In January 1964 I met master photographer Frank Barry in Chama. Frank took some of the most amazing photos of the narrow gauge, and I learned how he got unique photo angles that seemed virtually impossible to obtain before the advent of drones half a century later. One of his favorite ploys was to climb trees, which I decided to try on a few occasions. Though not necessarily safe, tree climbing did provide some great perspectives. Attached are a couple of tree climbs in December 1967.

493 passing Lobato siding on December 5, 1967



The next morning I climbed that same tree to photograph 493 passing the stock pens at Lobato with the one-engine Cumbres turn



Crossing large trestles while an engine is approaching could be considered not-so-safe. Here Camas Prairie engine 2 is creeping forward while photographer Jay Lentzner is getting some shots. Naturally it isn't what it seems. Jay and the engineer had arranged this photo opportunity ahead of time for the final run to Grangeville, Idaho. I always considered the Grangeville branch an "Honorary Narrow Gauge" since it met nearly all of the attributes for western narrow gauges: steep grades, wooden trestles, cliff edge running, spectacular scenery, and fighting ultimately fatal battles with rubber tired competition. This afternoon engine 2 will pick up the last 4 loads of wheat and 3 empty tank cars at Grangeville and head north for the last time.