THE CABOOSE PROVIDED THE TRAIN CREW WITH A SHELTER AT THE REAR OF THE TRAIN. THE CREW COULD EXIT THE TRAIN FOR SWITCHING OR TO PROTECT THE REAR OF THE TRAIN WHEN STOPPED. THEY ALSO INSPECTED THE TRAIN FOR PROBLEMS SUCH AS SHIFTING LOADS, BROKEN OR DRAGGING EQUIPMENT, AND HOT BOXES. THE CONDUCTOR KEPT RECORDS AND HANDLED BUSINESS FROM A TABLE OR DESK IN THE CABOOSE. FOR LONGER TRIPS THE CABOOSE PROVIDED MINIMAL LIVING QUARTERS, AND WAS FREQUENTLY PERSONALIZED AND DECORATED WITH PICTURES AND POSTERS.

THE TRAIN TRACK FOR THE HIAWATHA CAN BE SEEN DIRECTLY TO THE EAST OF THE DETENTION PONDS. THE PARK IS CLOSED 10 PM-6AM. THE BIKE PATH IS BLACK TOP AND IF YOU WISH, WALK IT WITH YOUR DOG. IT’S ONLY A 1.9 MILE TRIP AROUND THE PERIMETER OF THE PONDS.