The road less traveled has been around for a long time and although it is still a part of our daily lives we often fail to remember it's there. If you have to travel by foot for whatever reason, one of the easiest ways to get from where you are to where you want to be is by following the tracks.Railroad tracks exist in both rural and urban environments and quite often make it easier to traverse rough or difficult terrain because the way has already been cleared. They are usually the shortest and most direct route between two points. Many times you can travel quickly and safely back to civilization with a fair degree of certainty. Major roadways may become blocked making normal routes of travel all but impossible to use. If you have to resort to travel by foot, you can always follow the tracks if you know where they are.
Got tracks?
Staying above the water line!
Riverwalker
Posts
8 comments:
Just remember that when you are following RR tracks, a majority of the time you are in a very exposed position, especially during daylight hours.
Bob
III
I agree with idahobob, but if you are in sneak and peek mode it's best to parallel the tracks. You still have fairly good terrain with some cover. It won't be as smooth as walking the track bed, but it will lead you where you want to go. Your only major concerns are bridges and tunnels - and these are places that are closely watched.
I've used tracks in developing countries and it's my experience that only the natural funnels are closely monitored. Open tracks are seldom a problem. I won't say they are never watched, but if you are seen and don't want to be -- it's time to bob and weave. E&E.
To; idahobob
If you are actually on the tracks in daylight, I agree the exposure factor can be pretty high but like YakDriver said it's best to use a parallel course. The advantage is mainly that you should be able to travel faster than over open terrain that could slow you down. The use of tracks would also make traveling at night safer and less obvious.
Thanks Bob.
RW
To: YakDriver
Most any choke point will be closely monitored, as they make good ambush points. On the other hand, they give give you the opportunity to cross things like rivers, etc. somewhat quicker than other means that may be available.
If you are pretty familiar with the back roads and tracks in your area, you can even avoid the major routes of travel altogether. It may not always be the quickest but it may actually be safer.
Thanks YakDriver.
RW
Got that covered - within 1/2 a mile of my work is a rail line that ultimately travels about 3 blocks from my residence, that may be handy knowledge someday. Agree with Idahobob - very exposed in daytime. I've se3en some plans that convert bicycles to ride the rails. Google RAILROAD BICYCLE and you should find a few links to them. In thw wide open spaces, might be a good way to cover some distances after SHTF.
To: anononymous 3;34
Great tip about the bicycles converted to use on the rails...might need to check that out.
Thanks anon.
RW
...yep,as others have said,noting that,in the beginning of the conflict,at least for now,trax offer fairly unmolested travel...i can cut the distance home,damn near a third from work,following a set of trax,vs,roads...
Remember:when the going gets tough,it's cuz the easy ways are mined...
To: Ken
Having tracks in the neighborhood...just might come in handy.
Thanks Ken.
RW
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