by CN9634
pfnd wrote:Total newbie question, I'm sure. But that's fitting since I'm a newbie and this is my first post. I searched the forum for this information and didn't find it. I apologize if it's been gone over.Welcome to the Forum!
If I'm going to Rigby yard, is there a way I can figure out a good time to go and actually see a decent amount of train activity? Is there a schedule or anything? I'm looking to take someone over on a Saturday or a Sunday but I don't want to not see anything.
Also, aside from the small spot on route 1 overlooking the yard, can you also go down into Rigby Storage's parking area? That looks like it would be a good vantage point but also not on RR property.
Thanks for any tips on spotting there!
Unfortunately, due to some Trespassing Violations by certain 'railfans', the parking lot is off limits to non-employees. That isn't to say people do not go there anymore, but it is at your own risk. In all honesty, the places outside of the yard are your best spots for trains. Pretty much, keep a scanner handy and be prepared to move between Winnock's Neck, Veteran's bridge and Read Street.
Pretty much here is a break down.
Morning you will see some inbound freights. POED and SJPO or WAPO.
At around noon to 1 you will see EDPO head west.
Anywhere from 3 to 6 you will see PORU leave.
Anywhere from 5 to 7 you will see SEPO arrive
RUPO, POSE, POWA and recently reused AYWA and WAAY will probably be night time moves. RUPO might arrive late evening around 8 or 9. POSE is on duty around 11 and won't leave Portland until 2AM. Not sure about POWA but there is more traffic between Portland and Waterville due to MMA detour traffic and increased NBSR traffic.
Good luck.