another good spot is in New Westminster by the Quay. There's a triple track there with CP, BNSF and Southern Railway of BC.

[The Block House]

I live in Jonesboro, Arkansas and do we have the trains. The old Frisco main line from Memphis, TN to Springfield, MO cross the Cotton Belt from Ilmo, MO to Pine Bluff, AR. Of course the Frisco is part of the BNSF and the Cotten Belt is part of the UP. The trains on the BNSF number about 30 a day. They move north and south through town and the best days are Thursday through Saturday. There is a lot of day light action on both railroads. The UP runs 95% of its trains southbound through town. The two tracks cross just east of Arkansas State University property. This crossing takes place under a major North South street . (Carraway) I hope you will stop in our town to do some train watching soon.

[The Block House]

I live in Jonesboro, Arkansas and do we have the trains. The old Frisco main line from Memphis, TN to Springfield, MO cross the Cotton Belt from Ilmo, MO to Pine Bluff, AR. Of course the Frisco is part of the BNSF and the Cotten Belt is part of the UP. The trains on the BNSF number about 30 a day. They move north and south through town and the best days are Thursday through Saturday. There is a lot of day light action on both railroads. The UP runs 95% of its trains southbound through town. The two tracks cross just east of Arkansas State University property. This crossing takes place under a major North South street . (Carraway) I hope you will stop in our town to do some train watching soon.

[wcfan4ever]

I'll have to go with these:

1) Porter/Chesterton, IN
2) Byron Hill, WI
3) Duplainville, WI
4) Rochelle, IL
5) LaCrosse, WI
6) Kansas City, KS
7) Neenah, WI
8) Stevens Point, WI
9) Harvey, IL
10) Fond du Lac, WI

[wcfan4ever]

I'll have to go with these:

1) Porter/Chesterton, IN
2) Byron Hill, WI
3) Duplainville, WI
4) Rochelle, IL
5) LaCrosse, WI
6) Kansas City, KS
7) Neenah, WI
8) Stevens Point, WI
9) Harvey, IL
10) Fond du Lac, WI

[Anonymous]

I`m prettty lucky in this aspect. Behind the Providence Northern Railroad modelers club
is a small freight yard off the main line, and both express and freight engines are frequent sites to see.

[Anonymous]

I`m prettty lucky in this aspect. Behind the Providence Northern Railroad modelers club
is a small freight yard off the main line, and both express and freight engines are frequent sites to see.

[Willy2]

My favorite railfan locations are: Kearney, Nebraska, Gibbon, Nebraska, Greenwood, Nebraska, and Fremont, Nebraska. Council Bluffs, Iowa is also a good place to see lots of trains. My favorite railroad is the BNSF followed by Norfolk Southern.

Willy

[Willy2]

My favorite railfan locations are: Kearney, Nebraska, Gibbon, Nebraska, Greenwood, Nebraska, and Fremont, Nebraska. Council Bluffs, Iowa is also a good place to see lots of trains. My favorite railroad is the BNSF followed by Norfolk Southern.

Willy

[Anonymous]

Not one of the previous replies mentioned the LaCrosse area, but then again, perhaps all of the train buffs up there (125 miles from me) are too busy catching the action tonight!. I think this Mississippi River city was mentioned in one of the previous Trains Magazines in the article called "Overrated." In short, it is a great spot to watch a number of freights crossing over the river from the Minnesota side and coming into LaCrosse. From the east, west, and south and the north, the city is deluged with RR tracks. UP, CP and the BNSF offer plenty of action for the railfanners in the area. The scenery is second to none. The bluffs, the river, the valley offer breathtaking views that will keep you captivated for hours. But I have a confession to make. I am just returning to the region on a limited basis from time to time as I reside in Wisconsin's capitol city of Madison, having moved away from LaCrosse back in 1966. The trains in LaX make me wi***hat I should have stayed there but when you were a kid back then (unlike some of the kids of today) you obeyed your Mom and Dad and went with them. Oh, how I wish I could return to the days when I was a kid and would watch those screaming streamliners and freights sail into the city, right outside of the windows of the school I was in. I could say more but I am sure that all of us have a story to share----especially one from the past.

Signed, A born-again-railfanner

Pirschnut

[Anonymous]

Not one of the previous replies mentioned the LaCrosse area, but then again, perhaps all of the train buffs up there (125 miles from me) are too busy catching the action tonight!. I think this Mississippi River city was mentioned in one of the previous Trains Magazines in the article called "Overrated." In short, it is a great spot to watch a number of freights crossing over the river from the Minnesota side and coming into LaCrosse. From the east, west, and south and the north, the city is deluged with RR tracks. UP, CP and the BNSF offer plenty of action for the railfanners in the area. The scenery is second to none. The bluffs, the river, the valley offer breathtaking views that will keep you captivated for hours. But I have a confession to make. I am just returning to the region on a limited basis from time to time as I reside in Wisconsin's capitol city of Madison, having moved away from LaCrosse back in 1966. The trains in LaX make me wi***hat I should have stayed there but when you were a kid back then (unlike some of the kids of today) you obeyed your Mom and Dad and went with them. Oh, how I wish I could return to the days when I was a kid and would watch those screaming streamliners and freights sail into the city, right outside of the windows of the school I was in. I could say more but I am sure that all of us have a story to share----especially one from the past.

Signed, A born-again-railfanner

Pirschnut

[wcfan4ever]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Pirschnut

Not one of the previous replies mentioned the LaCrosse area, but then again, perhaps all of the train buffs up there (125 miles from me) are too busy catching the action tonight!

Signed, A born-again-railfanner

Pirschnut

I did indeed have LaCrosse on my list. I go there once a year for RailFair at Copeland Park. I love the trains going through the area. Occaisional cabooses will show up on the UP train that goes through. Plenty of trains and your right, the scenery is great!

[wcfan4ever]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Pirschnut

Not one of the previous replies mentioned the LaCrosse area, but then again, perhaps all of the train buffs up there (125 miles from me) are too busy catching the action tonight!

Signed, A born-again-railfanner

Pirschnut

I did indeed have LaCrosse on my list. I go there once a year for RailFair at Copeland Park. I love the trains going through the area. Occaisional cabooses will show up on the UP train that goes through. Plenty of trains and your right, the scenery is great!

[Anonymous]

I have extensivly railfanned the west coast and there are many awsome locations. But I have to say hands down my favorite is Cajon pass. There are unlimited photo locations, Ihave several shots with 4 trains at the same time (3 moving and one in the hole). The action is non stop (although there does tend to be afternoon luls in the beginning of the week).
There is nothing like standing between two trains passing, one in run-8 going uphill and one in full dynamics,brakes screaming, going downhill. And there are several locations where you can experience this. I've even had this happen while SP's tank train was climbing the hill over on it's line with 9 big SDs going full throttle doing 10 MPH, the noise was so awsome it just blows any other train watching spot smooth away !!!!

[Anonymous]

I have extensivly railfanned the west coast and there are many awsome locations. But I have to say hands down my favorite is Cajon pass. There are unlimited photo locations, Ihave several shots with 4 trains at the same time (3 moving and one in the hole). The action is non stop (although there does tend to be afternoon luls in the beginning of the week).
There is nothing like standing between two trains passing, one in run-8 going uphill and one in full dynamics,brakes screaming, going downhill. And there are several locations where you can experience this. I've even had this happen while SP's tank train was climbing the hill over on it's line with 9 big SDs going full throttle doing 10 MPH, the noise was so awsome it just blows any other train watching spot smooth away !!!!

[pmsteamman]

Vickers Ohio (just south of Toledo). CSX and NS over 100 trains a day and I get to see them from my couch (apt looks over tracks) or the cab of the CSX unit I happen to catch on that run from Walbridge to Detroit.

[pmsteamman]

Vickers Ohio (just south of Toledo). CSX and NS over 100 trains a day and I get to see them from my couch (apt looks over tracks) or the cab of the CSX unit I happen to catch on that run from Walbridge to Detroit.

[Anonymous]

Alow me to clairify on my previous post about cajon pass, the SP tank train was the empties going west and most of the units were probably isolated.

[Anonymous]

Alow me to clairify on my previous post about cajon pass, the SP tank train was the empties going west and most of the units were probably isolated.

[Anonymous]

Most of the time I just railfan around my city. But this summer I hope to go to St. Louis and railfan some there. [;)]

And visit the nice big train museum. [;)] [:D]

I heard they have some nice Alcos [;)] [8D] [:D]

I think I will take a pic or to and send them to Kevin. [:D] [;)] [}:)] [:p] [:D]

[Anonymous]

Most of the time I just railfan around my city. But this summer I hope to go to St. Louis and railfan some there. [;)]

And visit the nice big train museum. [;)] [:D]

I heard they have some nice Alcos [;)] [8D] [:D]

I think I will take a pic or to and send them to Kevin. [:D] [;)] [}:)] [:p] [:D]

[fuzzybroken]

Here in Milwaukee, I like:
CP at Waterford Ave. (1/2 mile from my house)
UP/CP Jones Island
CP Menomonee Valley (pretty much the whole valley)
UP Drexel Ave in Oak Creek
UP Mitchell Yard
UP Butler Yard
CP/UP Grain Row

Elsewhere in Wisconsin:
UP at Ives (Caledonia) and Bain (Kenosha) - endpoints for the Vulcan gravel train
CP in Sturtevant
CN/WC at Duplainville
CN/WC West Street in Waukesha
WSOR in Janesville

-Mark
http://www.geocities.com/fuzzybroken

[fuzzybroken]

Here in Milwaukee, I like:
CP at Waterford Ave. (1/2 mile from my house)
UP/CP Jones Island
CP Menomonee Valley (pretty much the whole valley)
UP Drexel Ave in Oak Creek
UP Mitchell Yard
UP Butler Yard
CP/UP Grain Row

Elsewhere in Wisconsin:
UP at Ives (Caledonia) and Bain (Kenosha) - endpoints for the Vulcan gravel train
CP in Sturtevant
CN/WC at Duplainville
CN/WC West Street in Waukesha
WSOR in Janesville

-Mark
http://www.geocities.com/fuzzybroken

[espeefoamer]

1.Fullerton Ca.
2.Cajon Pass.
3.Tehachapi Loop.
4.Stocton Tower.(location)Winterail weekend only.
Other places I have wached trains.
5.Vancouver Wash. Amtrak station.
6.Cascade Locks Or.
7.Tacoma Wash.
8.Joliet Ill. Amtrak station.
9.Black Rock Wash.(near Tacoma)
10.Skykomish Wash.
11.Oakridge Or.

[espeefoamer]

1.Fullerton Ca.
2.Cajon Pass.
3.Tehachapi Loop.
4.Stocton Tower.(location)Winterail weekend only.
Other places I have wached trains.
5.Vancouver Wash. Amtrak station.
6.Cascade Locks Or.
7.Tacoma Wash.
8.Joliet Ill. Amtrak station.
9.Black Rock Wash.(near Tacoma)
10.Skykomish Wash.
11.Oakridge Or.

[Anonymous]

anywhere secluded-- local law enforcement and rail police are cracking down on "tresspassers" in the area

[Anonymous]

anywhere secluded-- local law enforcement and rail police are cracking down on "tresspassers" in the area

[Big_Boy_4005]

Gee, all of my favorite places seem to be off limits these days. It is getting harder and harder to be a railfan with all of the paranoia over terrorism.

[Big_Boy_4005]

Gee, all of my favorite places seem to be off limits these days. It is getting harder and harder to be a railfan with all of the paranoia over terrorism.

[Anonymous]

Tower 55 great place in Fort Worth Tx
also Aliance Yard in Haslet TX just a cuple miles north of Fort Worth

[Anonymous]

Tower 55 great place in Fort Worth Tx
also Aliance Yard in Haslet TX just a cuple miles north of Fort Worth

[robscaboose]

Haley Tower in Terre Haute Indiana. You can sit in the tower & watch trains go by all day long

Rob
Haley Tower & Technical Society

[robscaboose]

Haley Tower in Terre Haute Indiana. You can sit in the tower & watch trains go by all day long

Rob
Haley Tower & Technical Society

[Anonymous]

1. Dalton, IL
2. LaGrange, IL (the the IHB and the BNSF cross)
3. Hinsdale, IL
4. Rochelle, IL
5. Burlington, WI (CN line, former WC chicago mainline)
6. Fostoria, OH
7. Joliet, IL (Amtrak station)
8. Sturtevant, WI (CP chicago mainline, not terribly busy, but it has it's moments)
9. Elmhurst, IL

[Anonymous]

1. Dalton, IL
2. LaGrange, IL (the the IHB and the BNSF cross)
3. Hinsdale, IL
4. Rochelle, IL
5. Burlington, WI (CN line, former WC chicago mainline)
6. Fostoria, OH
7. Joliet, IL (Amtrak station)
8. Sturtevant, WI (CP chicago mainline, not terribly busy, but it has it's moments)
9. Elmhurst, IL

[Anonymous]

Here's my Top 10:

Altoona, Pa (across from the Amtrak station)
Macungie, Pa
Port Clinton, Pa
Casandra, Pa
Johnstown, Pa
Easton, Pa/ Philipsburg, NJ
Topton, Pa
Alburtis, Pa
Reading, Pa

All but Port Clinton are on NS, Port Clinton is on the Reading & Northern

[Anonymous]

Here's my Top 10:

Altoona, Pa (across from the Amtrak station)
Macungie, Pa
Port Clinton, Pa
Casandra, Pa
Johnstown, Pa
Easton, Pa/ Philipsburg, NJ
Topton, Pa
Alburtis, Pa
Reading, Pa

All but Port Clinton are on NS, Port Clinton is on the Reading & Northern

[coalminer3]

Not in any order of preference

Providence RI
Cumberland, MD
Hinsdale, IL
Hinsdale, MA (Yes, there is such a place)
Washington, MA
Spokane, WA
Essex, MT
Clarks Gap, WV
Prince, WV
White Sulphur Springs, WV
Clifton Forge, VA
Readville, MA
New Haven, CT
Smiths Falls, ON
Brockville, ON
Horseshoe Curve area
Pittsburgh, PA
North East, PA
Cheyenne, WY
McCook, NB
Charlottesville, VA
Russell, KY
Huntington, WV
Bluefield, WV
Pembroke, VA

work safe

[coalminer3]

Not in any order of preference

Providence RI
Cumberland, MD
Hinsdale, IL
Hinsdale, MA (Yes, there is such a place)
Washington, MA
Spokane, WA
Essex, MT
Clarks Gap, WV
Prince, WV
White Sulphur Springs, WV
Clifton Forge, VA
Readville, MA
New Haven, CT
Smiths Falls, ON
Brockville, ON
Horseshoe Curve area
Pittsburgh, PA
North East, PA
Cheyenne, WY
McCook, NB
Charlottesville, VA
Russell, KY
Huntington, WV
Bluefield, WV
Pembroke, VA

work safe

[athelney]

When in Canada - Mission , British Columbia, - westbounds loaded CN /CP , eastbounds mty CN /CP , plus VIA and Rocky Mountaineer . Also local CN and CP wayfreights . Also get them crossing Fraser river bridge. Bring your scanner for sure to be able to get the best position.

[athelney]

When in Canada - Mission , British Columbia, - westbounds loaded CN /CP , eastbounds mty CN /CP , plus VIA and Rocky Mountaineer . Also local CN and CP wayfreights . Also get them crossing Fraser river bridge. Bring your scanner for sure to be able to get the best position.

[Anonymous]

Anywhere along the old Rock main line to Peoria Illinois. Been alot of ex-NS,Conrail,CSX SD50's heading for NRE comming up this line lately and its neat to watch those big six axle locos on the rickety track. Long Live the rock!!!!

[Anonymous]

Anywhere along the old Rock main line to Peoria Illinois. Been alot of ex-NS,Conrail,CSX SD50's heading for NRE comming up this line lately and its neat to watch those big six axle locos on the rickety track. Long Live the rock!!!!

[Anonymous]

For me i'm a local railfan only staying around the Kingston area (riverline) the rondout bridge is one of the fav's however it kind of hard to get to. I dont have any transportation except county bus to get to my far-away-from-home location: Suagerties.... [V] bike coming soon..... [sigh]

[Anonymous]

For me i'm a local railfan only staying around the Kingston area (riverline) the rondout bridge is one of the fav's however it kind of hard to get to. I dont have any transportation except county bus to get to my far-away-from-home location: Suagerties.... [V] bike coming soon..... [sigh]

[therailnut]

Favorite railroad is the BNSF and favorite railfan spot. Anywhere within 15 miles of Galesburg, IL. This includes Cameron connection west of town. But most of the time is spent around the yard and peck park where the Mendota crosses over the chilli sub.

Although I have taken several trips to Clinton, IA. to watch the UP, And travel within 15 miles either direction of there as well.

[therailnut]

Favorite railroad is the BNSF and favorite railfan spot. Anywhere within 15 miles of Galesburg, IL. This includes Cameron connection west of town. But most of the time is spent around the yard and peck park where the Mendota crosses over the chilli sub.

Although I have taken several trips to Clinton, IA. to watch the UP, And travel within 15 miles either direction of there as well.

[bnsfkline]

Kirkwood, Missori

[bnsfkline]

Kirkwood, Missori

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by CShaveRR

There are some places--Horseshoe Curve; Russell, Kentucky; Durand, Michigan; Griffith, Indiana--that I consider to be "hallowed ground" because they were the sites of memorable experiences during my formative years as a train-watcher. None of these are probably what they used to be, and it might actually be painful to go back to some. One of the most heartbreaking things to befall me was the loss of Porter, Indiana, as a railfan haunt (it may not be as great in the post-Conrail era, anyway).

Anyone who knows me knows my favorite spot: Elmhurst, Illinois, on the UP. I get the same trains that Eolafan gets in Geneva, but more slowly (great for close observation of the rolling stock, which is important to me), and there are nearby places to grab a meal or a snack, and one of the best hobby shops in all of Chicagoland is just around the corner. I'm lucky enough to be able to put it on my route to work by detouring perhaps a mile off the shorter route. I could watch the same trains by going about six blocks from home, but the six or so miles to Elmhurst makes for a better experience for me.

For a change of scenery, LaGrange is also a great place, not too far from home. I also like Blue Island or Dolton, but don't get across town to see them very often.

Favorite railroad? Whichever one is providing the entertainment at the moment (or the pay, when I'm working!).

Carl- why the loss of Porter? It's not much farther from Blue Island and Dalton. Porter has become one of my favorites within a 3 hour driving radius and lots of rail action.
My other favorites are Cincinnatti, Rochelle, Missouri Valley, and Union Mills.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by CShaveRR

There are some places--Horseshoe Curve; Russell, Kentucky; Durand, Michigan; Griffith, Indiana--that I consider to be "hallowed ground" because they were the sites of memorable experiences during my formative years as a train-watcher. None of these are probably what they used to be, and it might actually be painful to go back to some. One of the most heartbreaking things to befall me was the loss of Porter, Indiana, as a railfan haunt (it may not be as great in the post-Conrail era, anyway).

Anyone who knows me knows my favorite spot: Elmhurst, Illinois, on the UP. I get the same trains that Eolafan gets in Geneva, but more slowly (great for close observation of the rolling stock, which is important to me), and there are nearby places to grab a meal or a snack, and one of the best hobby shops in all of Chicagoland is just around the corner. I'm lucky enough to be able to put it on my route to work by detouring perhaps a mile off the shorter route. I could watch the same trains by going about six blocks from home, but the six or so miles to Elmhurst makes for a better experience for me.

For a change of scenery, LaGrange is also a great place, not too far from home. I also like Blue Island or Dolton, but don't get across town to see them very often.

Favorite railroad? Whichever one is providing the entertainment at the moment (or the pay, when I'm working!).

Carl- why the loss of Porter? It's not much farther from Blue Island and Dalton. Porter has become one of my favorites within a 3 hour driving radius and lots of rail action.
My other favorites are Cincinnatti, Rochelle, Missouri Valley, and Union Mills.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by brilondon

I agree with eolafan, there are no bad train watching spots as long as there are trains to watch. My favourite is on a bridge at the end of the Denfield sideroad just west of London, Ontario. The CN and CP mains pass under this bridge. This location has the main CN and CP lines from Toronto to Chicago pass under it. On a good day you could see up to 50 trains during the day. Amtrak and Via also pass under this bridge. Before railways cut back, you could see during the spring up to 80 trains per day!!!

I cant count the days i spent out there on those bridges. Many a summer spent railfanning with my father while he was posted there up until the base closed in london. Miss the Alco's chugging through there.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by brilondon

I agree with eolafan, there are no bad train watching spots as long as there are trains to watch. My favourite is on a bridge at the end of the Denfield sideroad just west of London, Ontario. The CN and CP mains pass under this bridge. This location has the main CN and CP lines from Toronto to Chicago pass under it. On a good day you could see up to 50 trains during the day. Amtrak and Via also pass under this bridge. Before railways cut back, you could see during the spring up to 80 trains per day!!!

I cant count the days i spent out there on those bridges. Many a summer spent railfanning with my father while he was posted there up until the base closed in london. Miss the Alco's chugging through there.

[Anonymous]

I forgot Galesburg also, we make a yearly trip there.

[Anonymous]

I forgot Galesburg also, we make a yearly trip there.

[CP5415]

Anywhere there are railroad tracks

Gordon

[CP5415]

Anywhere there are railroad tracks

Gordon

[Anonymous]

1. New Jersey Transit Mountclair Booton Line / NJT Morris and Essex

2. CSX River Line

3. Conrail Sharred Assets Lehigh Line

4. NS Pittsburg Sub.

[Anonymous]

1. New Jersey Transit Mountclair Booton Line / NJT Morris and Essex

2. CSX River Line

3. Conrail Sharred Assets Lehigh Line

4. NS Pittsburg Sub.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Norfolk Southern

1. New Jersey Transit Mountclair Booton Line / NJT Morris and Essex

I wish we could still go there.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Norfolk Southern

1. New Jersey Transit Mountclair Booton Line / NJT Morris and Essex

I wish we could still go there.

[Anonymous]

Anywhere theres tracks and a camera in my hand!![8D]

BNSF ALL THE WAY!!!

[Anonymous]

Anywhere theres tracks and a camera in my hand!![8D]

BNSF ALL THE WAY!!!

[Anonymous]

Until I moved to the midwest I used to take my son and spend time in and around Port Newark, NJ. There was a hump yard where we could watch lots of switching activities and the northeast corridor lines went by with both passenger and freight activity. Here in the Kansas City area there is a lot of traffic that goes past Union Station just south of downtown. Bob

[Anonymous]

Until I moved to the midwest I used to take my son and spend time in and around Port Newark, NJ. There was a hump yard where we could watch lots of switching activities and the northeast corridor lines went by with both passenger and freight activity. Here in the Kansas City area there is a lot of traffic that goes past Union Station just south of downtown. Bob

[halifaxcn]

I will throw my [2c]in here are my all time top railfan spots

10.) Galesburg, IL
9.) Worcester, MA
8.) Rochelle, IL
7.) West Chicago, IL
6.) Altona, PA
5.) Palmer, MA
4.) LaGrange, IL
3.) Blue Island, IL
2.) Elmhurst, IL
1.) All time favorite spot DALTON, IL. [swg]

Regards,
Frank San Severino
CP-198 Amtrak NEC
Attleboro, MA

[halifaxcn]

I will throw my [2c]in here are my all time top railfan spots

10.) Galesburg, IL
9.) Worcester, MA
8.) Rochelle, IL
7.) West Chicago, IL
6.) Altona, PA
5.) Palmer, MA
4.) LaGrange, IL
3.) Blue Island, IL
2.) Elmhurst, IL
1.) All time favorite spot DALTON, IL. [swg]

Regards,
Frank San Severino
CP-198 Amtrak NEC
Attleboro, MA