I've lived practically next door to this yard for 10 years, but have never tried to find a way down to it. Today, while heading down 169, I saw that there was a triple lash-up of UP locos at work, so I decided to go have a closer look. I figured out how to get to the yard, but not knowing where I was "allowed" to go, I just pulled off the road into the driveway. I sat there for a bit just watching, the whole time getting what I took to be "the evil eye" from a couple of guys standing outside the yard office. I left after a few minutes. Anybody familiar with that yard? Are they tolerant of observers, or is it best to just stay away?
were you sitting on the east end right where 169 goes overhead? from what I recall when I was on the CP Shakopee job there wasn't much room near the yard office to sit and there arent many good places anywhere else to sit. I cant say if they will chase you off or not, I never get to that side of the cities so I have never tried it.
Yep, that's exactly where I was, pulled up right under the sign warning about remotely-operated locomotives.
That's Valley Park Yard. The yard itself doesn't have any good places to hang out. What you can do is head a little west down 101 and there are plenty of great spots to watch the trains rolling through. Another spot to check out the UP in the cities is in South St. Paul off of Concorde Ave. at Bryant Ave. There is a bridge over the yard there into a large city park that gives you great legal access for picture taking. If you get down there before 7:00 am most days you will have a few hours with plenty of action (if you like Armour Yellow)
Not partial to UP, I just happened to see activity as I drove by. Thanks for the tip on South St. Paul, I'll definately go check that out. Looking at Google Maps, that bridge looks like a great vantage point.
Hi Tracy, My name is Jim Colehour and I live in Bloomington. I'm just starting in (Kato) N scale. If possible I would really enjoy seeing your layout. My home phone is 952-941-1289.
Hi Tracy, My name is Jim Colehour and I live in Bloomington close to Bush Lake. I'm just getting started in N scale (still looking for a small switching plan). Is there anyway that I could tour your layout? It looks great in your pictures. Let me know if possible. Jim
