I searched this site and found all the Portland Oregon attractions trainwise. Museum, Light Rail etc. However, I did not see any info as to a good spot for just rail fanning. Perhaps a spot with a good view of a yard or something? Any Portland people or others know of any sites?
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Steel Bridge area. MAX LRT on top, freight, Amtrak on Bottom.
I have sat at the Vancouver WA. Amtrak station. You have trains coming across the bridge over the river and they go north or east depending on how the switch is thrown.
If you, want scenery to go with your train watching, head East out of Portland on I-84.
Exit 18, there is parking near the Sandy River Railroad Bridge, at the Lewis and Clark State Park.
Exit 31, will give you trains, and Multnomah Falls, total drop 620 feet.
Exit 44 Cascade Locks, The East Wind Dive In, has picnic tables with a great view of the tracks. Their soft serve cones are of very generous proportions. There is a passing siding right by the drive in, where I have on occasion talked to train crews that have stopped , and while waiting gotten Ice cream cones for themselves.
Exit 56, is Viento State Park, the day use area is just across the tracks, and the beach is just a short walk down the path, you may also get to watch some wind surfers and kite boarders, if that interests you.
There are many other scenic view points further East, depending on how far you want to go. If you get near The Dalles, OR, and are getting Hungry, Spooky's at Exit 82, is a Family Favorite, we have been known to take a 2 1/2 hour drive just for the food and scenery.
I grew up in Portland, and it is a wonderful city, but there is also some great scenery, Food and train watching within an hour or two of the city as well.
Doug
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
