Wadena, Minnesota
Country Manor Motel
63131 Highway 10
Wadena, MN 56482
218-631-3323
It's trackside with plain view of the BNSF tracks which are a mere stone throws away. The tracks approach the motel at a slight angle so there's about 1 mile's worth of view to the east and to the west about 3/4's of a mile. There's a grade crossing within 1/4 mile of motel which yes, they whistle for.
For scanner listeners---a Hot box detector is about 7 miles away and can be heard from the motel with a few minute warning of an approaching eastbound train on MAIN 2, the line from Wadena to Richard's Spur is directional ABS...so MAIN 1 is for westbounds and Main 2 is for eastbounds. There are approximately 60-70 trains daily including AMTRAK no 7 and 8 (EMPIRE BUILDER) in the wee hours of the morning.
Its a 2 story motel with all rooms facing the tracks...we usually get the top floor at the west end of the building as the view is great, if its raining the awning / roof provides shelter as you can watch in the pouring rain. The Bar and grill is good as well if you'd like a cold beverage and bring back to the room.
I've been staying at this motel for nearly 10 years and although it needs some work...more exposure means more people--means more $$$ for upgrades as she is doing her best to fully upgrade the entire motel. I give this motel high ratings and great value for the buck, approximately $45/ night.
The town of Wadena offers awesome amenities for the railfan...Macdonald's, Dairy Queen and Quiznos are adjacent to the mainline, 2 gas stations and a Taco John's also very only 1-2 minute walks from the tracks. Wal-Mart just opened a 24 hour SUPERSTORE about 2 minute drive from the tracks. This motel and town are a hidden gem, although isolated in the middle of MN, it's only a couple hours each way to Fargo, Duluth/Superior, Bemidji 4 hours to Minneapolis/St Paul.
Submitted by Mike Rocnik 7.15.07