I do not have any current first hand information on the use of the branch along the lake.
Last fall, The VTR was storing LPG cars on that branch, which riled up the NIMBY's. Here
is an article from vtdigger.com dated November 30th. I could find no recent update.
https://vtdigger.org/2017/11/30/town-la ... ous-cargo/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
From some reports I have seen, the VTR sometimes leaves cars for PAR on the branch, but they do
run down to Hossick Jct. to get their cars. PAR can be inconsistent on interchange schedules.
VTR has run a Rutland/HJ and return job on some Sundays, mostly to move highway salt, I
would guess that is winding down with Spring on the way. I have not fanned at NB since last
fall. However, over the years in warmer weather, there are often a few railfans there when
the Rutland job shows up, One or more of them may have info on that days arrival times.
Regarding Riverside, I am with you, I have never found a way to get good views.