by Aubrey Wiley (VgnRy43@aol.com)
Some of the former Virginian mainline west from Victoria to Roanoke is nonexistant; twenty four miles to be exact. The rest of the line is often difficult to find. To assist fans of the old Virginian in seeking out the railroad, I have made these web pages of detailed driving directions for the old Norfolk Division, Second Subdivision, interlaced with some interesting and perhaps lesser known history and tales.
However, I can assume no responsibility for your driving the routes. This is only a general guide based on my personal directions. The railroad and private property owners do not tolerate trespassing so enjoy your railfanning from public property. It has been my experience that most property owners are agreeable if permission is requested in a polite, respectful and gracious manner.
When planning to spend some time exploring the old Virginian railroad between Victoria and Roanoke, a logical starting point is Altavista, Virginia, which is about mid way. Altavista is on US route 29 and south of Lynchburg. This guide is divided into three parts:
