IRM Trip: Nearby (Accessible) Junctions/Diamonds?

[jimnorthwood]

Heading to the IRM in a couple of weeks. Staying in Crystal Lake. One or two days exploring IRM, with a third day free. Suggestions regarding nearby (will have rental car but don't want to spend entire day driving) accessible junctions/diamonds (older now, so prefer suburban/rural over urban). Thanks.

[GreatLakesRailfan]

Rochelle's about an hour from Sleepy Hollow (about 10 miles south of Crystal Lake). Davis Junction would probably be about the same distance, but I'm not sure how accessible it is anymore. I doubt you'd see much anyway. Outside of IRM, there really aren't many densely active lines up in that area. The CN (ex- IC) line to Rockford might see a few more trains than most of the other freight lines up that way, but you're still looking at one or two movements per line, while the sun is up. Otherwise, you're going to be stuck driving south, west or east to reach anything with any sort of decent activity.

:
I know everyone says go to the Chicago area to see lots of trains, but that particular part of the Chicago area just doesn't see the activity levels present to the south/southeast of the city. But don't let that stop you from enjoying your visit to IRM. I hear it's quite the place.

[jimnorthwood]

Rochelle! Of course. Perfect. Thanks, GLRF. And yes, IRM is quite the place. I've been previously, twice actually, but this will be the first time for my longtime railfan friend and fellow traveler.

[Bulby]

What dates are you planning on being at IRM?

[jimnorthwood]

May 20 and 21.

[Bulby]

On the 21st the RPO should be out and running, with mail catches being made during the day. Most of the people doing the catches are retired RPO clerks.

[jimnorthwood]

Thanks for the tip, Bulby. Looking forward to seeing the RPO online.

[~Z~]

May 20 and 21.

May I recommend that on your return trip to Toledoland, see if we are still in Deshler and stop by: http://railroadfan.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=33090

[jimnorthwood]

Thank you for the invite, much appreciated. I've always wanted to join one of your gatherings but scheduling has never worked out. Maybe this time