I spent a very enjoyable day in Ely Nevada riding the Nevada Northern. I bought the combo ticket package and it was well worth it. In the morning we rode west behind #40 the famous 4-6-0. The day before they used #93 a nicely restored 2-8-0. I haven't photographed either one so I didn't get steamed when they put the #40 on the train yesterday. After the morning ride I took the shop tour, really impressive. They probably could build the majority of a steam engine with their shop. They had an RS-2 in the shop getting new injectors and the wheels turned. It should be out and running in a couple of weeks. The afternoon train was pulled by an RS-3, which will go into the shop upon the return of the RS-2. Both trains were run professionally by volunteers and sounded great. Besides running trains, they are restoring freight cars and getting ready to restore another 2-8-0, #81, from the rail up. Their gift shop was very well set up, many people could be milling around browsing and not get in each others way. I must say they have done an outstanding job there in Ely. If you get a chance to make it out that way DO IT. Greg Elems
I remember a lot of talk, about this operation. Going back into the 1980's. But then it sort of faded from discussions. Which surprises me. Good to know it's doing well! Boxcab E50
It's on my (rather long) list of places to visit. I've liked what I 've seen of them on the web. Always nice to get a first hand report though. Regards Ed
remote, but worth the visit. Been there, done that, wish I could do it again. I was out there in the summer of 2002, and the shop crews were nice enough to let me roam alll through the enginehouse, where I saw the stored steam and diesel engines as well as the steam rotary. Even rode the steam train to the pit at Ruth (includes a tunnel), and saw the , er, um, "employees " at the Stardust Ranch who waved at us when the train went by their back door. Besides the occasional trip to the Hotel Nevada, the NNRY was the only sanity break I had way out there in the back of beyond. I recommend a visit to the NN to ANYBODY- and as I said, don't forget to check out the Hotel Nevada, not so much for their casino but also for their restaurant, including a great steak & eggs breakfast.
