A Behind the Scenes Tour of the Mainlines

Join Model Railroad Academy as we take a closer look at our mainlines. Our tour begins at the east end of the layout in Pine Canyon. This scenic canyon is a gateway to the layout for the Milwaukee Road. Pine Canyon begins outside of the layout room in an impressive 19-foot railroad display case located in the railroad longue. The display case has three levels of active track running through it. The trains pass through wall openings between the two rooms. All three levels have passing sidings and lead into the multilevel staging.

The Milwaukee Road is the first of the four railroads on the layout we encounter. Watch as Milwaukee passenger local pulled by F Unit number 85C travels outside of the station yard and through the wall on the way to Pine Canyon. Our train emerges into Pine Canyon on the other side of the wall.

Planning Your Layout

Along the tour you will see a few ways to make your design appear as realistic as possible. We first come across a 96-foot log truss bridge scratch built using real local timber from outside. Acquiring authentic scenery for your layout can be as easy as searching your own backyard. Just behind the bridge you’ll see a backdrop of trees set upon rocky hills painted by a local artist and retired art teacher. The backdrop gives realism and depth to the scene. As the train continues through the canyon we pass a large rock cropping that has been created using real rock. There are many ways to create convincing model railroad scenery. Join us on this journey for realistic layout planning inspiration.