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GN
HOHO Scale (1:87)Intermediate
Modeling Great Northern Railway in HO Scale
Great Northern's orange Empire Builder and dramatic Rocky Mountain operations make it a modeling favorite. HO scale offers excellent GN equipment.
Scale Ratio
1:87
16.5mm gauge
Space Needed
Moderate
Recommended Era
Transition Era
Key Equipment
5
Recommended items
Why Model Great Northern in HO Scale?
HO scale GN modeling benefits from the railroad's popularity. The Empire Builder paint scheme and mountain operations create engaging layouts. Multiple manufacturers produce quality GN equipment.
Recommended Equipment
Locomotive
S-2 4-8-4
Northern steam power
Locomotive
F7 Empire Builder
Orange and green diesels
Locomotive
W-1 Electric
Cascade Tunnel motor
Passenger Car
Empire Builder Cars
Famous train equipment
Freight Car
Covered Hoppers
Grain traffic
Modeling Tips for Great Northern
1
The Big Sky Blue scheme is distinctive and eye-catching
2
Empire Builder consists include dome and observation cars
3
Mountain operations through Marias Pass require helpers
4
SD45s were common GN second-generation power
5
Ore dock operations near Lake Superior make interesting themes
Shop Great Northern 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.