The Calumet Region (aka Da Region) is the area of southern Cook County, IL, and northern Lake and Porter Counties in Indiana. The Region has a huge concentration of varied rail activity: most of the Class 1 railroads pass through the area, there are a couple of short lines, and some fascinating industrial operations.

You either hate trains in the Region because you're stuck at a grade crossing, or you love 'em because you can see them just about anywhere—just sit by the tracks and wait a few minutes. I am definitely in the love category. I have always believed that the Region was and still is one of the top train-watching areas in the USA.