Canadian National in Nova Scotia

Scanner Frequencies
As with most railfanning, a scanner is a definite asset. Without it, you are running in the dark hoping to catch the next train. Now that there is CTC for most of this section of CN, all you will hear on the scanner is the crew calling the signals, the EOT device or a MOW foreman requesting clearances. Knowing this and some mileages you can usually figure out where you are. Signals here are usually approach lit, meaning that unless a train is approaching the signal that they will be dark or not lit.

Trains and Schedules
Most of the rail activity on the CN track between Amherst and Halifax takes place at night. Here is an approximate schedule of the trains including VIA Rail's "Ocean" (based on published schedule on their website) that travels this track.Westbound and eastbound train times are estimates and can vary due to track conditions, traffic, trackwork, and other factors. Eastbounds are more likely to vary from these times since they are near the end oftheir trip; westbound departures are more consistent."

Subdivisions and Mileages
There are three subdivisions running in NS. The Springhill, Bedford and Dartmouth subs. The Springhill sub runs from Pacific Junction in New Brunswick to Truro, Nova Scotia. I have only included the portion within Nova Scotia. The Bedford Subdivision runs from Truro straight through to the end of track in Halifax. The Dartmouth sub intersects the Bedford sub at Windsor Junction (near Waverley) and runs to Eastern Passage through Dartmouth. Click on the subdivision name below for more information. David Othen also has pictures and railfan information on his website found here.

Springhill Sub	Bedford Sub	Dartmouth Sub