AUGUST 2026: The famed former Southern Pacific route over Siskiyou Summit has fallen silent once more, as Central Oregon & Pacific suspends operations following the departure of the line’s last active customer. Photographers Eric Cortinas and Parker Gibson follow the final train over the mountain as the route’s future hangs in the balance. Kevin Gilliam looks back at the extensive history of the Southern Steam Program and its later revival under Norfolk Southern, while Steve Patterson recalls his years serving aboard Santa Fe business cars as an executive secretary. All this and more in the August issue of Railfan & Railroad!

RailNews

McCloud Railway On Track For Revival

On August 4, the short line announced that it would soon resume operations.

RailNews

Amtrak Board Proposes Major Reorganization

Amtrak is seeking public input on a major reorganization that would see the company split into three distinct organizations focusing on passenger service, infrastructure management and fleet management.

Extra Board

Siskiyou Freight Finale

Troubled times for the former Southern Pacific route connecting Oregon and California as CORP suspends operations over Siskiyou Summit.

Extra Board

Southern’s Steam Legacy

Looking back at an ambitious steam excursion program launched by Southern Railway and carried on by Norfolk Southern.

Photo Line, RailNews

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.