United StatesRocky MountainsAlpine

Modeling Tennessee Pass

D&RGW's high crossing of the Rockies at 10,240 feet. Now dormant, this route offers incredible modeling potential with its dramatic scenery and infrastructure.

Alpine2 Railroads3 Industries

Railroads

Major railroads operating in Tennessee Pass

Denver & Rio Grande WesternUnion Pacific

Industries

Key industries for freight traffic and scenery

Through Freight

Mining

Military

Modeling Tips

Expert recommendations for authentic Tennessee Pass scenery

1
Model dramatic mountain grades to summit
2
Include helper operations
3
Add historic depot at Leadville
4
Model tunnel districts
5
Include abandoned era for modern modeling

Signature Scenery Features

Distinctive elements that define Tennessee Pass layouts

10,000+ ft elevation

Ski areas

Mining towns

Mountain meadows

Spruce forests

Era Highlights

Historical periods and their modeling characteristics

Mining Era

Leadville mining traffic dominated

D&RGW Peak

Through freight and military traffic

Abandonment

1997 closure created historic opportunity

Quick Facts

Country

United States

Climate

Alpine

Terrain Types

Rocky MountainsAlpine

Primary Industries

Through Freight, Mining, Military

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Related Regions

Appalachian Mountains

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