Railfanning Vancouver Washington: 39th Street

The Vancouver yards are bisected by 39th street which crosses 7 tracks at grade. This is a motorist’s nightmare and a railfan’s dream. To the south of the crossing are the BNSF engine maintenance facilities. On both sides are numerous yard tracks, and there is constantly activity across the crossing with both through trains on the mainline and switchers working the yard.

• Unfortunately parking is not the best here. For a quick stop one can get away with parking in the gravel areas alongside 39th street on the northeast corner of the crossing. If you plan on spending much time here at the crossing I recommend parking in the neighboorhood to the west and then walking back to the crossing. Note that this is not a great neighboorhood so you will want to decide if you want to be out of sight of your vehicle for long.
• You will note on the map below I have marked two locations along a small road called Olive Street. This is the road that wyes off from 39th partway up the hill on the east side. This is a narrow unmarked road but there are a couple good spots where one can park for a while. If you walk along this road there are a few good vantage points from which one can view and photograph the yards. Recently it appears that the blackberry bushes have grown which is obstructing some of the view but it still gives a good overview of the location.
• I’ve added a new road and a new location (marked by the big gray circle).  This is a new housing development.  Proceed south and then down into the cul-de-sac, and you will be just feet from the shops.  There are frequently several locomotives sitting in this area.
• The BNSF yards have very prominent “No Trespassing” warnings and signs. Be smart and obey the law. Around the yards if you are somewhere that you shouldn’t be you will likely find yourself talking with the BNSF Police.

Map & Directions

From any direction, take I-5 to the 39th street exit and proceed west. You will pass through an older neighborhood and after about a mile you’ll start heading down the hill and the rails will come into sight. At the bottom of the hill you will be alongside the yards and will find the crossing.