BC 150

[Canucks]

As most everyone knows BC is 150 and there are many special events happening this summer. I thought that we could discuss some of the events that are interesting and any tips about them, how to get there, best viewing areas. I start out with the CPR Empress steam locomotive that has been touring BC since early June and will be coming to the lower mainland in a few weeks time. It will be in Port Moody, Langley, and Vancouver. The most interesting place though might be Ambleside park, for pictures.

here is a link with the full schedule.

www8.cpr.ca/cms/English/General+Public/BC150/default.htm

[WettCoast]

It appears that this train is traveling only on CP owned trackage which means you will not see her at Ambleside, West Van (BCR/CN). You might try and see her and get photos when she travels between Haig & Aggassiz on Wed. aftn., June 25. You could go to Haig (across the Fraser from Hope) and see her there, and then follow her to Aggassiz. This is all accessible from Hwy 7 on the Fraser's north bank. There should be several opportunities for good photos.

Exact routing of this train will be interesting as she appears to be scheduled to move westbound over CP's own tracks which today are normally used only by east bound trains of both CP & CN. On the other hand most of the route west from Haig is double tracked.

[Ferryman]

The Royal Hudson will also be fired up this Saturday, at the West Coast Railway Heritage Park here in Squamish. I'll assume it will do the usual whistle salute with the Whistler Mountaineer at 10:20am/4:20pm, and run back and forth on the straight track in the park.

Mill Bay is driving out here from Chilliwack on Saturday morning, and we'll both be going to the event. I'll imagine that I'll be waking up to the 'Hudsons whistles before the events begin, seeming I live just a hop skip and a jump away from the park. Everyone is welcome to tag along as well if they're interested.