With only a few minutes of sunlight left, BNSF 6170 (ES44AC) leads a loaded coal train through Castle Rock, Colorado.

It is later afternoon and a BNSF loaded coal with 6170 on point (ES44AC) heads south on the Join Line between Castle Rock and Larkspur, Colorado

As a signal maintainer drives away from his work side for the day, an empty coal train approaches as it climbs the 1.5% grade over Palmer Lake (7,231 ft) which is less than a mile away.

BNSF 6170 (ES44AC) and 9798 (SD70MAC) pass Greenland area with a southbound coal train. BNSF 5879 (ES44AC) and NS 3609 ((ET44AC) are working on the rear end.

BNSF 6170 (ES44AC) and 9798 (SD70MAC) pass Castle Rock area with a southbound coal train. BNSF 5879 (ES44AC) and NS 3609 ((ET44AC) are working on the rear end

BNSF 6170 + 8240 with a northbound coal train slow to release their helpers at Parkman.

An empty ore train destined for Hibbing Taconite passes through some light snow between Carlton and Cloquet.

Eastbound grain empties make some noise through scenic Clarksville, Missouri. Lock and dam 24 on the mighty Mississippi is in the background.

A 7-day old Gevo leads Q383 back toward Chicago!