We have decided to just find a room when we get the C.T. If we get there late in the day will the local train still be running? And will it be hard to find a room later in the day, let's say after 5 or 6 p.m.?

I stayed in Manarola for a week in June 2001....I lost count of the number of poor visitors who knocked on our apartment door looking for a room.
There were none to be had and they slept down near the water....
What time of year are you going? you can check train timetables at www.fs-on-line.com
If you do decide to wing your accommodation make sure that you look clean and tidy and be polite when knocking on those doors!!

I'm going next week and plan to do the same thing. I've heard from others that it's easy to get a room (B&B/apt type) once you get off the train. Here's a website that has a list of CT rooms to rent that I've printed off and am taking w/ me just in case the rooms don't appear as easily as I've been told.

http://www.fishnet.it./accommodations.html

You do not mention when you are going. If it's the dead of winter than you will more than likely be able to find a room but you'll be taking a chance any other time of year, especially if you're arriving that late in the day. Personally I would rather have a room alread reserved instead of wasting time looking for a place. Trust me, you will NOT want to walk up and down the hills with your luggage or backpacks in tow looking for a room!!

Unless you are a goat.. these hills are Murder!!!

Check out Villa Margherita in Levanto. We just stayed there. 85 euros per night and a great base to explore CT. Levanto is not a bad little town either. I would much rather base there than in one of the 5 CT towns. I know the last train to Levanto from Vernazza runs at 10:59 pm. Have fun.