Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park | A Paradise for Train Enthusiasts

Imagine standing on a platform, the ground beneath you vibrating as a distant horn echoes in the air. Suddenly, an iron beast appears on the horizon, chugging its way towards you. Train enthusiasts from all over the world gather, their faces alight with excitement. Welcome to the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park – a haven for railfans and a testament to the enduring allure of trains.

Nestled in Fostoria, Ohio, the Iron Triangle Rail Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience for anyone fascinated by the power and history of railroads. This 5.6-acre park is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year destination where visitors can witness an average of 80 freight trains passing through daily. The park's unique layout features three mainline double tracks that intersect, forming the iconic triangle that gives the park its name. This configuration provides a 360-degree, unobstructed view of the trains, making it a prime spot for photography and train spotting.

The Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park is designed with visitors in mind. The park includes essential amenities like restrooms and a historic B&O C-3008 Caboose that you can explore, offering a glimpse into the bygone era of railroading. Whether you’re visiting for a few minutes or planning to spend an entire day, the park caters to all levels of interest and time commitment.

The Fostoria Rail Preservation Society, a dedicated 501(c)(3) organization, manages the park. Their mission is to preserve the rich history of railroads in Seneca County and educate the public about their significant impact. The society also maintains the former Lake Erie and Western Depot at 128 West North Street and the Fostoria Iron Triangle Visitor Center and Viewing Area, ensuring that the legacy of railroading remains accessible to all. The Fostoria Rail Preservation Society also hosts the Fostoria Rail Festival every year, with this year being their 22nd Annual on Saturday, September 28 from 10 AM to 4 PM. You can learn more about this year's event here.

One of the most dedicated and passionate figures behind the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park is Ellen Gatrell. A lifelong train enthusiast, Ellen has been a volunteer at for the Fostoria Rail Preservation Society for two decades, contributing countless hours to the parks upkeep and success. Her deep family history with the railroad adds a personal touch to her commitment. Ellen’s dedication goes beyond just maintaining the park. She actively engages with visitors, sharing stories and insights about the history and significance of the railroad in Fostoria. Her presence adds a personal connection to the park, making every visit special for those visit the park.

The land on which the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park stands is proudly owned by the City of Fostoria. This partnership with the City of Fostoria and the Fostoria Rail Preservation Society underscores the community’s commitment to preserving and celebrating its rich railroad heritage. The city’s support plays a crucial role in maintaining the park and ensuring it remains a welcoming destination for rail enthusiasts from around the globe. The park's unique setup and the frequency of train traffic make it a must-visit destination for train enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Virtual Railfan, Inc., the leading provider of 24/7 live streams of popular railroad locations, installed two high-definition cameras at the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park in 2021. Positioned within the world-famous triangular intersection of two CSX lines and a Norfolk Southern (NS) line, these cameras offer spectacular views for 30-million railfans from across the globe. Although viewers tune in to watch trains, the live chat accompanying each feed provides a unique opportunity for people to converse about the City of Fostoria, its history, and events, while they wait for the next train. 

Ready to embark on a railfanning adventure? The Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park is located at 499 South Poplar Street in Fostoria, Ohio. For more information and to plan your visit, check out FostoriaIronTriangle.com.

Join the ranks of train enthusiasts who have discovered the magic of the Fostoria Iron Triangle Rail Park. Feel the ground shake beneath your feet, hear the powerful roar of the trains, and witness the marvel of modern railroading up close. Your adventure awaits at the Iron Triangle!