Model railroad track plans. We cover all scales and sizes of model railroads.

Model railroad track plans We hope these plans inspire you to start building a layout. Oct 5, 2020 · Each one has a unique theme, and all contain a key element of modern model railroad design – “fiddle” or “staging” yards. Our earliest plans might have simply been an oval of sectional track on the floor or sheet of plywood. Why Choose N Scale Track Plans? One of the biggest advantages is the wide range of track design options such as continuous running loops and switching layouts. Apr 27, 2025 · This HO scale track plan was designed for a space measuring 18' x 18'. Whether it’s your first time and you want model trains for beginners, or you are looking for creative track plans that match your holiday decor, we’ve got you covered. If you want to help support this website as well as my YouTube Model train layouts - get the most from your layout however little space you have. Dec 10, 2024 · The Youngstown Model Railroad Association layout celebrates railroading in northeast Ohio from the 1950s to the present. Some of the layouts are already presented I've helped hundreds of model railroaders around the world with custom track plan designs and operations plans for layouts large and small. For railway modellers, they have the advantage that it provides a This digital download from the Model Railroader Track Plan Library includes 10 logging track plans. Explore these ideas for various scales and locations. All about the L-shaped concept, plus an idea for a large N scale layout that is easy to build. 6 Benchwork: Modified L-girder Height: 46″ Roadbed: Commercial foam roadbed Track: Micro Engineering code 55 (main), Peco code 80 (staging) Scenery: Extruded-foam Mar 21, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs with Atlas tracks. Click here for a PDF version of the track plan. Compact HO scale layout with double main line in oval featuring train station in front, town scene in back and yard with locomotive depot in the center. Our designs not only look great they operate well. Nice scenarios can be depicted, although the space requirement is moderate. We offer customized sizes to suit your needs at prices lower than other' pre-fabricated designs. We might have bought a crossing for a figure eight and turnouts so we could have spurs with perhaps a passing siding to allow us to run around our train and run two trains in opposite directions. Due to popular demand, this exciting book is back in print! Includes more than 101 different, traditional-style track plans that apply to nearly every scale ranging from small tabletop pikes to full basement empires. I used Atlas Right Track software to design them. We cover all scales and sizes of model railroads. Fine HO scale track plans for free! Looking for HO track plan ideas? Here you are! Select your preferred size or use the short description as a guide. 4x8 HO track plans - you'll see some of these plans are better than others. Paul’s OO scale turntable track plan is a brilliant example of how adding a bit of complexity can really elevate a layout. By Steven Otte It’s always winter in the town of Phil’s Church on Bill Henderson’s Coal Belt RR (plan 1, below). Capture the imagination with these meticulously planned track ideas. A port offers scenic ambience, varied train operations and interesting challenges for model building. Use the filters to search by size, scale, type and issue where it first appeared. Design and build OO, HO, N gauge track layouts with the top planning tools. A few sidings for freight wagons complete this small N scale model railroad layout. They are perfect for tiny spaces, or for those just getting back into the hobby and curious about different track plan options. Oct 4, 2021 · What is a Railroad shelf layout? A railroad shelf layout is basically everything it says in the title. Here are the programs available. This section contains track plans and track-plan segments based on the prototype as closely as possible using topo map, track chart, Google Earth, and photographic resources. Feb 17, 2021 · From the article “Three track plans for one sheet of plywood” from the August 2008 Model Railroader. 6 days ago · Free collection of model train track plans (model railway layouts) in model scale N created by model train hobbyists complete with description, preview and track systems used. This space could a contain a dispatchers desk, as well. Feb 9, 2020 · A mere 4 by 8 feet can be plenty of room for a unique, creative model train layout. TRACK PLANS For Model Railroaders 101 Every one of the 101 track plans in this book is an adventure in model railroad design — a complete miniature world with a theme, purpose, and atmosphere. We are looking for anyone interested in helping to create these plans. A medium-sized layout space gives you room to experiment with techniques, such as a railroad that travels through all four seasons. Robert W. Here is it: SCARM – Model Train Layouts & Track Plans Most of the content in the site is created by SCARM users and Track Plan Database Track Plan Database brought to you by Hundreds of track plans to get you started. Oct 23, 2023 · Computer track planning software is becoming an increasingly popular way to design a model railroad layout. A loco depot and some industry can also be found in this 4×8 HO scale track plan. Show your layout plans here, and have a discussion about them Jan 1, 2003 · For the model train hobbyist, this incredibly detailed book features 81 model track plan options. accommodated need to be darn good models in both appearance and perfor-mance. Layout planning takes vague dreams of a model railroad to a track plan which can be built. I'll make a separate post with HO scale track plans eventually as well. This library is packed with the curves, straights, switches, and crossings that Lionel model railroaders have come to love. Model train track plans – Charlie’s Charlie has been in touch with some more model train track plans: “Design, redesign, and building layouts are interrelated in that you should always keep a basic plan in mind as you start a build. Oct 31, 2013 · Hello all :) Here is the new website for layouts and track plans in all gauges and sizes, created with SCARM planning software: SCARM – Model Train Layouts & Track Plans Most of the content in the site is created by SCARM users and sent by e-mail. Please note that Kato USA cannot provide individual support for these plans and they are supplied as examples only! Harbor track plan N scale Many model railroaders like harbor layouts. If you are looking for inspriation Lionel has a collection of FasTrack plans on their website as well. Dive into … Read more All of the HO layouts below use different themes, sizing dimensions and track types to help spark your inspiration. The model train layout in the photo features a vibrant and detailed HO scale setup using Bachmann EZ track. And Step-by-step directions of HO scale track plans for shelf layouts including top three layout designs. A virtual layout keyword is used to describe a partial or complete layout design which includes all or almost all objects needed for realistic look and operations. Trains enter and exit the layout via matching stub-end staging yards. One for advanced model railroaders and one for beginners! We see a vast and huge train station embedded in an urban setting. Projects feature likely obstacles that might be encountered during construction and helpful tips for getting it right the first time. Travelers and passengers have to cross the track to reach the parking space and the station buliding. Some of the track plans are precise, clear and easy to follow, but some plans are no more than pencil sketched and give a rough impression of the layout. The information on the first part of this page has to do with the basic building blocks and various schematics that can be used in forming your basic track Oct 4, 2019 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. Line art diagrams, layout routes Model Railroad Track Plans Evolution of the Thunder Mesa Mining Co The TMMC started out as a very simple 3' x 6' scenic display with a loop of track. ” Free Track Plans for your Hornby model railway. Suitable for OO, HO and N gauge layouts. Westcott, Kalmbach Publications, c. 5″ Oct 18, 2025 · A platform for model railroad design enthusiasts to share ideas, projects, and insights on creating realistic layouts and designs. Track plan at a glance Name: Housatonic Valley Ry. You’ll need to focus on one key model, then design the railroad to make best use of that type of engine and Track plans, ideas, and inspiration for model railways in small spaces - N, 009, OO and HO scales. Subscribe today for unlimited access to all track plans. Nov 30, 2010 · 101 Track Plans has been a classic for model railroaders since its publication five decades ago. Train traffic is busy in all directions. Search it for railway layouts and railroad track plans by scale, size, tracks and other criteria. app is leveling up once again! Today we are releasing a new track library for Lionel O Scale FasTrack. For more great track planning ideas, see Model Railroader magazine and Model Railroad Planning 2019, on sale January 15. HO scale shelf model railroad track plans - This layout is a work in progress and still has to have a great amount of details to added Track Plans Gallery All Posts O Scale S scale HO scale N scale Large Room-sized Small Single deck Multi-deck Published Sectional Narrow gauge May 1, 2019 · Download Track Planning for Beginners, a free 15-page PDF from Model Railroader to learn how to draw accurate curves, turnouts, and more! May 1, 2019 · Download Track Planning for Beginners, a free 15-page PDF from Model Railroader to learn how to draw accurate curves, turnouts, and more! N-Scale Unitrack Track Plans We frequently get requests for Unitrack Track Plans, so we have put together this section to feature some plans. I know of many model railroaders who have started building without much of a plan and But building-in a curve here might eliminate some of the "squared oval" feeling of the track plan. Apr 27, 2025 · This N scale track plan was designed as a point-to-point railroad with prototypical operations as the main focal point. 1956, plan no. This digital download from the Model Railroader Track Plan Library includes 10, 4x8 size track plans. Choose from a variety of layouts to suit your space and preferences, or get inspiration for your custom design. Explore our pre-designed track plans for model railroads. Remember, the question of "what is the best track plan for beginners?" The right answer is that there is no one size fits all track plan. The plan depicts the Lancaster yard and the New Holland sub-division. A gallery of model railroad track plans, most based on prototype routes, custom designed by Bob Sprague for other modelers This section contains track plans and track-plan segments based on the prototype as closely as possible using topo map, track chart, Google Earth, and photographic resources. 4×8 HO model train layout A 4′ x 8′ baseboard is very popular for HO model train layouts. All plans in this supplement were drawn from past issues of Model Railroad Planning. Eye-catcher is a large railroad bridge that spans parts of the station area. Tremendous list of o gauge layouts for small spaces to help spark up ideas for your own model train layout. manufacturer and seller of model trains and track in N, HO, O and Z scales. Online since 2002, it's one of the oldest and largest model railroad forums on the web. Scale: N (1:160) Size: 8 x 9 feet Prototype: freelanced Locale: New England Era: 1930s Style: walk-in Mainline run: 43 feet Minimum radius: 9. The plans range in size from tiny lay- outs that would fit on a card table to a huge estate- size railroad designed for a specially built building. You’ll find captivating ideas including villages, portable layouts, and double loops. We provide Model Railroad Layout design and track plan services. The official online store for the Atlas Model Railroad Company, Inc. Oct 25, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs. Jul 26, 2022 · There are many factors to consider before we start building a model railroad layout. N scale track plans for free Looking for track plan ideas? Here you are! Select your preferred size or use the short description as a guide. Perfect for your model railway! Jul 8, 2010 · Powerful model railway track planning software for easy and precise design of model train layouts. Mar 16, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of medium-sized SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. The client wanted to model the area around Lancaster, PA. With very, very few exceptions, trains made by O Gauge train makers will work on one another’s track. Mar 24, 2025 · Take a look at recommended N scale track plans for beginners where you can kickstart your model railroad journey and get the most out of your space. Feb 16, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of very small-sized SCARM projects and designs. Switchman’s Nightmare Original Plan was published in “101 Track Plans for Model Railroaders” by Linn H. Build-ing such layouts is a path many take to get started in model railroading, and HO (1:87 proportion to the prototype) is the most widely modeled scale with an abundance of affordable structures, locomotives, and rolling stock available. Today I’m going to talk about my design process using Atlas Track Planning Software (ATPS) and the design I came up with. They are displayed to the same scale. The landscape is hilly, roads and streets often disappear into tunnels. Shop our online store today! Jan 11, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in N scale with Atlas tracks. Find over 400 free track plans for your model railway, from small stations to large terminals, based on real or imaginary locations. Most of these are custom layout designs in HO or N scale that were commissioned by a client. Some of the layouts are already presented in Aug 8, 2019 · Discover the different train track layouts you can use in an HO Scale that range from elaborate mountain passes to industrial scenes. These N scale track plans are small, but each has enough features to be interesting. Check out 15 super realistic model railroad logging layout plans that you can use for ideas and inspiration. The first was the space available and second, an operational railroad. Nov 25, 2020 · However, if you want to expand your model railroad layout, you may want to make some changes to the track to make it more interactive. When it comes to model railroad layout track plans, nearly all can be classified as one of three main types. It's important that beginners choose the correct model railroad track plan. The unusal feature of this design is Philadelphia staging located inside the large peninsula. Jan 11, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in N scale with Atlas tracks. I'll try to get the track plans for layouts I've actually built here as well as those I like or plan to build at some point. 6. Discover how to create stunning HO scale train layouts with easy tips and expert advice. This article provides guidance on how to choose model railroad track plans, considering factors such as available space, desired complexity 1. Learn how to: • Set up track-shelf systems for model railroads • Solve sight-line and lighting problems • Plan realistic operations in the shelf layout footprint • Build train cassettes to avoid staging and storage problems • Work around doors, windows, and corners Build a great model railroad in any room no matter how small your space. Mar 26, 2022 · Best Track Planning Tools for Model Railways If you're building a model railway, you should take a look at the best track planner for model railways with free resources, books & software. Jun 27, 2025 · Find detailed scale track plans in PDF format for your model railroad. Featuring plans from Model Railroader magazine from the 60s, 70s, and early 80s Mar 12, 2023 · Track Plans Track plans, design ideas etc. Free model railroad tips, tricks, vidoes and pics. Atlas track plans Dean from New Mexico has been back in touch with his Atlas track plans: “My last layout, the Scenic Ridge, is pretty much complete, and it’s time for me to start on my next layout, another small railroad. With instant 3D Viewer, Model Trains Simulator and rich set of useful features. The advantage of 3-rail track is that the hot and ground configuration is symmetrical, allowing for the easy construction of complex track plans that do not require the special wiring needed with 2-rail track. Some track plans are just ideas, some I’ve realized meanwhile. More plans to come! Model Railway Track Plans: the top 5 free websites & resources for layouts, ideas, and track planning. From choosing a layout style to wiring and track planning techniques, readers are walked through virtually every step of the design and construction process. Mar 5, 2025 · Creating a rail-marine track plan can give you plenty of operational interest and action within a small space. Track plans by size Bedroom sized Garage sized Basement sized Dream layouts Track plans by scale N scale HO scale O scale Track plans by railroad (click on a link to view the list of track plans) Oct 31, 2013 · Hello all :) A new website was launched this week, intended to collect and show model train track plans and layouts in all scales and sizes, build with SCARM software. Adjust the plans to suit your track type, scale and space using AnyRail software. Worth to mention: The station building lies between the tracks. 101 More Track Plans for Model Railroaders evokes the look and feel of its predecessor, with a simple premise: a multitude of track plans to inspire modelers. To do this, it’s time to think about model railroad track planning. It's all down to what you want out of your layout. However, long model trains don’t fit this 2′ x 4′ N scale track plan idea. Jul 15, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. May 16, 2022 · The Track Plan Database houses all of the track plans used in previous issues for modelers with digital subscriptions to access. Over 400 layout designs, train set ideas and prototype plans. From concept and design, right through construction and operation, this model railroad is a collaboration of our Members. L-shaped layout N scale Model railroaders love “L” shaped track plans because they offer many advantages. For details and downloads click the links. Oct 25, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of large-sized SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. Mar 1, 2018 · Free collection of model train track plans (model railway layouts) created by model train hobbyists complete with description, preview and track systems used. If you’re a beginner, don’t miss this comprehensive guide that Small HOn3 track plans - My track plan was determined by two things. Jan 29, 2018 · Classic track plans in N, HO, S, and O from master model railroader Linn Westcott. Everyone has a vision of what they want their model railroad layout to be – I'll work with you to create a custom layout design or an operations plan that brings your vision and ideas to life. Remember that these This page is dedicated to the many model railroaders who don't have enough room to build a layout or so they think. Both proto-freelance & protoypical designs. Sprague designs custom model railroad track plans and 3D parts. Nov 5, 2013 · See here all model railroad track plans in the database. With Mar 28, 2024 · May 17, 2023 – Easily design and draw a scale track plan for your Model Railroad with illustrated step by step instructions. We feature beginner and advanced help on all model railroading scales, including layout track plans, model railroad product reviews, model train news, and model railroad forums. It’s a model train track layout that is small enough to effectively fit on a shelf, or run along a wall and not take up too much space. All in One HO Scale Model Train Layout It’s called the “all in one” ho scale layout because it basically contains every element of a fantastic layout. Try to stick to it as long as everything fits, but be ready to make changes as you run into snags. Apr 27, 2025 · THE TRACK PLANNER Custom Designed Track Plans for the Prototype and Freelance Model Railroader Why Use a Professional Track Planner? You would not start construction of a new house without an architect's floor plan? Yet many model railroaders start building their dream layout without a well designed and well thought out track plan? Small HO layouts Small HO layouts are a difficult task. com is a free Model Railroad Discussion Forum and photo gallery. These were all done using AnyRail 5 running in CrossOver on my iMac. Most track plans include the scale, room size, and scale of plan, plus call-outs of various layout elements. Minimum radius is 9-3/4" unless otherwise noted. Track plans are jumping off points, so don’t feel you have to conform to every line and illus-tration. Jul 17, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in N scale. In end-to-end designs, the track runs from one station or terminal to another. New website with free layouts and track plans - Mixy - 11-01-2013 Hello all A new website starts to collect together model train track plans and layouts in all scales and sizes, build with SCARM planning software. Sep 5, 2024 · An ongoing blog post with track plans that I will add to over time. Here is it: Free Railway Layouts & Railroad Track Plans Most of the content in the site is created by SCARM users and sent to me by e-mail. Model Railroad Track Plans √ How to create your own model railroad track plans After developing your concept, or theme, you're now ready to consider various model railroad track plans. Jun 27, 2017 · See detailed diagrams of 5 compact track plans featured in Model Railroader magazine in this free guide. From Model Railroad Planning 2011 “Micro layouts are small model railroads, usually less than three or four square feet in area, that nonetheless have a clear purpose and excellent operating capability. This track planning page leads you to suggestions and ideas on how to plan model railroad track. After all, the design should be appealing, right? See how I solved this challenge on 3′ x 4′. From beginners to more advanced model railroaders, the tips and techniques will save you from costly mistakes. N scale track plans are the most popular type of track plans for model railroaders that want the enjoyment of longer track runs but only have a small space to build a model train layout. The track plan serves as the foundation of your layout, dictating the flow of train movements, the types of operations possible, and the overall aesthetic of the scene. Free model railroad track plans and layoutsPaul has shared his OO scale turntable track plan. Model Train Layout Track Plans These model railroad track plans have all been designed for the scale indicated, and can be freely copied as long as they are not sold or offered as part of a commercial product. From the multi-award winning model railway blog. Since most folks considering an HO 4X8 model railroad aren't actually constrained by a room as small as the minimum 8'X10', the same concept could certainly be expanded for a more-typical 10'X10' room or larger. More plans to come! Below you will find some medium to bedroom sized Model Railroad Track Plans for your use. The grid on the plans, when it exists, is 1 x 1 foot for the scale indicated. You can see the picture’s of Paul’s OO scale turntable track plan here. Track Plan and Benchwork This bare bones view of the overall track plan shows the figure eight loop along with a smaller more circular loop. Each project description includes technical advice and prototype photos that will inspire any model railroad enthusiast. We’ve got some exciting news for you — trackplanner. The full plan still needs “fleshing out” in the form of track plans for many of locations being modeled. This page is home to Model Railroader tracks plans as downloadable PDFs. Below you will find some Micro sized and Small Track Plans that will give you some ideas for your own Model Railroad. Now, a new book follows up where the original leaves off. This Track Plan Database is the home for S-gauge and O-gauge track plans intended for toy train layouts. Here's a wide variety of model train track plans to help you get started. The following track plan shows that even long trains, busy traffic and challenging shunting operations are possible on that size! Dec 14, 2022 · Facts & features Name: Great Northern Scale: N (1:160) Size: 10-0′ x 16-0′ Prototypes: Freelanced Locale: Pacific Northwest Era: Mid-1960s Style: Walk-in Mainline run: 86 feet Minimum radius: 15″ Minimum turnout: no. Explore and get inspiration from the Christmas tree train layout plans in this handy guide. Looking for Z scale train layouts inspiration? Explore these 10 charming z scale train layout designs to guide your next model railroad. Free Track Plans for your Hornby model railway. In the first of a new series looking at different track plan designs that you can use for your model railway, we start with one of the most popular, easiest to build yet most versatile layout formats — the end-to-end or point to point layout. Oct 25, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in HO scale with Atlas tracks. May 17, 2023 · Easily design and draw a scale track plan for your Model Railroad with illustrated step by step instructions. The layout plans also include 2’x3′ dimensions, flex track and circular tracks running side by side. Jul 17, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of large-sized SCARM projects and designs. ModelRailroadForums. Here's how plans for the layout have evolved over time. This type of track plan is ideal for HO scale as the 4×8 ho train layout provides enough space to build multiple loops while still allowing for model train scenery items such as tunnels and bridges. This layout is perfect for those interested in model railroad plans. Mar 21, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in O scale. Simply put, these simulate con-nections with “the rest of the world” beyond our layouts. Track Plan Database Track Plan Database brought to you by Hundreds of track plans to get you started. The answer to this question dictates the size of the layout along with the scale and track plan that will allow you to thoroughly enjoy your model railroad. Oct 29, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in Z scale. 2. They range in size from 4'x6' up to 8'x10'and can be sized accordingly to suit your own Model Railroad space by adjusting the length, width, and radius as needed to suit your scale of Model Railroad. Here a track plan on 3′ x 7′, designed for KATO N gauge: What is it all about? Nov 29, 2004 · With E-Z Model Railroads, beginning and advanced modelers can learn how to set up and run a railroad using Bachmann's snap-fit E-Z Track system. Here's a walk-through of top rated model railroad shelf layout plans that you can use for ideas when building your own model train layout. Mar 2, 2018 · Free collection of model train track plans (model railway layouts) in model scale H0 created by model train hobbyists complete with description, preview and track systems used. Model railroad switching layouts to help inspire you with new ideas to add into your own model train layout. Jan 22, 2019 · Download this free PDF for a HO and N scale plan, a waterfront railroad layout, a small shelf Union Pacific inspired layout, and a three-in-one layout plan from Model Railroader. The 2x4 plans should easily fit on a 4x8 in HO scale Oct 5, 2020 · Welcome to Five Easy Track Plans, which contains plans for 4 x 8-foot HO model railroads. Easy to download and customize for your next project! Model railway layout plans to fit your space, including many 6x4 and 8x4 designs Nov 10, 2023 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of small-sized SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. Build your Model Railroad using our unique affordable kits and save both time and money. If you’re still in the planning phase, check out HO scale track plans. Model Railroad Benchwork Kits from The Model Railroad Benchwork Store at prices considerably lower than other manufacturers. Jan 10, 2025 · Selecting the right track plan is a crucial step in designing a model railroad layout. By centering his design around a turntable, Paul has created a … Read More » Everybody loves model railroad track plans, so I've collected some of my favorite examples on these web pages. And to make it interesting, I’ve created two versions of the same theme. Mar 22, 2017 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. Jul 16, 2025 · A look at creative track plans for every skill level, whether you're just starting out, have some experience, or are an advanced modeler. tcht xkwbp twihy ybsd isqc agdlf rlkei mwgnrc ezzan pgrodx uuldu vmoyp zbhvz ohbt gxwp