Model Railroader

The world’s most popular model railroading magazine publishes the information you need to build your own railroad. Get Model Railroader digital magazine subscription today for step-by-step how-to projects; great model train layouts; and realistic track plans. You'll also get reviews of the latest locomotives, rolling stock, and accessories in HO, N, O, and other scales, expert tips, and more!

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More Great Model Railroads

Model Railroader

2026 National Train Show recap

Rapido Trains HO scale ATSF-rebuilt CF7

Broadway Limited HO scale EMD GP35

Atlas N scale PS4427 covered hopper

Options for clear flat finishes

How to make natural forest floor material

Chesapeake & Ohio Ryder Gap Subdivision • Prototype scenes and operation drove the design of the model railroad

Colorado & Southern Clear Creek District • Doug Tagsold returns to Colorado-style mountain scenery on this 1:72 scale layout

German Railway reality in summer 1975 • The Modellbundesbahn gave visitors a look at Germany’s steam-to-diesel transition era

Laser-cutting and 3D printing for structures

Union Pacific’s Overland Route • This massive HO scale layout is set between Ogden, Utah, and Green River, Wyo.

Layout planning with forks • Think about your model railroad in conceptual terms with common eating utensils

How it all began

Trackside Photos

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Modeling a not-so-bright future