N gauge train layout: “Rhine & wine”
Dear model railroader: If you come to Germany, don’t miss to visit the world-famous valley of the river Rhine with its romantic castles and vineyards. This is where the German heart beats! Alternatively, check out the following L-shaped track plan idea:
What is it all about? The majestic river “Rhein” (= German spelling) gave me inspiration for this N gauge train layout:
© Johannes Robalotoff, CC BY-SA 3.0 DE, via Wikimedia Commons
In fact, the basic idea was to create an impressive parade route for that topic by making the best possible use of an L-shaped baseboard with 7′ maximum length. As a result, the short side came up with 6′, the ends are each 3′:
As with the prototype, a 2-track main line runs along the picturesque banks of the Rhine. We see vineyards, a castle and tunnels. However, the main function of a tunnel on a model train layout is to conceal tight bends. We only want to see wide curves, don’t we? A long straight route also delights our eyes.
So get a good Riesling wine, sit down and watch your model trains running through this nice train layout. Nothing will prevent your enjoyment. Forget derailments, as there are (almost) no crossings and no points. Forget locos with traction problems, as there are no gradients. And, please, don’t search for shunting tasks. The little river port is only meant to spice up the scenery.
Instead, have a look at the spectacular cliffs of the famous “Loreley”. Many myths and legends entwine around this rock. Or have a look at the wide railroad bridge. Truly an eyecatcher on this N gauge train layout. Finally, there is a small train station, surrounded by some cute half-timbered houses. Of course, most trains will not stop here. Long-distance trains usually pass by. But Snow White, Hänsel & Gretel and Rumpelstiltskin certainly live nearby!
After all, it’s a fantasy scenario. More a “this is how it could be” than a “this is how it is”. (There is no railroad bridge at the real Loreley. But we model railroaders like impressive bridges!)
Behind the backdrop there is enough place for a shadow station / fiddle yard. If you want, add more sidings there to park long model train sets. Let’s reveals the secrets:
N gauge train layout: KATO track plan
Facts N gauge train layout:
- L-shaped layout, 7 ft. max length
- Tracks: KATO Unitrack, N gauge
- Concept: 3 runaround loops on 2 levels
- No gradients (levels are not connected)
- Slight deviations are possible. Track planning software isn’t 100% accurate
- Some straight tracks must be adjusted to size. More: KATO length modification (YouTube).
Concept
The 2-track mainline consists of 2 simple runaround loops on level 1. Furthermore, there is another small oval on level -1. But this is only for short freight trains heading to the harbor quay. Actually, there is no connection between these 2 levels. Is there any reason to do so?
Even though the track layout is very simple, the landscaping of this model railroad layout requires a few skills. The focus is on an atmospheric ambience. River, tunnels, hills and vineyards should have an appealing design. Making the river disappear into infinity at the rear side of this layout might be a bit challenging. To conceal the “river’s end”, a half-relief road bridge along the backdrop could be a good idea.
Track list
Download this track-plan here:
Download PDF (private use only)