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CN
HOHO Scale (1:87)Intermediate
Modeling Canadian National Railway in HO Scale
Canadian National's red and black scheme and transcontinental operations offer HO modelers diverse possibilities from prairie grain to mountain grades.
Scale Ratio
1:87
16.5mm gauge
Space Needed
Moderate
Recommended Era
Modern Era
Key Equipment
5
Recommended items
Why Model Canadian National in HO Scale?
HO scale CN modeling is well-supported, especially by Canadian manufacturer Rapido. The diverse operations—grain, intermodal, potash—provide variety. CN's reach from Halifax to Vancouver offers numerous prototype opportunities.
Recommended Equipment
Locomotive
ES44AC
Modern CN diesel
Locomotive
SD70M-2
EMD power
Freight Car
Cylindrical Hoppers
Canadian grain service
Freight Car
Potash Cars
Saskatchewan potash
Freight Car
Intermodal
Container traffic
Modeling Tips for Canadian National
1
CN grain operations make excellent layout themes with Canadian grain hoppers
2
Modern CN power includes GE and EMD units—ES44AC and SD70M-2 are common
3
Mountain operations through Yellowhead Pass require helper districts
4
IC heritage units and equipment add US variety to CN operations
5
CN uses extensive distributed power on heavy trains
Shop Canadian National HO Scale
View AllSuggested Track Plans
All HO Plans4x8 ft
Classic 4x8 HO Oval
The quintessential starter layout. This timeless 4x8 HO oval is perfect for beginners and fits on a standard sheet of plywood. Features a passing siding and industrial spur for basic operations.
4x8 ft
4x8 HO Figure Eight
Add excitement to your 4x8 with this figure-eight design featuring an overpass crossing. Watch trains cross over and under each other on this engaging beginner layout.
4x8 ft
4x8 HO Twice Around
Double your running fun! This clever design loops the track twice around the layout, giving you double the mainline running on the same 4x8 footprint. Perfect for continuous running enthusiasts.