Rotary OY operation 2020 versus 1993

Now that rotary OY is back in Chama and presumably tickets are selling like hotcakes, it may be time to ponder what awaits in 2020. My most memorable experience is the May 1993 run. It is almost certain that the 2020 trip will be significantly easier on man and machine. Being earlier in the snow season, the snow depth will likely be significantly more manageable.

One will probably not have to be on the lookout for a barely visible headlight to find the rotary underneath



In 1993 those two chasers did not require much of a crowd control effort. I am confident that the 2020 chasers will be on their most excellent behavior



In 2020 the plowing scene will likely be less desperate, such as this scene, rare in 1993.



The hard packed snow in May 1993 made walking on top of the snow surface easy. That will probably not be possible at the end of February 2020. Snowshoes and a good set of gaiters will almost surely be required for mobility in the snow.



For a less deep and much softer snowpack two engines (or one?) may suffice for pushing the rotary in 2020. Three pusher engines were awesome but costly for the railroad. No matter, the rotary is still the most awesome piece of steam driven machinery ever.