Lucky coincidences on my bike

Trains Magazine General Discussion
1

It has been a wonderful two days to say the least. I’ve been out twice on the North Shore trail for a bit of exercise and each time happened across six trains.

Yesterday, I caught three Metra on the Fox Lake Line while I watched EJ&E #703 make a delivery of stone and haul away other hoppers. Then as I was returning, caught a Metra on the Antioch line and an odd-ball freight. It was one CN engine (sorry, I was too far away to catch the number) and about 6 cars of mixed freight hauling through Mundelein at full speed.

Today, I again went out to Rondout and caught 2 Metra on the Fox Lake line, outbound and inbound Hiawathas (that is a rush when they fly underneath the bridge at full speed), and EJ&E #703 came by again. On my way back, I caught the back end of a more usual length (100-140 or so cars) CN freight heading north.

For a grand total of 4 hours of bike riding, the 12 trains made the trips worth it. I’m looking forward to riding again!

2

Exersize and trains, what a great way to pass the time.

3

I still bike to work in good weather whenever possible. Used to work afternoons, leaving early enough to take the “scenic route” through Elmhurst. Between the tracks, the hobby shop, and places to grab a bite to eat, I was seldom lacking for excitement.

Now that I work days, I have to go directly in (5 a.m. is early enough to get up, thanks!). Often, though, I’ll “go the extra mile” to take a less direct route out of the yard. Or, if my route is blocked by trains, take the shortcut to Elmhurst (less desirable because of rocky road and portaging involved). Oh, we railfans get by…