Greetings from Southern MN

Hello from SW Minnesota. My Name is Dustin. Finally going to try and get back into the hobby. I received an N-Scale Set from Bachmann, for Christmas about 11 years old. I had a nice little layout that my dad helped me build. (i.e. Did it) I always wanted to have something bigger, and am now finally going to start one. I tried off and on for the last couple years. I am sticking with N-Scale, because I can do so much in a smaller area. However, my area isn't "small" by any means. My biggest fear, is that I am going to get in over my head. I have a vision. I tried to lay it out in "Any Rail" and it seemed like I didn't have a whole lot of options. I know that N-Scale can offer many options on an 8'X8 area, with a 2' X 3' bump out. I want the scenery to pop out, and tell the story of my Rail Road, but I also want the trains to be a big part, because that is what the hobby is about. I still don't know if I will keep it straight DC, being that's what I have, or go to DCC. I have a butt-load of Flex Track and Sectional Track for Atlas code 55, as well as Cork Roadbed. So I am not going to waste my budget for the Uni-track or EZ-Track.

Of course this is all academic, until I actually start it out. So one step at a time. I might see more potential for the tracks, when I start to lay it all out. It's going to be a long, possibly bumpy road, ahead. But hopefully I will find the tips and help I need along the way. Wish me luck.

We used to be a Chicago NW Area, but now there are small time local railroads in our area. This is going to be a hybrid type railroad, with several areas, represented. I know that Chicago NW doesn't run through here anymore. But I am going to use the Rolling Stock I have. If I find a Dakota, Minnesota, and Eastern Engine, I am sure to add it. (I even have a Santa Fe Engine, that came with my original Bachmann Set, and I will still find a use for it.) Hardcore modelers may not agree with it, but it is MY railroad.

I am including a picture of my railroad plan. I realize that the harbor siding is way to busy, and weird to actually work. It honestly has already been changed. I just haven't got a picture of that plan yet.

Well enough rambling. I will be back as this project gets moving. And post its progress. I am sure that I am in over my head, but oh well.

 

Welcome aboard, bcakesdevry. It sounds like you have some great plans, and I guarantee you will find assistance here.

 

I appreciate the welcome, guys. Good to know I will find some ideas and support here. I have been watching you tube videos for a couple weeks again. All I can do is plan, at this point. Got to get the room cleared of crap, first. And when you eblow out your back, it puts those plans on hold. Again thanks for the welcome. Including a picture of the reworked Harbor area.