USA2007

United States of America - California, Nevada, Arizona - April/ May 2007

Two years after my first visit to America I was captured by the travel bug again and decided to take advantage of cheaper ticket prices to visit California for a second time. This time I traveled with good friends Colin Marsden and Chris Perkins, we decided to fly into San Francisco which gave much easier methods of travel from the airport. My visit coincided with good economic times. rail freight (particularly container traffic) where operating at high levels and railroad operations were easy to come by. Over the two week period we used our hire vehicle to ravel from San Francisco to Bakersfield then out along the 'trans-con' to via Route 66 to Needles, Topock, Kingman, Las Vegas, and then returning via Barstow and Cajon to Tehachapi and San Francisco.
The map below shows a scaled representation of our trip which also allowed us to visit California, Nevada, and Arizona.

26th April 2007: San Francisco, Jack London Square (Oakland) & Tehachapi

Our first full day in the United States of America was spent in San Francisco recording the PCC Streetcars & Milan Trams which operate as part of the San Francisco MUNI transport system. The vintage trams provide a fantastic tourist attraction for the city and a vital transport system for the commuters/ residence of the city. During late morning we drove to Oakland where trains running up the middle of the street are an everyday occurrence, Oakland offers some good amenities and some good spots from which to watch the various Amtrak, BNSF and Union Pacific railroad operations. Departing Oakland during the early afternoon we took the four hour drive to Tehachapi arriving are sunset.

PCC Streetcar No.1056, at Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf painted in Cream/ Black Kansas City, Missouri colours with two Italian designed 'Peter Witt' Milan Trams behind.

Italian 'Peter Witt' Trams No.1815 & No.1859 were aquried from Italy by the San Fransisco MUNI and repainted int authentic Milan liveries. The pair are seen at Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf.

Italian Designed 'Peter Witt' Tram No.1811 is pictured at Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf having arrived from Castro.

PCC Streetcar No.1063 is pictured at Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf painted in Baltimore, Maryland Yeollow/Grey.

PCC Streetcar No.1051 stands at Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf painted in San Fransisco 'Green/ Cream' livery .

PCC Streetcar No.1051 stands at Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf painted in San Fransisco 'Green/ Cream' livery behind No.1059 arrived from Castro painted in Red, Orange, and Silver represents Boston.

PCC Streeetcar No.1060 stands at Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf painted in Philadelphia Silver Colours.

PCC Streetcar No.1015 arrives into Jones Street, Fishermans Wharf narrowly missing a passing Ambulance on an 911 emergency call out. The Streetcar is painted in Illinois Terminal Green/ Cream livery.

Recently released PCC Streetcar No.1078 is new to the San Fransisco MUNI fleet and is painted in 'San Diego' colours Pea Green with offset Cream/ Brown. Behind arriving from Castro is No.1055 carring the colours of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

GM Amtrak Swticher No.794 departs Jack London Square station, having just switched Private Varnish AMK800039 onto the rear of a southbound passenger service.

Private Varnish Car No.AMK800039 is pictued on the rear of a southbound Amtrack service train, the car is an Ex SOO line car No. 52 was of of 1921 vintage.

Amtrak P42DC No.117 takes the lead of a soutbound passenger service from Jack London Square.

Amtrak P42DC No.117 leads a rare 'Surfliner' Amtrak No.461 south from Jack London Square having added Private Varnish AMK800039 onto rear of the passenger service.

Amtrak P42DC No.12 arrives into Jack London Square at the head of train 533.

Amtrak F59PHI No.2009 arrives into Jack London Square from Bakersfield.

GM SD40's UP3270 and UP2831 roll slowly through the street running section at Jack London Square, heading for the port of Oakland with a manifest.

Amtrak P42DC No.51 arrives into Jack London Square passing the railroad crossing shortly before the main Jack London Station.

Amtrak P42DC No.12 arrives into Jack London Square with double deck cars in tow.

Amtrak F59PHI No.2009 pushes back to the Amtrak Depot having previously arrived from Bakersfield.

GM SD70 MAC's, UP4700, UP4295, UP4930 head past the Jack London Inn at Jack London Square on a double stack container train heading to the port of Oakland.

GE B40-8W (Dash 8-40BW) BNSF532 and SD40-2 FURX7267 pass Jack London Square, light engine heading to Warm Springs.

GM SD70 MAC's UP4055, UP4762 pass through Jack London with a double stack container service having just been loaded at the Port of Oakland.

After checking into our Hotel in Tehachapi, we raced across the road to take our first photo in the area, BNSF4717+BNSF637 pull away from the Soutern Pacific Signal at Tehachapi after a quick refreshment stop. The pair are seen working a train of bare tables South to the port of Long Beach (Los Angeles).

27th April 2017 - Tehachapi Area

Our second day saw us based in the Tehachapi Mountain Range, where we followed the sercuitious routes between Mojave and Bakersfield. The weather was superb with good Californian blue skies for most of the day. The images below show show some of the operations which we recorded during our driving between locations.

General Motors SD40-2's UP3460 and UP2493 are pictured stabled in Mojave Yard with the Tehachapi Mountains in the background.

General Electric Dash9's BN5480 BN4776 BN5339 BN1078 depart from Calientee before making the climb to Tunnel 2.

General Electric Dash 9's BN5480 BN4776 BN5339 BN1078 exit from Tunnel 10 with a southbound double stack container train.

GM SD70 Mac UP3905 leads classmate UP3933 and SD70 ACE UP8469 through Bealville having just made the climb up from Caliente.

GE Dash9 BN4583 leads BN713 BN4342 into Bealville on a southbound manifest.

UP5383 UP5413 UP3836 round the curve on the approach to Calientee.

General Electric Dahs9 BN5443 leads NS9856 into Calientee with a southbound baretable returning to Long Beach LA.

Roster Shot of BNSF5443 and NS9856

General Electric AC45CCTE UP5383 leads classmates UP5413 UP3836 and UP4268 through the Woodford Loops with a southbound manifest .

GE ES44AC UP5372 leads UP4832 and UP5404 over the Woodford Tressel with a northbound manifest.

General Electric Dahs9 BN5443 leads NS9856 through Woodford Sidings with a southbound baretable returning to Long Beach LA.

BNSF 5314 (C44-9W) leads SF908 BN9211 over the Woodford Tressel with a northbound manifest.

Various Catapillar products transported by BNSF passing over the Woodford Tressell.

UP5372 UP4832 UP5404 UP5696 pass through Bealville road crossing as the rear of its train only just reaches Tunnel 5, UP4775 UP5412 UP5355 can be seen up on the hillside above.

BN7751 leads BN4118 BN5172 BN812 round the curve at Bealvillie heading south with the 'Train 199' the Willow Springs - North Bay 'Z'.

UP5372 UP4832 UP5404 UP5696 pass through Bealville as the rear of its train only just reaches Tunnel 5, UP4775 UP5412 UP5355 can be seen up on the hillside above.

UP5372 UP4832 UP5404 cross over Calientee Creek with a Northbound Manifest. Note the works which have taken place in this area to prepare for the double tracking in this area.

BNSF5040 leads BNSF4833 and BNSF4614 on a southbound manifest at Calientee Creek.

BNSF4472 and SF631 bring up the rear of the southbound manifest lead by BNSF5040 at Calientee Creek.

BNSF 5314 leads SF908 BN9211 BN5010 along Illmon Calientee Roadside with a northbound manifest.

UP4700 UP4295 UP4385 work the same double stack train we saw the day before departing Oakland heading south. Here it's seen on the approch to Woodford.

UP4700 UP4295 UP4385 climb from Calientee to Tunnel 2 with the same double stack train we saw the day before departing Oakland heading south.

28th April 2007 Tehachapi Area

The 28th April was also spent in the Tehacahpi area. Our first visit was to the classic Tehachapi Loop where trains pass in a circle to gain (or loose) height. The loop was originally built because the grades were deemed too steep for locomotives to handle, however modern locomotives could easily manage the grades if the line was ever to be altered. The rest of the day was spent travelling between Sandcut and Tehachapi recording the scenes of the American Railroad Operations.

Dash 9 BNSF 5062 leads SF657, SF2788 and BN7719 around Tehachapi Loop with a southbound Intermodal.

BNSF 7618 and BNSF 5012 lead a heavily loaded steel coil train around the Tehachapi Loop while BNSF 4544 and BNSF 5311 bring up the rear of the train.

BNSF 4777 BNSF 4655 BNSF 5186 and BNSF 4440 pass the rear two units of a stationary train at Waylong while rounding the Tehachapi Loop with a manifest train.

BNSF 4777 BNSF 4655 BNSF 5186 BNSF 4440 wrap around the Tehachapi Loop with a manifest in tow.

BNSF 7618 leads BNSF 5012 out of the Waylong siding with a heavily loaded steel coil train in tow.

BNSF 4784 leads BNSF 5251 BNSF 925 around Tehachapi Loop with a Northbound double stack container train from Long Beach (LA).

BNSF 4784 BNSF 5251 and SF925 pass the rear end locos BNSF 4544 BNSF 5311at Waylong siding, while rounding the Tehacahpi Loop.

SF623 leads BNSF 1087 BNSF 5516 north through th twisting curves near the Tehacahpi Loop passing over the Tehachapi Mountains with a Northbound Manifest.

Dash 9 BNSF 5099 leads SF 732 BNSF 5044 SF 641 & BNSF 1051 down the grade into Calientee from Tunnel 2 with a northbound manifest.

SF623 leads BNSF 1087 BNSF 5516 north through Sandcut after passing over the Tehachapi Mountains with a Northbound Manifest.

Dash 9 BNSF 5099 leads SF 732 BNSF 5044 SF 641 & BNSF 1051 around the curve at Sandcut with a Northbound Manifest.

UP 5458 and UP 2861 lead a lightly loaded Manifest heading north through Sandcut.

BNSF 4784 BNSF 5251 and SF 925 power up the grade at Sandcut with an northbound Intermodal.

UP 5366 leads UP5164 and UP5506 through Sandcut heading south with a Manifest.

BNSF 1021 BNSF 4046 and BNSF 4881 perform a 'highball' for a passing Manifest formed of BNSF 7791 BNSF 4925 FURX 8076 BNSF 6741 and SF 713.

BNSF 1021 powers through Sandcut with BNSF 4046 and BNSF 4881 at the head of one of the longest trains to operate over the Tehachapi Mountains. The empty grain train is nearly 1.5 miles long and when loaded exceeds 40,000 Tonnes.

BNSF 1021 BNSF 4046 BNSF 4881 wrap around Calientee Curve with the Southbound Grain empties.

BNSF 5258 BNSF 4962 BNSF 4392 and BNSF 1088 are picturted at Illmon having been stopped because of an incident ahead, this Southbound Autorack train was held on the main track until the line ahead was clear.

UP 4131 UP 5097 and UP 5285 stand at Bena Corrall awaiting a clear line ahead.

BNSF 5473 BNSF 2965 BNSF 2771 BNSF 4325 BNSF 4570 BNSF 574 make an impressive sight hauling their load up the grade at Sandcut heading North towards Bakersfield.

BNSF 5258 leads BNSF 4692 BNSF 4392 and BNSF1088 around the curve at Tunnel 1 1/2 on a loaded train of Autoracks.

BNSF 4505 BNSF 4445 BNSF 7692 BNSF 7644 wrap around the two tier Tehachapi Loop heading South with train 199.

UP 4131 UP 5097 and UP 5285 slowly pass through Woodford in the evening sunlight with an Intermodal heading south.

BNSF 5506 BNSF 4977 BNSF 4912 BNSF 1049 and BNSF 5108 power a double stack container train through Woodford sidings heading south to Long Beach (LA).

UP 5450 UP 4956 UP 3995 UP 5368 UP 4908 UP 4572 roll Northwarrds through Woodford in the great evening light with 6 units on the point!

29th April 2007

We spend the 29th April photographing between Mojave and Bakersfield. The weather was typically Californian, with clear blue skies for most of the day.

BNSF 4102 brings up the rear of a northbound Manifest train at Monolith.

UP 3460, UP 7090 UP 6506 and UP 6350 are seen stabled in Mojave Yard .

BNSF 4991, SF 575, BNSF 5464 and BNSF 8215 approach the curves of Woodford Loops heading south on a manifest service.

BNSF 4991, SF 575, BNSF 5464 and BNSF 8215 make a slightly different view at Cable heading southbound.

BNSF 4991, SF 575, BNSF 5464 and BNSF 8215 storm south at the I5 Intersection heading towards Mojave.

BNSF 4991, SF 575, BNSF 5464 and BNSF 8215 pass through Mojave with he Tehachapi Mountains in the background.

BNSF 7669 leads BNSF 1120 and BNSF 7707 through Mojave having just arrived from Barstow with a northbound manifest.

UP 2290 UP 2402 and UP 2943 are seen stabled on the Trona Branch waiting for transfer through to Mojave Yard.

UP 4114, UP 3798 and UP 4562 make a superb sight at Warren rounding the impressive curve with a southbound intermodal.

UP 5355, UP 5412, UP 4775 round the curve at Warren just between Cameron and Mojave heading south with a manifest.

BNSF 5331, BNSF 7755, BNSF 5514and UP 4738 round the curve at Warren with a north bound intermodal.

UP 2230, UP 2772 and UP 2517 are seen stabled on the Mojave 'Y' spur at Mojave.

BNSF 5331, BNSF 7755, BNSF 5514and UP 4738 decend to Calientee from Tunnel 2 with a north bound intermodal.

BNSF 5284 powers with BNSF 4639 FURX 7262 and BNSF 4932 through Bena Corral with a south bound double stack.

BNSF 7689 powers through Illmon with BNSF 4344, BNSF 4780, BNSF 4338 and UP6783 with a south bound manifest.

UP 807 is a Union Pacific 'Remote Shunter' seen in Bakersfield UP Yard.

UP 3297 and UP 2844 are pictured stabled between duties at Bakersfield Yard.

UP 6787, UP 6483, UP6826 and UP6483 are pictured between duties at Bakersfield Union Pacific Yard.

AM 2002 and AM 142 make a very rare pairing at Bakersfield Amtrak Station ready to head North to Jack London Square.

BNSF 3118, SF 2952, SF 2947, SF 2609 and BN 4435 are pictured in Bakersfield BNSF Yard.

SF 2945, SF 2947 and SF 2952 switch wagon rakes at Bakersfield BNSF Yard.

BNSF 5301 leads BNSF 1012 and NS 9459 through Quantico heading north with a double stack container train.

A New CSX 5461 6000HP AC heads BNsf 4028 BNSF 5165 on a Northbound Stack at Quantico.

BNSF 7605 leads BNSF 4310, Mexican TFM 1615 and BNSF 4529 Round the curve Illmon Calientee Creek heading south with a manifest in tow.

GM SD70 operated by Mexican TFM at Illmon Calientee Creek.

BNSF 7605 leads BNSF 4310, Mexican TFM 1615 and BNSF 4529 Round the curve heading into Tunnel 2 climbing up to Bealville heading south with a manifest in tow.

BNSF 7605 leads BNSF 4310, Mexican TFM 1615 and BNSF 4529 make a meet at Bealville with BNSF 4845 and BNSF 4935 on a north bound Autorack.

UP 5523 leads UP 5402 and UP 3854 pass through Woodford heading north with a manifest during the nice evening light.

BNSF 7605 leads BNSF 4310, Mexican TFM 1615 and BNSF 4529 at Woodford heading south to Tehachapi and beyond.

30th April 2007

The 30th April saw us leave Tehcahapi and begin our treck across the Mojave Desert towards Kingman. After passing through Barstow, we then followed Route 66 east towards Needles passing through Yermo, East Pigash, Siberia, Bagdad, Amboy, Essex, Fenner, Goffs, & Homer, before rolling into Needles at sunset! The route is desert railroading at it's best, with trains reaching speeds of up to 70mph alongside is the classic Route 66 which intersects the railroad at plenty of locations, throughout it's length there's ample opportunities for photographs of trains using the Trans Continental route.

BNSF 7792 leads SF 8717, BNSF 346, BNSF 4664, BNSF 4812 and SF 870 make a stunning scene as they approach Mojave with the Tehacahpi Mountain Range in the background.

UP 5354,UP 3954, UP 5424 arrive into Mojave with a Manifest heading south for Colton Yard.

BNSF 5159 leads BNSF 4517 and BNSF 5250 into Barstow having just crossed the Mojave desert from Kingman.

ATSF FP45 No.95 is pictured at the Western Railroad Museum at Barstow.

BNSF 4426 arrives into Barstow with BNSF 4687 and SF 702 with its lengthy train winding back into the Mojave Desert.

UP 5419, UP4488 are pictured alongside SD60's UP 6250 and UP 2371 at Yermo.

UP5419+UP4488+UP4193+UP4284+UP5460 stand at the UP Yard situated at Yermo waiting to cross the desert to Las Vegas and on to Salt Lake City

A Pair of General Motors SD60's UP2371 and UP6250

BN7757+BN4067+BN4622+BN4044+BN4548 pass East Pisgah with a Westbound Manifest

SF738+BN4573+BN965 round the curve at Siberia heading West with a double stack service

ES44DC BNSF 7750 at Siberia

GM SD70 CN5741 at Siberia

GE Dash9 C44W BNSF 5329 at Goffs

GE ES44DC BNSF 7750 rounds the curve at Siberia with BNSF 4904, and BNSF 4066 as their 'Z' trains is routed past the previous train.

BNSF 5071 powers with BNSF 8603, EMD 9072 and BNSF 4491 at Siberia heading west towards Barstow.

BN7767+BN4992+BN1036+CSX9027 storm through Bagdad heading West with a Double Stack heading for Barstow

BNSF 4688 leads BNSF 5400, BNSF 4778 and GM SD70 CN 5741 through Bagdad on a west bound stack train.

NS 9537 and NS 9103 triple head with FURX 8122 hauling a double stack away from a stop at Amboy heading for Barstow.

BNSF 5489 and BNSF 1082 head East through Essex. light engines on the Trans Con are exceptionally rare but it seems pairs of locos are now provided as rear end helpers in certain locations.

BNSF 4090 powers east with NS 9378, and BNSF 4733at Essex heading for Needles.

BNSF 4533 leads BNSF 698 and BNSF 5045 through Fenner heading west towards Barstow.

BNSF 5329 powers east bound towards Needles with BNSF 117, SF 998, NS 8949, BNSF 1049 and CEFX 3126 with a manifest.

BNSF 4009 leads BNSF 1085, BNSF 910 and BNSF 339 west through Fenner on route to Barstow.

SF 925 and SF 752 are seen stabled at Goffs near Needles.

BNSF 4407, BNSF 5244 BNSF 845 and SF 733 pass BNSF 5060, BNSF 1034 and BNSF 4918 at Goffs heading west towards Barstow.

BNSF 4609 and SF 680 round the curves at Homer just west of Needles heading towards Barstow.

BNSF 4090 leads NS 9378 and BNSF 4733 east towards Needles along the Trans Con route from Barstow.

1st May 2007

After a very hot night based in Needles we continued our journey east towards Kingman during the next day. We started our day at Park Moabi Bridge - Topock before crossing from California into Arizona and following the 'Trans Con' route towards the Route 66 town of Kingman. On route we called off at Topock Bridge (Arizona), East Franconia, Yucca, Athos, Griffiths and Kingman Canyon before checking in at the 1905 built Brunswick Hotel located on the main boulevard at Kingman. The weather throughout the day was changeable, and although it never rained the desert clouds were trying to brew a storm for the majority of the day!

Our Hotel in Kingmand was located right next to the railroad tracks, at sun rise stood by the open hotel bedroom door BNSF 7607 heads west with BNSF 4560 and SF 542 on a manifest as the desert clouds brew overhead.

At Park Moabi Bridge (Topock) adjacent to the Colordao River BNSF 5021 leads BNSF 1073 BNSF 4799 and BNSF 4798 west with a double stack container train having just crossed from Arizona to California.

BNSF 5426 powers west with BNSF 5249 BNSF 4638 and BNSF 4972 at Park Mobie Bridge (Topock) with an intermodal.

BN4123+BN4774+CEFX6003+BN4101 haul a Manifest West through Park Moabi - Topock

Captured from Park Moabi Bridge (Topock) NS 8710 and BNSF 5137 bring up the rear of a large rake of Montana Rail Link wagons heading west across the desert sands.

Captured from Park Moabi Bridge (Topock) BNSF 5181 and BNSF 975 lead Canadian National 5619 east away from Needles with a manifest train across the deser landscape.

Rounding the curve at Park Moabi Bridge (Topock) BNSF 5181 and BNSF 975 lead Canadian National 5619 away from Needles with a manifest train heading east.

BNSF 5181, BNSF 975 and CN 5619 make a meet with BNSF 4198 and BNSF 5425 heading west on a double stack container train at Park Moabi Bridge.

BNSF 4198 and BNSF 5425 head west on a double stack container train at Park Moabi Bridge.at Park Moabi (Topock).

BNSF 4604, BNSF 1104, BSNF 649, SF 151 and SF 137 power over the grade with a west bound double stack heading west towards Needles at Park Moabi (Topock).

BNSF 4666 and BNSF 4092 cross the Park Moabi Bridge - Topock and head into Arizona from California with a doubl stack container train heading east.

BNSF 5194 leads BNSF 610, NS 9678, BNSF 6338 and BNSF 930 west at Topock with a double stack heading into California.

One of the faded batch of BNSF locomotives BNSF 5396 leads, BNSF 746, BNSF 4852, UP 5999 crossing the Park Moabi Bridge - Topock and head into Arizona from California with a double stack container train heading east.

BNSF 4764 crosses the desert with BNSF 4978, BNSF 4300, BNSF 4623 heading away from Needles heading east through Park Moabi Bridge - Topock (CA).

BNSF 4764, BNSF 4978, BNSF 4300, BNSF 4623, pass through East Franconia (AZ) heading east towards Kingman.

BNSF 4764, BNSF 4978, BNSF 4300, BNSF 4623 head east through Yucca passing some local cars which had been switched earlier in the morning.

Norfolk Southern 7641 leads BNSF 4076, BNSF 7784 and BNSF 675 head west through Yucca (AZ) with a double stack container service heading towards Needles.

BN 7613 and BN 896 power west through Athos with BNSF 982, BNSF 5220 heading towards Kingmand.

GE ES44 DC BNSF 7763 and BNSF 7618 storm east at Griffths on a double stack container service.

Under brewing skies NS 8987 and BNSF 1037 head east at Griffiths heading for Kingman Canyon.

BNSF 7763 and BNSF 7618 pass through Kingman Canyon on a double stack container train.

Fire damaged BNSF 5007 leads SF 688, BNSF 926 and BNSF 4486 west on a double stack container train through Kingman Canyon passing a manifest heading east on the oposite side of the canyon.

BNSF 4840, CSX 5459, CSX 7504 and Ferromex 4630 work and eastbound double stack through Kingman Canyon.

BNSF 7682, and BNSF 5487 pass east through Kingman Canyon with a double stack container train.

2nd May 2007

During the night the changeable conditions from the previous day cleared to leave clear blue Californian skies, with fresh crisp light for the morning period. After breakfast in the Brunswick Hotel we packed up the hire car Nand headed east. Out plan was to follow the BNSF 'Tans Con' further west to Hackberry, East Valentine, Crozier and Peach Springs before returning to Kingman and heading to Las Vegas via the Hoover Dam.

Taken from the baclony of our overnight hotel in Kingman just after sun rise over the mountains, BNSF 5000 leads BNSF 4695, and BNSF 4161 on an eastbound manifest.

Fromer Railroad water tower located at Kingman Station.

Brunswick Hotel - Kingman

Kingman Station

BNSF 5000 leads BNSF 4695, and BNSF 4161 on an eastbound manifest through Kingman.

BNSF 5060 leads BNSF 1034, BSNF 4918 and BNSF 4535 east bound through Kingman Canyon with a double stack container service.

BNSF 4555 leads BNSF 4438, BNSF 4029 rolling through Kingman Canyon with a westbound double stack container trains.

SD70 ACE, NS 2770 and BNSF 5492 bring up the rear of a westbound double stack through Kingman Canyon.

BNSF 5208, BNSF 4522, BN4SF 4862& BNSF 4455 (Out of Sight) curve their way through Kingman Canyon with a west bound manifest.

BNSF 7760, BNSF 7634, BNSF 1054 wind an eastbound double stack through Kingman Canyon heading towards Needles.

General Electric ES44DC operated by BNSF. No.7760

GE B40-8W BNSF 510 and GM GP60M BNSF 112 are seen on a short manifest train at Kingman Airport (Getz)

BNSF 5439, BNSF 4134 and BNSF 918 pass by Kingman Airport (Getz) with a west bound autorack.

Norfolk Southers 9555 and BSNF 3116 bring up the read of a west bound stack train at Hackberry.

BNSF 4939 leads SF 729, BNSF 4303, BNSF 5273 east bound through Hackberry over the Santa Fe marked bridge structure.

BNSF 4939, SF 729, BNSF 4303 and BNSF 5273 depart from a stop at East Valentine with a east bound stack train.

BNSF 4172, CSX 7641 and BNSF 1061 pass though Crozier Canyon with a west bound stack train.

A colourful mix of BNSF and 'power by hour' UP traction is seen at Peach Springs. BNSF 4196 leads UP 6545 BNSF 5230 and UP 9720 west bound with the 'grain train'.

Mid Train helpers BNSF 4096, BNSF 5222 and BNSF 5342 pass Peach Springs.

Rear end power was provided by BNSF 5289 and SF 730.

BNSF 4196 leads UP 6545 BNSF 5230 and UP 9720 are pictured again at Crozier Canyon with the Grain Train stretching as far as the eye can see.

3rd May 2007

UP 9730 UP 9361 and UP 9413 are pictured at Valley (near Nellis Airforce Base).

After a restful night in Las Vegas we ventured out of the city during the morning to the north east of the city to follow the Union Pacific route which eventually ends up in Salt Lake City. Most of the route is single track line, and we found it rather hard to find locations to photograph in the immediate vicinity of Las Vegas. We only found a brace of locomotives stabled at Valley (near Nellis Air Force Base) and later captured a second train near Moapa. After this we returned to Las Vegas to take in the stunning city and record the Las Vega Monorail.

UP 4017, UP 9566 and UP 3983 pass through Moapa with a double stack container train heading for Salt Lake City.

Las Vegas Monorail Train passes over East Flamingo Road heading for it's next stop Ballys and Paris Station Stop.

Las Vegas Monorail Train passes over East Flamingo Road heading for it's next stop at the Flamingo / Caesers Palace Station.

Las Vegas Monorail Train departs Ballys and Paris Station.

Las Vegas Monorail Train arrives into Ballys and Paris Station.

4th May 2007

The plan on the 4th May was to return to Tehachapi from Las Vegas but this time follow the Union Pacific line from Las Vegas through to Yermo. However the Union Pacific route is not traversed by may roads (not many which are marked as suitable anyway). Traffic levels on the route can also be far less as the route is single track with passing places on route. We followed the line as far as Kelso and saw just one train during our travels. It was at this point we decided to head south back onto the BNSF Trans Continental route for the remaining journey back towards Barstow using Route 66.

UP 6506 leads UP7090, UP 6066 and UP 5960 away from Las Vegas seen passing Jean heading west.

Union Pacific Depot at Kelso, now converted into a Museum for the Mojave National Reserve. .

BNSF 4505 and BNSF 4445 lead a double stack train through Amoi heading west towards Barstow.

Bringing up the rear of the same train were BNSF 4872 and CSX 5451.

Six locos formed this manifest at Amoi formed of Warbonet liveried SF 674 with BNSF 4496, BNSF 4689, BNSF 4895, BNSF 833, and BNSF 4587 heading west towards Barstow.

BNSF 4455 and BNSF 4427 power a double stack container train across the Mojave desert at Amoi heading east towards Needles.

The 'Cadiz local' passes Ashill with a selection of small power in charge. BNSF 545 leads SF 2633 BNSF 2823, SF 2471, and SF 2443.

The 'Cadiz local' from Barstow passes Ashill heading out into the Mojave desert.

5th May 2007

The 5th May 2007 was spent back on the Tehacahpi Mountain range between Mojave and Bakersfield. Early morning cloud enveloping the mountains saw us head over to Mojave where the desert air provided clean crisp sunshine away from the cloud. As the day progressed the clouds over the mountain range drifted away to leave a sunny afternoon, and even provided us with a very special evening 'glint' photographic image!

UP 8864, UP 7233 amd UP 8035 are seen stabled on a rake of cement wagons in Moajve Yard.

BNSF 4639 powers with BNSF 4738 and BNSF 4535 on a north bound container train.

BNSF 5136 leads BNSF 6721 BNSf 506 and BNSF 7145 through Tehcahapi town centre on a north bound manifest.

Kansas City Southern GM SD70 ACE 4007 is pictued at Caliente with BNSF 7796 waiting to depart with the grain train and climb up to Tunnel 2.

UP 5329, UP 4381 , UP 5392, UP 5416, UP 5431, and UP5396 head North through Sandcut with a manifest.

BNSF 1107 and BNSF 4530 round the cuve at Tunnel 2 with a long train of empty container wagons (Bare Tables) heading South to the port of Los Angeles/ Long Beach.

UP 5411 powers UP 4919 and UP 2842 up to Tunnel 2 with a manifest heading south.

BNSF 5058, leads BNSF 882 and SF 928 across the Woodford Tressel with a northbound double stack container train.

BNSF 1107 and BNSF 4530 power away from a stop at Woodford with a train of empty container wagons heading for Long Beach, LA.

BNSF 5432 leads BNSF 4887, BNSF 4934 and CSX 5217 south though Woodford with a double stack container train.

BNSF 4547, BNSF 4056 and BNSF 6338 head south with a short, but very heavy steel train through Woodford.

BNSF 4547, BNSF 4056 and BNSF 6338 head south with a steel train at Monolith.

BNSF 7607 leads BNSF 4041, BNSF 4571 and BNSF 5324 make the climb from Caliente to Tunnel 2 with a south bound autorack train.

BNSF 7607 leads BNSF 4041, BNSF 4571 and BNSF 5324 around the classic curve at Tunnel 2 with a south bound autorack train.

UP 5019 leads CEFX 3172 and UP 4727 through Tunnel 1 1/2 at Calientee ready to climb the grade to Tunnel 2 with a south bound intermodal.

BNSF 4414 and BNSF 1014 make a rare shot with the 'Wine Train' heading South over the Tehachapi Mountains climbing to Tunnel 2 in the early evening.

With less than two minutes of sun left BNSF 4414 and BNSF 1014 catch the evening glint in the town of Tehachapi hauling the famous 'Wine Train' south

At the rear of the same train BNSF 849 and BSNF 5398 catch the last of the glinting sunlight before it dropped behind the mountain only moments later.

6th May 2007

The 6th May was also spent in the Tehachapi Mountain Range area between Mojave and Bakersfield. The weather was king all day long and provided some stunning photographic content.

BNSF 4305 leads BNSF 5211 and BNSF 7209 roll through Cameron between Monolith and Mojave with a south bound manifest.

BNSF 4305 leads BNSF 5211 and BNSF 7209 amble into Mojave with a southbound manifest in tow set with a backdrop of the Tehachapi Mountains.

BNSF 4305 leads BNSF 5211 and BNSF 7209 depart from Mojave Yard heading South about to take the BNSF route direct to Barstow

UP 5428, UP 5300 and UP 4509 lead a southbound manifest through Warren nearing Mojave.

BNSF 4758 and BNSF 912 grace the sweeping curve at Warren heading south with an Intermodal.

UP 5434 powers with UP 5411, UP 4019, UP 2842 head north through Warren heading for the Tehachapi Pass.

BNSF 4852 and SF 746 snake their way through Warren with a south bound 'bare table' returning to the port of Long Beach LA.

BNSF 4475 powers with BNSF 4912, BNSF 1097 and BNSF 5034 heading south a Monolith on a double stack container train with the cement works in the background.

BNSF 7519, BNSF 7520, BNSF 7518, BNSF 5457 pass through Monolith heading north. The first three lead units were brand new just delivered to BNSF and were on their first revenue earning working on a double stack service.

BNSF 7519, BNSF 7520, BNSF 7518, BNSF 5457 pass through Woodford heading north their first revenue earning working on a double stack service.

BNSF 7519, BNSF 7520, BNSF 7518, BNSF 5457 pass through Illmon Caliente Creek heading north their first revenue earning working on a double stack service.

BNSF 7519, BNSF 7520, BNSF 7518, BNSF 5457 pass through Sandcut heading North. The first three lead units were brand new just delivered to BNSF and were on their first revenue earning working on a double stack service

BNSF 7519, BNSF 7520, BNSF 7518, BNSF 5457 approach Bakersfield heading North. The first three lead units were brand new just delivered to BNSF and were on their first revenue earning working on a double stack service

HLCX 6227 and GCFX 3082 are pictured in Bakersfield BNSF Yard in the consist of a south bound train.

BNSF 7693, BNSF 4164, BNSF 5140, BSCF BN2271 and EMD 9072 power through Illmon Calientee Creek heading south with a manifest.

BNSF 7693, BNSF 4164, BNSF 5140, BNSF 2271 and EMD 9072 round the curve and head into Tunnel 2 with a manifest heading south.

NS 7501 and BNSF 5403 bring up the rear of a southbound manifest at Tunnel 2.

BNSF 7693, BNSF 4164, BNSF 5140, BNSF 2271, EMD 9072 emerge from Tunnel 5 climbing the steepest grade to Cliffe.

BNSF 7693, BNSF 4164, BNSF 5140, BNSF 2271, EMD 9072 roll through Cable heading South with a manifest

NS 7501 and BNSF 5403 bring up the rear of a south bound manifest at Cable.

7th May 2007

On the 7th May we departed early from Tehacahpi and drove to Victorville where we met with fellow American 'Railfans' for an enjoyable day in the Cajon Pass. The stunning route features deep canyons, twisting tracks and steep grades and is a vital like for both BNSF and Union Pacific linking the port of Long Beach (LA) to the rest of the railroad network. At the time of our visit preparations were being made to install a third BNSF track through the mountainous route which would eventually increase capacity, flexibility and the efficiency of the route further.

BNSF 4541, BNSF 4067 and BNSF 4307 pass through Frost on a south bound double stack heading for Long Beach LA.

BNSF 7682 and BNSF 5487 round Frost with a double stack service heading for Los Angeles.

BNSF 4901 leads BNSF 1093, BNSF 5282 and BNSF 5352 lead a west bound double stack through Frost. The usual line over the top was out of use due to engineering work.

A view of the Cajon Pass. American trains always look so big, but this view shows the scenery can be much bigger!

BNSF 5246 and CSX 7689 climb through the Cajon Mountains with a Northbound baretable move passing Hill 582.

BNSF 4952 and BNSF 7638 bring a rare short intermodal through the Cajon Pass heading south past Hill 582.

Hill 582 'The Garden Spot' located in the Cajon Pass is tended by Railfans as a spot for everyone to enjoy 'Railfanning' and the wonderful scenery in the Cajon Pass.

UP 4856 leads UP 5163, UP 4620, UP 4093, UP 4227 take the steeper BNSF route down through the Cajon Pass passing Hill 582.

UP 7654 leads UP 2396, UP 5150, UP 4217 work through the Cajon Pass heading North past Hill 582 with a double stack container train from Long Beach LA.

BNSF 884 snakes down the Cajon Pass with BN 4117 and SF 942 as another Union Pacific double stack climbs to the summit.

NS 9853, and BNSF 4892 pass Hill 582 in the Cajon pass with a baretable train.

BNSF 7727, BNSF 4951, BNSF 5272 and SF 712 pass Mid Summit Island heading south through the Cajon Pass with an intermodal.

BNSF 1121, BNSF 919, BNSF 7616 and BNSF 5205 round the curve at Mid Summit Island with a north bound double stack.

BNSF 5251, and BNSF 4858 bring up the rear of a north bound stack service passing Mid Summit Island.

UP 4717, UP 5117, UP 4640, UP 2001 approach Mid Summit Island with a north bound 'K line' Double Stack.

BNSF 5407, SF 623, BNSF 5131 begin the decent at Mid Summit Island heading through the Cajon Pass heading for Long Beach.

Union Pacific SD70Mac 2001 in Olympic Torch Livery.

Union Pacific GE ES44DC 7654 in Union Pacific Livery.

BNSF4198, BNSF 5425, SF 900, BNSF 4320 round 'Sullivans Curve' with a south bound Intermodal.

UP 5317, and UP 4579 power through Milepost 473 climbing through the Cajon Pass with a north bound Manifest.

BNSF 7713, BNSF 7913, SF 652 power through Milepost 475 passing over the San Andreas Fault as they work through the Cajon Pass.

8th May 2007

The 8th May was our last morning in Tehacahpi before returning to San Francisco. We spent the morning period in Mojave and Warren before taking a final drive over the famous Tehacahpi Mountains to Bakersfield before then filling with fuel and taking the freeway (I5) to San Francisco.

UP 2409 and UP 8707 stand in Mojave Yard with a single Union Pacific wagon.

BNSF 4031, BNSF 679, BNSF 645 pass Warren with the south bound grain empties on the approach to Mojave.

BNSF 4539 leads BNSF 4426 and BNSF 4473 lead an Intermodal through Warren heading north towards Tehachapi.

Various images taken in the Railroad Township of Tehacahpi (CA)

BNSF 4187 leads a motley collection of power formed of SF 626, BNSF 887, UP 4197, BNSF 7145, and BNSF 5058 through Woodford on a south bound manifest.

BNSF 5503, BNSF 802, BNSF 4802, BNSF 5021 power 'The Wine Train' through Sandcut heading south.

9th May 2007

Our last full day in California was spent in the San Francisco Bay area at Hurcules and Pinole. These two locations are next to the coastline near Oakland. The route links the Port of Oakland and Jack London Square to Stockton and Sacremento. Both Amtrack passenger services, and Union Pacific/ BNSF freights operate over the route. There are also many local trip workings from many of the coastal ports through to the larger marshaling yards at Oakland.

Ex DRGW (Patched UP 2882), leads UP 3595, and UP 576 through Herclues Victoria Park, with a westbound manifest (Roseville - Oakland).

GE P42 AM123 passes Hurclues with a passenger service heading to Oakland.

Denver Rio Grande Western , pathed UP 2882 SD40

Amtrak F59PHI passes Hurcules with an east bound train from Oakland.

Amtrack F59PHi 2004 passes Herclues, westbound train 711 to Oakland

Amtrack P42's AM118, and AM119 pass Herclues, Train 11 10:00 Seattle (08/05) - Los Angeles.

Driving Car AM 8309 leads an east bound Amtrack passenger service through Hurcules from Jack London Square (Oakland).

BNSF 4996, BNSF 5413, SF 774 and BNSF 4427 pass Herclues with a west bound stack heading for the port of Oakland.

Amtrak F59PHi 2006 passes Pinole, with an unknown service train to Jack London Square, Oakland,

Amtrack California GE P32-8BWH powers an east bound passenger from Jack London Square through Pinole.

Amtrak P42 AM123 passes Pinhole heading for Jack London Square.

Amtrack California F59PHI 2005 passes Pinole with an east bound passenger service from Jack London Square.

A pair of Union Pacific SD40's UP 3254 and UP 2857 pass Pinole, eastbound manifest.

BNSF 5080, powers CSX 8783 and CSX 8026 through Pinole with a west bound stack train heading for the port of Oakland.

UP 4408 and UP 4348 pass Pinole light engine heading towards Oakland.

UP 4008 and UP 4677 power a west bound double stack through Pinole heading to the port of Oakland.

10th May 2007

San Francisco PCC Streetcar No.1060 carries the colours of the Philadelphia Rapid Transit Company, and is seen here at the San Francisco Ferry Building.

The 10th May was out final day in the United States, for the morning period we spent some time back in the city purchasing souvenirs before and riding street cars before driving down towards the airport via the Caltrain passenger service which operates between San Francisco and San Jose. Our flight back to the UK was an early evening departure which meant we had plenty of time to get to the airport for our departure.

Cable Car No.4 is seen on the Powell and Mason Street run.

The cable winding house of the San Francisco Cable Cars

No.24, No.12 and No.21 are pictured at the turn around point for the Powell and Mason route.

F40PH-2 Caltrain No.908 passes Milbrae witha San Francisco to San Jose service as Train 52.

A Cal Train Driving Cart leads into Milbray Station from San Jose.

FP40PH-2 Caltrain No.915 is seen at Milbray Station with a San Francisco to San Jose service operating as Train 54.

Cal Train driving car passes over the road crossing at Burlingame.

FP40PH-2 stands at Burlingame with Train 55 service from San Jose to San Francisco.

FP40PH-2 Caltrain No.912 arrives at Burlingame with Train 58 from San Francisco to San Jose.

FP40PH-2 Caltrain No.901 arrives at Burlingame with Train 56 from San Francisco to San Jose.

San Francisco International Airport - United Airlines Boeing 777 home!