The Many Illinois Zephyrs At LaGrange Road

From the Archives..... These clips of Amtrak's Illinois Zephyr are from 2020 and 2021. Video shows quite a few of the eastbound Zephyr's as they enter and leave the LaGrange Road Station. This is the town of LaGrange and LaGrange Road crosses over the BNSF Chicago West Service. This is a three track main line that hosts freight, Metra commuter trains, and also a variety of Amtrak trains. Watch for the zooms all the way down to the "Shoo-Fly" at Western Springs and there is a clip where the train did not stop at LaGrange. This is a all weather Zephyr Epic....!!!!
Recorded mostly in 2021
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My Amtrak Playlist.... • Amtrak Trains

[@paulmatulavich7321]

Irving, your fine videos have inspired me to make the drive from Ohio to railfan spots along the Chicago mainline in your area - like Hinsdale, Westmont, West Chicago. What spots would you recommend for someone like me (first time there) that you would consider 'must' see?
I want visually attractive and interesting backdrops, signals, etc.
Thanks Irving!

[@ipfeldspar]

Hi! There are four lines that I know fairly well. The BNSF "Racetrack" at LaGrange Road is fantastic for freight, Metra, and Amtrak. Plus, you can walk a block east and there is the Indiana Harbor Belt.
The CN's Freeport Sub is a underutilized set of tracks. I would suggest using Wolf Road for to travel about as the signal tower there might tell you if a train is near. The UPRR Chicago West Line at the Elmhurst Depot is always fun. I prefer going a few blocks west as I can sit in the car. Elmhurst can be uptight about parking so make sure you are not blocking Public Works or the UP dirt service road.
Up at Franklin Park, you have three train stations to choose from. Furthest west, and practically in the yard, is the "Manheim" platform. Expressway construction will change this area in the near future. Check for old power just west of the viaducts. The main FP station sees a lot of trains but the Police don't want us on the platforms (if its busy). Still lots of misc places such as next to the Library.
Franklin Park has a diamond for the CP & IHB. Just to the north is the Belmont Depot. This is another underutilized track but the view to the north goes on for miles. Watch for headlights.
Those locations are the best for what I would describe as the "West Suburbs." There are many more and maybe someone else will chime in with suggestions.....?