This Month

May 2026

SPECIAL— Restored Rio Grande Southern 20 made a historic return to Durango under its own power for the first time in more than 70 years.

by JORDAN REIN— More than a decade has passed since this Midwestern regional railroad came under the ownership of Watco.

by GORDON LLOYD JR.— Michigan’s main lines, short lines, and industrial operations hosted an interesting variety of Alco power over the years.

by ERIC WILLIAMS— Once a common sight along every right-of-way, pole lines are quickly disappearing from our nation’s railroads.

by DAVID P. ORI— Ride along on two of Chessie System’s hot piggyback intermodal trains between New Castle, Pa., and Chicago in 1982.

Departures/commentary: Alexander Benjamin Craghead

Railnews/top news stories and photos from our readers: Justin Franz

Transit Currents/transit news: Bob Gallegos

Railroadiana/new product, book, and video reviews

Timetable/railroad event listings submitted by our readers

Through My Lens/trackside adventures and memories: Kevin EuDaly

Business & Technology/how it works: David C. Lester

Camera Bag/photography tips and techniques

Destinations/detours and distractions along the right of way

Observation Car/railroad culture, dining, and art

High Iron/railroaders share their stories

Preservation Topics/this stuff is old, man

Markers/editorial commentary and musings

Parting Shot