For those interested in model trains, one major experience is to build a model railroad layout.  The layout is a supporting structure for track, buildings, electrical wiring and scenery.   Layouts can be very big or very small, and the layout is always a reflection of its builder.  Although we all like to complete things, this is not always possible; what is more important is that the process of building a layout should bring you pleasure and diversion.  I know of several model railroaders who never seem to get done, but their time spent working on model trains is a never ending joy.  I know of others who set their Z-Scale up on a end table and just run them for a while.  It is what you want to make of it, as it is with all of this hobby. Realistically, an average model railroad enthusiast will build many layouts in their lifetime, each better than, or at least different from, the others.

     This section deals with the basic techniques of getting trains running on a formal layout structure. Although much of the text from the Greenberg book is present here in edited form, there are two significant additions to the section; one is the enhanced text on manufactured layouts and the other concerns the Woodland Scenics SubTerrain System.

Page last updated 03/14/2006

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