I know that HO Scale models are 1:87 of the actual size. Knowing this, what math formula do I use to determine the size of my layout as if it were a real mountain terrain? Thanks for sharing your knowledge
Welcome to the TrainBoard, and to answer your question...... If you wanted to model Pikes Peak, you would need a structure a little more than 125 feet tall, and an 87 foot Douglas Fir would be about 1 foot tall. In other words, you are absolutely correct. To be true to scale you would need to divide what ever you wanted to model in HO Scale by 87 to determine the accurate scale height and/or width. This is why most modelers use "selective compression", also known as Artist's License, where YOU are the only Artist! In other words, do what you like, as long as it looks good to you, and ignore anyone who complains...besides it's your layout!!!!
Welcome! Another method for giving an impression of size, or distance, is an artistic concept known as forced perspective. This is where in the foreground, you'd have your HO scale items. A short distance beyond that, you might use some N scale buildings and cars. Which would make it seem visually as though they were further away. And behind that, perhaps something in Z scale... You start with full sized trees closest to the front, and use smaller, then smaller trees as you go back further. Works very well! Boxcab E50
