Massive Model Train Layout Tour - Spectacular HO Railroad Scenes

#trains #modeltrains #modelrailroad
⭐️In this video, Mike takes you on a tour of an impressive HO-scale layout!
These model railroad train display showcase the talents of members of the La Mesa Model Railroad Club and San Diego Model Railroad Association, and feature operations of the Union Pacific, Southern Pacific, Santa Fe, and BNSF Railway. The layouts have been under construction for decades and are two of the largest model railroad displays in the country.
👀Watch More Layout Tours HERE: • Train Layout Tours
===========================
🚂We appreciate our Main Track Partners!
Our members help support this content for as little as $1.00 per month. Thank you!
===========================
➡️KZbin PARTNERS: / @maintrack
➡️PATREON PARTNERS: / maintrack
===========================
🚂Subscribe and Watch HERE:
===========================
➡️KZbin: / themaintrack
➡️INSTAGRAM: / maintracktrains
➡️FACEBOOK: / themaintrack
✅ Got a question or comment? Reach Mike at [e-mail]
Join Us On Our Social Media Channels!
KZbin: / themaintrack
INSTAGRAM: / maintracktrains
TIKTOK: / maintracktrains
FACEBOOK: / themaintrack

[@nyglover]

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.

[@wranglerboi]

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 KZbin, do a search for Miniatur Wunderland, and watch video provided by the location.

[@dougberry1011]

Was there about 12 years ago. The airport is pretty good as well.

[@e.t.p.3710]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@BrewPub]

@@e.t.p.3710 For pure realism you should check out the Pendon Museum's model railway. It is in England. They have KZbin 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.

[@Stev-u2c]

Thank you for the info!

[@moosta141]

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!

[@MainTrack]

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

[@moosta141]

@@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!

[@normfredriksen1381]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@usnusmcret]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@danieldonaldson8634]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@Longshadowsmodeltrees]

The Backdrop on the Tehachapi Pass Layout is the Scenery you see there, they nail it. I see it everyday.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@krislangley6226]

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!!

[@MainTrack]

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

[@CajonSub]

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

[@MainTrack]

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

[@CajonSub]

@@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

[@kd5gsp]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@jre617]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@J3scribe]

The Goat Canyon trestle on the SD&AE layout is a masterpiece. Unfortunately, due to physical constraints, it's placed in a highly compressed canyon scene that limits its visual appeal. The compromise of model railroaders everywhere. It should be noted that the Tehachapi layout is prototypically accurate down to the fence posts. The entire layout is modeled from photographs, many of which are era specific. It's astonishing what the members have created.

[@MainTrack]

Hi! The trestle was quite impressive. I waited forever to grab a shot of a train crossing it, but I never did get lucky. Kind of like railfanning sometimes in real life! One of the members was telling me about the hundreds (maybe thousands) of trips members have made over the years to the prototype to photograph scenes, obtain measurements, etc. It puts the research efforts for my personal layout to shame! Haha. -Mike

[@rodgerespy1365]

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!!!😀😀😀

[@MainTrack]

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

[@user-yp6ev9oi2t]

This is a Master Class of scenic ideas and modeling skills. Thank you for sharing !

[@carstenselberg1255]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@Stev-u2c]

Wow!! Impressive....👍

[@IMRROcom]

13:41 - Goat Canyon Trestle, that looks very close to the real Goat Canyon Trestle.

[@MainTrack]

They did an amazing job on that! I can’t even imagine the time and effort it took to build that...someone with a lot more patience and skill than I have!

[@casinoboyeric]

@@MainTrack The valley with the Goat Canyon Trestle is big enough to walk thru when you have a derailment. They have a standing platform on the top of the mountains with monitors to see what is happening to your train as it passes below.

[@philhurtado7269]

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!

[@MainTrack]

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

[@thomream1888]

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!'

[@kurtgoll6399]

MiniaturWunderland in Hamburg, Germany, Europe: 1231 Züge, longest train: 14,51meter, 16kilometer railroads, almost 300.000 figures, more than 12.000 waggons. Half million LEDs. 150.000 trees.

[@MainTrack]

Hi, Kurt! I’ve heard a lot about that layout. I’ve never been to Germany…but if I do go, I’ll have to visit this one! It sounds amazing. -Mike

[@chugwaterjack4458]

And ending with the Aerotrain. Outstanding work on everything!

[@MainTrack]

Yes…that’s not one you see on many layouts. I definitely had to include that one! -Mike

[@arminiusgratis9439]

The best model railroad layout I ever had the pleasure to see in person was the Gore and Daphetid (sic)in the basement of the home of John Allen in the Monterey area of California. In 1970 I was stationed at Fort Ord and a friend of mine took me along with him to see the famous layout. Unbelievable !!! Not long after John Allen died and the faulty furnace (he never turned on) was turned on by someone and it started a fire that destroyed most of the layout. Terrible loss as his friends were hoping to move it out and display it publicly.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! That’s amazing you were able to visit John Allen’s layout. I grew up seeing it in books and magazines. I believe I’ve seen some video footage of it as well. I didn’t realize until much later that the layout was long gone in the 70s before I even came on the scene! I’m glad there were a lot of memories captured and preserved for future generations! -Mike

[@sanandaallsgood673]

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!

[@MainTrack]

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

[@CharlieFlack-n3i]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@davidfuller7792]

👍 I love Train's

[@MainTrack]

Hi, David! Same here! I appreciate you watching.

[@deryastimemachine5497]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@greatsilentwatcher]

When you're visiting Western New York, check out the Medina Train Museum. Always a fun visit.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@oscar35575]

Just absolutely magnificent.

[@MainTrack]

Hi! I agree…they did an amazing job on these layouts. I look forward to additional visits in the future! -Mike

[@Santaanacanyon]

Another big layout is the Pasadena Model Railroad Museum. The club operates a 5000 sq ft layout. 84 years young.

[@MainTrack]

That sounds like another amazing layout! I’ll have to see about visiting that one the next time I’m out west. -Mike

[@scottmitcheltree4182]

I enjoy going to Balboa park in San Diego. I try to stop into the train club each time.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@derekalexander4030]

Amazing layout.

[@MainTrack]

Thank you for tuning in! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed seeing this layout. -Mike

[@BeykoEngineering]

WOW!

[@MainTrack]

That was my response to these layouts as well! I appreciate you watching. -Mike

[@kenkoller478]

Heading back to Minatur Wonderland in early Aug 2024. Went 10 years ago and it's doubled in size since then.

[@MainTrack]

That sounds like an amazing layout! I’ve been hearing a lot about it. I recently looked up some videos about the place and was pretty impressed! -Mike

[@gerlandkent6377]

[thank, you for you're great video]👍

[@MainTrack]

Hi! I sure appreciate that. Thank you for tuning in! -Mike

[@wranglerboi]

A bit more realism could be attained by stringing "telephone wires" on the telephone poles along with a few call boxes along the way. I realize that walkie-talkies are the standard way of communicating, but it helps to have back-up options in such a sparse and (in some ways) inhospitable terrain. I did that with my layout--and the local "citizens" appreciate the convenience thereof.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! That would be really neat to see. I imagine that would be quite a task to install. But, it sounds like you’ve had some great success with it. I would love to string wires on the poles on my layout, but I don’t trust my elbows! Haha. -Mike

[@birdman5223]

Incredible👍 I’ve been there😉 there is another nice layout at the Vista Ca Tractor Museum

[@MainTrack]

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

[@Ken-Kaef]

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

[@MainTrack]

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

[@thecommonsenseconservative5576]

So nice of KZbin 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 ..

[@MainTrack]

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

[@thecommonsenseconservative5576]

@@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

[@O-PAC]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@brookswilson1072]

This backs up the premise that "less is more."

[@MainTrack]

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

[@chrisbrown1585]

Northlandz, in Flemington, NJ. I don't know the size of the layout, but it takes the better part of a day to go through

[@MainTrack]

That sounds pretty neat. I’ll have to add that one to my to-do list next time I head out east! -Mike

[@vettebecker1]

Awesome layout ❤

[@MainTrack]

It’s definitely a world-class layout and something we can all be inspired by. I’ll look forward to visiting again sometime. -Mike

[@tomroscoe137]

Save your nickels and go to Hamburg, Germany. Their HO layout is second floor of warehouse including European highlights like Vatican, Berlin, london, etc. It is a business. Charge admission. Paid employees. Swiss mountains. About three hours to go thru.

[@MainTrack]

Hi, Tom! That sounds pretty amazing. A lot of guys have mentioned that one. I’ve never been to Germany. Perhaps this gives me an extra reason to go someday! Haha. -Mike

[@bigdave200]

Pretty cool!

[@MainTrack]

Hello! I would agree…these guys did an amazing job on these layouts! -Mike

[@tomfarnsworth950]

Nice! Biggest I've seen is the Colorado Model Railroad Museum in Greeley, CO. It rivals this one, but both are awesome.

[@MainTrack]

Hi! That’s sounds like a great one to visit sometime. I just looked it up online. It looks amazing! -Mike

[@texaseagletrains]

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.

[@MainTrack]

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

[@sullyway51]

The largest I have personally seen was the Geoffrey Humann O scale layout of the Southern Pacific Line from Roseville to Mount Shasta City California. It was at his Ranch outside of Gerber California. He also had a large collection of operating steam tractors and a life size European narrow gauge railway that ran around his ranch.

[@MainTrack]

That sounds like a really neat layout. I don’t believe I’ve seen much about that one, but I will look it up and see what I can find! I’ve seen some great O-scale layouts with amazing detail. -Mike

[@az8theist977]

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!!!!

[@MainTrack]

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

[@NormanAllen-ps9ju]

Outstanding ,well worth a long visit !

[@MainTrack]

I do look forward to visiting again and keeping tabs on their progress! -Mike

[@RichardBough-yk2ei]

Roslyn 's Model Trains at Valley Heights NSW Australia Bigges Privately owned in Southern Hemispere

[@MainTrack]

Hi, Richard! I’ll have to search for some details about that one. I’ve always found Australian railroads to be pretty interesting- and similar in a lot of way to what we have here in the U.S. -Mike

[@ENIGMAXII2112]

Very Nice..!

[@MainTrack]

Yes, it’s a pretty amazing layout! Definitely worth the visit. I appreciate you watching! -Mike

[@possumbayou8238]

I used to go every weekend when I live in San Diego. Great place

[@MainTrack]

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

[@154Colin]

Very unusual plugin for the NCE controller. It looks as though in place of the RJ11 (Ethernet) plug there using a... appears to be a DB-type plug.

[@MainTrack]

Yes, it’s an interesting setup for sure. I asked one of the guys about it. Apparently, the modified plugin helps with the problem of the cable plug clips snapping off after repeated use. As an NCE guy myself, I was pretty intrigued by it. -Mike

[@josephreed5155]

I was infected with the need for trains around 1953. Largest layout? That is mathematical. Model Railroads are art. Size? Get serious. The art of Model Railroading is in the eye of the creator(s). You can comment, discuss, value ... most importantly enjoy. But judge by size? Every time I see this layout I just want to spend days there. Thank you for the great video, and to all at the LMMRC, from conception to operation. Thank you.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! I appreciate you stopping by to watch! I agree- I could easily spend more than a day taking everything in. I certainly would have come much earlier in the day had I known how great it would be. Four and a half hours wasn’t enough! Ha. It’ll give me something to look forward to on my next visit to San Diego. -Mike

[@robmagu65]

It is a GREAT layout, unique in many ways that sets it apart from other layouts. I have run here many, many times and it is a close to a 'real railroad' as you can get. This was not an OPS session as LMMRRC OPS sessions are 50's only.

[@MainTrack]

Hi there! I agree- they did an amazing job on the layout. The amount of detail and craftsmanship are top notch and definitely museum quality. I’m sure running on the layout was a blast! Thank you for clarifying about the OPS session. I would love to visit sometime when they’re having one of those events. -Mike

[@andriesgrabowsky2717]

Twice the speed starts looking realistic

[@MainTrack]

I imagine it takes quite a while for a train to make it all the way around the layout. I asked one of the club members and he said it took “quite a while!” -Mike

[@Elf_Hour]

8:14 nice to see the Katy)

[@MainTrack]

Haha…you caught that too! It was pretty cool seeing some MKT representation there. If I only had that much space for my layout! -Mike

[@gmaneis]

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.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! I've seen some pictures from of that layout. It looks pretty impressive. I will have to visit it sometime! -Mike

[@jamesrea329]

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.

[@robertzimmerman365]

I saw this layout when my parent’s and me were on a trip, back in 1968, i think.

[@MainTrack]

Very cool! I was reading how the clubs have been around for quite a while. I’m sure it would be really neat to watch their progress over the decades. -Mike

[@paulyosef7550]

WOW, AWESOME

[@MainTrack]

Hello! I agree- they did an amazing job on this layout! It's definitely an inspiration for the rest of us. -Mike

[@scotabot7826]

Pretty cool!!

[@MainTrack]

Thanks for watching! I agree-- the club did an amazing job on their layout! -Mike

[@trainglen22]

Wow!

[@MainTrack]

I agree...it's a pretty impressive place. Definitely something everyone should see if they get a chance! -Mike

[@michellewal8219]

Great layout could be even better with moving cars!

[@MainTrack]

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

[@Rylan_Jones2011]

I LOVE TRAINS but it always seems so still with a realistic layout the train is the only thing in motion that’s it

[@MainTrack]

That’s true! It one of reminds me of train chasing in real life…waiting a long time for trains to show up- depending on the line. I would imagine- with a layout this large- it’s more fun to operate than be a spectator! -Mike

[@jasonweir6345]

That's a very impressive layout. It's been featured in MR a couple times. But it's a prime example that shows even in s vast expanse like that, sound units are way over done. Hearing all those engines whining away would drive me nuts. It's like standing on the jet way next to an airport terminal! Still don't think it's as big as the North Metro Model Railroad Club's layout.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! Yes, I had seen some past article on it and it was on my to-do list. So glad I was able to pay it a visit! Striking a balance with the sound can be tricky. I usually run my stuff with sound on, but nowadays keep the volume pretty low. Louder sound tends to be a lot for my ears during ops sessions!

[@jimrockford3662]

This vid is about Le mesa, not wonderland in Germany. Some folks just like to gab on. This is a wonderful layout. Brilliant model of a great bit of railroad.👍🏽

[@MainTrack]

Hello! It's certainly a layout I could visit many more times. I've heard a few guys talking about the layout in Germany. I may just have to add that one to my to-do list as well! -Mike

[@dathyr1]

Whichever you need - today you need a ton of money to build a large size layout. The Engines and cars alone are extremely expensive - wire, lumber, electrical parts, track, scenery, etc are also very expensive. It is not a kids hobby anymore. My friend and myself started this hobby many years ago and pricings were high but as a teenager affordable. Now it is ridiculous in the prices it would take to build our same layouts. Good luck if you want to get into this hobby.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! Yes, it can be a money hog, depending on how much you get into it. You make a good point about prices- trains and track aside, the building materials are enough to drain your wallet. Someone could save money by finding some great secondhand stuff at train shows and on eBay. But, there aren’t as many ways to save when it comes to building benchwork and running wires. That’s one reason I’ve decided to go with narrower benchwork on my current layout. Two or three feet wide obviously requires a lot more work- and money- than one foot wide. I’m trying to stick to around 14 to 16 inches. -Mike

[@dathyr1]

@@MainTrack Hi Mike, Thanks for your added imput to model Railroading. If we go to train shows or look for sale pricings, every little bit helps in this hobby. Thanks for your video and take care. Dave

[@DanielJohn-t6b]

Biggest I've seen is Prairie Scale Model Rail Roaders in Lombard, illinois

[@MainTrack]

Hello! I believe I’ve seen a video of that layout online. I’d love to visit it sometime! -Mike

[@DanielJohn-t6b]

@@MainTrack be my guest, I'm a member. Just let us know. Friday nights are the best time

[@jeeptjxwrangler1088]

Great video! The biggest layout I have seen, was at the Choo Choo Barn in Pennsylvania! 👍🏻🇺🇸

[@MainTrack]

That’s excellent! I’ve seen that in a lot of magazine and videos. It has been on my bucket list for a long time, but I don’t make it out east very often. I appreciate you watching! -Mike

[@jeeptjxwrangler1088]

@@MainTrack you will love it!

[@winfriedbanzhaf1067]

I saw the one in Hamburg, Germany

[@MainTrack]

I’ve been hearing a lot about that one! It definitely sounds like one that’s worth checking out. -Mike

[@BrianDeSpain-x6w]

Wow

[@MainTrack]

It was a lot of fun visiting the museum! They have some real world-class layouts there. -Mike

[@Txloganc]

intro gave me a good laugh

[@MainTrack]

Hello! I appreciate you stopping in to watch! -Mike

[@dusterracerdan]

Then you should go to Northlands, it’s twice as big

[@MainTrack]

That’s sounds pretty cool! I’ll have to check that out sometime. -Mike

[@taylorbaggarleyunionpacifi3409]

Hey Mike how are you doing well got bought computer for my room in the fall back hobby got computer for early birthday I also just been busy man I recently got sick from covid I feel a lot better now i hope your doing well new mkt layout

[@MainTrack]

Hello, Taylor! Glad to hear you’re feeling better. That sounds like it was a rough one. That’s really cool you got a new computer. I bet that kept you busy in a fun way. I have a new computer on my wish list, so we will see what Santa brings this Christmas. Haha. Layout progress is coming along- slowly but surely! -Mike

[@taylorbaggarleyunionpacifi3409]

@@MainTrack It was Mike having covid not me out down but yes indeed my computer really was wish I want for a awhile I will let u when get my soft my layout soon in the fall I do shot out to u

[@mybadluckcharm]

Wow, nice layouts, but you weren't lucky at all. Lines featuring the SP, and not a single piece of SP power was run. I did like that SD24 run, though. But man.... no SP. That hurt a bit.

[@MainTrack]

Yes, I was hoping to see a few more trains. Honestly, it was very like my trip to the prototype a few years ago- waiting for hours and only seeing a handful of trains! I like SP/SSW as well since I saw quite a bit of it in Missouri growing up. -Mike

[@francisdoudney7000]

Great layout however

[@MainTrack]

Hello! Yes, they certainly did a great job in this layout. I’m not sure it’ll ever be “done.” But, I’ll look forward to going back sometime to see what progress they’ve made. Thanks for watching! -Mike

[@davidlytle4696]

I've been to the San Diego model railroad museum it's fantastic there are no words for it

[@MainTrack]

Yes, it’s one of those things where I wondered if a video would do it justice…but figured I’d try! You have to be there in person to appreciate the size of it. I look forward to going back again sometime. -Mike

[@jefferykeeper9034]

Fact the national Endowment for the arts doesn't Recognize model railroading as a art form.

[@MainTrack]

Hi, Jeffrey! That’s very interesting. I wonder what we need to do to change that! I’ve seen a lot of amazing model railroading masterpieces out there. As for me- I’m certainly a better modeler than a painter or sculptor! Ha.

[@jaybailey3518]

Why no graffiti on the cars?

[@MainTrack]

Haha! Once upon a time there was a world where rail cars weren’t covered top to bottom with graffiti. I model the 80s- and am glad it was back in that day. There may have been tagged cars here and there, but they were few and far between. -Mike

[@e.t.p.3710]

Calling the San Diego creation a "layout" just doesn't seem to give adequate credit. It's a "model railroad" in so many senses of the term, with prototypical operations complemented by extraordinary scenery that mirrors the route of the rails over Tehachapi.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! Yes, it would be nice if the English language had something to describe a next-level layout like this. I was in awe seeing everything recreated so accurately. I’ve been to the prototype. Standing in the middle of this layout almost made me feel like I was there watching the real thing. -Mike

[@genethesurveyor]

The model has buildings that might have been present in 1950's but doe not stay in character since this rout was one of the great grades where Southern Pacific used Cab Forward 4-8-8-2 steam engines to pull the freights up the hill to Tehachapi. during the fifties and sixties is when the RR converted to diesel but the engines in this video are way beyond the size and power of the diesels used in that early time. In the 1960's, I was on a survey crew that surveyed the road through Caliente where the famous Caliente Loop makes a horseshoe turn. At about 11 min, 22 sec you can see a train passing through that curve. The curve is so tight that you can hear the wheels scrubbing on the rails and a fine dusting of steel flakes comes off every car going around that curve. Those buildings had to be from the early 50's because they were largely gone in the middle 60's. Today, the only building left is a private home and the U.S. Post Office.

[@mewsdo]

What's happening here? Is this a model train video or an organ video?

[@MainTrack]

Hello! Thanks for watching. Yep, this is a model train video. Are you referencing the music? I do have a quick intro tune for about 5 seconds off the top, and 5 seconds at the end. But, that totals about 10 seconds of the whole 15 minute video. Are there some other sounds you’re hearing? -Mike

[@mewsdo]

@@MainTrack Of course it's a train video... Somehow it came on after I clicked on an organ video. Strange! Good thing I'm into both!

[@francisdoudney7000]

All the trains I see are doing about 20 miles per hour. I guess they have no judgment of track speed lol

[@MainTrack]

I know the prototype has some pretty slow speeds through the mountains, but I’m not sure what the limits are. That sounds like a good research project for me! Ha. -Mike

[@andyevans2336]

Funny, most rivet counters and foamers complain that the speeds are too fast. These speeds are correct for the trackage seen.

[@petercrossley1069]

So boring watching endless freight grinding along.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! They definitely capture the feel of the real railroad. When I went to visit the prototype, I had to do some waiting around between trains- and the ones I saw were in no hurry. Good thing the weather was great that day…haha! -Mike

[@numbereightyseven]

There's some annoying fault with your editing. White flashes between scenes. Urgh. Going elsewhere.

[@MainTrack]

Hi there. Sorry to disappoint you with 5 or 6 quick flash transitions during the entire 15 minute video. It’s not a fault in editing, it’s a legitimate scene transition option in the software and I chose to use it. I would hope the rest of the production is of high enough quality to keep your viewership. But, I’m sorry we didn’t meet your standards.

[@skywatcherca]

Beyond EXCEPTIONAL, but where is the GRAFFITI, which exists now on MOST of the rolling stock...It has a GREAT layout, but without graffiti, it lacks this aspect of realism. It's GREAT though.

[@angeloavanti2538]

I visited there a number of years ago. Very slick stuff. They did a great job.

[@MainTrack]

Hello! I had a blast during my visit. I'm hoping to make many more visits to see their progress! -Mike