Re: Sumpter Valley Railroad track layout for a model railroad: Baker, Whitney. etc.

J.B.Bane Wrote:
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> Add to that list, two fair sized sawmills
> operating in the 19teens at Austin.

Sounds like a whole layout!

Of logging:
Though I have been a fan of logging lines since young, I have never really known the setup for logging.

I guess there would be six or seven areas:

Logging site
Loading site
Junction to main
Crew quarters/ camp
Equipment service areas (Light: water, sand, fuel, lube and separate heavy service areas). Most heavy service I figure in Baker or elsewhere.
Rough cutting mill
Planing mill

The first three I figure are very simple and move as needed. Minimal trackage, no passing sidings or anything, probably not even on maps.
Light service might be semi-permanent, near mills or other areas of heavy use.
I have seen lots of logging and loading area photos, little of junctions or service areas.

I am guessing a junction would just be a switch, likely not even a level siding in most instances, no need as the log train would enter the main (after contacting dispatcher) and go directly to the mill area.

So a town like Whitney or Austin would have the mills, the sidings or yards, the light service areas.

I have seen photos of the on rail logging camps, this may have been on a siding somewhat near the logging area of the day or season.

RS&P shows logging lines up Dry Creek West of Alder Springs and a flat East of Alder. I think I would like to model these areas and am working out how to arrange the sections to make it work.

Just kind of thinking out loud here as I sit in the car about to head to town...

Russell Courtenay
Idaho, USA