Metra BNSF Racetrack - SUPER EXPRESS ride from Chicago Union Station to Naperville

Ride on the rear window (railfan view) on the Metra's BNSF train #1259 from Chicago Union Station to Naperville via the BNSF racetrack. This train departs at 4:50 pm and makes stops only at Naperville, Route 59, and Aurora. Train #1267 (5:20 pm departure) run similar trips throughout Aurora.*
The BNSF racetrack is a significant part of the route as it allows the line as well as freight and Amtrak trains to bypass all local Metra trains in order to run swiftly.
Credit of the construction photo goes to Michael Harding: flic.kr/p/2mc3u5M
Taken on February 21, 2024
*As of November 7, 2022, schedules are subject to change under Metra's discretion.
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[@MarkK395]

Nice video. Just an FYI you don't switch off the racetrack at Naperville, The racetrack begins just south of Chicago Union Station and ends at Aurora,

[@Jackyliu009]

All trains have to exit the racetrack at Naperville, otherwise it won't be able to safely alight passengers at Naperville.

[@MarkK395]

@@Jackyliu009 most trains go to aurora but there’s a few that end in Naperville and then becomes another train to go back to Chicago. If you look at a timetable and track diagram, you’ll see what I’m talking about. You’re right through, trains stop on the outer tracks but it’s still on the racetrack.

[@Jackyliu009]

I see now. Thank you.

[@MarkK395]

@@Jackyliu009 you’re welcome! I was there 2 years ago and during rush hours it was common to see 3 or 4 headlights at once.

[@bernardtheaubreycoxandcoolgame]

I love metra

[@jackchen7003]

nice. ive only rode the metra electric and south shore line. hopefully i can visit chicago again soon

[@Jackyliu009]

Please do. Ride more of our transit as you wish.

[@mjchicagoland2314]

I appreciate the Metra videos, thank you Travel & Transit.

[@tyhik9338]

Nice

[@paulmoreno6279]

Awesome 💯

[@nellyrichardsin1590]

Do a Outbound view from locomotive

[@Jackyliu009]

Can't. Not a Metra employee.

[@BroadwayLTDProductions]

Metra posted a cab ride video from the front end on an outbound but it is not an express.

[@nellyrichardsin1590]

@@BroadwayLTDProductions I know it's mostly local service trains

[@alfredindy8058]

Was this a regular run, or were they late and making up time?

[@Jackyliu009]

Regular run, four of the Metra BNSF trips run like this every weekday. Two during AM, two during PM.