How can you identify the direction of L trains in Chicago?

The identification of the direction of L trains in Chicago primarily relies on their labeling based on final station locations. Each train line is designated with a name derived from its endpoint and is accompanied by specific terminal stations that indicate where it is headed. For example, a train labeled "Red Line" to "Howard" will only go in one direction, corresponding directly with its final destination. This system allows riders to quickly and accurately determine which train to board based on their own destination.

Other elements, while potentially informative, do not provide a definitive means for determining train direction. The color of the train corresponds to the line but can vary without indicating specific routing, while the time of day may not consistently correlate with directionality, since trains can run on similar schedules regardless of their end point. The number of passengers onboard is not a reliable indicator of direction, as it varies throughout the day depending on overall ridership trends but does not affect the train’s intended route.