Eastern Railroad Discussion > Hyattsville railfanning info???

We were thinking of going out to Hyattsville one morning to railfan CSX. What days are the busiest? Where are the best places(s) to sit? What frequencies should we listen up on? Any safety concerns? Any recommendations on a good mom and pop to eat at? THANKS FOR ALL REPLIES!!!

Weekdays are generally the busiest with the commuter trains that run. If you can't go on a weekday, I suggest Saturday. Almost nothing runs on Sunday.
Radio Frequencies:
160.230 Road
160.320 Dispatcher
160.800 Road and Dispatcher (Anacostia Jct.-RO, to give you an idea of what may be coming up from the south).

You can sit at the former Hyattsville station on Alternate #1, across the street from the Prince Georges County Courthouse buildings. This location is on the southwest legs of the 'Y'. It is then only a short walk east of 100 yds to the other side of the 'Y'. Lunch can be eaten up the street at Franklin's Hardware (now a general store) - about two blocks north. Safety and security are usually no problem at all in this neighborhood.

During the weekdays, CSX will run most of their trains after the commuter rush hour, ending about 8:30 a.m., and before the first afternoon commuter train at 4:26 p.m. A steady group of intermodals, manifests, a rock train, a coal train, keep the place humming. You might have a quiet hour here or there, but usually one can expect at least three trains per hour.

The radio is essential. Listen in and learn the locations as the train crews call the signals. You will know well in advance of the approach of all trains.

I'm ready! ! ! ! !

Dale