How can i find out when a northbound train is coming through?

Question

The kids love watching the train but they are so unpredictable. is there a way i can find out certian times that the train goes northbound through Greene, Iowa? Thanks!

Answer 1

Contact the operating company(ies) that use the line and ask them if you could have a copy of the Working Timetable.

Say you're a railfan and interested in their operations, etc.

Failing that there's always...http://www.trainweb.com/index.html

#1 railfan website for the US, they should be able to help.

Answer 2

Buy a radio scanner that covers 160.110 megahertz to 161.565. Look up the frequency(ies) for your area and start listening. If there are defect detectors within a few miles of you, you should be able to work out that a train is coming. Or you can listen to dispatcher chatter and determine it that way.

Answer 3

If you are talking freight, it may not be possible (terrorist resource information is not to be given out :-), but try calling the railroad and asking as you have here.   Alternatively, ask someone who works near the rail line if trains go through on a schedule, they may have to plan their travel to avoid delay.