Norfolk & Western 611 Gets Patriotic Makeover for ‘Summer of Steam’
The new livery honors the 250th anniversary of the United States and made its debut May 30 at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.
Cumbres & Toltec Delays Season Due to Fire Danger
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad was supposed to begin its 2026 operating season over Memorial Day weekend, but has decided to push that start date back by at least two weeks due to extreme drought conditions across the Southwest.
RENO: Railfanning from the Sierra to the Great Basin
The scenic area surrounding Reno, Nev., features heavy
main line action from Union Pacific and BNSF Railway.
Trona in Transition
California’s Trona Railway faces the challenges of a shifting chemical industry coupled with new environmental concerns.
Railfan & Railroad Announces 2026 Center Spread Contest
The Railfan & Railroad Center Spread Contest will provide a skilled and/or lucky photographer the opportunity to see his or her photo grace the center spread of the September 2026 issue.
Camera Bag: An Ode to the ‘Walk-Around’ Camera
When a DSLR is too much and a cellphone isn’t enough, the “walk around” camera is just right.
Railway Hospitality
By the end of the 19th century, many American railways relied heavily on tourism and pleasure travel as a means to sell tickets.



















