Wow, so many great spots. Since the title said “of all time” instead of today then I would have to go with;
Palisades on the D&SP in 1900
Ridgway on the RGS in 1950.
The Ophir High line between 1900 and 1951.
Orbisonia on the E.B.T……Anytime
Windy Point on the Caslo & Slocan Railway (it was in British Columbia) in 1905. This was the line the R.G.S. sold their first rotary to. If you have never been to this spot, its like the Ophir high line with less trees and small 2-6-0s.
And a new one for me, Kaena Point on the island of Oahu. Two months ago I went there for the first time and sat on the old O.R.& L right a way and watched the surf. I imagined seeing a 70-class engine running by this same spot with the green cliffs in the background and realised how beautiful this spot really was.
However, my favourite of all time has to be Trout Lake on the Rio Grande Southern. I surprised no one else has mentioned it yet.
As for today?
That rock ledge just south (not north) of Rockwood on the D&S. Not as well know as the high line but still a great spot.
Orbisonia….. still. If you have been there, you know why I listed this place. If you haven't been here......GO!!
Carcross on the White Pass line with two Baldwins under steam (thanks to John and his crews for a great time last summer) The “inexpensive” ride back to Skagway was a real bonus; Thanks John!
And number one would be the “big rock” at windy point. If you have ever shot pictures the rotary or any other C&TS train on windy point, you know the place of which I speak, just above the road. If you have a new girlfriend that doesn’t understand your hobby yet, this is a great place to have a picnic around 11:30 any summer day. It worked for me.
In the end, if there is 3’ steam present, how could it not be a little slice of heaven no matter were it is.
