In the distance, I hear the train whistle of the 5pm train through Leavenworth, KS. It is not quite 5pm, the train is actually early today, but I recognize the time it comes through. Freight trains times are not always precise, but if you pay attention they can be predictable. Knowing these predictable times can be important when it comes to getting out and seeing the train pass by and maybe catching a photo.
Tracking your local trains is easy if you have the patience to keep a small record and alertness to catch the trains as they pass. Once you have collected data over several days and weeks, you will have a good idea when the local train traffic is expected to pick up.
The first way to track the local trains is to observe. Observation is key to tracking because through observation, you can identify locations of area tracks, safe places to watch the trains, and you will also see when the trains pass by. You may want to write down some of this information in your log. However, you also may consider printing out a map to write your observations.
Another way to easily track the trains is to listen. From observing the trains that are around you, you will able to determine where the tracks are in relation to your house. Once you first here a train, you can determine which track that it may be on. Then begin to write down when you hear the horn blow as it passes over an intersection. Recording these several days and weeks in a row will give you a great idea of when the trains are passing through the area. By determining which tracks are active can also help you to determine where to spend your time watching for the trains.
A third way to easily track trains is by using a radio scanner. With a simple radio scanner or analog police scanner, you can program the railroad frequencies into the radio and listen as the radio traffic picks up as the trains pass by. Recording these on your log will also give you a great amount of information to help you show up at the right time to see a train.
Through observing, listening, and scanning, you will collect a detailed schedule of when to go out and see the trains as they pass through your town. It is important that you always watch trains safely and at a distance.