It was a day mixed with work, exploration, and trains. With the weather finally cooperating, we were able to tackle some much-needed spring cleanup around the property, starting with the trails. After the recent storms, branches and debris were scattered across the driveway and paths, but we made quick work of it. We also tidied up the platform area, blew away leaves, and sprayed for weeds growing around the cabooses.
One of the most beautiful sights today was the daffodils planted by Fr. Ed—many of them are in full bloom now, adding bright golden pops of color to the landscape. The trail surfaces were a little loose from the rain, but still perfectly hikeable. We followed the ravine trail down to the base of the falls, where we the boys played in the water and watch the trains rumble by.
Speaking of trains, we got a bit of a surprise when a garbage train came speeding through. It was long and fast, but the smell… let’s just say it was enough to turn anyone’s stomach. Still, it made an impression! Even at high speed, the train lasted a solid three and a half minutes—plenty of time to wrinkle our noses and wonder what corner of the world it had come from.
USWX trains, operated by Waste Management, transport trash from New York City to various landfills and waste processing facilities in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Ohio and other states.
Christian had a banner day of spike hunting, uncovering more than 20 spikes—some bent, some rusted, but all pieces of history worth adding to his collection. We also found scraps of metal, bits of coal and coke, and even a fallen tag from a freight car that was carrying hazardous materials. Thaddeus discovered fragments of old insulators. Every find adds to the story of Caboose Falls and the rails that run alongside it.
Christian had a sharp eye today, collecting more than twenty railroad spikes along the way. Some were bent, others rusted, but each one felt like a small piece of forgotten history. He also uncovered scraps of metal, bits of coal and coke, and even a freight tag that had fallen off a car carrying hazardous materials. Thaddeus, meanwhile, discovered fragments of old glass insulators—the kind that once crowned the telegraph poles that edged the property long ago. Every find adds another layer to the story of Caboose Falls and the rails that run beside it.
One of the most peaceful moments of the day came at the main ravine. The waterfalls—namesake of Caboose Falls—are seasonal, so catching them at peak flow felt like a special gift. The sound of rushing water and the cool air made it the perfect place to pause, reflect, and take in the beauty of God’s creation.
All in all, it was a full day of family, fresh air, and a fair bit of dirty work and trains—just the kind of day we love at Caboose Falls.