Big Boy in Salina

Union Pacific's tour of the country with the 4014 Big Boy steam locomotive included a stop in nearby Salina, Kansas at their depot. We thought that would make for a good reason to go see the train.

The train has drawn large crowds wherever it goes and Salina, KS was no different.  It turns out this was an experience as much about sharing the excitement of the crowd as it was rail fanning.

Lots of cars and people at the station

This was universally ignored

Julie awaiting the train

Security had the uneviable job of keeping folks from crossing the tracks 

With not much luck

All ages were there, some with ear protection

The children covered their ears

It was a great experience for sure!

Colorado Model RR Museum

Greeley, Colorado is the home to the Colorado Railroad Museum. This is a large, multilevel extremely realistic model railroad that is operated and maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers.

It was known for years as the Greeley Freight House, but was renamed to better define its function and make it easier to associate with model railroading.

This is a glimpse of the railroad as you enter

A detailed lift bridge model is right as you enter 

Stairs take you to a second level which gives an overview of the railroad

Snow sheds are modeled

RR advertising posters are on display

There is a wonderful series of displays to be found showing how model railroad scenery is created

You can look down upon detailed ore carrier modules

The day I was there all of the trains running were military trains in honor of Veterans Day.

Ore carrier model of the Edmund Fitzgerald

Beautiful detailing

Very effective use of a photo backdrop

This full size F Unit engine cab has a video of the model railroad visible thru the windshield

Water looks so realistic!

I've not seen this in real life, but I suspect the shapes are to show there is clearance for the following car(s)

You'd have to be a real trusting soul to use that outhouse

Some buildings on the layout have  real prototypes

Forest fires are modeled

The boxcars decorated for the railroads road name are especially interesting as a the full size version is parked outside behind the museum

Well worth your time to visit. Be sure to check their hours as they are not open every day.