Directory of Campgrounds and Motels/Hotels near Railroads

Please note: Effective June 2009 this directory is no longer being updated. Please do not submit new entries for inclusion in this list.

Southwestern United States

Arizona

Fairfield Inn
Flagstaff, AZ
USA
Comments: "In Flagstaff, there are a few near the tracks (sorry I can't remember the names) and in Holbrook the nicer hotels advertise 'No Train Noise'. In Flagstaff, I stayed in a Fairfield Inn which was 5 blocks from the tracks (ATSF main)."

Source: Eric.Maiwald@mail.citicorp.com (Last revision date: 22 Jul 1994)

Holiday Inn Flagstaff
2320 East Lucky Lane
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
USA
Phone: 800-533-2754
Comments: "The Holiday Inn Flagstaff is located next to the BNSF line that runs through Flagstaff. You can see and definitely hear the trains."

Source: Holiday Inn Flagstaff (Last revision date: 11 Mar 2004)

Howard Johnsons
Flagstaff, AZ
USA
Comments: "The HoJo in Flagstaff Az. (I think its on old route 66), another hotel across the highway from the Santa Fe mainline."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thursday, 14 July 1994)

Motel 6
Flagstaff, AZ
USA
Comments: "One of the four Motel 6's in Flagstaff is within 200 feet of the Santa Fe mainline. The best part of the drive from Texas to California on I-40 was waking up, going outside, and seeing the Southwest Chief heading east, with a Genesis locomotive on the head end."

Source: email (Last revision date: Tue, 12 Jul 94)

Best Western Space Age Lodge
401 E. Pima Street (State Hwy. 85)
Gila Bend, AZ
USA
Phone: 928-683-2273
Train Frequency: 30-35 trains per day, including Amtrak.
Comments: This motel is a refurbished "futuristic" space-age vision from the 1950's, along with an adjoining restaurant. The former SP's Sunset Route passes 100' feet behind the motel. As new owner, the UP runs many trains, 85% of which are either containers, piggyback, or autos. Although the rooms don't face the railroad, small bathroom windows should allow visibility to see the trains from the rooms.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Best Western Space Age Lodge
401 E. Pima
Gila Bend, AZ
USA
Phone: 602-683-2273
Comments: "It's located right on the north side of the SP main, and you can see passing trains from the bathroom window."

Source: July 1996 Railfan & Railroad (Last revision date: 23 Aug 1996)

El Coronado Motel
Pima Street (State Hwy. 85)
Gila Bend, AZ
USA
Phone: 928-683-2281
Train Frequency: 30-35 trains per day, including Amtrak.
Comments: This motel faces the former SP's Sunset Route, but the highway lies in between. Request a 2nd floor room for better visibility.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Pay Less Inn
E. Pima Street (State Hwy. 85)
Gila Bend, AZ
USA
Train Frequency: 30-35 trains per day, including Amtrak.
Comments: An inexpensive motel, it faces the highway, while the former SP's Sunset Route passes 100' feet behind it. 2nd floor rooms have bathroom windows facing the railroad.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Best Western
Holbrook, AZ
USA
Comments: "In Holbrook the nicer hotels advertise "No Train Noise".
"In Holbrook it was a Best Western which was also about 5 blocks from the ATSF main."

Source: Eric.Maiwald@mail.citicorp.com (Last revision date: 22 Jul 1994)

Name: [None]
Kingman, AZ
USA
Comments: " Driving about 3000 miles west on I-40, to Kingman AZ, the Santa Fe main line is right along the motel strip on Historic Route 66."

Source: richdean@intercall.com (Last revision date: Sat, 16 Jul 94)

Best Value Inn
Former Route 66, near I-40 (Exit 53)
Kingman, AZ
USA
Train Frequency: At least 50 freight trains per day, including Amtrak
Comments: This motel was being constructed as of 12/06, and expected completion was to be Late Spring, 2007. The rear of the motel will have nine 2nd-floor rooms facing BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) mainline between Chicago and LA, approx. 150 feet away. It should be a great unobstructed location for RR fans, as it should all but be impossible to miss a passing train. Room numbers are 221-237, odd numbers only.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Quality Inn
1400 E. Andy Devine Ave. (former Route 66) (near I-40, Exit 51 or 53)
Kingman, AZ
USA
Train Frequency: At least 50 freight trains per day, including Amtrak
Comments: This motel is located on a hill overlooking BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) mainline between Chicago and LA. Room numbers 204-219 and 270-276 command a good view. By the way, Gene Hackman once slept in room #204. Could he have been a railroad fan?!

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Ramblin' Rose Motel
Kingman, AZ
USA
Comments: "My favorite motel for RR viewing in Arizona is the Ramblin' Rose Motel on old Highway 66 in Kingman. It is located across the highway from the southbound Santa Fe main line. The northbound line is also visible but is about one quarter mile away."
"The motel used to be a Travelodge. It is very clean and well run and is only about $20 a night in the off-season. The upstairs rooms at the east end of the motel have a great view of the very active Santa Fe tracks."

Source: danl@netcom.com (Last revision date: Sat, 23 Jul 1994)

Embassey Suites
Phoenix, AZ
USA
Comments: "...there is an Embassey Suites in Phoenix that is across the street from one of the Santa Fe lines. I believe this is a branch line as it did not see a lot of traffic the night I was there."

Source: Eric.Maiwald@mail.citicorp.com (Last revision date: 22 Jul 1994)

KOA Campground
E. Highway 66, P.O. Box 156
Seligman, AZ 86337
USA
Phone: (520) 422-3358
Train Frequency: "Estimated 20-30 trains per day or more; somewhat fewer on Sundays and Mondays."
Comments: "Exit 123 off ramp from I-40, or take old Route 66 east out of Kingman for a more interesting drive along the Santa Fe. This KOA campground is just across the road from the Santa Fe (now BNSF) mainline, and is a great place to use as a base of operations or just relax and watch trains. Williams, Pan Canyon, Crozier Canyon, and the Crookton Line Change are all within easy driving distance. The campground has two Kamping Kabins with electricity, 3 beds, heaters and air conditioning if you don't want to rough it. The sound show at night is spectacular, as there's a grade crossing a few hundred feet away (also some classic signal bridges; you can see the signal indications from almost anywhere in the campground). Watch out for Route 66 Days in the Spring, which can get crowded."
"As of our last visit in Spring of 2001, the grade crossing by the campground had been closed, and the classic signal bridge was lying on its side. You can no longer see the signals from the campground, but a few engineers still whistled for the crossing once in a while."

Source: downs@nevada.edu (Last revision date: 31 August 2001)

Canyon Country Inn
Williams, AZ
USA
Phone: 1-800-643-1020
Comments: "This is where the Grand Canyon Railroad begins/ends... It is a bed and breakfast that is very comfortable. If you like the chain places, this isn't for you. It isn't very large, and the rooms are cozy. There was quite a bit of frilly stuff (stuffed animals, crafty decorations, etc) in the rooms, which would probably please the better half. I have no affiliation with it, other than to say of the 8 or so places we stayed in on that trip, this was the nicest. It is located on Route 66 in Williams (yes, THE route 66), and Williams is not very big, so finding it isn't a problem. There was a rail line right across the street from the hotel, and a few older Santa Fe boxcars there, but I don't know if it is active. The Grand Canyon RR is just down the street (about a five minute walk)."
"The Canyon Country Inn is the first choice with my fellow railfan friend and myself. The rooms are clean and have that "home away from home" feel. There is a free continental breakfast of orange juice, coffee, fruit, and pastries."
"One reason we always go back to Canyon Country Inn is because of its close proximity to the ATSF (now BNSF) tracks as it leaves Williams Junction, passes through Williams and the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, and on to Phoenix via the Peavine. We typically ask for the rooms facing Railroad Avenue and the depot, so that we may view the passing trains (or be awakened by them)."
"As far as restaurants are concerned, we stay with our two favorites. For dinner, we always go to Rod's Steakhouse, 301 E. Bill Williams Ave. We enjoy the fine dining, fair price, and the attentive staff."
"After the continental breakfast, and before railfanning, we stop by The Cowboy's Kitchen, 117 E. Bill Williams Ave, for a hearty breakfast. Despite its lack of interior charm, the prices can't be beat for for the amount of food."
"With the onset of summer around the corner, these establishments do fill up fast with vacationers and people heading up north from the Phoenix area (like ourselves) to beat the heat. Reservations are highly recomended for Canyon Country Inn. "

Source: titus@optica.gatech.edu, email (Last revision date: Sun, 28 Apr 1996)

Holiday Inn Express
hwy 66
Williams, AZ
USA
Comments: "In Williams, Ariz. there is a Holiday Inn Express on hwy 66 across from the Santa Fe line that goes to Phoenix."

Source: email (Last revision date: Mon, 5 Feb 96)

La Posada
303 E 2nd St (Route 66)
Winslow, AZ
USA
Phone: (520) 289-4366
Train Frequency: "70-80 trains per day, including 2 Amtrak"
Comments: "A former Harvey House, this was the last major railway hotel in Arizona. Now being renovated with 20 out of 40 rooms done. Next to the Santa Fe mainline."

Source: email (Last revision date: 31 August 2001)

California

Carpinteria State Beach
CA
USA
Comments: "On the SP Coast line in Santa Barbara County."

Source: email (Last revision date: Mon, 5 Aug 1996)

Jalama Beach County Park
CA
USA
Comments: "On the SP Coast line in Santa Barbara County."

Source: email (Last revision date: Mon, 5 Aug 1996)

Refugio State Beach
CA
USA
Comments: "On the SP Coast line in Santa Barbara County... A nice sandstone undercrossing passes beneath the tracks at the entrance to the campground."

Source: email (Last revision date: Mon, 5 Aug 1996)

Thousand Trails Camping and RV Resorts
4700 Crown Valley Rd.
Acton, CA 93510
USA
Phone: (805) 269-1740
Comments: "Campsites are located adjacent to Metolink's Los Angeles to Lancaster line near a passing track (CP Ravenna)."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thu, 11 Jun 1998)

Holiday Inn
1511 East Main St.
Barstow, CA
USA
Comments: "I can't believe you don't have a listing for the Holiday Inn on 1511 East Main St in Barstow, Calif. Get a trackside room on the 2nd floor then sit back and watch the show with Santa Fe, Union Pacific and Amtrack providing the activity on the Santa Fe mainline."

Source: email (Last revision date: Mon, 5 Feb 96)

Ramada Inn
1511 East Main Street
Barstow, CA
USA
Train Frequency: "Traffic peaks at about 6-8 trains an hour with occasional lulls, trains often pass on the double track here."
Comments: "Get room 206 or 306 and sit back and watch intensive BNSF and UP action all night. Trains are illuminated by the light poles in the car park so you won't miss anything - except sleep! ….. Don't forget to take a quick trip up to Daggett to check out the action here as UP splits off from BNSF and trains stack up waiting entry into Barstow... also go and race the stack trains along route 66 which runs east from here, a real blast for this Limey!"

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 14 Nov 2003)

Doheny State Beach
Dana Point, CA
USA
Comments: "This is on the the Amtrack, So Pacific, and another comuter train that runs from Los Angels to Oceanside, Ca (3 counties LA,Orange,San Diego) Doheny SB State Beach Dana Point, Ca 3-4 miles West of San Juan Capistrano, Ca on the coast. Additional State park in San Diego on coast but not as close as DOHO.(Same as the Beach Boy's tune.) http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=645 Yes you are within 100 yards of the rails here so lock your stuff when you go out. There is a Pub down U.S. 1 or Pacific Coast Highway with pool tables, darts, TV and across the street the beach (DOHO) and the train tracks with beautiful sunsets. Lots to do in area."

Source: email (Last revision date: Tue, 14 Jan 2003)

Doubletree Guest Suites Doheny Beach
34402 Pacific Coast Highway
Dana Point, CA 92629
USA
Phone: 1-949-661-1100
Comments: "Across PCH [from Doheny Beach] is a Doubletree Inn: http://www.doubletree.com/en/dt/hotels/index.jhtml?moreDesc=true&ctyhocn=SNAPEDT Which has a train bridge crossing PCH to DOHO campground there are also some hotels down by the Buckingham palace Pub Holiday Express ect."

Source: email (Last revision date: Tue, 14 Jan 2003)

Glen Ellen Regional Park
Devore, CA
USA
Comments: "In California, Glen Ellen Regional Park at Devore has a campground with semi-decent views of BNSF-UP and the UP (ex-SP) lines climbing Cajon Pass. It has showers but not much in the way of trees or shade. It has good road access both (rail) directions (also into LA, but that isn't as big a concern)."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thu, 02 Jul 1998)

Castle Crags State Park
Dunsmuir, CA
USA
Comments: "- environmental campground. A few miles from their main campground, on the other (east) side of Highway 5. Exit at Soda Creek Road, then left on First Street. Walk-in (very short distance) campground sites are on the headwaters of Sacramento River. Just across the river is the Union Pacific mainline - nice and noisy."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

Cave Springs Resort
Dunsmuir, CA
USA
Train Frequency: Approx. 20 trains/day
Comments: "Several years ago I stayed at: 1) Cave Springs Resort 2) Dunsmuir, California 3) sorry, don't know phone # 4) Across the Sacramento River from Southern Pacific' Shasta Line Approx. 20 trains/day 5) Trains are clearly visable from the motel grounds. Tracks are visible for about 1/4 mile, winding up the canyon. Trains are AUDIBLE ALL DAY AND NITE. 6) The Shasta Line in this area is 2%+ grade, helpers, VERY WINDING. You can't hear the engines for the wheels screeching on the curves. Great view of railroad AND Mount Shasta from the same spot. World class fishing area."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thu, 21 Jul 94)

Nutglade Station
Dunsmuir, CA
USA
Phone: 916-235-0532
Comments: "Try this if you are in Dunsmuir, Ca.
"This restored old hotel in the historic district of Dunsmuir has been open for about 16 months. It is about 30yds from the tracks and two rooms, #7 and #8 overlook the yard/main line of the SP Shasta line. You can fall asleep and wake up to the sound of helpers idling in the yard (I love the smell of diesel in the morning!!)."
"This is not your convential chain motel if that's what your looking for. The rooms are clean, comfortable and eclectic. The owners, while not real railfans, are great and can give you info on train movements. Jill and Eric also provide guests with free muffins and coffee, Guiness on tap (not free), and real pool tables."
"Train frequency on the SP Shasta line is unpredictable (10-15 trains/day?). When I was there in late July, most movements were on the weekend, mostly intermodal traffic delivering trailers for the start of business on Monday morning. The new SD70's came through early in the morning."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thu, 11 Aug 94)

Railroad Inn / Caboose Motel
100 Railroad Park Rd.
Dunsmuir, CA
USA
Phone: (916) 235-4440
Train Frequency: "Lots of evening (North) and morning (South) traffic, with trains running all night. Amtrak runs both ways at night."
Comments: "Directions: 1 mi. (1.6Km) South of town on I-5. Railroad Park Exit."
"22 Caboose's (Cabeese?) Rooms, 4 Cabins, 1 Boxcar (Don't know about windows), ? Campsites"
"There is about 100 miles and a big mountain range in between Highway 101 which runs more or less along the coast and Dunsmuir." Rates (2p w/ Bath) $ 65.US Queen; $ 75.US King. Restaurant review (My $.02): We stayed here on two separate dates 3 and 4 years ago. The rooms are in converted railroad caboose cars, one room to a car. There are several styles including top and side coupola. The conversions are very well done and nicely furinshed. One disadvantage, the insulation in these things appears to be next to nill. In spring or fall no problem. We stayed the first time in winter and the heater ran nearly non-stop all night. Summer in this area can get HOT, well above 100F is normal. These things might be like little solar ovens in the afternoon. We ate at the resturant. It was quite good, including a nice wine list. Dunsmuir (SP MP 322.1) is not much. Crew change point between SP's Valley and Black Butte Districts on the Shasta Division. Historically an important railroad town which served as helper station for the grade up to Klamath Falls. The old Siskiyou Line to Medford joins this line at Black Butte Junction (SP MP 336.7) which in an good train watching spot. Access is from Weed, follow the tracks. Mt. Shasta Junction (SP MP 336.7) is one end of the McCloud River RR. Historically significant (logging) shortline. Rail activity on SP's Shasta Division seems to be governed by daily MOW windows. We camped by the mainline this May (94). Lots of evening (North) and morning (South) traffic, with trains running all night. Amtrak runs both ways at night. Use scanner to listen to talking detectors (161.55 MHz)."

Source: email (Last revision date: Wed, 21 Jun 1995)

Name: [None]
Gaviota, CA
USA
Comments: "There is a state run campground under neath the Trestle at Gaviota State beach. This is on the Starlight route." "One of the posts on this list mentioned Gaviota State Park campground, beneath the Gaviota trestle. It's perhaps the most scenic spot for camping and railfanning in Santa Barbara County, but other options include: Carpinteria State Beach, Refugio State Beach (a nice sandstone undercrossing passes beneath the tracks at the entrance to the campground), and Jalama Beach County Park."

Source: newell@megatek.com (Last revision date: Sun, 17 Jul 1994)

Motel 6
82 Indio Blvd.
Indio, CA 92201
USA
Phone: 760-342-6311
Train Frequency: "40+ trains per day between L.A. and El Paso, and I expect the volume to increase during the next 1-3 years as the UP double-tracks the line."
Comments: "Located on the NW side of Indio with many rooms facing the U.P. mainline, formerly the SP's Sunset Route, the motel appears to be pretty new. The motel is near MP 610, so go south on Monroe St. from Exit 140 on I-10 to Indio Blvd. As I recall, you'll want to turn east (left) on Indio Blvd., but I'm not 100% sure of that last turn. In any event, I'm all but certain that billboard directions will guide you in the right direction."

Source: email (Last revision date: 27 Jan 2008)

Name: [None]
Keddie, CA
USA
Comments: "The Forest Service has just opened a campground about 1 mile west of the famousY-trestle on the Union Pacific at Keddie, CA. It is on the site of the formerCamp Wallace Alexander run by the Boy Scouts. The visitor's map of the PlumasNational Forest shows it as 'CAMP (BSA)'".
"To reach the camp, take CA 70 about 1 mile west from the area where you can see the Keddie Y-trestle. The highway crosses Spanish Creek on a large bridge. About 100 feet past the west end of the bridge, turn left (toward the river). There is a large unmarked paved entrance road into the campground."
"Facilities are not fully developed. There are tables and stoves, and a couple of portable toilets. I don't know about water."
"From the upper level of the campground, you can see the UP line down the Feather River, although a few trees are in the way."
"Although you can't see the Y-trestle from the camp, it might be a good base for watching trains in the canyon."

Source: forags@nature.Berkeley.EDU (Last revision date: 19 Jul 1994)

Best Western - Antelope Valley Inn
44055 Sierra Highway
Lancaster, CA 93534
USA
Phone: (805) 948-4651
Comments: "There are a number of hotels along the west side of Sierra Highway in Lancaster, CA. UP's (former SP) line from Colton to the Bay Area runs along the east side of Sierra Highway. The Best Western provides very pleasant accomodations (nice restaurant, pool, a Japanese garden) but few if any of the rooms look directly out onto the railroad."
"The Best Western Antelope Valley is located a little less than one mile south of the Metrolink rail station in Lancaster. Taxi service is available if you do not wish to walk that far."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 5 Jun 1998)

Desert Inn Motor Hotel & Restaurant
44219 Sierra Highway
Lancaster, CA 93534
USA
Phone: (805) 942-8401
Comments: "The Desert Inn is one of a number of hotels along the west side of Sierra Highway in Lancaster, CA. UP's (former SP) line from Colton to the Bay Area runs along the east side of Sierra Highway. It appeared from a Metrolink train that the Desert Inn had rooms which faced the railroad."
"The Desert Inn is located a little less than one mile south of the Metrolink rail station in Lancaster. Taxi service is available if you do not wish to walk that far."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 5 Jun 1998)

Mecca Beach Campground
Salton Sea State Recreational Area, State Hwy. 111 south of Mecca, CA (MP 643)
Mecca, CA
USA
Train Frequency: "40+ trains per day, mostly container and piggyback trains."
Comments: "Here's an extremely unique location for the camping or RV railroad enthusiast between Palm Springs and Yuma, AZ. Nearby is the lowest RR location in North America (150' below sea level), and the campground is only 500' from the SP's Sunset Route between L.A. and New Orleans. Beach on the 'sea' is within walking distance."
"Campsites with or without hookups are available. If you don't like the heat, visit here during non-summer months only. As information, the winter-month vacancy appears to be wide open, as of 1/08. To check probable availability or for more information, contact the California Dept. of Parks and Recreation."

Source: email (Last revision date: 27 Jan 2008)

Millbrae Travelodge
110 South El Camino Real
Millbrae, CA
USA
Phone: (415) 697-7373
Comments: "(800) 255-3050 (Travelodge's Nationwide number)"
"This motel is located adjacent to the CalTrain station in Millbrae on the San Francisco - San Jose commute line. Rooms with a view of the tracks may be requested. Most of the action is CalTrain's commute service. Samtrans provides some service to the San Francisco International Airport. (Do not confuse with the San Francisco International Airport Travelodge)."

Source: Passenger Train Journal - March 1990 Issue (Last revision date: Sun, 19 Feb 1995)

Doubletree Hotel
1150 9th Street
Modesto, CA
USA
Phone: (209) 526-6000
Comments: "Request a high-up room, facing west toward the tracks. This Fresno subdivision is an unusually busy line running through the Central Valley. Plenty of passenger service. Modesto isn't Paris, but what the heck."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

Holiday Inn Express
4100 Salida Blvd.
Modesto, CA 95358
USA
Phone: 800-768-3500
Comments: "Inn is situated between Highway 99 and the UP (ex-SP) mainline on the north side of Modesto. About 1/3 of the rooms face the tracks. A heavily used grade crossing is within 1/2 a block of the inn, so be prepared for a lot of blowing horns from the many trains that parade by! Second floor room is definitely best for viewing the trains out of your front window!"

Source: email (Last revision date: 1 Dec 2000)

Motel 6
Mohave, CA
USA
Comments: "Any hotel on route 58 in Mojave Ca., we ended up in the Motel 6. Its right across the highway from the SP/Santa Fe main line, and a grade crossing so you hear the horns every 2-3 hours all night. Also most of the fast food place in town are across the highway from the tracks, so you can see everything go by."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thursday, 14 July 1994)

Jack London Inn
444 Embarcadero West
Oakland, CA
USA
Phone: (510) 444-2032
Comments: "This must be one of the best train-spotting hotels in North America, and just a couple blocks from Amtrak at Jack London Square. A safe, touristy area - great ships in harbor, restaurants full of character... Union Pacific and various passenger trains run immediately outside your window, right along the middle of street. Quite a scene."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

Pullman House
256 Commercial St
Portola, CA 96122
USA
Phone: 800-996-0107
Comments: This converted circa 1905 boarding house has been turned into a railfan bed&breakfast. The proprietors, George and Jan, have filled the place with RR memorabilia, train videos, etc. The building is right next to the East end of the UP Portola yard, and George build a 2nd floor patio overlooking the yard! There is even a sitting room with a scanner. Just a hop away from the Portola RR museum. Winter is quiet, and the scenery is beautiful!" "800-996-0107"
"530-832-0107"

Source: email (Last revision date: 29 Sep 2001)

Sierra Motel
Portola, CA
USA
Phone: (916) 832-4223
Comments: "In Portola, CA, the Sierra Motel, 916 832-4223 has a Queen Bed for $43.60, and the rooms in the back have a window in the bathroom that faces the UP tracks just east of the yards. The trains are visible and audible (about 1/4 mile away). It is on the main highway through town, and is close enough to the yards and the Portola Railroad museum that you can walk. I don't know the frequency of UP traffic on the Feather River canyon line."

Source: email (Last revision date: Wed, 20 Jul 94)

Name: [None]
Protola, CA
USA
Comments: "Along route 70 south of Protola Ca. there are many campgrounds close to the UP main line. Several are KOA types and some US Forest."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thursday, 14 July 1994)

Best Western Sundial Hotel
316 El Camino Real (at Claremont Avenue)
Redwood City, CA 94062
USA
Phone: (415) 366-3808
Comments: "This two-story is located three-quarters of a mile northwest of the Redwood City CALTRANS station. Trains are within easy view of the front of the hotel."

Source: Passenger Train Journal - October 1992 Issue (Last revision date: Sat, 4 Feb 1995)

Comfort Suites
121 East Grand Avenue
South San Francisco, CA
USA
Phone: (650) 589-7100
Comments: "Slow-motion views of U.P. and Caltrain from Rooms 245, 345, etc. Lots of switching going on. The hotel is just north of San Francisco Airport. After one night's lodging, you can park your car in their lot (at a reasonable rate) for up to ten days."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

La Quinta
South San Francisco, CA
USA
Comments: " May I suggest one more: The LA QUINTA in South San Francisco: This is one of those places that you can see from the highway, but you have trouble getting to. The motel is effectively surrounded by railroad tracks. CALTRAINS runs many trains to the left of the motel. There are poorly maintained SP tracks also to the left of the motel as well as to both the front and the back of the motel to serve various commercial and industrial sites. Most days there is a pair of mangy SP switchers knocking a few cars about on these tracks. It's not a yard, but I counted 11 switch stands within about half a mile of the motel (and the SP crews leave some of these unlocked!). (It is really the prototype of many model railroads.)"

Source: email (Last revision date: Tue, 20 Jun 1995)

Emerson Inn
9417 San Fernando Road
Sun Valley, CA
USA
Phone: (818) 768-6600
Comments: "On the Saugus subdivision, a few miles north of Burbank Airport (northern L.A. area). Close enough to many tourist attractions. Upper rooms facing south, towards front of hotel, have fa fairly good view of the train action. Excellent, inexpensive Mexican restaurants all around. Return to room by 10 p.m."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

Best Western
Tehachapi, CA
USA
Comments: "As far as motels go, I highly recommend the Best Western in Tehachapi. You're across the street from the mainline, and not from from Tehachapi Loop. Lots of trains go rumbling by there in the night. You feel them. My room cost about $50."

Source: Baird_David@Tandem.Com (Last revision date: Thu, 14 Jul 1994)

Summit Travelodge
500 Steuber Road
Tehachapi, CA
USA
Phone: 1-800-578-7878
Comments: "You should have the Summit Travelodge in Tehachapi on your list. I have stayed there 5 days each on three occasions. The Summit is at the summit, i.e., eastbound trains stopping to cut out helpers stop with their headend power opposite the Summit Travelodge, and then start up eastbound from there. The noise is tolerable because they are the way downgrade to Mohave from there. Get a trackside room and be 200 feet from the mainline. Has nice rooms and a nice pool. The Summit is located right where Route 58 crosses over the RR mainline, and offers very quick access to Route 58 eastbound (Mohave) and westbound (Bealville, Caliente, Keene & the Loop)."--Fri, 1 Aug 1997
"Absolutely brilliant all night action, trains peak at 6-7 an hour during the night with occasional lulls (to get some sleep!)"
"Ask for room 220 which gives a view of the line. Trains often pass on the double track, but helpers don't seem to drop off here any more. Great access to the loop, and so on, via CA58 and woodford - tehachapi road. Eat at the Village Grille - great cheap food and a view of the tracks so you don't miss any action!"--Fri, 14 Nov 2003

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 14 Nov 2003)

Truckee Hotel
Bridge Street at Commercial Row
Truckee, CA
USA
Phone: (800) 659-6921
Comments: "- just off Highway 80 in the beautiful High Sierras. A very old hotel, in very good shape. Views of the U.P. tracks (Reno to Roseville) are best from the second floor facing south. Less than a block from Amtrak. Truckee is high in the mountains (5,600 feet) so bring long underwear and sip your beer slowly."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

Mojave Narrows Regional Park
Victorville, CA
USA
Comments: "On the other side of [Cajon] pass, there is Mojave Narrows Regional Park, near Victorville. This has a lot of trees, a lake, rowboats you can rent, and it sits right beside the BNSF-UP, which is in the beginnings of a line separation that will lead to one main crossing over the other a mile or so further up the pass."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thu, 02 Jul 1998)

Nevada

Holiday Inn Express
Donovan Rd at exit 48 on I-15
Las Vegas, NV
USA
Comments: "this is just North of Las Vegas opposite Nellis Air Force Base. Rail view would be from rooms on the FRONT of the hotel."

Source: email (Last revision date: Tue Oct 01 2002)

Plaza Hotel
Main Street
Las Vegas, NV
USA
Phone: (702) 386-2110
Comments: "The Plaza was former site of Amtrak station, and someday the passenger trains may come back (but don't hold your breath). Greyhound bus station next door. Beautiful views from upper rooms, especially in late afternoon. A train or two per hour is about average on some days, and sometimes they just sit there outside the Plaza - on Main Street, opposite Glitter Gulch."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

Fitzgerald's
Reno, NV
USA
Comments: "U.P. trains go charging by all the time, plus a couple Amtraks. The Fitzgerald is generally inexpensive. A few other hotels in downtown Reno offer similar rail-watching opportunities."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

Nugget Hotel
Sparks, NV
USA
Phone: (800) 648-1177
Comments: "Just north of scenic Reno, Sparks is the site of an impressive freight yard on the Union Pacific line. Directly overlooking the entire yard is the upmarket Nugget Hotel. Excellent views from south-facing rooms are a railfan's dream-come-true - like being up in the Tower. Just don't gamble and you'll be alright."

Source: email (Last revision date: Fri, 20 Oct 2000)

New Mexico

La Mirada Inn and RV Park
2200 Camino Del Llano Blvd
Belen, NM 87002
USA
Phone: 505-864-1900
Comments: "La Mirada Inn and RV Park overlooking the Rio Grande and the Santa Fe Rail switching yard in Belen, New Mexico. Can see trains coming or going from Belen for 6 miles. Lots of great picture taking sites crossing Abo Pass about 18 mi. S.E."

Source: email (Last revision date: Sun, 26 Nov 2000)

Branding Iron
Chama, NM
USA
Comments: "Michael; There are a number of fine motels and campgrounds in Chama... There is a new motel called the Branding Iron. I have not stayed there but it seems to be very nice. Good Restaurant by the same name. I would recommend reservations for the train. The Phone number for the Cumbres & Toltec is 505-756-2151. There is a Ticket service that I guess sells tickets too It is called Dillards Box Office and the Number is 800-654-9545. Plan on spending several days in Chama there is a lot to see and do."

Source: mrnikonxx@co.tds.net (Last revision date: Fri, 27 Jun 1997)

Chama Station Lodge
P. O. Box 86
Chama, NM 87520
USA
Phone: 505-756-2315
Comments: "A wonderful bed and breakfast, Chama Station Lodge, is right across the street form the Cumbres and Toltec steam railroad in Chama, New Mexico. As you have breakfast, you can watch the engines chug and steam into place to pick up the train. They only have about ten rooms which fill quickly. You can hear the trains from the porch of the lodge although the porch faces the wrong way for any type of in-line sight. Great steam train!"

Source: email (Last revision date: Wed, 17 Aug 1994)

Foster's Inn
Chama, NM
USA
Comments: "We stayed at the Narrow Gauge Inn in Antonito, rode to Chama, spent the night at Foster's Inn, and returned the next day. Narrow Gauge Inn let us leave our rental car in their lot. Foster's Inn is not to be believed. right out of a movie, and a great view of the rail yard. I swear there were bullet holes in the ceiling of the room, right next to the single light bulb hanging on a wire.... I especially liked the Allstate Insurance stickers on the headboard....... Apparently this is the oldest hotel in New Mexico, and I don't think its been renovated..ever. I'd stay there again, especially for the view."

Source: cyberiama@aol.com (Last revision date: 7 Jul 1997)

Rio Chama R.V. Park
Chama, NM
USA
Phone: 505-756-2303
Comments: "Michael; There are a number of fine motels and campgrounds in Chama. The Rio Chama R.V. Park is really nice and sets right North of the rail yards. You can watch the trains from your camper as they cross a double span bridge over the river, right behind the campground. Thier phone number is 505-756-2303. I would recommend reservations for the train. The Phone number for the Cumbres & Toltec is 505-756-2151. There is a Ticket service that I guess sells tickets too It is called Dillards Box Office and the Number is 800-654-9545. Plan on spending several days in Chama there is a lot to see and do."

Source: mrnikonxx@co.tds.net (Last revision date: Fri, 27 Jun 1997)

#1 Value Inn
U.S. 60, east of central Clovis
Clovis, NM
USA
Train Frequency: at least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: The above motel faces north across the highway to BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Best Western Clovis Inn
U.S. 60, east of central Clovis
Clovis, NM
USA
Train Frequency: at least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: The above motel faces north across the highway to BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Choice Inn
U.S. 60, east of central Clovis
Clovis, NM
USA
Train Frequency: at least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: The above motel faces north across the highway to BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Howard Johnson Express Inn
U.S. 60, east of central Clovis
Clovis, NM
USA
Train Frequency: at least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: The above motel faces north across the highway to BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Motel 7
U.S. 60, east of central Clovis
Clovis, NM
USA
Train Frequency: at least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: The above motel faces north across the highway to BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Rodeway Inn
U.S. 60, east of central Clovis
Clovis, NM
USA
Train Frequency: at least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: The above motel faces north across the highway to BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Crossroads Motel
U.S. 60 at TX-NM state line
Farwell, NM
USA
Train Frequency: at least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA passes through here, and the motel lies across the highway, facing the mainline. There's a sharp 30 MPH curve, and there's a junction with a branch line to Houston and Galveston.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Bell Air Motel
U.S. 60, 90 miles west of Clovis
Vaugn, NM
USA
Train Frequency: At least 50 freight trains per day
Comments: BNSF's (formerly Santa Fe's) principal freight line between Chicago and LA, runs 100 feet behind this motel. This area is much more rural than Clovis, and due to the proximity of the RR, photographic opportunities appear to be much better.

Source: Email (Last revision date: Wed, 9 May 2007)

Utah

Ruby Canyon
UT
USA
Comments: "Also on the D&RGW Mainline, in a slickrock canyon on the Colorado Border. Exit I-70 at the Westwater Exit, drive down to Westwater (a boat launching site on the river), and drive up the canyon on a dirt road along the tracks until you find a place that suits your fancy. No restrooms or anything, unimproved campsites on public land. Good swimming in the summer. 15 or 20 trains/day. "

Source: email (Last revision date: Wed, 31 Jan 1996)

Name: [None]
Colton, UT
USA
Comments: "A County Park lies at the top of the grade in Price Canyon on the D&RGW (SP) line over SOldier Summit. I camped there in '90 and saw lots of trains, about 30/day. Westbounds roar as they climb, helper engines and all, and eastbounds shriek as they go around the curves with their brakes clamped down. Watch for the pine trees on the right side of the road as you go west, going east it's about 1/4 mile before the "6% Grade Next 7 Miles" sign (so turn around and it's right there). No restrooms, etc. "

Source: email (Last revision date: Wed, 31 Jan 1996)

Green River KOA
PO Box 14
Green River, UT 84525
USA
Phone: (801) 564-3651
Train Frequency: "Denver & Rio Grande Mainline--possibly about 10-20 trains a day, but this could change drastically as the UP/SP merger takes hold."
Comments: "Several Kamping Kabins at the rear of the campground with an excellent view of the tracks. It can get hot in the Summer, though, so you might want to bring an electric fan along." "The campground can be hard to find: while passing through town, look for a little yellow KOA sign on the south side of the highway. There's also a state campground adjacent, but without a view of the tracks (plenty of sound, though)."

Source: downs@nevada.edu (Last revision date: Weds, 14 Aug 96)

Green River State Park
Green River, UT
USA
Comments: "In Green River, Utah, there is Green River State Park campground, with a view of the UP (former Rio Grande) main, including the bridge over the Green River."

Source: email (Last revision date: Thu, 02 Jul 1998)

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