Hello all, My friend and I are taking our first trip to Berea, Ohio in 3 weeks and it will be for about 3 full days. I had a few questions about the area, because I am not at all familiar with this location. When I look on rail-picture websites, most of the pictures are taken by the interlocking tower where the CSX and NS lines run next to each other for about half a mile. I wanted to make sure this was an ok spot to film, photograph, and foam. I have had experiences where I have gone to a common railfan spot and the police threaten to sue me if I don't leave. Such examples are Riverton Jct, Folkston, and Cresson. Anyway, I just wanted to be sure this would not happen. Is there any sort of lul in traffic in Berea, if so when? As I said, I am not familiar with the time tables of this location. I just know there are over 100 trains a day. Lastly, what time does Union Pacific's Salad train run through Berea? I just want to know to be sure I catch it. Thanks all, -Cadence
We last visited Bera in 1997, but there was/is a very safe roadside place to stand along Depot Street. We parked in the depot parking lot and walked the very short distance. Things change, but I'd be very surprised if anyone tries to run you off. It was a busy spot back then and should remain so today. Sun is good for most of the day as I recall. Enjoy! Here's a low rez scan from the spot we stood at on the day we visited:
The area has changed a bit since '97. An over pass was built over the tracks to replace the grade crossings. There is a parking lot to the west of the depot that can be seen in a few of the shots from the following link. Just look for other rail fans and you'll see where to park. This should give you an idea of what you'll be seeing. As well as to a few other locations in the area if you've time to explore. https://akronrrclub.wordpress.com/tag/railfanning-at-berea-ohio/ the ex's sister lived two streets south of here. So I didn't mind traveling from Columbus much for family visits.
Ok, thanks for the information! The trip is less than 3 weeks away so I am excited to go to one of the places I have wanted to go for a while.
Let us know how it goes and post some pictures if you wish. It's indeed fun to finally see a place that you've dreamt about. When I was young, the AT&SF was my favorite road and I wondered about exotic and distant locations like Raton, NM. Some 25 Years later I was able to visit Raton and I remember looking at my boots in the dirt amazed that I was actually there.
