(NNG) Nevada Northern winter shoot - links to images

I almost didn't go. The weather forecasts across the western US were awful, and then the call came: "93 is down - the shoot is still on, but we'll be using the RS3. No steam." The much-anticipated trip was off.

Then, last Monday, hope: "93 will be hot for the night shoot, and for limited service around the yard Saturday morning." Oh, the weather still looked awful, but... decisions, decisions. Perhaps it's worth a shot. I'm going.

And then the magic: while the drive out across the Rockies, the Colorado Plateau and part of the Basin and Range was an adventure, and it snowed in Ely as predicted Friday night, Saturday's weather dawned bright and mostly clear, defying the forecasts. And 93 also defied the odds, with its suspect axle running cool, allowing yard run-by's all day; solo and with three different consists.

Yep. Once again, the NN pulled off a miracle, and a fine time was had by all. No, it's not NG, but East Ely is truly one of the great places on earth for steam fanatics and those of us who love both narrow gauge and classic shortlines.

A couple of quick looks:

NN #93 under brilliant blue skies, sporting Nevada Consolidated Copper Co. lettering - towards the east end of the yard:

93 puts on a show.

From the night shoot, 93 hot and 40 waiting - lighting courtesy of Steve Crise:

93 and 40 in the enginehouse

What an incredible place!

Scott