Hello! Yes, it’s no wonder it has taken then decades to build it. They have a lot more time, money, and volunteers than I could ever dream of having for my own layout! Ha.
Back in the late 80’s and until the mid 90’s, I was active duty in San Diego. I was a member of the LaMesa model railroad club. This brings back many memories.
Hello! It must have been a blast being a part of the club. I forgot to ask them how many members they have. I imagine it takes quite a few hands to keep that layout up and running! -Mike
I was a club member of SDSON for 28 years before I moved to the Midwest. And for almost the last five years ending in 2020, I used to be the daytime N-scale layout operator for San Diego Society of N-scale at The San Diego Model Railroad Museum in Balboa Park. That Layout is a great one. It's 100 foot long by 28 feet wide, and it's all hand laid code track, and it's also all DCC controlled. It's a Fantastic layout to run on. I sure do miss it!
Hello! It must have been a lot of fun being a part of a great organization like that. I regretted not being able to spend more time looking at the N-scale, but plan on doing that next time. -Mike
@@MainTrack MainTrack, next time you’re at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum ask for a behind the scenes tour of any of the layouts. Most all modelers enjoy showing off their layouts. Contact the museum’s director for tours. And let them know, Tim formal member of SDSONS says hello. Enjoy the layouts!
Great camera work Mike. Very peaceful video experience. I visited the layout a few years back with my brother … we got there a bit later than expected and although we did get a good look at their rolling stock collection, we were pressed for time when we started viewing the Tehachapi layout. They started announcing “closing time” and when everyone cleared out we were starting to leave as well. A member heard us talking about our “time mis-management” blunder and he came over and said “stick around”. He locked some door and came back and gave us a personal tour! We were treated to great walk around with loads of info … it was beyond great. Love that place.
I was there about 20 years ago, around 2004. It was fantastic! I started speaking to a member and he was kind enough to offer me a behind the curtain tour. I don’t know if they do that a lot for fellow Model Railroader, but I loved it. If you’re in the area, I strongly suggest taking the opportunity to see it and the other exhibits.
Hello! That sounds like a pretty cool opportunity go behind the scenes. I plan to enjoy a longer visit next time, and will be sure to do an update episode. They did an amazing job on these layouts!
I first visited the museum in 1960 while serving in the U S Navy. Then about 10 yrs ago visited again while the loop was being constructed. If you ever get close to San Diego this is well worth your time for a visit!!!😀😀😀
I remember the Museum layouts starting from my time living in Ssn Diego (1983-1992). Even purchased a bumper sticker that reads "You should see the trains in our basement," as a keepsake (still have it, never mounted on a car, during the subsequent 35+ years. Finally paid for a lifetime membership 10 years ago. I, sadly, havent been back down to San Diego since moving in 1992, but I proud of the work that the clubs have done over, now, couple of generations - in particular, the field trips that members made from San Diego to Tehachapi Pass to record the landforms and vegetation, and accurately re-create them in scale. Thanks for the video!!
Hello! That must have been a lot of fun being part of the club. One of the members was telling me about the trips they take to the prototype to take pictures, measurements, etc. The hard work on the research end has certainly paid off with the layout. The prototype line I’m modeling was downgraded and partly abandoned years ago. I imagine my field trips for research aren’t as nearly exciting as ones to Tehachapi! Ha. I appreciate you watching! -Mike
Hello! I’m sure it was a cool opportunity to have been a member of the club. I’m sure you learned a lot of great stuff and had a lot of fun. I’m looking forward to more visits! -Mike
I was a member of the SD Model Railroad club in the mid 80's. I started when it was just a big empty room. We had the Carrizo Gorge in when I moved away but not much else.
The largest layout I have ever seen has been in Hamburg, Germany. They have over 10,000 square feet of layout that incorporates thousands of buildings (all lit) as well as four levels of train action--all HO. On a "typical day," as many as 40 trains and many highway vehicles are running simultaneously--all computer controlled with trains (both passenger and freight) entering and departing from several stations as they may their way around the layout. The layout represents five major German states--and even one U.S. State (California where the Tehachapi Loop is). The amount of detailing is incredible and includes a replica of the Octoberfest in Munich as well as an ongoing outdoor concert complete with continuous music. My favorite detail includes a nude beach along a river--complete with sun tanning "patrons." To enjoy all the things to see takes a full day OR you can go to UA-cam, do a search for Miniatur Wunderland, and watch video provided by the location.
While the German exhibit is extravagant, the sensory overload seems more toylike than "natural," a caricature of a model railroad. It and the Northlandz setup in NJ have little appeal for me as a lifelong model railroader. Other great model railroads exist around No. America that feel more like what I would love to have in my basement.
Hello! That sounds pretty amazing. You’re describing a lot of really cool details. I’ve never traveled to Europe…but I’ll have to add this to my to-do list when I finally make my way over there! -Mike
@@e.t.p.3710 For pure realism you should check out the Pendon Museum's model railway. It is in England. They have UA-cam channel. It was started several decades ago and still isn't finished. It is meant to be an accurate representtion of a slice of the English countryside before the war. Several of the scratch built buildings took hundreds of hours to make.
IMPRESSIVE! The backdrop paintings blend in flawlessly with the landscape scenery on the Tehachapi layout. I also enjoy seeing the structures found in a rural setting.
I could have spent a few days there, I'm sure! It's definitely a standard we can all strive for. I love the wide open spaces. Granted, they have a lot of space to do that. But, I think it's a prime example of keeping things on the minimal side for realism. -Mike
Hi! I agree…it is an amazing work of art. Part of me dreams of having a layout that large someday. But, reality says it would be hard for one person to tackle something that big. It has taken this club decades!
These are amazing. So realistic, authentic. My favorite toy as a child was my American Flyer train set with bridges, water tower, crossing gates, and train stations. My dad made me a great layout and I miss that even today, 60 years later. I will always be fascinated with model railroad layouts. Thanks for sharing this video.
I got my American Flyer back in 1946 at the age of 6, and I don’t recall any bridges or water to cross. This was right after the war and the Country was beginning to recover from material shortages.
Hi there! Thank you for watching. I also recall my first train set. Mine was a Tyco set and I was obsessed with it. That love stuck with me, and here I am 45 years old still loving train! Ha.
I agree- it’s fantastic. I sure wish I had that person’s artistic abilities. I plan on tackling photo backdrops on my new layout. Painting is just not my strong point! -Mike
Awesome layout, beautiful scenery and amazing backdrop work. I haven't been lucky enough to see it in person but I love watching the videos. Colorado Model Railroad Museum is another great Ho scale layout. They sometimes operate 200 + car trains. They even have an old caboose inside that you can walk through. This is the largest model train layout I have been to. Thanks for sharing.
Hello! I appreciate you watching. I've had a few other guys mention Colorado Railroad Museum being another good one. I haven't visited that one, but will look it up and check it our next time I'm out that way!
This club had enough room and will to depict mountain railroading with scale size land features that usually dwarf the trains. I love the speed control of the trains. The terrain depiction is wonderful. The curves are very scale in curvature. This really adds to the realism. Great video of a wonderful layout.
Hello! Yes, they have done fantastic jobs with these layout. I can only dream of developing their skills someday...and having that much room to work with! It’s a good example for all of us to strive for.
What a spectacular layout for sure. I’m sure modelrailroaders would be there for hours running trains. Fantastic share thanks for sharing this one. Enjoy the rest of your day 😎🚂🫵TSM
Thanks for stopping in to watch, Mike! Yes, it's a modelers' dream. I could have stayed for a few more hours- or days. Haha. There's always next time to look forward to!
Hi there! I agree- it is pretty spot on. I've also driven that route many times- and always make sure to make some stops along the way to watch the trains. It's certainly one of my favorite stretches of highway in California! -Mike
The accurate running speeds, and the remarkably large area really does a great job of perfectly presenting in accurate scale the tedium of train operation. well done.
Hi, Daniel…I agree! That layout is a great example for us to strive for. I only wish my skills were that great! But, I walked away with plenty of great ideas and motivation to bring back to my own layout. -Mike
The Tehachapi Pass layout is quite good, beautifully detailed and representative of California's hills. It's good because in modeling a specific line, it's not just tracks everywhere with toy trains racing around too fast. Certain scenes, like the loop and Caliente are very accurately modeled. It's one of the best if accuracy is important to you.
Hello! Yes, it’s the kind of layout we should all strive for. Granted, most of us don’t have quite the resources or manpower that the club has. But, it’s a great example of trying to be as accurate as possible- from the scenery and trackwork, to the trains and operations. I look forward to visiting again sometime! -Mike
Thanks for the tour, Mike! In 2001 my parents selected San Diego as our family gathered to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. One of the days was spent at Balboa Park and I was lucky enough to catch 'the crew' on a work day. While talking to one of the members I mentioned I was a member of a 'hometown club' in NorCal, and he immediately invited me "behind the rope" and gave me the world's BEST tour! He took me into 'member-only' areas, explained everything from Ops to MoW to running shows. His pride was obvious in his presentation; he never failed to explain detailed answers to my millions of questions, even let me run a Yard Job for a few minutes. I forgot what modeling expertise he specialized in, but it was obvious there's no lack of incredibly talented people at this club. While this club is staggeringly beautiful, I want to congratulate not just the LMMRRC and SDMRRC as a group, but the the whole hobby - which has such a welcoming spirit to first-time outsiders - because the next visit, you're considered a friend! Ken Patterson likes to call Model Railroading the World's Greatest Hobby - which it is BTW! But it's because of the people, not just the trains. I've made more life-long friends from train connections than everything else combined. As I enter my 18th year of battling terminal cancer, I can't say thank you enough to all the men and women that I now call friends... and to those new friends I'm waiting to meet. Red And Gray All The Way - I still go by 'The Ghost Of The SP!'
Hi, Thom! Hope you had a great holiday. My sincerest apology for the late reply. I've been trying to play catch up with my messages. I make sure to respond to everyone. I am glad you enjoyed the layout tour! They members of both clubs did outstanding jobs and set an example we can all strive for. I'm planning on going back for additional visits. They offered a more behind-the-scenes look next time I stop by. I am looking forward to that- and being able to share that video with everyone. And, I can appreciate "Red and Gray All The Way." While I am mostly an MKT guy, I did grow up seeing a lot of SP/SSW trackage right trains through Sedalia, Missouri (on the UP/MP) when I was growing up. And, SP units made occasional appearances on MKT trains. I just bought an SP Rapido B36-7...so I will now have a little more gray and red on the layout!
Back from 1982 - 1987 I lived in Bakersfield and ministered for a church attended by one of the cowboys who was a full timer on the Loop Ranch. I would occasionally get to go up and ride with them herding cattle from one location to another, or rounding them up at branding time. I enjoyed watching this video and seeing areas that were definitely familiar and held memories of good times.
Hello! Glad to hear you were able to relive some good memories! It is beautiful country out there. I have visited the real location many times. The club has done a wonderful job recreating the scenery. I appreciate you watching!
Hello! I agree...this is an absolute work of art! I can only hope and dream of developing my own modeling skills to that level! It's a good example of what we can at least try to strive for! -Mike
Hello! I agree…even calling a work of art would be an understatement! It’s a lot to take in- in a good way. I’m looking forward to going back sometime.
Hello! Yes, I could sit for hours and watch the trains wind through this scenery. It’s a lot to take in- in a good way! They did an amazing job with the layout.
As a young Boy Scout, we had a leader in the troop that made it his mission to put up a train garden every year at the local incurable diseases hospital in our area, and it grew each year. It was wonderful ! Looking back now as an old man, I realize it's not really the size that matters, it's how many lives you "touch" with something as a simple as a miniature train garden and community. (You were ahead of yer time, Tom Linz Troop 94) A good one is in Sarasota Fla. at the Ringling Museum.
Hi! That’s a pretty neat story. It is nice to hear about how people can use their hobby and skills to bring enjoyment to others. I’m sure it brought a lot of joy for everyone at the hospital. I think it would be great if we could all find more ways to give back to our communities like that!
One of the most fantastic layouts I've ever seen!! If you're into model trains or just trains in general, it is well worth the price of admission. Don't forget to see the N-cale layout; amazing!! Check out why the fire department was called to somebodys back yard swimming pool!!!!
Hello! I agree-- it is a pretty amazing museum. I want to visit again and spend more time looking at the N-scale. The place was a case of sensory overload for the model railroader- in a very good way! Ha. -Mike
From 1990 to 95 I lived in Tehachapi, California, there was a restaurant there that had a model of the Tehachapi loop in HO scale. I used to ride my bike down to the Tehachapi loop and back to town. Tehachapi was a wonderful place. I have read in the model Railroad magazines that Tehachapi loop is one of the most built layouts in the world. They said people even came in from Europe to take pictures of it so they could re-create it.
Hello! That must have been a neat place to live. I have been through the area many times and have always thought the scenery is breathtaking. I always thought the railroad through that area looked like a giant life-sized model railroad. So, it only makes sense someone turned it into one! I would like to see the model you’re talking about. I’ll have check it out next time I’m in the area.
I was stationed at Vandenberg afb and on a trip to San Diego we stopped at Balboa Park and it was truly amazing. They also have other museums but I was fascinated by the N scale layout.
I have lived in San Diego for around 30 years and raised our 2 boys here. We ussed to take them to that museum a couple of times a year for years. I don't know who enjoyed it more, the boys or me.
I love the LaMesa Tehachapi layout, it’s probably one of my all time favorites. I was fortunate to run some trains on it several times while I lived in Southern California. - Steve
Hi, Steve! That must have been a lot of fun. What an awesome opportunity! I imagine it would take a while to get a train across the entire layout. -Mike
@@MainTrack it was a blast. Very grateful at the opportunity. It usually took at least an hour to get from end to end… another hour for the return trip. I lived in San Diego for 25 years and watched it grow over the years too. That is by far the best layout in the museum. - Steve
5:36 In 2005, I saw tunnels as small as that between San Bernardino, California, and Barstow, California on B.N.S.F.'s tracks. I haven't seen any tunnels that small in a very long time because railroads often tear them down, just like the ones I saw. I have had an admiration for this Tehachapi layout since 1988. I doubt it's impressions on me will ever stop.
I have been to this layout and it is worth the trip to see it. In one of the HO layouts there was a house with a swimming pool in the back yard. The pool had a shark in it.
Thank you watching, Terrence! It’s certainly a very inspiring masterpiece for all of us to enjoy and learn from. I only wish my skills were as good as these guys! -Mike
San Diego model railroad club built a beautiful big layout for ho that I'm a fan of n adding DCC n Sound technology into Ho locomotive's are worth the investment n time n money n they entertain friends and family n the grandchildren when they come to visit the house.
Hello! Yes, facility and friends visiting my layout have always enjoyed the literal bells and whistles on the trains! It can be a bit much if you have several trains going, so I usually keep the sound levels lower. Audio certainly adds a great dimension to the hobby!
Living in Santa Barbara, I really need to take time for a road trip to San Deigo. I've seen that layout a few times since the 90s. It truly the biggest & best layout you can imagine! Thank you for posting this. Definitely going there this month. I like this u tube because there's not endless talking. Just focus on this beautiful R.R. Subsribed now.
Hello! Thank you…I appreciate you joining us. I agree- it’s hard to beat this layout! I hope to make several return visits. Funny enough, during this same recent trip, I had planned to go to Santa Barbara as well but wasn’t able to squeeze it in. There’s always next time! -Mike
It appears that they could use some wireless dcc throttles instead of having to plug into the layout periodically. Fantastic layout! The largest layout that I've seen is the one at the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry.
Hello! I'm not sure about the particulars of their DCC system and why they're using tethered throttles. That seems like a good question for me to ask next time...or maybe one of the current club members can chime in here! I've heard cool things about the layout in Chicago and have watched some videos about it. I need to visit that one sometime!
Loved visiting this layout when we were in Balboa Park . The biggest oo guage layout I have seen is at Miniture Wunderland in Hamburgh Germany. Well done.
Hi, Charlie! Balboa Park is fantastic. I may be showing my bias when I say the model railroad museum is the best part! Haha. I’ve heard a few viewers mention the big layout in Germany. It sounds like a place I need to check out! -Mike
Actually, the Aerotrain at the very end was a very pleasant surprise! I know freight is easier to handle and maneuver around a layout, but I’d love to see more dedicated passenger operations.
Hi! I thought that was a fun little surprise as well. I’ve always enjoyed reading about the real Aerotrain sets, so it was neat to see a model of one. I agree with you- we can always use more passenger operations! -Mike
I have grown up in San Diego but have never visited this train layout. I now reside in Poway, but I will make an effort to get down to Balboa and visit this train set!
Hello! Yes, it’s definitely a treasure that’s tucked away a little bit. It seems like a pretty popular spot, but it never felt crowded. It was cool to see all the visitors enjoying the layouts. -Mike
The San Diego museum is the biggest that I have ever seen fortunately I've been able to run at both layouts thank you very much for the gentleman who has invited me multiple times now I'm able to knock this off my bucket list ! 🚂🚃🚃
Hello! I’m sure that was a great opportunity to operate the layouts. I’d love to get that chance sometime. Maybe next time I can catch them during one of their regular meetings and ops sessions. -Mike
Mike , you must be invited to run their and your equipment all needs to be up to NMRA standards! They will test ! Are you in SO. CAL area? Or a few hours drive from San Diego ? ! But am friends with some members it's not to hard to run their just a lot of scheduling. Than we will see what we can do ! 🤞
This layout, the Modelbundesbahn in Germany, and Pendon in the UK, are some of the best display layouts for historical accuracy. What these teams create is an absolute labor of love.
Hello! I’ve heard about the one in Germany but not the one in the UK you’re referring to. I will have to look that one up to see what I can find! I appreciate you watching! -Mike
The biggest layout I've seen so far is the layout in the Cheyene, Wyoming RR Depot. Fun layout with lot's of RR memorabilia. As a bonus one of the Big Boy's is located in a park nearby. My wife was a real trooper and let me play for a bit on a long drive back to Iowa.
Hello! That sounds like a great one. I lived in Cheyenne for a short time as a kid in the 80s, but I'm not sure if the layout was in the depot at the time. I do, however, remember the Big Boy in the park back then...I loved going to see that! I've always wanted to go back for a visit sometime. Now I'll have something else to check out when that trip happens! -Mike
Amazing layouts! What I like about that tehachapi layout is the vast scenery expanses with just one track running through it. It’s very realistic and makes you feel like you’re actually watching a real train traverse there. It’s nice to see a club layout with exceptional scenery and realism. I see way too many modelers, especially club layouts, that focus too much on the trains and how many tracks they can fit on their layout rather than the scenery and the realism. I get some clubs try to maximize the amount of trains they can run at one time so more of their members can be involved on ops days, but sometimes when you add too many tracks, it detracts from the overall quality and realism.
Hello! I agree- these layouts are pretty much works of art! I’ve been to the real Tehachapi pass a handful of times, and this layout may be the best example of capturing the full essence of the prototype. I’ll have to bend reality a little bit on the layout I’m building…my prototype only had 2 or 3 trains a day- which wouldn’t make for a very exciting operation! Ha. -Mike
Absolutely! I've visited the real area a few times before. I can never shake the feeling that I'm just an HO scale figure in a giant layout! Ha. I appreciate you watching!
The largest lay out I've seen is the Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg Germany. It a layout you got to see (I live only 100 miles away, so I've visited it so far 128 times since the opened in 2001.
Hi! That sounds pretty neat. I've heard a lot about that layout. I would love to visit it sometime. I just don't get across "the pond" very often! -Mike
Hello! Some of the viewers have mentioned that one too. I’ll have to check it out sometime. It looks pretty cool from the pictures and videos I’ve seen!
A very fortunate group of modelers to have such an expanse of area for a model railroad. They've done very well to earn that place. Another large club railroad in HO is the Colorado Model Railroad in Greely, CO. Well planned and well managed with a well-funded future. A large privately owned model railroad is the Wyoming Division Historical Society in Cornville, AZ, southwest of Sedona, AZ about 10 miles. While the name may sound stuffy, the layout is spectacular and the employees very welcoming to visitors. Quite a few videos on UA-cam of that 3,000 square foot empire of the UP line from Cheyanne, WY to Ogden, UT set in the 1954-time frame.
Hi! Thank you for watching. I’ve heard a few guys mention the layout in Greely. I will have to check that one out next time I am out that way. The layout near Sedona you mentioned sounds very interesting. I will see what kinds of videos I can find online. I lived in Cheyenne for about three years when I was a kid and have fond memories of the UP. That would have been in the early 80s, but I can appreciate railroading of all eras! -Mike
The largest layout I ever visited was at the Del Mar fair (Southern California Exposition). Don't know if it's still there, last time I was there was in the 1980's. I would stand and watch it for hours. When I was a kid my parents always knew where to find me.
Hello! That’s sounds pretty neat. I haven’t heard about that one, so I do wonder if it is still around. I may see what I can find on that. Surely someone at least has some pictures.
Thanks for posting. I loved that you included the members operating their enormous HO layout. That gives us viewers a true perspective of just how big the La Mesa club layout is. The club I belong to here in South Australia has a layout 100' long by 14' wide. It does not compare to the Tehatchapi layout.😄 Cheers Ken
Hi, Ken! I appreciate you watching! It sounds like your club has a pretty amazing layout as well. I bet it would be hard for anyone, anywhere to compare to the size of the Tehachapi layout. I can’t imagine how long it would take a single person to build and maintain that! -Mike
@@MainTrack bud, I've never seen your guy's layout in person yet and it has to be gi- normous. We're about to move Midwest from Las Vegas. I better come see yours before we go.
Hello! Yes- very much so. I think some modelers try to pack too much into their scenes. I'm trying to stray away from that as I build my layout and incorporate stretches of countryside and open running. This layout gave me a lot of great ideas and inspiration. -Mike
I visited the Nuremberg Germany railway museum in 1974 while serving a mission for my church. It included a computer controlled HO scale model of the Deutsche Bahn (national German railway) that was about 20x40 ft., not nearly as large as San Diego's. But it was densely populated with track and scenery, both urban and rural. Lots of trains were running simultaneously. One feature that particularly caught my eye was a switching yard with 20-30 spurs. For the time, the technology was quite impressive, controlling the trains and switches. As an unplanned special treat, visitors witnessed a head on collision of two trains while I was watching - not a stunt, but a true train wreck that halted the show and threw the exhibit staff into a real tizzy. I'd love to go back and see how that exhibit has evolved over the last 50 years.
Hello! That also sounds like quite an impressive layout. Computer-controlled would have been pretty advanced for the 1970s! I’m sure it was a sight to see. Recently I have started following more European modeling channels. The trains may be different, but a lot of those guys have great skills and techniques that can be applied to any type of layout! -Mike
So nice of UA-cam to recommend this even though I've never searched for anything like this...however i did take a video of the wichita toy train museum today so I guess that's how they know ..
Hello! I appreciate you watching. Yes- it's a little unnerving how much our phones know about us. It could be a blessing and a curse, depending on how you look at it! There have been so many times I'll be chatting with someone about something...then within hours start getting ads for what we were conversing about! -Mike
@@MainTrack well despite all that great video and I will say Wichita doesn't have much but I was pleasantly surprised at how decent the model train museum is here
Hello! Yes, I’m sure their engines get quite a workout on that layout…especially with the grades through their mountain scenery. They did a perfect job capturing the look and feel of the real railroad. I appreciate you watching!
I’ve been to both. The Chicago layout is very nice but nowhere near as large or as realistic as the San Diego layout. I’ve also spent time railfanning the real Tehachipi pass and even got to ride a railroad excursion over the pass in 2011. It’s amazing how accurately this layout captures the real railroad. I don’t think there is any other layout in the world that captures the original so faithfully. Also, this video doesn’t really capture how large this layout is. That’s not a criticism, I’m not sure a video could capture it. Not only is it long and wide, it’s also tall, the trains climb over 12 feet during their run, which takes close to an hour.
At 5:08 you comment on the backdrop behind the model. This was painted by Gary Simon, one of our members. Gary was one of the founding members of the La Mesa Model Railroad Club, and he has been working on painting the backdrops ever since we started building the model back in the early 1980s. You'll never see Gary running a train, though--he just enjoys painting backdrops!
Hi, John! Thanks for the back story. That’s very interesting! I knew it had to be someone with a lot of talent to create that kind of artwork. It sounds like everyone brings their own expertise to the table. -Mike
I was fortunate enough to go to Hamburg, Germany and visit the Miniature Wonderland (in German Miniature Wuderlund) display. It's the worlds largest model railroad display as well as the largest active airport model. Definitely worth the trip!
Hello! A lot of the viewers have been mentioning that layout. It sounds pretty amazing. I’ve seen some videos highlighting it, and it looks well worth a visit! -Mike
Hi there! I appreciate you watching. It was a fun visit and I look forward to going back again in the future. I'll be sure to post additional videos when that happens! -Mike
That sounds like an excellent weekend routine to have! I’m sure I would visit often if I lived nearby. Even being there for several hours, I feel like I didn’t see the half of it! -Mike
Hello! I just had to look it up since I wasn't for certain. It looks like most of the Duel locations were just to the north of Los Angeles. The railroad pass is still few miles north of that. So yes, it is the same general vicinity. It is a neat area for sure. They did an excellent job capturing the feel and look of it with their layout!
That’s pretty cool. I have always wanted an O or G scale loop around my tree at Christmas, but have never gotten around to it. That’s probably some sort of strike against me as a model railroader! Ha.
I was a Chainman on a Kern County survey crew from 1964 to 1969, and we did a lot of surveys in the area modeled here. I am planning to retire soon and in making that decision I turned to model railroading to fill my time. One idea I had was to model the line from the Santa Fe RR yard in Bakersfield to Tehachapi since I was so familiar with that area. I started surveying the alignment of the tracks (using Google Earth) to establish a centerline. I used Blender to convert Lat & Long to California Zone 5 Coordinates and input them to AutoCAD files so I could map the track with software I am familiar with. I mapped the tracks from Bakersfield to the famous Tehachapi Loop and started planning my model layout. At that point I discovered just how big that project actually is. I am 82 now and can not handle small scale projects. I have to model with 'O' gage or larger. An 'O' gage model at full scale would have to be 2 miles long. Talk about monstrous! Well I scaled back my ambition to fit what will go in my garage and wound up with a 8' X 24' layout. All that mapping I did is now just record files in my computer.
The largest model train layout I ever saw in person was Roadside America in Pennsylvania. Sadly, think it was torn down a few years ago. It was done in O scale 3 rail but it was a replica of Reading PA, in the 20's to 50's. The largest home layouts I have seen were Chuck Ellis' and David Barrows when I was a kid. Being a 3 rail O scale modeler I wish you had videoed the O scale layout in San Diego.
That sounds like it was a pretty cool layout! I’m an HO guy, but appreciate all the creativity and hard work that goes into layouts of all scales. -Mike
Hello! I’ll definitely have to check that out! I’ve seen that mentioned before. It sounds like something I can add to my list next time I’m out that way! -Mike
Im from Akron Oh. Im 62 , and when I was young, we had a beautiful layout in cuyahoga falls oh. It was probably about 4000 Square ft. The gentleman that owed it passed away in the late 70s or so . Now its a furniture store 😢
Hello! Yes, they did an amazing job on this layout. I agree, it would be cool to see moving vehicles. That would add a new dimension to the hobby! -Mike
Absolutely! Trains aside, it’s a great place to visit and enjoy. They’ve got some other great museums. The model railroads are my favorite, but I might be biased. Haha. -Mike
The scenery. Beautiful. The hill and sky. Just beautiful
Hello! Yes, it’s no wonder it has taken then decades to build it. They have a lot more time, money, and volunteers than I could ever dream of having for my own layout! Ha.
Back in the late 80’s and until the mid 90’s, I was active duty in San Diego. I was a member of the LaMesa model railroad club. This brings back many memories.
Hello! It must have been a blast being a part of the club.
I forgot to ask them how many members they have. I imagine it takes quite a few hands to keep that layout up and running! -Mike
I was a club member of SDSON for 28 years before I moved to the Midwest. And for almost the last five years ending in 2020, I used to be the daytime N-scale layout operator for San Diego Society of N-scale at The San Diego Model Railroad Museum in Balboa Park. That Layout is a great one. It's 100 foot long by 28 feet wide, and it's all hand laid code track, and it's also all DCC controlled. It's a Fantastic layout to run on. I sure do miss it!
Hello! It must have been a lot of fun being a part of a great organization like that. I regretted not being able to spend more time looking at the N-scale, but plan on doing that next time. -Mike
@@MainTrack MainTrack, next time you’re at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum ask for a behind the scenes tour of any of the layouts. Most all modelers enjoy showing off their layouts. Contact the museum’s director for tours. And let them know, Tim formal member of SDSONS says hello.
Enjoy the layouts!
So do I. I ran San Diego on Tuesdays I would love to go back and see how much it has grown.
@@hoytrobert2919 Be sure to go to La Mesa for their Huge layout. La Mesa is approximately 10 miles East of San Diego, off Hwy 8!
@@MainTrack i saw that in san diego - but almost nothing was running when i was there - i guess it's the luck
Great camera work Mike. Very peaceful video experience. I visited the layout a few years back with my brother … we got there a bit later than expected and although we did get a good look at their rolling stock collection, we were pressed for time when we started viewing the Tehachapi layout. They started announcing “closing time” and when everyone cleared out we were starting to leave as well. A member heard us talking about our “time mis-management” blunder and he came over and said “stick around”. He locked some door and came back and gave us a personal tour! We were treated to great walk around with loads of info … it was beyond great. Love that place.
I was there about 20 years ago, around 2004. It was fantastic!
I started speaking to a member and he was kind enough to offer me a behind the curtain tour. I don’t know if they do that a lot for fellow Model Railroader, but I loved it.
If you’re in the area, I strongly suggest taking the opportunity to see it and the other exhibits.
Hello! That sounds like a pretty cool opportunity go behind the scenes. I plan to enjoy a longer visit next time, and will be sure to do an update episode. They did an amazing job on these layouts!
I first visited the museum in 1960 while serving in the U S Navy. Then about 10 yrs ago visited again while the loop was being constructed. If you ever get close to San Diego this is well worth your time for a visit!!!😀😀😀
Very cool! I know they're been around for a while. I definitely plan on going back for more visits to check out their progress! -Mike
I remember the Museum layouts starting from my time living in Ssn Diego (1983-1992). Even purchased a bumper sticker that reads "You should see the trains in our basement," as a keepsake (still have it, never mounted on a car, during the subsequent 35+ years.
Finally paid for a lifetime membership 10 years ago.
I, sadly, havent been back down to San Diego since moving in 1992, but I proud of the work that the clubs have done over, now, couple of generations - in particular, the field trips that members made from San Diego to Tehachapi Pass to record the landforms and vegetation, and accurately re-create them in scale.
Thanks for the video!!
Hello! That must have been a lot of fun being part of the club. One of the members was telling me about the trips they take to the prototype to take pictures, measurements, etc. The hard work on the research end has certainly paid off with the layout. The prototype line I’m modeling was downgraded and partly abandoned years ago. I imagine my field trips for research aren’t as nearly exciting as ones to Tehachapi! Ha. I appreciate you watching! -Mike
This layout is truly stunning .
Hello! I agree…it’s a work of art. It’s certainly one of the my favorites!
This was the largest layout. I was born in San Diego and was a member of this club for awhile. Back in the 80’s. Great group. Great club to visit.
Hello! I’m sure it was a cool opportunity to have been a member of the club. I’m sure you learned a lot of great stuff and had a lot of fun. I’m looking forward to more visits! -Mike
I was a member of the SD Model Railroad club in the mid 80's. I started when it was just a big empty room. We had the Carrizo Gorge in when I moved away but not much else.
The largest layout I have ever seen has been in Hamburg, Germany. They have over 10,000 square feet of layout that incorporates thousands of buildings (all lit) as well as four levels of train action--all HO. On a "typical day," as many as 40 trains and many highway vehicles are running simultaneously--all computer controlled with trains (both passenger and freight) entering and departing from several stations as they may their way around the layout. The layout represents five major German states--and even one U.S. State (California where the Tehachapi Loop is). The amount of detailing is incredible and includes a replica of the Octoberfest in Munich as well as an ongoing outdoor concert complete with continuous music. My favorite detail includes a nude beach along a river--complete with sun tanning "patrons." To enjoy all the things to see takes a full day OR you can go to UA-cam, do a search for Miniatur Wunderland, and watch video provided by the location.
Was there about 12 years ago. The airport is pretty good as well.
While the German exhibit is extravagant, the sensory overload seems more toylike than "natural," a caricature of a model railroad. It and the Northlandz setup in NJ have little appeal for me as a lifelong model railroader. Other great model railroads exist around No. America that feel more like what I would love to have in my basement.
Hello! That sounds pretty amazing. You’re describing a lot of really cool details. I’ve never traveled to Europe…but I’ll have to add this to my to-do list when I finally make my way over there! -Mike
@@e.t.p.3710 For pure realism you should check out the Pendon Museum's model railway. It is in England. They have UA-cam channel. It was started several decades ago and still isn't finished. It is meant to be an accurate representtion of a slice of the English countryside before the war. Several of the scratch built buildings took hundreds of hours to make.
Thank you for the info!
IMPRESSIVE! The backdrop paintings blend in flawlessly with the landscape scenery on the Tehachapi layout. I also enjoy seeing the structures found in a rural setting.
I could have spent a few days there, I'm sure! It's definitely a standard we can all strive for. I love the wide open spaces. Granted, they have a lot of space to do that. But, I think it's a prime example of keeping things on the minimal side for realism. -Mike
I’ve visited this layout before. It’s incredible how large it is and the people there are pretty nice to talk to. ❤️👍😎
Hi! I agree…it is an amazing work of art. Part of me dreams of having a layout that large someday. But, reality says it would be hard for one person to tackle something that big. It has taken this club decades!
These are amazing. So realistic, authentic. My favorite toy as a child was my American Flyer train set with bridges, water
tower, crossing gates, and train stations. My dad made me a great layout and I miss that even today, 60 years later. I will always be fascinated with model railroad layouts. Thanks for sharing this video.
I got my American Flyer back in 1946 at the age of 6, and I don’t recall any bridges or water to cross. This was right after the war and the Country was beginning to recover from material shortages.
Hi there! Thank you for watching. I also recall my first train set. Mine was a Tyco set and I was obsessed with it. That love stuck with me, and here I am 45 years old still loving train! Ha.
The Backdrop on the Tehachapi Pass Layout is the Scenery you see there, they nail it. I see it everyday.
I agree- it’s fantastic. I sure wish I had that person’s artistic abilities. I plan on tackling photo backdrops on my new layout. Painting is just not my strong point! -Mike
Awesome layout, beautiful scenery and amazing backdrop work. I haven't been lucky enough to see it in person but I love watching the videos. Colorado Model Railroad Museum is another great Ho scale layout. They sometimes operate 200 + car trains. They even have an old caboose inside that you can walk through. This is the largest model train layout I have been to. Thanks for sharing.
Hello! I appreciate you watching. I've had a few other guys mention Colorado Railroad Museum being another good one. I haven't visited that one, but will look it up and check it our next time I'm out that way!
This was going to be my entry too. Located in Greeley, CO if nobody mentioned that.
This club had enough room and will to depict mountain railroading with scale size land features that usually dwarf the trains. I love the speed control of the trains. The terrain depiction is wonderful. The curves are very scale in curvature. This really adds to the realism. Great video of a wonderful layout.
Hello! Yes, they have done fantastic jobs with these layout. I can only dream of developing their skills someday...and having that much room to work with! It’s a good example for all of us to strive for.
The commentator has an outstanding broadcast voice. Better than most network on-air personalities.
What a spectacular layout for sure. I’m sure modelrailroaders would be there for hours running trains. Fantastic share thanks for sharing this one. Enjoy the rest of your day 😎🚂🫵TSM
Thanks for stopping in to watch, Mike! Yes, it's a modelers' dream. I could have stayed for a few more hours- or days. Haha. There's always next time to look forward to!
I drove the 14 freeway through the Tehachapi mountains quite often and I have to say, this is a very accurate layout of the scenery. Well done.
Hi there! I agree- it is pretty spot on. I've also driven that route many times- and always make sure to make some stops along the way to watch the trains. It's certainly one of my favorite stretches of highway in California! -Mike
Do you mean Hwy 58? It’s the one that more or less parallels the line.
@Xanthrochroid
My bad and thanks for the correction. I moved from Cal City to Vegas 26 years ago and rarely travel there anymore.
Hwy 58...duh 🙄
@@dennisschell5543
I admitted the mistake, duh.
What a masterpiece and a way to enjoy the dream of a good train 🚉, model railroad to see, it's done. A fantastic view.
Hello! Yes, its hard to imagine how many decades, and how much skill has gone into that layout. I only hope to reach that level of talent!
Very cool 😎 ! I Need more of this stuff to tune out current events and politics 😊
The accurate running speeds, and the remarkably large area really does a great job of perfectly presenting in accurate scale the tedium of train operation. well done.
Hi, Daniel…I agree! That layout is a great example for us to strive for. I only wish my skills were that great! But, I walked away with plenty of great ideas and motivation to bring back to my own layout. -Mike
The Tehachapi Pass layout is quite good, beautifully detailed and representative of California's hills. It's good because in modeling a specific line, it's not just tracks everywhere with toy trains racing around too fast. Certain scenes, like the loop and Caliente are very accurately modeled. It's one of the best if accuracy is important to you.
Hello! Yes, it’s the kind of layout we should all strive for. Granted, most of us don’t have quite the resources or manpower that the club has. But, it’s a great example of trying to be as accurate as possible- from the scenery and trackwork, to the trains and operations. I look forward to visiting again sometime! -Mike
Thanks for the tour, Mike! In 2001 my parents selected San Diego as our family gathered to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. One of the days was spent at Balboa Park and I was lucky enough to catch 'the crew' on a work day. While talking to one of the members I mentioned I was a member of a 'hometown club' in NorCal, and he immediately invited me "behind the rope" and gave me the world's BEST tour! He took me into 'member-only' areas, explained everything from Ops to MoW to running shows. His pride was obvious in his presentation; he never failed to explain detailed answers to my millions of questions, even let me run a Yard Job for a few minutes. I forgot what modeling expertise he specialized in, but it was obvious there's no lack of incredibly talented people at this club.
While this club is staggeringly beautiful, I want to congratulate not just the LMMRRC and SDMRRC as a group, but the the whole hobby - which has such a welcoming spirit to first-time outsiders - because the next visit, you're considered a friend! Ken Patterson likes to call Model Railroading the World's Greatest Hobby - which it is BTW! But it's because of the people, not just the trains. I've made more life-long friends from train connections than everything else combined.
As I enter my 18th year of battling terminal cancer, I can't say thank you enough to all the men and women that I now call friends... and to those new friends I'm waiting to meet.
Red And Gray All The Way - I still go by 'The Ghost Of The SP!'
Hi, Thom! Hope you had a great holiday. My sincerest apology for the late reply. I've been trying to play catch up with my messages. I make sure to respond to everyone. I am glad you enjoyed the layout tour! They members of both clubs did outstanding jobs and set an example we can all strive for. I'm planning on going back for additional visits. They offered a more behind-the-scenes look next time I stop by. I am looking forward to that- and being able to share that video with everyone. And, I can appreciate "Red and Gray All The Way." While I am mostly an MKT guy, I did grow up seeing a lot of SP/SSW trackage right trains through Sedalia, Missouri (on the UP/MP) when I was growing up. And, SP units made occasional appearances on MKT trains. I just bought an SP Rapido B36-7...so I will now have a little more gray and red on the layout!
Back from 1982 - 1987 I lived in Bakersfield and ministered for a church attended by one of the cowboys who was a full timer on the Loop Ranch. I would occasionally get to go up and ride with them herding cattle from one location to another, or rounding them up at branding time. I enjoyed watching this video and seeing areas that were definitely familiar and held memories of good times.
Hello! Glad to hear you were able to relive some good memories! It is beautiful country out there. I have visited the real location many times. The club has done a wonderful job recreating the scenery. I appreciate you watching!
This truly is a magnificent layout which attests to just how much can be accomplished with dedicated teamwork and creativity. Well done! 🐻🇺🇲
Hello! I agree...this is an absolute work of art! I can only hope and dream of developing my own modeling skills to that level! It's a good example of what we can at least try to strive for! -Mike
Magnificent ! This impressive, yet sober, layout surely beats toy-like Hamburg in reality by far ! A great masterpiece!
Hello! I agree…even calling a work of art would be an understatement! It’s a lot to take in- in a good way. I’m looking forward to going back sometime.
Real nice Layout
It is relaxing to watch the long trains go slowly through the beautyful landscape
Hello! Yes, I could sit for hours and watch the trains wind through this scenery. It’s a lot to take in- in a good way! They did an amazing job with the layout.
As a young Boy Scout, we had a leader in the troop that made it his mission to put up a train garden every year at the local incurable diseases hospital in our area, and it grew each year. It was wonderful ! Looking back now as an old man, I realize it's not really the size that matters, it's how many lives you "touch" with something as a simple as a miniature train garden and community.
(You were ahead of yer time, Tom Linz Troop 94) A good one is in Sarasota Fla. at the Ringling Museum.
Hi! That’s a pretty neat story. It is nice to hear about how people can use their hobby and skills to bring enjoyment to others. I’m sure it brought a lot of joy for everyone at the hospital. I think it would be great if we could all find more ways to give back to our communities like that!
30 scale miles of track - that would be about 3/8 of a mile of actual track - insane !
Yes, it's hard to wrap your mind around! I might now have believed it had I not seen it in person! Ha.
One of the most fantastic layouts I've ever seen!! If you're into model trains or just trains in general, it is well worth the price of admission.
Don't forget to see the N-cale layout; amazing!! Check out why the fire department was called to somebodys back yard swimming pool!!!!
Hello! I agree-- it is a pretty amazing museum. I want to visit again and spend more time looking at the N-scale. The place was a case of sensory overload for the model railroader- in a very good way! Ha. -Mike
From 1990 to 95 I lived in Tehachapi, California, there was a restaurant there that had a model of the Tehachapi loop in HO scale. I used to ride my bike down to the Tehachapi loop and back to town. Tehachapi was a wonderful place. I have read in the model Railroad magazines that Tehachapi loop is one of the most built layouts in the world. They said people even came in from Europe to take pictures of it so they could re-create it.
Hello! That must have been a neat place to live. I have been through the area many times and have always thought the scenery is breathtaking. I always thought the railroad through that area looked like a giant life-sized model railroad. So, it only makes sense someone turned it into one! I would like to see the model you’re talking about. I’ll have check it out next time I’m in the area.
I was stationed at Vandenberg afb and on a trip to San Diego we stopped at Balboa Park and it was truly amazing. They also have other museums but I was fascinated by the N scale layout.
I have lived in San Diego for around 30 years and raised our 2 boys here.
We ussed to take them to that museum a couple of times a year for years.
I don't know who enjoyed it more, the boys or me.
I love the LaMesa Tehachapi layout, it’s probably one of my all time favorites. I was fortunate to run some trains on it several times while I lived in Southern California. - Steve
Hi, Steve! That must have been a lot of fun. What an awesome opportunity! I imagine it would take a while to get a train across the entire layout. -Mike
@@MainTrack it was a blast. Very grateful at the opportunity. It usually took at least an hour to get from end to end… another hour for the return trip. I lived in San Diego for 25 years and watched it grow over the years too. That is by far the best layout in the museum. - Steve
La Mesa club ruined me for HO modeling. It set the bar SO high that since I've moved away, nothing has come even close.
@@JF-lt5zc true, hard to compete with the level of realism and detail they have.
5:36 In 2005, I saw tunnels as small as that between San Bernardino, California, and Barstow, California on B.N.S.F.'s tracks. I haven't seen any tunnels that small in a very long time because railroads often tear them down, just like the ones I saw. I have had an admiration for this Tehachapi layout since 1988. I doubt it's impressions on me will ever stop.
I have been to this layout and it is worth the trip to see it. In one of the HO layouts there was a house with a swimming pool in the back yard. The pool had a shark in it.
Wow! That must have been some layout. If they had room and money for a pool with a shark, I'm sure their layout was something to see! Haha.
You beat me to it on the shark. 😂
It was even on the layout in the old building YEARS ago. 😉
Just absolutely magnificent.
Hi! I agree…they did an amazing job on these layouts. I look forward to additional visits in the future! -Mike
This is a Master Class of scenic ideas and modeling skills. Thank you for sharing !
Thank you watching, Terrence! It’s certainly a very inspiring masterpiece for all of us to enjoy and learn from. I only wish my skills were as good as these guys! -Mike
And ending with the Aerotrain. Outstanding work on everything!
Yes…that’s not one you see on many layouts. I definitely had to include that one! -Mike
San Diego model railroad club built a beautiful big layout for ho that I'm a fan of n adding DCC n Sound technology into Ho locomotive's are worth the investment n time n money n they entertain friends and family n the grandchildren when they come to visit the house.
Hello! Yes, facility and friends visiting my layout have always enjoyed the literal bells and whistles on the trains! It can be a bit much if you have several trains going, so I usually keep the sound levels lower. Audio certainly adds a great dimension to the hobby!
Living in Santa Barbara, I really need to take time for a road trip to San Deigo. I've seen that layout a few times since the 90s. It truly the biggest & best layout you can imagine!
Thank you for posting this. Definitely going there this month. I like this u tube because there's not endless talking. Just focus on this beautiful R.R.
Subsribed now.
Hello! Thank you…I appreciate you joining us. I agree- it’s hard to beat this layout! I hope to make several return visits. Funny enough, during this same recent trip, I had planned to go to Santa Barbara as well but wasn’t able to squeeze it in. There’s always next time! -Mike
This is amazing! The biggest layout I've ever visited is Road Side America in eastern Pennsylvania. Great video thumbs up.
Hello! I will have to check that one out next time I'm out in PA! I appreciate you tuning in and am glad to hear you enjoyed the video! -Mike
Beautiful work done on these tracks. Thanks for sharing this video!
Hello! Thank you for watching. I agree…fantastic work by these modelers!
The most impressive layout I've seen ,was in new jersey called northlandz multiple levels, many trains ran at same time. Bridges beyond belief.
Hello! I’ve had a few guys mention that one to me. It sounds like one I definitely need to check out!
@@MainTrack worth the trip…check it out online
It appears that they could use some wireless dcc throttles instead of having to plug into the layout periodically. Fantastic layout! The largest layout that I've seen is the one at the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry.
Hello! I'm not sure about the particulars of their DCC system and why they're using tethered throttles. That seems like a good question for me to ask next time...or maybe one of the current club members can chime in here! I've heard cool things about the layout in Chicago and have watched some videos about it. I need to visit that one sometime!
Loved visiting this layout when we were in Balboa Park .
The biggest oo guage layout I have seen is at Miniture Wunderland in Hamburgh Germany. Well done.
Hi, Charlie! Balboa Park is fantastic. I may be showing my bias when I say the model railroad museum is the best part! Haha. I’ve heard a few viewers mention the big layout in Germany. It sounds like a place I need to check out! -Mike
Very impressive. Clearly a labour of love.
Thanks for watching, Barry. Yes…a whole lot of love- and a lot of labor I would imagine! -Mike
Actually, the Aerotrain at the very end was a very pleasant surprise! I know freight is easier to handle and maneuver around a layout, but I’d love to see more dedicated passenger operations.
Hi! I thought that was a fun little surprise as well. I’ve always enjoyed reading about the real Aerotrain sets, so it was neat to see a model of one. I agree with you- we can always use more passenger operations! -Mike
I have grown up in San Diego but have never visited this train layout. I now reside in Poway, but I will make an effort to get down to Balboa and visit this train set!
Hello! Yes, it’s definitely a treasure that’s tucked away a little bit. It seems like a pretty popular spot, but it never felt crowded. It was cool to see all the visitors enjoying the layouts. -Mike
….and that includes the setup in La Mesa. Just East of San Diego about 10 miles away.
The San Diego museum is the biggest that I have ever seen fortunately I've been able to run at both layouts thank you very much for the gentleman who has invited me multiple times now I'm able to knock this off my bucket list ! 🚂🚃🚃
Hello! I’m sure that was a great opportunity to operate the layouts. I’d love to get that chance sometime. Maybe next time I can catch them during one of their regular meetings and ops sessions. -Mike
Mike , you must be invited to run their and your equipment all needs to be up to NMRA standards! They will test ! Are you in SO. CAL area? Or a few hours drive from San Diego ? ! But am friends with some members it's not to hard to run their just a lot of scheduling. Than we will see what we can do ! 🤞
Amazing. Time and money is all you need. Good job.
Hello! I agree- they did a great on these layouts. Yes, time and money- and plenty of it…both things I wish I had a lot more of! Ha.
This layout, the Modelbundesbahn in Germany, and Pendon in the UK, are some of the best display layouts for historical accuracy. What these teams create is an absolute labor of love.
Hello! I’ve heard about the one in Germany but not the one in the UK you’re referring to. I will have to look that one up to see what I can find! I appreciate you watching! -Mike
The biggest layout I've seen so far is the layout in the Cheyene, Wyoming RR Depot. Fun layout with lot's of RR memorabilia. As a bonus one of the Big Boy's is located in a park nearby. My wife was a real trooper and let me play for a bit on a long drive back to Iowa.
Hello! That sounds like a great one. I lived in Cheyenne for a short time as a kid in the 80s, but I'm not sure if the layout was in the depot at the time. I do, however, remember the Big Boy in the park back then...I loved going to see that! I've always wanted to go back for a visit sometime. Now I'll have something else to check out when that trip happens! -Mike
Amazing layouts! What I like about that tehachapi layout is the vast scenery expanses with just one track running through it. It’s very realistic and makes you feel like you’re actually watching a real train traverse there. It’s nice to see a club layout with exceptional scenery and realism. I see way too many modelers, especially club layouts, that focus too much on the trains and how many tracks they can fit on their layout rather than the scenery and the realism. I get some clubs try to maximize the amount of trains they can run at one time so more of their members can be involved on ops days, but sometimes when you add too many tracks, it detracts from the overall quality and realism.
Hello! I agree- these layouts are pretty much works of art! I’ve been to the real Tehachapi pass a handful of times, and this layout may be the best example of capturing the full essence of the prototype. I’ll have to bend reality a little bit on the layout I’m building…my prototype only had 2 or 3 trains a day- which wouldn’t make for a very exciting operation! Ha. -Mike
I visited there a number of years ago. Very slick stuff. They did a great job.
Hello! I had a blast during my visit. I'm hoping to make many more visits to see their progress! -Mike
Tehachapi is a model railroad for real!
Absolutely! I've visited the real area a few times before. I can never shake the feeling that I'm just an HO scale figure in a giant layout! Ha. I appreciate you watching!
The largest lay out I've seen is the Miniatur Wunderland in Hamburg Germany. It a layout you got to see (I live only 100 miles away, so I've visited it so far 128 times since the opened in 2001.
Hi! That sounds pretty neat. I've heard a lot about that layout. I would love to visit it sometime. I just don't get across "the pond" very often! -Mike
Wow!! Impressive....👍
The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry has a colossal HO layout.
Hello! Some of the viewers have mentioned that one too. I’ll have to check it out sometime. It looks pretty cool from the pictures and videos I’ve seen!
Could watch that for hours 😊
Hello! Same here…I spent several hours at the layout and could have easily spent a few more. There’s always next time! -Mike
A very fortunate group of modelers to have such an expanse of area for a model railroad. They've done very well to earn that place.
Another large club railroad in HO is the Colorado Model Railroad in Greely, CO. Well planned and well managed with a well-funded future.
A large privately owned model railroad is the Wyoming Division Historical Society in Cornville, AZ, southwest of Sedona, AZ about 10 miles. While the name may sound stuffy, the layout is spectacular and the employees very welcoming to visitors. Quite a few videos on UA-cam of that 3,000 square foot empire of the UP line from Cheyanne, WY to Ogden, UT set in the 1954-time frame.
Hi! Thank you for watching. I’ve heard a few guys mention the layout in Greely. I will have to check that one out next time I am out that way. The layout near Sedona you mentioned sounds very interesting. I will see what kinds of videos I can find online. I lived in Cheyenne for about three years when I was a kid and have fond memories of the UP. That would have been in the early 80s, but I can appreciate railroading of all eras! -Mike
The largest layout I ever visited was at the Del Mar fair (Southern California Exposition). Don't know if it's still there, last time I was there was in the 1980's. I would stand and watch it for hours. When I was a kid my parents always knew where to find me.
Hello! That’s sounds pretty neat. I haven’t heard about that one, so I do wonder if it is still around. I may see what I can find on that. Surely someone at least has some pictures.
Thanks for posting. I loved that you included the members operating their enormous HO layout. That gives us viewers a true perspective of just how big the La Mesa club layout is. The club I belong to here in South Australia has a layout 100' long by 14' wide. It does not compare to the Tehatchapi layout.😄 Cheers Ken
Hi, Ken! I appreciate you watching! It sounds like your club has a pretty amazing layout as well. I bet it would be hard for anyone, anywhere to compare to the size of the Tehachapi layout. I can’t imagine how long it would take a single person to build and maintain that! -Mike
Outstanding ,well worth a long visit !
I do look forward to visiting again and keeping tabs on their progress! -Mike
Colorado railroad museum. That is a nice layout as well.
Hello! That’s one layout a lot of viewers have mentioned to me. I definitely need to check that one out as well! -Mike
@@MainTrack bud, I've never seen your guy's layout in person yet and it has to be gi- normous. We're about to move Midwest from Las Vegas. I better come see yours before we go.
This backs up the premise that "less is more."
Hello! Yes- very much so. I think some modelers try to pack too much into their scenes. I'm trying to stray away from that as I build my layout and incorporate stretches of countryside and open running. This layout gave me a lot of great ideas and inspiration. -Mike
Biggest layout I have ever visited was in Zanesville Ohio. The layout was on the cover of Model Railroader years ago. Really worth a visit.
Hello! Yes, I saw that layout on the cover. I’ve not had a chance to visit that one yet. But, it sounds like I would love it! -Mike
That is truly an amazing layout.
Hi, Larry! I agree…they did a fantastic job on this layout. Truly a work of art! -Mike
I visited the Nuremberg Germany railway museum in 1974 while serving a mission for my church. It included a computer controlled HO scale model of the Deutsche Bahn (national German railway) that was about 20x40 ft., not nearly as large as San Diego's. But it was densely populated with track and scenery, both urban and rural. Lots of trains were running simultaneously. One feature that particularly caught my eye was a switching yard with 20-30 spurs. For the time, the technology was quite impressive, controlling the trains and switches. As an unplanned special treat, visitors witnessed a head on collision of two trains while I was watching - not a stunt, but a true train wreck that halted the show and threw the exhibit staff into a real tizzy. I'd love to go back and see how that exhibit has evolved over the last 50 years.
Hello! That also sounds like quite an impressive layout. Computer-controlled would have been pretty advanced for the 1970s! I’m sure it was a sight to see. Recently I have started following more European modeling channels. The trains may be different, but a lot of those guys have great skills and techniques that can be applied to any type of layout! -Mike
Fantastic thanks!
Hi! Thanks for stopping by to watch! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. -Mike
super layout , I was there years ago. A friend of mine Cliff showed me around. I was a ho guy
Very cool. It sounds you had a great time as well! I hope to make it back for many more visits. -Mike
A gopro ride along would be great
Hello! Yes, that would be a pretty cool perspective. Surely someone has done that before on this layout. I’ll have to ask next time I’m there!
So nice of UA-cam to recommend this even though I've never searched for anything like this...however i did take a video of the wichita toy train museum today so I guess that's how they know ..
Hello! I appreciate you watching. Yes- it's a little unnerving how much our phones know about us. It could be a blessing and a curse, depending on how you look at it! There have been so many times I'll be chatting with someone about something...then within hours start getting ads for what we were conversing about! -Mike
@@MainTrack well despite all that great video and I will say Wichita doesn't have much but I was pleasantly surprised at how decent the model train museum is here
That must be a powerful engine to pull that many cars. Nicely done !
Hello! Yes, I’m sure their engines get quite a workout on that layout…especially with the grades through their mountain scenery. They did a perfect job capturing the look and feel of the real railroad. I appreciate you watching!
Amazing layout.
Thank you for tuning in! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed seeing this layout. -Mike
I visited Miniature World in Victoria, British Columbia in the late 1980's. It was pretty impressive.
Hello! That definitely sounds like one I will have to check out.
Next level! Love this!!!
Hello. I definitely agree with you on that! I am looing forward to going back again sometime.
The largest layout I've seen is at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, but this one looks far more impressive. Thanks for a great video.
Hello! I've seen some pictures from of that layout. It looks pretty impressive. I will have to visit it sometime! -Mike
I’ve been to both. The Chicago layout is very nice but nowhere near as large or as realistic as the San Diego layout. I’ve also spent time railfanning the real Tehachipi pass and even got to ride a railroad excursion over the pass in 2011. It’s amazing how accurately this layout captures the real railroad. I don’t think there is any other layout in the world that captures the original so faithfully. Also, this video doesn’t really capture how large this layout is. That’s not a criticism, I’m not sure a video could capture it. Not only is it long and wide, it’s also tall, the trains climb over 12 feet during their run, which takes close to an hour.
One of the biggest G-scale layouts that I have seen is EnterTRAIN ment Junction in Cincinnati, OH. Great layout
Hello! That sounds pretty neat. I haven't heard of that particular layout, but I will definitely look it up and see what I can find out about it!
Thank you
Hi, Larry. Thanks for watching! -Mike
At 5:08 you comment on the backdrop behind the model. This was painted by Gary Simon, one of our members. Gary was one of the founding members of the La Mesa Model Railroad Club, and he has been working on painting the backdrops ever since we started building the model back in the early 1980s. You'll never see Gary running a train, though--he just enjoys painting backdrops!
Hi, John! Thanks for the back story. That’s very interesting! I knew it had to be someone with a lot of talent to create that kind of artwork. It sounds like everyone brings their own expertise to the table. -Mike
Great video 👍 thanks for sharing!
I appreciate that. Thanks for watching!
Hi Main Track Train & it's is Randy and i like yours video is Cool & Thanks Main Track Train & Friends Randy
Thanks, Randy! I appreciate you watching. I’m glad to hear you’re enjoying the videos. -Mike
Incredible👍 I’ve been there😉 there is another nice layout at the Vista Ca Tractor Museum
Hello! I appreciate you watching. I wasn’t aware of another layout in Vista. I’ll definitely have to check it out next time! -Mike
I was fortunate enough to go to Hamburg, Germany and visit the Miniature Wonderland (in German Miniature Wuderlund) display. It's the worlds largest model railroad display as well as the largest active airport model. Definitely worth the trip!
Hello! A lot of the viewers have been mentioning that layout. It sounds pretty amazing. I’ve seen some videos highlighting it, and it looks well worth a visit! -Mike
These are awesome
Hi there! I appreciate you watching. It was a fun visit and I look forward to going back again in the future. I'll be sure to post additional videos when that happens! -Mike
👍 I love Train's
Hi, David! Same here! I appreciate you watching.
Awesome layout ❤
It’s definitely a world-class layout and something we can all be inspired by. I’ll look forward to visiting again sometime. -Mike
I used to go every weekend when I live in San Diego. Great place
That sounds like an excellent weekend routine to have! I’m sure I would visit often if I lived nearby. Even being there for several hours, I feel like I didn’t see the half of it! -Mike
So cool!!
Didn't Spielberg film DUEL out there?!?!
Need a little red car and that old rusty tanker somewhere!! haha
Hello! I just had to look it up since I wasn't for certain. It looks like most of the Duel locations were just to the north of Los Angeles. The railroad pass is still few miles north of that. So yes, it is the same general vicinity. It is a neat area for sure. They did an excellent job capturing the feel and look of it with their layout!
[thank, you for you're great video]👍
Hi! I sure appreciate that. Thank you for tuning in! -Mike
The largest train layout I’ve ever seen in person is around my Christmas tree in December, Its huge, It goes all the way around the tree.
That’s pretty cool. I have always wanted an O or G scale loop around my tree at Christmas, but have never gotten around to it. That’s probably some sort of strike against me as a model railroader! Ha.
I was a Chainman on a Kern County survey crew from 1964 to 1969, and we did a lot of surveys in the area modeled here. I am planning to retire soon and in making that decision I turned to model railroading to fill my time. One idea I had was to model the line from the Santa Fe RR yard in Bakersfield to Tehachapi since I was so familiar with that area. I started surveying the alignment of the tracks (using Google Earth) to establish a centerline. I used Blender to convert Lat & Long to California Zone 5 Coordinates and input them to AutoCAD files so I could map the track with software I am familiar with. I mapped the tracks from Bakersfield to the famous Tehachapi Loop and started planning my model layout. At that point I discovered just how big that project actually is. I am 82 now and can not handle small scale projects. I have to model with 'O' gage or larger. An 'O' gage model at full scale would have to be 2 miles long. Talk about monstrous! Well I scaled back my ambition to fit what will go in my garage and wound up with a 8' X 24' layout. All that mapping I did is now just record files in my computer.
very nice train model
Thank you for watching! Yes…they did a fantastic job on their layout. I look forward to visiting again sometime!
The largest model train layout I ever saw in person was Roadside America in Pennsylvania. Sadly, think it was torn down a few years ago. It was done in O scale 3 rail but it was a replica of Reading PA, in the 20's to 50's. The largest home layouts I have seen were Chuck Ellis' and David Barrows when I was a kid. Being a 3 rail O scale modeler I wish you had videoed the O scale layout in San Diego.
That sounds like it was a pretty cool layout! I’m an HO guy, but appreciate all the creativity and hard work that goes into layouts of all scales. -Mike
A wonderful layout!
Hi, Randy. I agree…they did an amazing job on these layouts. It’s definitely a great example of amazing detail that we can all strive for. -Mike
When you're visiting Western New York, check out the Medina Train Museum. Always a fun visit.
Hello! I’ll definitely have to check that out! I’ve seen that mentioned before. It sounds like something I can add to my list next time I’m out that way! -Mike
Im from Akron Oh. Im 62 , and when I was young, we had a beautiful layout in cuyahoga falls oh. It was probably about 4000 Square ft. The gentleman that owed it passed away in the late 70s or so . Now its a furniture store 😢
Great layout could be even better with moving cars!
Hello! Yes, they did an amazing job on this layout. I agree, it would be cool to see moving vehicles. That would add a new dimension to the hobby! -Mike
I enjoy going to Balboa park in San Diego. I try to stop into the train club each time.
Absolutely! Trains aside, it’s a great place to visit and enjoy. They’ve got some other great museums. The model railroads are my favorite, but I might be biased. Haha. -Mike