Spokane BNSF and UP Scanner: How to Listen to Railroad Traffic in Spokane

3 4 minutes read

For many rail enthusiasts, listening to the radio traffic between train operators and dispatchers is an exciting way to connect with the pulse of railroads. In Spokane, Washington, the BNSF (Burlington Northern Santa Fe) and UP (Union Pacific) railroads are major operators, moving freight across the region and beyond. If you’re curious about how to tune into their communications, a Spokane BNSF and UP scanner could be your gateway to a fascinating world of railroad logistics.

Why Listen to a Spokane BNSF and UP Scanner?

Whether you’re an avid rail fan or simply interested in the logistics of freight transport, the Spokane BNSF and UP scanner offers a unique glimpse into the operations of two of the largest railroad companies in North America. These railroads control a significant portion of the freight traffic in and out of Spokane, and their scanners broadcast essential communications, including train movements, switching operations, and emergency dispatches.

Listening to a Spokane BNSF and UP scanner can help you gain insight into the railroad industry, the operational procedures of these companies, and the role railways play in keeping goods flowing across the country. You might hear dispatchers instructing train crews on when to stop, start, or change tracks, or learn about how trains navigate busy intersections and cross-town routes in Spokane.

Where to Find Spokane BNSF and UP Scanner Frequencies

To tune in to the Spokane BNSF and UP scanner, you’ll need to access the specific radio frequencies used by these railroads. Several online platforms, including RadioReference and Broadcastify, provide live streams of these frequencies. These platforms allow users to listen in to various radio communications, including those of BNSF and UP.

RadioReference is one of the most popular resources for finding scanner frequencies. It offers a comprehensive list of the frequencies used by BNSF and UP in the Spokane area. Users can either listen to live audio streams on the site or use the frequencies to program their own scanners. RadioReference also provides a community-driven database where you can find detailed information about which frequencies are active in Spokane at any given time.
Broadcastify is another platform offering live scanner feeds, including those of railroads. Broadcastify allows users to listen to real-time communications from the BNSF and UP in Spokane. The platform is easy to use and doesn’t require any special equipment—just a device with an internet connection. Additionally, Broadcastify features a mobile app, so you can tune in to the Spokane BNSF and UP scanner feeds while you’re on the go.

Both platforms offer free access to scanner streams, but if you’re looking for premium content or additional features, they also offer paid memberships. Either way, tuning into these feeds is simple and can provide a wealth of knowledge about the trains passing through Spokane.

Scanner Devices and Software for the Best Listening Experience

If you’re more interested in using a physical scanner to listen to BNSF and UP communications directly, you’ll need to invest in a radio scanner capable of picking up the frequencies used by these railroads. Popular scanner brands like Uniden or Whistler offer models that can be easily programmed with frequencies used by the BNSF and UP.

For a digital alternative, there are also scanner apps that allow you to tune in to these frequencies through your smartphone or computer. Many of these apps, such as Scanner Radio or iScanner, provide access to public scanner feeds, including those of BNSF and UP. These apps can be a cost-effective way to listen to the Spokane BNSF and UP scanner without purchasing a physical device.

Frequency Listings for Spokane BNSF and UP

When you tune in to a Spokane BNSF and UP scanner, you’ll be listening to various frequencies that are essential for day-to-day railroad operations. Some commonly used frequencies include:

BNSF Dispatcher Frequencies: BNSF typically uses a range of frequencies for different types of communication. Some of the most relevant ones for Spokane include:
- 160.410 MHz (general dispatcher communications)
- 160.530 MHz (railroad crews and dispatcher coordination)
- 161.070 MHz (freight train operations)
UP Dispatcher Frequencies: Union Pacific also uses multiple frequencies for communication within Spokane:
- 160.590 MHz (general communications)
- 161.490 MHz (train crew operations)
- 160.650 MHz (dispatcher coordination for Spokane area)

These frequencies help the railroad companies manage train schedules, track usage, and crew communication. Having access to these frequencies allows listeners to follow along with the movements of freight trains and understand the timing of operations.

Understanding the Railroad Lingo

Listening to a Spokane BNSF and UP scanner is an interesting experience, but it can be filled with technical railroad lingo. Some common terms you’ll likely hear include:

Dispatcher: The individual who coordinates train movements, ensuring safe and efficient operations on the tracks.
Track Warrant: A written authorization for train crews to occupy specific sections of track.
Clear Signal: An indication that a train may proceed safely.

As you listen, you may also hear about various incidents or delays affecting the schedules of trains. Dispatchers will use clear, concise language to communicate these updates to train crews and other operational staff.

Enjoying the Spokane BNSF and UP Scanner as a Hobby

Many people enjoy listening to railroad scanners as a hobby, and Spokane is an exciting location to dive into this world. With the bustling freight traffic in and out of the region, there’s always something to listen to, whether it’s a routine train schedule or an unexpected delay. For those who live in or near Spokane, it offers an incredible opportunity to learn more about the operations of these massive freight companies and see how they help connect people and businesses across the United States.

Conclusion

A Spokane BNSF and UP scanner opens up a world of railroad communication to enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Whether you’re using a traditional scanner or listening via online platforms like Radio Reference and Broad castify, you can access live feeds of the BNSF and UP frequencies in Spokane. By doing so, you’ll get a firsthand look at how these companies manage their operations, and you may just find yourself fascinated by the logistics behind the freight trains that traverse the region.