Model Train Layouts

Model Train Layouts For Railroads Of All Shapes And Sizes

There is a restaurant, Cricket's, in Cour d' Alene, Idaho that has an elaborate model train layout where the tracks are suspended from the rafters and the train runs throughout the restaurant - above the diners' heads.  A man in Biloxi, Mississippi has his model train running throughout his entire home.  He has cut holes in his walls and the tracks run from room to room.

While these are quite elaborate setups, there is one truth here.  We have an ongoing love affair with model trains.  From the simple circular track to the massive layout, complete with tunnels and stations, rolling hills and locomotives, there is something magical and captivating about the model train.

When you first enter the world of model train sets, there is a lot of information to digest and a lot of decisions.  Do you want an n scale set, or an ho scale, maybe g or z scales?  Do you want your layout to be fixed or do you want to be able to expand on it later?  The layout, though, is one of the most crucial decisions regarding your model train.  Finding ideas for layouts can be as simple as looking around you and modeling the layout to your hometown, or it can be as elaborate as purchasing diagrams and building them to scale.

Ideas for layouts can come from books, websites, magazines, ebooks or your own imagination.  Railserve.com has links to sites with hundreds of layout plans and full color photos.  The National Model Railroad Association (NMRA) is an organization that is devoted to the hobby of model railroading.  They have a great deal of resources for beginners, collectors and old pros alike.  This is a great source for layouts from super easy to extremely complex.

Whether you want to design a prototype of your favorite vacation spot or hometown, or if you want to create your own custom layout, there are software programs that can guide you every step of the way.  Sandiasoftware.com has "CadRail: The Railroad Design Program."  It allows you to plan your own custom model railways layout and even gives a 3D view option to help with elevations.  CadRail will give you complete design control of your railroad.

Regardless of whether you choose a fixed track or a track that allows you to add on later, the rewards of designing and running your own model train can give you hours of fun and entertainment.  Selecting designs that allow for expansion can give your hobby plenty of room for growth (or as much room as your hobby area allows!).  It is not uncommon for train layouts to be as long as 11 feet and as wide as 9 feet, although, if space is limited you can certainly adapt a layout that requires less space.

Lionel Trains has a full line of trains, locomotives, layouts and accessories.  They have a full color catalog and also have online shopping.  You can also check in your area for model railroad clubs.  Through these clubs, members can trade information, share diagrams and help each other to create a layout the you can get lost in and carried away.

Plus, you can visit The Model Railroader to receive a free copy of our special report "Model Railroad Design Secrets".