Best Appalachian Coal Action?

[csx6900]

Hi all-

As some of you may know, my video company, S-Line Productions, is working on a new documentary about coal operations in the Appalachian region.  The script is largely a work in progress at this point in time, and I was wondering if you guys could give me some input.

So far, it's looking like the documentary will be divided into at least four basic parts:

1. Interesting/Well-known railfanning locations
2. Mine operations & loadouts
3. The typical journey of a coal train to its destination (could include a cab ride on a shortline railroad)
4. Unloading operations (power plants, barge terminals, etc)

I would like everyone's assistance on the first part.  I don't know very many "famous" railfanning locations as far as coal mainlines go.  A location that immediately comes to mind is Hagans Switchback on the CSX CV Sub in Kentucky.  I have included that in the script already, but I was hoping you guys could give me a few more places to consider that feature major coal yards, junctions, scenery, and/or stuff like that.  Any input is greatly appreciated, and yes, please include CSX too on this one!  

-Thanks in advance,
Evan

[chipallen16]

The CSX New River Line through Thurmond, WV is a sure bet! It's the connection point for an RJ Corman branch to a loadout at Pax, WV (they use a pedestrian/railroad through truss to get over the river); there is an old but well-maintained station; a coaling tower; and plenty to do just north of Thurmond at a mountain resort (it has zip-lining with a view of the New River Line)!

-Chip 

[csx6900]

Thanks so much guys!  Appreciate it!  Sounds like the CSX New River Line is a must.  I've also considered going to Bluefield for NS.  I think that sounds like a great start for the planning.

-Evan

[chipallen16]

Evan, Bluefield isn't a place I'd stay very long. It's pretty ghetto, and I've heard of crews asking railfans if they're alright pretty frequently. Don't be turned away, though. Check out the truss bridge across the yard just past the car shop. This road doesn't see much traffic, and it's got cool shots in both directions. I haven't tried the station, but it may be doable, though it's NS property. The next bridge past it is okay, but it's fairly busy. A good thing about Bluefield is that there are signals everywhere. There's a gantry right beside the Ace Hardware Contractor's Center and another just a little farther west across from the Wade Center (old Bluefield School)/Bluefield College (Tiffany Manor- project housing). It's not going to be easy, but I wish you luck! Bluefield sees plenty of action, and trains coming east into the yard are coming up a pretty big hill!

-Chip 

[csx6900]

That's good to know, Chip; thanks for the info.  I probably wouldn't spend too much time in Bluefield itself, but I would most likely fan out around the general area to get some more nature in the shots.

-Evan

[E.M. Bell]

I have always been fond of the Appilachia district between Big Stone Gap VA and Frisco TN. Traffic is not as heavy as the pokey, but you still get NS (and CSX out of Loyal on trackage rights), with great scenery and a fairly easy chase.