How to Train Hop Safely

Train hopping is a tradition that brings to mind hobos and drifters traveling across the country on the tracks. If you've ever dreamed of riding the rails, you should be aware of the dangers associated with train hopping. Follow these steps to train hop safely.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Wear dark clothing and carry a dark pack to avoid being seen by train cops, also known at one time as "the bulls."
2. Be careful when you're getting on a train. The ideal situation is to get on before the train begins moving to minimize any danger. If the train is moving, don't risk getting on unless you're absolutely certain you can do so without harming yourself.
3. Try to choose a train that is going from one destination to another without any stops in between. You have less of a chance of getting caught on these routes. Trains that make frequent stops give the cops more opportunities to find you.
4. Ride open boxcars for the safest trip and the best places to hide. Avoid cars that are marked Bad Order because they're in need of repair and may be dangerous.
5. Take care when getting off the train, as this is possibly the most dangerous part of train hopping. If you're jumping from a moving train, hit the ground running. However, you must wait until the train has reached a speed that you can match on the ground. If you jump too soon and the train is still going too fast, you could seriously injure yourself.
6. Remember to take basic safety precautions while you're in the train yard. Avoid walking on the tracks or crawling under cars. Especially dangerous are cars that have been disconnected from the rest of the train but are still rolling down the tracks. They move quietly and can surprise you if you're not aware of your surroundings.

Tips & Warnings

• Train hopping is illegal in most locales and downright dangerous. You shouldn't indulge this practice.