It is not the intention to pretend that the same degree of coverage can be provided for the rest of the world (in some countries the "normal" services are obscure and difficult enough to track down - but the Thomas Cook Overseas Timetable is usually a helpful start point). Nevertheless, there are railway systems with a well known regular passenger service which also have "obscure" passenger services of a regular (not necessarily frequent) nature. Where tourist operations are mentioned below, it is their "obscure" operations - rather than their better known core operation - which is recorded. As "obscure" services come to light, this is where they can be recorded...
The details given are current at the report date given - subsequent up-dating and reports of other potential candidates for this section (with as full detail as possible) will be greatly welcomed by the .
Standard abbreviations used are explained in the General Information document.
Last update for this page: 18 June 2009.
An excellent portfolio of public transport schematic plans for the whole of Australia is available at the Australian Rail Maps site. This identifies routes with regular, but limited, advertised services (and provides links to timetable information). Therefore, such lines will not be repeated below.
Whiteman Park, WA: Mussel Pool – Mussel Pool Tram Workshop AU1
Beyond the public running section of the Whiteman Park Heritage Tramway in Whiteman Park, WA the track extends a couple of hundred metres to the workshop and depot ("car barn"). On Thursdays and Fridays conducted tours of the workshop are available, leaving Whiteman Village by tram at 1400. Reported: November 2000
Newport, VIC (Altona Jn) – Laverton Jn AU2
Suburban trains booked to call intermediately between Newport and Laverton use the single track Altona link line via Westona, but trains not booked to call intermediately use the double track main line via Paisley (closed station). Reported: January 2001
Newmarket, VIC – Showgrounds – Flemington Racecourse AU3
This 2.25km branch is used by special services between Melbourne Flinders Street and Flemington Racecourse for race meetings and other events. For dates of forthcoming events see Flemington Racecourse website. For train services see Connex Melbourne web site a few days before the event. Services for race meetings normally run from/to Flinders Street (calling Southern Cross and North Melbourne only). Arriving by in-bound race trains, passengers may require to pay the racecourse admission fee. However, by walking from 57 tram route at the Epsom Road/Union Road stop (ca. 20 mins via Langs Road and Leonard Crescent to The Hill Gate entrance) passengers can join trains after the meeting without incurring such charge. The branch is also used - as advertised - for events at Showgrounds (but these trains do not cover the final 0.8km of the branch). All these services also use the Broadmeadows Suburban Lines (see AU4) between Southern Cross station (formerly Spencer Street station) and Kensington. Reported: July 1999, amended January 2006, February 2006, January 2008
North Melbourne, VIC – Kensington (via Broadmeadows Suburban Lines flyover) AU4
This 1.8km route is an alternative to the normal (East Suburban Lines route), is only accessible from platforms 13/14 at Southern Cross station (formerly Spencer Street station) and 5/6 at North Melbourne, and is used by all trains in AU3. In addition, a limited number of city-bound late-afternoon suburban trains are known to have been booked by this route - details of current use welcomed. Reported: July 1999 (amended December 2005, January 2006)
Melbourne, VIC: Flinders Street - Southern Cross via Through Suburban Lines viaduct AU7
Following a noticeably different alignment - swinging closer to the Yarra River than the four track City Loop viaduct - is a two-track viaduct, carrying the Through Suburban & Goods Lines. Apart from freight and empty stock, these tracks are used only by V/Line country services between Southern Cross station (formerly Spencer Street station) and Bairnsdale - and those Connex Melbourne suburban services (to/from the higher numbered platforms at Flinders Street and Southern Cross) for the lines via Footscray when these are advertised via Southern Cross instead of via the City Loop during peak hours; sometimes these are Sandringham services working through. Reported: December 2003 (amended December 2005, January 2006, heading amended March 2006)
[Brisbane, QLD] Mayne or Bowen Hills - Exhibition - Roma Street station or Roma Street south junction AU8
The Exhibition (or Normanby) line has triangular junctions at both ends.
Various Traveltrain (country) services to and from the north use the Exhibition line between Roma Street and Mayne, where the route is shown as "Normanby" in the AATTC timetable - see section QC1. All other trains to or from the north use the normal passenger route between Roma Street and Mayne via Central.
The following Traveltrain (country) services use the Exhibition line between Bowen Hills and Roma Street south junction:
The Exhibition line and Exhibition station are used for special services in conjunction with the Royal Queensland Show (known as Ekka), held at the RNA Showgrounds early each August - see the Ekka website - and other events as locally advertised; the basic service is usually an anti-clockwise circuit, twice hourly, calling Roma Street, Central, Exhibition, Roma Street. Reported: June 2005, amended November 2005, January 2006, March 2006, January 2008, February 2009
North Strathfield Jn, NSW – Flemington AU9
Each year the Sydney Royal Easter Show is held at Olympic Park (2009: 9 - 22 April). CityRail has operated excursions from Newcastle, NSW on some Show days, over this ca.2 km link (the North Strathfield Goods Line). 2005 operating dates: Sat and Sun prior to Easter weekend (19 & 20 March): 0645 and 0745 Newcastle - Olympic Park. Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon of Easter weekend (25 to 28 March): 0620 and 0850 Newcastle - Olympic Park. Equivalent return services provided from Flemington, not Olympic Park. Transport Infoline website: www.131500.com.au. Reported: August 2005, amended November 2005, April 2007, February 2009
Orange avoiding line, NSW AU10
Indian Pacific trains serve a short platform on the avoiding line and do not serve Orange station. The weekly Countrylink train between Sydney and Broken Hill runs into Orange station and reverses both there and at Orange East Fork Jn. (or vice versa on the return from Broken Hill), thus using the Orange Fork East Jn - Orange Fork West Jn curve, not the Orange station - Orange West Fork Jn curve (which has no regular passenger use); this is so that the train formation is not reversed at Orange. Reported: February 2006, amended August 2007, October 2007
Yeerongpilly, QLD – Tennyson – Corinda AU11
This link between the Gold Coast and the Ipswich lines has only the following SSuX service: Yeerongpilly dep 0614, 0709, 0757, 1527, 1556; Corinda dep 0807, 0827, 1552. In addition one train uses the north curve, avoiding Corinda: Yeerongpilly dep 0828, and one the south curve, avoiding Yeerongpilly: Corinda dep 0727. Note that trains generally start and/or terminate beyond Yeerongpilly and Corinda. See TransLink website and select the "Beenleigh line (Corinda pocket)" folder. Reported: February 2006, amended January 2008, May 2008, June 2008, December 2008
Rocklands triangle, QLD AU12
The Central Line diverges from the North Coast Line some 10km south of Rockhampton, at Rocklands triangular junction of which the North Coast Line forms one leg. To maintain the forward- facing formation, the Spirit of the Outback [Brisbane to/from Longreach] train runs head-on into Rockhampton station, performs its station work and changes train locos. A shunt loco is attached rear and the train drawn back to the apex of Rocklands triangle by which it entered, the shunt loco removed and the train reverses again. Thus, the Longreach-bound Spirit covers the north- south (North Coast Line) and south-west legs of the triangle, while the Brisbane-bound train covers the north-west and south-west legs. Reported: March 2006
Toowoomba triangle, QLD AU13
Toowoomba station is at the south apex of a triangle where the Main (from Brisbane), Southern and Western Lines converge. To maintain the forward-facing formation, The Westlander [Brisbane to/from Charleville] train runs head-on into Toowoomba station. Having performed its station work, it propels back to the apex of the triangle by which it entered and reverses. Thus, the Charleville-bound Westlander covers the east-station and east-west (avoiding line) legs of the triangle, while the Brisbane- bound train covers the west-station and east-west (avoiding line) legs. Reported: March 2006
Cootamundra, NSW - Bethungra, NSW AU14
The two tracks used by the Sydney - Melbourne and Sydney - Griffith trains are separated with the longer northbound track taking the Frampton deviation and the Bethungra spiral. Reported: January 2008
Bungaree loop, VIC AU15
Between Ballan and Ballarat an extended passing loop exists at Bungaree, of which the two reversibly signalled single tracks take quite separate routes; the newer south track is 4.8km shorter than the original north track. The route scheduled to be taken by each train - north or south track - is shown in the AATTC timetable - see section VC7 - or in V/Line's Master Train Timetable - see the Western Route pages (routing denoted by column note N or S, respectively). Reported: January 2008, amended October 2008
Doomben - Pinkenba, QLD AU16
Under the name "Steam Train Sunday", QR operates steam-hauled excursion trains in the Brisbane area on the first Sunday of each month (except summer - typically December to February). In recent years, this has comprised a service of three trains on each day of operation, all running on the same route: from Brisbane Roma Street via Brisbane Central to Doomben, continuing to the docks area at Pinkenba to traverse the balloon loop there, and returning via the Exhibition line to Roma Street. Full details are available from the Citytrain "Steam Trains Sunday" website. Reported: May 2008, amended December 2008
Toowoomba - Wallangara, QLD AU17
The Australian Railway Historical Society's Queensland Division (trading as Sunshine Express Rail Tours) regularly run twice-yearly two- day excursions from Brisbane to Wallangarra, of which the 196 km south of Toowoomba are without regular passenger service (and the 40 km section beyond Stanthorne is without any regular service apart from these trains). Full details are available from their website. Reported: February 2009
Unanderra, NSW - Moss Vale AU18
Under the name "The Cockatoo Run", 3801 Limited operate excursion trains between Sydney Central and Moss Vale over this 61.44 km line as advertised, WThSuO. Prior to arrival at Moss Vale, the loaded outward train is turned on the Moss Vale north fork (triangle). The line itself (but not the north fork) is also used for diversions when engineering work blocks the Main South line between Glenfield and Moss Vale. Reported: February 2009
Yarongmulu, QLD - Laidley AU19
The two tracks used by the Brisbane - Charleville trains are significantly separated over much of this 5.3 km section. Reported: February 2009
Coho (CN) / Nepa (CP) (near Basque), BC – Page (near Matsqui), BC CA1
Over this section, eastbound passenger trains use CP's Mission, Cascade and Thompson subdivisions (155.1 miles) while westbound trains use the CN's Ashcroft and Yale subdivisions (156.2 miles). This applies equally to VIA and Rocky Mountaineer trains.This took effect from 29 October 2000. Reported: November 2000, amended January 2006 and May 2006
Lovell, BC – Minaret, BC CA2
The outer 76.3 miles of BCRail's Takla Subdivision is used by a 5-7 days a week round trip by UTV (utility transport vehicle) from Lovell, for the use of First Nation residents of Bear Lake and loggers at Minaret. See well illustrated article at www.photosbystevenjbrown.com/bcrail/northwoods/utv.html (but note that Northwood Inc.'s logging activities have since been acquired by the Canfor Corporation, the main operating company of which is Canadian Forest Products Ltd). Reported: September 1999
D’Arcy, BC - Seton Portage - Lillooet, BC CA3
The Kaoham Shuttle operates a daily round trip between Seton Portage and Lillooet, with extensions if required (bookings at least two days in advance, minimum 4 passengers) between D'Arcy and Seton Portage (D'Arcy - Lillooet is 56km). The service on the Fridays is increased to a round trip D'Arcy - Seton Portage - Lillooet, plus two extra round trips Lillooet - Seton Portage. Seton Lake Indian Band manage passenger bookings and customer service from their office at Shalalth or phone 1-250 259 8300. This route is also traversed by Rocky Mountaineer trains between Jasper, AB and Whistler, BC (see CA18 below). Reported: September 2002, amended November 2002, July 2004, November 2007, September 2008
Montréal, Ballantyne – Taschereau Yard – Jonction de l'Est, QC CA4
VIA's trains between Montréal Centrale and northern Québec use this circuitous (5 miles) route to avoid diesel haulage through the more direct route through Mont Royal tunnel. Reported: November 2002
Montréal, QC: Pointe St.Charles (Hibernia) – Pont Victoria (via Connecting Tracks) CA5
This line, avoiding the throat of Montréal Centrale station, is used by trains which reverse either on arriving or departing Montréal. Depending on direction, trains reverse at either Pointe St.Charles (Hibernia) or Pont Victoria. VIA trains currently performing this manoeuvre are: 60 inbound from Toronto; 695/697 (= Amtrak 69/71) inbound from New York; 39 outbound for Ottawa; 15 inbound from Halifax (but only when a very long train, conveying a Gaspé portion). Reported: November 2002, amended May 2006
Hearst, ON: wye at junction between former Algoma Central and Ontario Northland lines CA6
CNR (formerly ACR) train 631 inbound from Sault Ste.Marie usually uses the wye to turn train prior to arrival at Hearst, whereas the outbound train 632 uses the direct chord. In the event of particularly late running, the inbound train may run direct and the following morning's outbound train perform the reversal move instead. Reported: November 2002, amended May 2006
London, ON: wye at London Jn CA7
Terminating VIA trains inbound from Toronto use the wye to turn train prior to arrival at London. All other trains run direct. This arrangement may no longer apply - definitive reports welcomed. Reported: November 2002, amended May 2006 & December 2006.
Niagara Falls, ON: wye at Clifton CA8
Terminating VIA trains inbound from Toronto use the wye to turn train prior to arrival at Niagara Falls. All other trains run direct. Reported: November 2002, amended May 2006
Thompson, MB: wye CA9
VIA trains 692 and 693 between Winnipeg and Churchill use the wye to turn train either during the time allowed at or on departure from Thompson (which is at the end of a 30.5 mile branch); through passengers can remain on board. Reported: November 2002
Thompson Jn, MB: wye CA10
VIA trains between Winnipeg and Churchill use the north and south legs of the wye to reach Thompson. Reported: November 2002, amended May 2006
Vancouver, BC: wye CA11
VIA train 1 inbound from Toronto uses the wye (CN Jn - CN Main Yard - Burrard Inlet Jn [- Pacific Central station]) to turn train prior to arrival at Vancouver; VIA train 2 outbound runs direct [Pacific Central station -] Burrard Inlet Jn - CN Jn. Rocky Mountaineer train 103 inbound from Jasper/Calgary runs direct CN Jn - CN Main Yard west end, then setting back into the RM's Cottrell Street station; loaded RM train 104 outbound for Jasper/Calgary draws forward from the RM's Cottrell Street station to CN Main Yard west end, then uses the wye (CN Main Yard - Burrard Inlet Jn - CN Jn) to turn the train and depart. Reported: November 2002, amended May 2006.
Toronto, ON: Snider – Doncaster CA12
VIA train 1 outbound to Vancouver uses this 5.2 mile section of the York Subdivision - also the northwest chords at the junctions at both Snider and Doncaster - whereas the inbound train 2 and ONR/CNR trains 697 and 698 run direct between Doncaster and Toronto Union station via the Bala Subdivision. (notes: this routing is to turn the train which cannot readily be turned elsewhere in the Toronto area during its overnight layover; the section of train 1's route between Toronto Union station and Snider is not included here as it is also traversed by GO Transit commuter trains). Reported: November 2002, amended May 2006
St.Constant, QC – Canadian Railway Museum (Barrington platform), St.Constant/Delson, QC CA13
AMT operate a limited number of summer Sunday through excursions from Montréal Lucien L'Allier station direct to the CRM site, over a former CPR siding ca. 200 m long from the east end of the St. Constant AMT platform. Details from the AMT website (check "Express du musée"). The museum's details are at their website. Reported: August 2003, amended July 2004, July 2005, May 2006, July 2007, August 2008
Boyne/Reynolds (near Parry Sound), ON – Wanup (near Sudbury), ON CA14
Over this section, eastbound VIA passenger trains use CN's Bala subdivision (101.4 miles) while westbound VIA trains use CP's Parry Sound subdivision (92.6 miles). This took effect from 29 November 2005. Reported: January 2006
Charles, BC – Tete Jaune, BC – Redpass, BC CA15
Trains usually work anti-clockwise - see sketch of the area. For example, eastbound VIA train 2 and Rocky Mountaineer train 104 from Vancouver use CN's Albreda subdivision (27.9 miles) while their westbound equivalents use CN's Robson subdivision (29.8 miles). Similarly for VIA and RMtrains between Jasper and the Prince George line, although the 20.2 mile section of the Robson subdivision between Taverna and Redpass may be used in both directions by such trains. Reported: May 2006, amended December 2007
Kamloops, BC CA16
VIA trains use the CN main line through Kamloops North (formerly Kamloops Jn) - in effect, the north-west arm of the wye there. Rocky Mountaineer trains use the following routes: Vancouver <=> Kamloops: CN main line, south-west leg of wye at Kamloops North and branch to Kamloops CN Lorne St station; Jasper <=> Kamloops: CN main line, north-south leg of wye at Kamloops North and branch to Kamloops CN Lorne St station; Calgary <=> Kamloops: CP main line to CP/CN Jn and branch to Kamloops CN Lorne St station.
Kamloops Heritage Railway uses Kamloops CN Lorne St station and the branch to Kamloops North for its "Spirit of Kamloops" trips. Note that there is no regular passenger service on the CP main line between Kamloops CP/CN Jn and Nepa (near Basque). Reported: May 2006, amended January 2008
Royal Canadian Pacific cruise train CA17
This train covers on a quasi-regular basis a number of Canadian Pacific lines in western Canada not used by other passenger service. Reported: July 2006
Rocky Mountaineer and Whistler Mountaineer CA18
These trains cover on a regular, seasonal basis the following lines not used by other passenger service: Kamloops, BC, West Jn (CN) and Kamloops North (a.k.a. Junction or VIA) station - Kamloops Lorne Street (CN) station - Kamloops CN/CP Junction - Connaught tunnel - Banff, AB - Calgary, AB; Prince George, BC, CN/ex-BCR junction - Lillooet, BC; D'Arcy, BC - Whistler, BC; North Vancouver, BC - Whistler, BC Reported: July 2006, amended November 2007
Campbell Creek, BC - Armstrong, BC CA19
Kamloops Heritage Railway operate Spirit of Kamloops trips regularly over 3.5 miles of CN track in Kamloops (see item CA16). In addition, on a limited number of occasions each year (2008 dates: 7 June; 6 September; 4 October), they operate the Armstrong Explorer over the Kelowna Pacific Railway's 57 mile branch from Campbell Creek (east of Kamloops) to Armstrong. There is some suggestion that the Armstrong Explorer trains will not run in 2009. Note: these trains do not start in Kamloops. Reported: January 2008, amended January 2008, August 2008
Toronto trams (streetcars) CA20
The following TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) tram routes, or sections thereof, operate limited service:
Reported: November 2008
University (Racecourse north jn.) – Racecourse – Fo Tan (Racecourse south jn.) HK1
On the occasions of race meetings at the Sha Tin racecourse, KCRC trains call at Racecourse station, and so run via this route (ca. 2km), instead of the more usual direct line. Reported: January 2001
Amman – Quatrana JO1
This 104km segment of the 1050mm gauge Hedjaz Railway, south from Amman, has no regular traffic whatsoever, but is the furthest south that charter specials are allowed. It regularly features in the itineraries of photographic specials to the Hedjaz Railway by various tour operators, of which there seems to be at least one a year advertised in the British enthusiast press. Reported: April 2000
As well as the Thomas Cook Overseas Timetable, the following site can be consulted: www.fahrplancenter.com/FahrplanLatino.html; accurate up-to-date reports would be welcomed by the webmaster.
Sentul – Batu Caves MY1
4m 10ch of freight line - beyond the end of the commuter service at Sentul - is used by a frequent special shuttle service on the day of the Hindu Thaipusam festival, celebrated in January or February each year. In 2007 the festival was observed on 31 January. A project exists to electrify this line and integrate it into the KYM Komuter network; whether the annual special service operates in future will depend on progress with the electrification project. Reported: January 2001, updated February 2007
Mexican passenger services MX1
Apart from suburban metro operations, Mexican passenger services are very thin on the ground - usually in rural areas where road alternatives are poor. There is no centrally published timetable – and differing information is offered by accessible sources. There are also some services promoted for the tourist market.
As well as the Thomas Cook Overseas Timetable, the following sites can be consulted: www.fahrplancenter.com/AIFFLAMexico03.html and www.mexlist.com/pass.htm; accurate up-to-date reports would be welcomed by the respective webmasters.
Penrose – Ericsson Stadium Halt NZ1
600 metres of the Onehunga branch (where it diverges from the North Auckland Line) have been used - when advertised - by specials from Auckland suburban stations on the occasion of events at the Ericsson Stadium. In some cases, trains were only after the event, normal services to Penrose being used before the event. The branch to Onehunga (including this section) is scheduled to be reopened for regular commuter service from "early 2010". Reported: November 2000, amended May 2009
Port Chalmers (lower) – Dunedin NZ2
The 2km branch into the docks at Port Chalmers (a section of the original Dunedin & Port Chalmers Rly) is used by Taieri Gorge Railway specials in connection with visiting cruise liners at Dunedin, to provide ship-side train access. For example, during the 2005/6 season, 40 cruise calls were booked. [Note that the main line between Dunedin and Sawyers Bay, which is covered by these trains, is also covered by the regular summer Wednesday and Saturday morning TGR Dunedin - Palmerston excursion - see TGR website]. Reported: November 2000, amended February 2002, January 2006, April 2006, April 2007, August 2008
Newmarket (Auckland) reversing triangle NZ3
At Newmarket, where the Auckland-Newmarket Line joins the North Auckland Line, suburban trains between Britomart (Auckland) and Waitakere (the North Auckland Line) reverse at Newmarket station. The former triangular arrangement - some trains ran via the reversing triangle (or wye) to reverse again in the headshunt - is in the process of being replaced by full running triangle and a new station: the scheme should be completed during 2009 but modified arrangements are in force meantime. Reported: November 2000, amended October 2002, April 2006 and July 2007
Middlemarch - Pukerangi NZ4
The furthest 18.8km of the remaining section of the Otago Central line is traversed - by the Taieri Gorge Limited - only on summer Friday and Sunday mornings (otherwise, trains terminate at Pukerangi). For details see website www.taieri.co.nz/timetable.htm. Reported: November 2000, amended December 2005 and May 2006
Lyttelton – Christchurch (Addington West Jn) NZ6
This 14km section of the Main South Line is used by specials to Arthur's Pass in connection with visiting cruise liners at Lyttelton, to provide ship-side train access. Timings usually 0820 or 0900 from Lyttelton. Reported: December 2000 (amended January 2003 and July 2004)
Auckland, Quay Park Junction (The Strand) NZ7
The third side of the triangle at Quay Park Junction now has no regular service, but is used by steam hauled excursions serving The Strand platform, located on the line. [Note: Tranz Scenic's trains to Wellington, which formerly used the line on departure from Auckland's Britomart terminal station, to turn the trains, are now turned by separate empty stock movements]. Reported: August 2003 (amended December 2003, November 2004 and August 2005)
Jurong East connecting chord SG1
Trains on the SMRT [Singapore Mass Rapid Transit] North South Line normally use the turn-back track at Jurong East, giving cross- platform interchange in both directions. However, using a separate link chord north of the station, six trains in the morning peak run through from the north to Pasir Ris (these trains call, for example, at Choa Chu Kang between 07:17 and 08:17). They can be ascertained from SMRT Travel times web page. It is not believed that there is an equivalent return service. Reported: November 2000, amended January 2008
Peradeniya avoiding line LK1
Through trains between Colombo and Badulla, not booked to call at Peradeniya or Kandy, use the avoiding line which forms a triangle at this junction station (there is no platform on the avoiding line). Reported: December 2001
Bosra Citadel – Gasim [– Dera'a] SY1
This 34.2km branch has, in the past, had a through train from Damascus (Dimashq) during the period of the Bosra festival, which is held for a fortnight during the September of odd numbered years. A report of whether that train still operates would be welcomed. [Note: the main line between Damascus (Dimashq) and Gasim is traversed by the regular international train between Damascus (Dimashq) and Amman [JO]]. Reported: April 2000, amended August 2008
Dera'a – Tell-shihab – Zeizoun SY2
The first 25.1km of the line through the Yarmuk Gorge (which formerly extended to Haifa [IL]) are used only by charter specials. Reported: April 2000, amended August 2008.
El Hame – Ain Fije (Fijeh) SY5
This is short (10.4 km) section of the Syrian segment of the line that formerly extended from Damascus to Beirut. On Fridays an excursion leaves El Hame (10 km northwest of Damascus) at 09.30 for Ain Fije (Fijeh), returning at 15.00. Reported: March 2007
Note: the above lines are 1050mm gauge and (together with the Yarmuk Gorge branch from Dera'a) are usually in the itineraries of photographic specials to the Syrian and Jordanian sections of the Hedjaz Railway by various tour operators.
San Diego, CA : Santa Fe Depot – Seaport Village US3
At the south end of San Diego's Santa Fe Depot is a triangular junction on San Diego Trolley [a light rail system] between the Orange and Blue lines. The third side is used only when advertised by specials (Red line) for Qualcomm Stadium (Mission Valley). Reported: November 2000, amended November 2008
San Bernardino, CA: Depot – Rana US4
There are two routes between San Bernardino station and the Riverside line at Rana (approx. 1.6 miles): Amtrak trains take the former Santa Fe's San Bernardino subdivision via West Yard while Metrolink trains (from and to their own terminal platforms at San Bernardino) use the more direct line (?original main line). Reported: November 2000
Queens Village, NY – Belmont Park, NY US6
This Long Island Rail Road branch, ca.¼ mile long, is used when so advertised for access to the Belmont Park and its racetrack by special service from New York Penn station or Jamaica. Details from the LIRR website. The branch does not function on Mondays or Tuesdays. Reported: October 2001, amended July 2004, August 2008, April 2009, May 2009.
Newark, DE – Dover, DE – Harrington, DE – Laurel, DE or Georgetown, DE or Frankford, DE US7
On the penultimate Saturday of July, for the Delaware State Fair held at Harrington, Amtrak has operated an excursion each recent year from Philadelphia, PA, chartered by DART (Delaware Transit Corporation). Each year the train continued in passenger service beyond Harrington over the Norfolk Southern (ex PRR) line - to Laurel, DE, Georgetown, DE or Frankford, DE. The train was cancelled for 2008 but DART reportedly have hopes it will resume in 2009. Check the DART website in due course. Reported: July 2001, amended August 2004, June 2005, July 2006, June 2007, June 2008, August 2008
Walpole, MA - Foxboro / Bay State Stadium - Mansfield, MA US10
This 8.5mile long CSXT line, linking two MBTA routes, is used - when advertised - for New England Patriots National Football League games at Foxboro/Gillette Stadium by two special services: (a) between Boston South Station and the stadium station, and (b) between Providence, RI and the stadium station. Details from the Patriots website (click on the "Train Schedule" tab) or the MBTA website. Reported: December 2001, amended July 2005, August 2008.
San Marcos, TX (CP Q212 UP Jn) - San Antonio, TX US11
There are two routes between CP Q212 UP Jn (just south of San Marcos), and San Antonio (approx. 53 miles), both now UP-owned as part of their Austin Subdivision: track 1 (formerly MP) and track 2 (formerly M-K-T) run broadly parallel but approach San Antonio on the west and east sides of the city, respectively. The scheduled routing is:
southbound Texas Eagle (train #21) track 1, giving a head-on move into San Antonio Amtrak station by the Tower 109 (Apache Jn) - Tower 112 (CP SA 211) link;
northbound Texas Eagle (train #22) backs out to Tower 112 (CP SA 211) thence track 2 to Conrads, thence track 1 (note: the spur from East Yards to Travis no longer exists)
By following the scheduled route, the inbound train forms the outbound train without wyeing (turning). However, Amtrak trains can (and occasionally do) take either track or switch tracks at any of three places intermediately at dispatcher's discretion. Reported: December 2001 (amended August 2005, April 2009)
Denver, CO - Cheyenne, WY US12
On the first Saturday of the Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo week (usually towards the end of July each year: 18 July in 2009) Union Pacific operates, for the Denver Post newspaper, a public excursion from Denver, CO to Cheyenne, WY over their line (112.9 miles). Details from The Denver Post website. UP will also operate a one-way trip Denver - Cheyenne the following day (although it is not clear whether this will become a regular feature for future years): see UP's website. Reported: May 2002, amended July 2004, July 2005, August 2006, February 2007, March 2008, June 2008, August 2008, February 2009, May 2009
Lincoln, NH - Woodstock - Livermore Falls - Meredith - Lakeport, NH US14
The Hobo Railroad (including its subsidiary trading entity, the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad) operate regular seasonal tourist services - normally restricted to two elements of their line: (a) Lincoln - Woodstock (7 miles), and (b) Meredith - Lakeport (8.7 miles). However, on Saturdays at the end of September/beginning of October (2009 dates: 26 September and the 3 October) the railroad has operated "fall foliage" excursions each recent year throughout from Meredith to Lincoln (34.88 miles), and on the first few weekends in October from Meredith to Livermore Falls (only) (16.7 miles). Details from their website or the Foliage Trains website. Reported: January 2002, latest amendment June 2009
(Bellows Falls, VT -) Chester - Summit - Rutland, VT US16
The Green Mountain Railroad operates regular seasonal tourist services between Bellows Falls and Chester (13.3 miles). Until 2008, the railroad operated regular "fall foliage" excursions beyond Chester - but these are not now advertised. For details of their "standard" and "non-standard" excursions see their website. Reported: January 2002, amended July 2004, August 2006, August 2008, May 2009
(Conway, NH - North Conway - Intervale - Crawford Notch [Crawford's station] -) Fabyans - Twin Mountain, NH, also Intervale - Redstone, NH US18
The Conway Scenic Railroad operate regular seasonal tourist services - normally restricted to North Conway - Conway (5.3 miles) and North Conway - Crawford Notch (25.7 miles), extended between mid September and mid October, to Fabyans (29.7 miles). Towards the end of the season (2009 dates: 19/20 September) the railroad operates an annual "Railfans' Weekend", including an excursion from North Conway to Twin Mountain (34.2 miles) or beyond, and from Intervale to Redstone (4.5 miles). Details from their website (under Events).
The 470 Railroad Club charters an Annual Excursion, open to the public (2009 date: 17 October); this year it is advertised from North Conway to Fabyans. Details from their website. Reported: January 2002, latest amendment June 2009
Cortland, NY - Marathon, NY US19
On the Saturday and Sunday of the last weekend in March or first weekend in April (2008 dates: 5 & 6 April) the New York Susquehanna & Western Railway operates shuttle excursions over this 13.8 mile section for the Central New York Maple Festival. Details from the Festival website. Reported: January 2002, amended December 2005, August 2006, March 2007, November 2007, March 2008
Wilmington, MA – CPW WJ (Wilmington Jn) US21
The 3 mile Wildcat Branch - linking the Lowell and Haverhill commuter lines - is used by Amtrak trains between Boston, MA and Portland, ME and by MBTA commuter services shown (SSuX) with stops at Wilmington (and endorsed Via Lowell Line) on the Haverhill, MA line's schedule.Reported: February 2002, amended August 2008, May 2009
Tompkinsville, NY - Ballpark (at St.George) - St.George, NY US23
This short route forms two sides of a triangle (with Ballpark station at one apex) with the Staten Island Railway's regular route direct between St.George and Tompkinsville forming the third side. It is used, when advertised, during the baseball season by special trains linking both Tottenville and St.George with Ballpark station to serve the Staten Island Yankees' baseball stadium (see their website).
Trains notionally terminate or start at Ballpark [during the baseball season see the MTA's SIR website for current times], thus traversing only one side of the triangle - but trains from Tottenville to Ballpark, after reversal at Ballpark, do actually continue to St.George in service. Return trains start Ballpark 10 mins after game. Two shuttles operate between St.George and Ballpark. Reported: July 2003, amended July 2004, August 2008
Salt Lake City, UT: Library – Courthouse US25
On TRAX [Utah Transit Authority's light rail system] is a junction between the University and Sandy/Salt Lake lines. A linking chord, forming a triangle, is used for depot workings at beginning and end of service on the University Line, SuX (journeys marked U or C in the timetable) and for the "University connection train", a single round trip SSuX (currently 07:09 SSuX Sandy Civic Center - University Medical Center and 16:43 SSuX return). Website: www.rideuta.com. Reported: July 2004
Matanuska (Palmer Jn), AK - Palmer South US26
At the end of August/beginning of September (2009: 27 August - 7 September) the Alaska State Fair is held at Palmer, AK. Each recent year, Alaska Railroad has operated excursions from Anchorage, AK on some weekend fair days (FSSuO); see Alaska Railroad website shortly before the event. Reported: August 2005, amended February 2007, July 2007, August 2008, May 2009
Portland, OR: Rose Quarter Transit Center – Interstate/Rose Quarter US27
On MAX [Metropolitan Area Express - TriMet's light rail system] is a junction between the Blue and Yellow lines. A linking curve, forming a triangle, is used for depot workings at beginning and end of service on the Yellow (Expo Center) line, daily. Such journeys at beginning of service are marked Y from Ruby Junction in the "Blue Line and Red Line" timetable and those at the end of service are marked Y in the "Yellow Line" timetable. Website: www.trimet.org. Reported: August 2005, amended June 2006
Anchorage, Airport Branch Junction, AK - Anchorage Ted Stevens International Airport US28
This spur line - approx. 2 miles long - is used only by chartered trains for various cruise companies (including Holland America, Princess, Carnival, Royal Celebrity and Radisson). On days when a relevant cruise vessel arrives at Seward, a train leaves there for the airport in the morning (journey time 4½ hours) and returns at about 1330 from the airport to Seward to connect into the vessel's evening departure. Tickets are obtainable only from the cruise line concerned. Reported: August 2005
Dallas, TX: West End Station – Victory Station US29
This ca. half mile branch of DART is used for special event services for the American Airlines Center at Victory Station and also for some one-way journeys on Monday to Friday evenings between 1800 and 1945. See website: www.dart.org - more particularly weekday southbound Red and Blue Line schedules. From September 2009 it will become part of the new Green Line, enjoying full service. Reported: September 2005, amended April 2009
Elm Grove, WI - Brookfield, WI US 31
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound Empire Builder (trains # 7 and 8) are separated in the western environs of Milwaukee. Reported: August 2006
Cajon, CA - Silverwood, CA US32
Until the recent installation of the an extra track, the two tracks used by the west and eastbound Southwest Chief (trains # 3 and 4) were separated through Cajon Pass over 6.2 miles of the Cajon Subdivision but operations are now more flexible over this section and no particular track seems to be certain. (There are also more minor divergences at other locations in Arizona and New Mexico). Reported: August 2006, amended August 2008
Vail, AZ (CP S1000) - Mescal, AZ (CP S1023) and Anapra, NM - El Paso, South Line Jn, NM US 33
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound Sunset Limited (trains # 1 and 2) are separated: one uses the original Southern Pacific alignment, the other the original El Paso & Southwestern alignment. Vail - Mescal is 23.3 miles and Anapra - El Paso, South Line Jn is 3.7 miles, both of the Lordsburg Subdivision. Reported: August 2006
Rocklin, CA - Newcastle, CA - Bowman, CA US34
The two tracks follow different alignments, other than through Newcastle and tunnel 18. West of Newcastle track 1 is reversible but track 2 is eastbound only; east of Newcastle track 1 is westbound only but track 2 (on which is located Auburn station - served only by originating and terminating Amtrak Capitol Corridor trains) is reversible. Thus the eastbound California Zephyr (train # 6) can use either track between Rocklin and Newcastle but must use track 2 on to Bowman, whereas westbound California Zephyr (train # 5) can use either track between Bowman and Newcastle but must use track 1 on to Rocklin. Between Rocklin and Bowman track 1, Roseville Subdivision, is 18.8 miles, and track 2 is 18.8 miles. Reported: August 2006
Clipper Gap, CA - Colfax, CA US35
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound California Zephyr (trains # 5 and 6) are separated over the 11.2 miles of the Roseville Subdivision. Reported: August 2006
Weso (Winnemucca), NV - Alazon, NV US36
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound California Zephyr (trains # 5 and 6) are separated: the westbound normally uses the original Southern Pacific route (track 1, Elko and Shafter Subdivisions, 182.7 miles), the eastbound the original Western Pacific route (track 2, Elko and Shafter Subdivisions, 178.5 miles). Reported: August 2006
Houston, Tower 26, TX - Beaumont, Langham Road, TX US37
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound Sunset Limited (trains # 1 and 2) are separated: the westbound normally uses the original Southern Pacific (Texas & New Orleans) route, Layfayette and Terminal Subdivisions (78.4 miles), the eastbound the former Missouri Pacific (Beaumont, Sour Lake & Western) route, Houston West Belt, Houston East Belt and Beaumont Subdivisions (84.9 miles) (involving a double-reversal back-up movement at Houston Tower 26). Reported: August 2006
Fairbanks, AK US38
To turn ready for their return journey, trains can approach the station direct and then leave around a loop, or vice versa, and have been reported performing this both clockwise and anti-clockwise. Reported: August 2006
Denver, CO : wye at Prospect Jn US39
California Zephyr (trains # 1 and 2) use the Prospect Jn - 31st Street Yard link to turn prior to arrival at Denver Union Station. Reported: August 2006
Montalvo, CA : wye US40
The platform - used by originating and terminating Metrolink Ventura line trains - is on the north leg of the triangular junction (wye) of the Fillmore branch; it is normally accessed by the south leg and a reversal on the branch. Amtrak trains do not serve this location and use the third (main line) leg. Reported: August 2006
Grand Canyon, AZ : wye US41
Grand Canyon Railway trains use the wye to turn prior to arrival at Grand Canyon station. Reported: August 2006
Grand Rapids, MI : wye at Sunnyside US42
Pere Marquette (train # 370) uses the wye to turn prior to arrival at Grand Rapids station. Reported: August 2006
Silverton, CO : wye US43
Most Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad trains use wye to turn on departure from Silverton, except when a three-train service operates and some trains are wyed between arrival and departure. Reported: August 2006, amended August 2008
Rockhill Furnace, PA : wye and Colgate Grove, PA : wye US44
East Broad Top Railroad & Coal Company trains wye at each end of their journey. Reported: August 2006
Grand Junction station, Chattanooga, TN : wye US45
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum Missionary Ridge Local trains (but not other trains) wye either before leaving or after ariving at the station. Reported: August 2006
Tampa, FL : wye at Gary US46
Silver Star (trains # 91 and 92) use the wye at Gary to turn prior to arrival at Tampa. Reported: August 2006
Jacksonville, FL : wye at Grand Jn US47
Sunset Limited (trains # 1 and 2) use the wye at Grand Jn to turn prior to arrival at Jacksonville when using their normal route via West Jacksonville yard. Note, however, that wyeing is not necessary if the diversionary route via Pritchard yard is used. Note: The Sunset Limited (trains #1 and 2) has been suspended east of New Orleans, LA since Hurricane Katrina and until further notice. Reported: August 2006, note added November 2006
New Orleans, LA : wye at Clara Street tower US48
Terminating trains and Sunset Limited (trains # 1 and 2) use the wye at Clara Street Tower to turn prior to arrival at New Orleans. Note: The Sunset Limited (trains #1 and 2) has been suspended east of New Orleans, LA since Hurricane Katrina and until further notice. Reported: August 2006, note added November 2006
Portage, AK : wye US49
The south-east leg of the wye at Portage is used by the summer-only Glacier Discovery Train in each direction between Whittier and Grandview. Trains between Anchorage and (a) Whittier and (b) Seward, respectively, use the other two legs of the wye. Reported: August 2006
Chicago Union Station, IL : Canal Street wye US50
The south-west leg of the wye is used by those arriving trains that are booked to turn prior to arrival at the south end of Union station. The general (but not invariable) rule used to be that short haul trains entered head first but long haul trains wyed (turned) and propelled (back) into the station; however, there seems much less (if any) wying of arriving trains. Reported: August 2006, amended August 2008
Chicago Union Station, IL - 16th Street US51
Between the south end of Union station and 16th Street, Amtrak trains can take one of four routes (given numbers here for convenience) en route to or from the CN (former Illinois Central) line to Champaign-Urbana:
That section of routes 1 and 2 between Union Avenue and 16th Street is known as the St.Charles Airline, sometimes rendered as ‘St.Charles Air Line’. Routes 1, 3 and 4 both involve an inbound train propelling (backing) into Union station and an outbound train propelling (backing) out.
The normal route for trains is route 1 but any route may be used as an alternative if that is blocked by freight traffic.Reported: August 2006, amended November 2007
Tacoma, WA, Tideflats yard trackage US53
In conjunction with the Commencement Bay Maritime Fest, Tacoma Rail have an annual open day on the last Saturday in August (2009: 29 August) when they offer free passenger train rides, approx. 20 to 30 minute ride, covering approximately 5 miles in the Port of Tacoma industrial area. See Commencement Bay Maritime Fest website and check for Tacoma Rail Train Rides. Reported: August 2006, amended November 2007, August 2008, May 2009
Port Clinton, PA - Nesquehoning Jn (Jim Thorpe), PA US54
Reading & Northern Railroad operate "Fall Foliage specials" on some weekends each October (2008 dates: 11, 12, 18, 19 October) - as well as other occasional summer excursions. [Note: this is not the same route as their Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway regular tourist excursions from Jim Thorpe]. Reported: August 2006, amended November 2007, August 2008
Lowell, MA: depot (station) - Dutton Street US55
On the Saturday of the Lowell Folk Festival, held on the last full weekend of July each year (2009: 25 July), the 1200 Boston North - Lowell MBTA train no. 1305 has, in recent years, been extended approx. one- third mile from Lowell depot to a street crossing near Dutton Street, on the line towards Nashua, to enable the band and passengers to detrain. Reported: August 2006, amended August 2008, May 2009
Long Island City, NY - Jamaica, Jay Tower, NY US56
There are two routes - both with very restricted peak-hour service:
Reported: November 2006, amended November 2007
Ash Hill, CA - Siberia, CA US57
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound Southwest Chief (trains #3 and 4) are separated (9.5 miles via northerly Track 1; 7.7 miles via southerly Track 2). Reported: November 2006
West of Ibis, CA US58
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound Southwest Chief (trains #3 and 4) are separated (0.8 miles longer via northerly Track 1 than southerly Track 2). Reported: November 2006
Carbondale, IL : wye US59
Southbound Saluki (train # 391) uses the wye north of the town to turn prior to arrival at Carbondale. Reported: December 2006
WR Tower, Granite City, IL - Gratiot Street, St.Louis, MO US60
There are two routes between these points for Chicago - St.Louis Amtrak trains: the normal route is via Venice Yard, East St.Louis Relay (Q Interlocking) and the MacArthur Bridge. The slower alternative route is via SH Interlocking, Merchants Bridge and the former Washington Avenue station but, despite what the SPV Atlas shows, since June 2000 this has not been the normal Amtrak route; it is used only when freight congestion prevents use of the MacArthur Bridge or to provide the opportunity for terminating southbound "Lincoln Service" trains to turn - using the Poplar Street / Rutger Street / Gratiot Street wye - prior to arrival at St.Louis (instead of on the wye west of the station after discharging passengers). Reported: December 2006, amended January 2007
Los Angeles, CP Dayton - CP Pasadena Jn US61
This section of the East Bank line is used - very occasionally - by special trains from the Oxnard or Lancaster lines running direct (i.e. not booked to call at Los Angeles Union Station) to major events at California Speedway (Fontana) on the San Bernardino line, as for example on Sunday 25 February 2007. Details are given at Metrolink's website via the "special event trains" button at their home page. Reported: February 2007
Newport, MN - St.Croix Jn, MN US62
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound Empire Builder (trains #7 and 8) are separated (10.4 miles via north Track 1 (eastbound; former Milwaukee); 11.7 miles via south Track 2 (westbound; former Burlington)). Reported: April 2007
Denver, CO - Pueblo, CO US63
On the first Saturday of the Colorado State Fair, held in late August each year, Union Pacific operated a chartered public excursion from Denver, CO to Pueblo, CO over their and the joint UP/BNSF line (120 miles) in 2007. In announcing that the train would not run in 2008 (because of conflict of dates with the Democratic Convention in Denver), the organisers stated their intention that it would resume in 2009; however, no confirmation of this resumption has yet appeared. Details from Colorado State Fair Express. Reported: June 2007, amended June 2008, May 2009
Fishers, IN - Indianapolis, Indiana State Fairgrounds, IN US64
During the period in mid-August each year (2009: 7 - 23 August) of the Indiana State Fair, the Indiana Transportation Museum operate a shuttle service over this 11 mile route in place of their normal operations northwards from Fishers. Details from the museum's website. Reported: June 2007, amended August 2008, May 2009
Mott Haven (MO), NY US65
The third side of the triangle (wye) at Mott Haven junction (MO interlocking) is used by Metro-North Railroad special trains - when advertised during the baseball season - linking the New Haven and Harlem Lines with the Yankees-East 153rd Street station, serving the Yankees' Stadium. Train service details at MNR website. Reported: June 2007, amended May 2009
Dillwyn, VA - New Canton US66
Old Dominion Chapter, National Railway Historical Society, operate excursions over some 16 miles of the Buckingham Branch Railroad on six Saturdays each year (three in May and three in October), plus Santa trains in December. Details from their website. Reported: November 2007, amended August 2008, May 2009
Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway US67
Orrville Railroad Heritage Society have a operated fall-foliage 127 mile circular route from Orrville, OH via Brewster, Canton, Akron, Medina and Spencer in recent Octobers (2009 date: 11 October), and usually one other excursion annually in recent years over the W&LE. Details from their website, under Excursion Schedule. Reported: November 2007, amended March 2008, May 2009
Maryland & Delaware Railroad US 68
The M&DRR annually participates in runs between Hurlock, MD and Cambridge for the Heart of Chesapeake Country Heritage Days (held on a mid-May Saturday), and has made trips during the annual Delmarva Chicken Festival when it is held in towns they serve. Reported: November 2007, amended May 2009
[Secaucus Junction, NJ -] Sport interlocking - Meadowlands Sports Complex, NJ US69
A 1.9 mile branch, from a triangular junction with New Jersey Transit's Pascack Valley line is under construction to serve a station for special events at the sports complex. Opening due late 2009. Reported: November 2007, amended December 2007, September 2008
County (Millstone Jn) - Jersey Avenue [New Brunswick], NJ US70
New Jersey Transit terminating and starting trains here use a turn-back platform on the Millstone (now Clyde) freight branch. There is also a southbound platform on the through lines used by trains continuing to Trenton but none for northbound trains. Reported: November 2007
Kearny, NJ - Meadows US71
This short link line - the Waterfront Connection (sometimes known as Gold Coast Connection) - between the North East Corridor and the New Jersey Transit line is used by about 7 or 8 trains daily, direct between Newark Penn station and Hoboken: North Jersey Coast line trains SSuX, Raritan Valley line trains SSuO. Reported: November 2007
Yeadon, PA - Darby US 72
This 0.75 mile section of SEPTA "subway-surface trolley" (= streetcar or tram) route 13 is only used - as advertised - at shift change-over times by cars proceeding to or from Elmwood depot (they are unadvertised between Darby Transportation Center and Elmwood). Reported: November 2007
Chicago, IL: southern links between elevated Orange and Green Lines and tunnel Red Line US73
A short link between the Red Line and the elevated Orange Line - just north of Cermak-Chinatown station - is used by Red Line trains diverted over the elevated lines when the Red Line's tunnel section is closed for engineering work. A reverse connection at 17th Street Interlocking (south of the Roosevelt stations) provides a facility to divert Orange and Green Lines from their elevated section through the Red Line tunnel. Reported: November 2007, amended August 2008
Chicago, IL: Racine - Polk US74
This link between the Blue Line and Pink Line is used only during rush hours, SSuX. Reported: November 2007
Osceola, IA - Woodburn, IA and Shannon, IA - Indianola Jn and Halpin, IA - Frederic, IA US75
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound California Zephyr (trains # 5 and 6) are separated over these three sections. Reported: November 2007
MA Cabin (McDougal), WV - MJ Cabin, WV US76
The two tracks used by the west and eastbound Cardinal (trains # 50 and 51) are separated over this section. Reported: November 2007
Belleview, CO - Dayton, CO US77
Two south-east curves, with grade separated junctions at each end making them virtually two separate alignments, are used by Denver RTD light rail's peak-hour Lincoln - Nine Mile G Brown Line, SSuX (plus a single journey SSuO). Reported: November 2007, amended October 2008
Evans, CO - Louisiana-Pearl, CO US78
This south-east curve - avoiding I25 & Broadway station - is used by F Red Line and H Line depot workings from Evans (where shown with an Evans departure on the southbound Denver RTD light-rail F Red Line and H Blue Line timetable), between 0315 SSuX/0325 SSuO and 0541 SSuX/0841 SSuO, also 1438 SSuX.Note: in the opposite direction, depot journeys reverse at I25 & Broadway station or run empty.Reported: November 2007
(New Hope, PA -) Lahaska - Warminster, PA US80
New Hope & Ivyland Railroad operates regular tourist services throughout the year between New Hope and Lahaska (4.1 miles). In addition, the railroad has operated "Fall Foliage" excursions over the full length of their line to Warminster SEPT station (a further 14 miles) each recent year (2008 dates: every Saturday and Sunday in October). Reported: December 2007, amended August 2008
Various "Fall Foliage" trips US81
Various tourist railroads offer "Fall Foliage" trips each autumn (usually October weekends). While some traverse simply their regular route, others (including some listed here) cover sections of line not otherwise regularly traversed by passenger trains. A list (which does not distinguish between these two categories) appears on the Train Traveling.com Fall Colors Train Rides web page. Reported: December 2007, amended May 2009
Lycoming Valley Railroad, Williamsport, PA US82
The railroad operates "Fall Foliage" (October) and "Polar Express" (December) excursions under charter to Lycoming County Visitors Bureau. Reported: December 2007
Milford, NY towards Cooperstown Jn, NY US83
The Cooperstown & Charlotte Valley Railroad operate hi-rail and speeder (= draisine) trips south from Milford about 9 miles towards Cooperstown Junction during their annual Rail days event on the first weekend in August (2008 dates: 2/3 August 2008).Note: no mention on their website of a 2009 event. Reported: December 2007, amended May 2009
San Francisco International Airport, CA – Millbrae, CA US84
On the BART [Bay Area Rapid Transit] rail system this section of line is used only by a very limited service of four to six trains each way daily at the beginning and end of service - see journeys timed between SFO and MILL and vice versa on their Yellow route timetable. Reported: December 2007
Cedar Park, TX - Bertram - Burnet, TX US85
The Austin Steam Train operates regular year-round tourist services over the tracks of the Austin Area Terminal Railroad - normally restricted to Cedar Park - Bertram (23.3 miles). However, from March to May and again from October to December the railroad operates weekend excursions on to Burnet (a further 11.3 miles) when advertised as The Hill Country Flyer. Details from their website. Reported: April 2009
Boston MA: Government Center – Bowdoin US86
Bowdoin, the westernmost station on Boston MBTA's Blue Line, and the section of line from Government Center station are only open Mondays to Fridays, until ca. 1800. Details from the MBTA website. Reported: May 2009
Bethpage, BETH (Bethpage Jn), NY - Babylon, Belmont Jn, NY US87
The Central Branch is an 8.2 mile link between the Main Line and the Montauk branch, providing an alternative route for the latter west of Babylon. Booked passenger use is four single journeys - principally for students and workers from Babylon and east to Hicksville and Mineola - which are shown to call at either or both the latter stations in the current schedules (select Montauk branch).
Service at May 2009:
Notionally, any train in the 27xx series running non-stop west of Babylon could use this route, but usually they run via the Montauk Branch (i.e. via Valley Stream), overtaking stopping trains by the deft use of reversible signalling.
Reported: May 2009
US66 to US78 added, CA3, CA18, MX1, US18, US19, US51, US53, US54 & US56 amended (12 December 2007); US67, 68 & 69 amended (16 December 2007); US79, US80 & US81 added (23 December 2007); US82 & US83 added, CA15 amended (30 December 2007); CA19 added, US82 amended (7 January 2008); AU14, AU15 & US84 added, AU3, AU8, AU9, AU11, CA16, CA19 & SG1 amended, AU5 deleted (14 January 2008); US12, US19 & US67 amended (11 March 2008); AU16 added, AU11 amended (15 June 2008); AU11, US7, US12 amended (22 June 2008); US63 amended (11 July 2008); AU16, CA13, CA17, CA19, NZ2, SY1, US6, US7, US10, US12, US14, US16, US18, US21, US23, US26, US30, US32, US43, US50, US53, US54, US55, US64, US66, US73, US80 amended, US79 deleted (30 August 2008); CA3 & US69 amended, US30 deleted (3 September 2008); US52 deleted, US18, US77 amended (19 October 2008); AU15 amended (22 October 2008); CA20 added, US3 amended (7 November 2008); AU11 & AU16 amended (6 January 2009); US12 amended (8 February 2009); AU17, AU18, AU19 added, AU8, AU9 amended (18 February 2009); US11 & US29 amended (14 April 2009); US85 added, US6 amended (27 April 2009); US86 & US87 added, US6, US12, US16, US21, US26, US53, US55, US56, US63, US64, US65, US66, US67, US68, US81 & US83 amended (1 June 2009); US14 & US18 amended (18 June 2009).
We are always grateful for contributions, up-dates or comments, and are pleased to thank the following (in alphabetical order) for information:
Dave Arthur, David Boone, Tim Bruno, Alan Butler, Dan Carter, Brian Cutter, Bob Douglas, John Emery, John Friedmann, John Godfrey, Jörg Hänsel, Clive Haines, John Harmon, Mike Harris, Robert Heavenrich, Stan Hunter, Victor Isaacs, Andrew Jennings, Kevin Keefe, Joe Maloney, William Marsh, Richard Maund, Karl McKinney, Gregor McNeil, Ian Mortimer, Ron Newman, Steve Patterson, Bill Schafer, Paul Steane, Walt Stringer, Carol Sulanke, Christian Teufel, Ian Umpleby, Mark Waller, Chuck Weinstock.
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