Train tracking map?

[89th]

Are there any maps out there with live train tracking (freight trains, specifically... not Amtrak)? I can hear trains in the distance all the time (we live about 2 miles from the nearest track) and I've always been curious if I could just look up "what train do I hear right now?"

I know I can do that with open flight radar data... but what about the rails?

[bachophile]

dont know about trains, but the equivalent of flightradar24 for ships is:

https://www.marinetraffic.com/

[George K]

Me:

Is there a way to track trains that are NOT Amtrak? IOW, freights?
As I'm sure most everyone knows, "flightaware" does it for air travel.
Wondering if a comparable resource exists for rail travel, which is not passenger.

Foamer:

None I'm aware of.
It's a security issue publicizing cargo tracking. Even though that information exists to the transportation companies for shippers, it would not be available for the public. Just like almost every tractor trailer is tracked and that information isn't public

Me:

Thank you. Your explanation makes sense. However, that type of tracking does exist for maritime shipments.

[89th]

Who is foamer?

Good info, and yes the marine traffic is also out there. Tracking train freight…a risk? Someone could just take a loaded drone and fly it into the path of a landing or departing… well you get the idea. ️

[George K]

@89th said in Train tracking map?:

Who is foamer?

A “foamer” is a rail fan who foams at the mouth when he gets excited.

Put down your coffee and watch this guy.

Link to video

[bachophile]

@george-k ok I watched the whole video

May I be off color and frank and say it sounds like a teenager getting his first blow job from his high school sweetheart, while watching a train move a few yards.

He waited months for it.

[Doctor Phibes]

Trainspotters are a weird bunch. I knew people at school who'd spend hours hanging around the railway station taking numbers.

At least, that's what they claimed they were doing.

[George K]

@doctor-phibes said in Train tracking map?:

Trainspotters are a weird bunch. I knew people at school who'd spend hours hanging around the railway station taking numbers.

Indeed. I'm on several FB groups related to Amtrak (always find some interesting information), but some of these guys are beyond weird.

I mean, one can only make a train going through a crossing so interesting. They all look the same to me.

And, they comment about the locomotive numbers - "Look! Here's #184 again!"

Guess what? #184 looks EXACTLY like #182, and every other one.

Jesus.

At least, that's what they claimed they were doing.

[89th]

@george-k said in Train tracking map?:

A “foamer” is a rail fan who foams at the mouth when he gets excited.

Ok that video was hilarious. But I can appreciate sincere enthusiasm!