Interesting in the second video, how we can see the tail end of this train, way back beyond the bridge. It really gives a feel for how the "flyover" is situated.
That's one of my favorite things about this spot! It's just rare that I get there at the same time as one train, let alone two!
This coal train had 3 on the head end and 1 DP pusher on the rear. It was a 96 degree day, but I got these guys about 10 this morning bedfore that. And earlier in the day, I had gotten this short V-train.
Since yesterday I passed up another bday, working, I spent some time this morning chasing a coal train. There is a second bridge crossing Glendive creek just east of town that I have always wanted to catch a train on, so I made a point of doing that today. It's near the old original NP alignment, which can be seen on google maps all along the line up this creek. All that is left there are the piers. As steep as the grade is, I had lots of time to get to the crossing just west of the Beaver Hill summit and video the train just before the crest.
I forget when, but the NP did some major realignments in the early 1900's(?) to eliminate curvature. And there were a LOT of curves removed from this hill! If a fella knows what to look for, they are fairly easy to spot.
Grain power here in the pumpkin patch on Glendive's west end. The three unit set just landed and the crew is loading up in the van. And this guy needs a trip to paint! All that was yesterday. This morning I got to catch this empty and loaded coal train passing at the east end. It ain't often I get to see two trains in quick succession like this. After the empty left town, the yard was empty most of the day. Makes me wonder how much longer these trains will be pulling coal.
Considering the fire damage, and the unit color, maybe we should reference BNSF units with such damage as "toasted cheese....?"
"toasted cheese?" That's funny! Got the chance this last week to follow the 8400-6375 as they light powered up to collect a gravel train, then after as they came down to town. I was on my way out of town to do a short job, which gave them the time to get hooked in and air tested. So, on my way back into town, the train was heading back over the old wooden trestle over Seven Mile Creek. And, my next job took me around town to see the crew tieing the train down. Then yesterday I spotted it in the yard, empty, waiting for it's turn to go fill back up again. Sometimes my 'work' is just so tough!
Those Clinchfield cars have been here for years. Re-lettered for BGSX, so I assume that the gravel outfit bought them from a car surplus outfit.
I had also noted and asked about these cars, quite some time ago. This sort of history is what makes the rail hobbies so interesting.
The yard has been pretty empty here lately. I hear trains from home or jobsites, but not usually when I can get them shot. So I did get a neat shot of this set of power waiting for service or to go back to it's train. The CN unit is weird with an EMD style cab on a GE. The switch is also a unique combination of sequential units!
Is that a BNSF "Heritage" hopper at about 2:50 in the flyover video? Looks like the Santa Fe emblem??
Yes, it was way back. I have seen only two of the heritage units out here, that one and one of the NP.
Even tho coal traffic is down, there are still lots of tons rolling along. Here are three. The first was on Tuesday, 18 July, and the second two were on Wednesday, 19 July. The cars are starting to show a little age, some have patch panels and other repairs. There are many BN green cars in the sets, as well.
Heard on radio news, early last evening that UP was reporting an upsurge in coal traffic. Am wondering if BNSF will see the same. Thinking of course of more than just seasonal loads....
I had to go back and watch that video because I didn't notice it before. It looks like that was one of the Heritage hoppers. I wish BNSF had a heritage fleet like NS, but at least it is not as bad as the CSX heritage nose logos.
