The Basics – Model Train Track Layouts
Determining how you are going to layout your model train track is part of the fun of model trains themselves, the possibilities are almost limitless given enough track and space. Even limited amounts of track or space can deliver a very satisfying model train experience.
If you buy your first model trains as part of a set, in other words it contains the power pack, the model train engine, cars to be pulled by the engine including a caboose, and enough model railroad track for some form of contiguous layout. A contiguous layout is any model train track layout that allows the train to run continuously without needing to change direction. The most common model train track layout is the oval, and most model train sets come with enough track to create this layout. It is a very simple layout but not a true oval as the longer sides are both straight, think of a running track you see at a high school with two large parallel straight-aways and a gradual half circle at each end.
Oval Layout
A variation on the oval track is the covered oval. This model train track layout is identical to the oval layout but the far side of the straight-away is covered by a tunnel fashioned out of a faux mountain. The covered oval gives the model railroader more of a sense of realism as the model trains is not always in view. The track doesn’t have to be truly covered; anything obscuring the visibility of the model train would accomplish the same goal. The covering of the track itself gives one the chance to incorporate some scenery as well, whether you like snow covered mountain tops, simulated city skylines, or a forest of miniature fir trees you will have ample opportunity to flex your creative muscles.
Another common model train track layout is the figure eight and appears exactly how it sounds, with a piece of X track in the middle of the track layout. This is another common layout that does not require any switching track, but timing to prevent crashes is needed if you are planning on running more than one model train on your track at the same time.
Figure Eight Model Railroad Track
Some enthusiasts build straight line model train tracks, in other words there are no curves at all. Many times these are purely decorative, sometimes ending up as a shelf piece since the practicality of the model train would be limited by the need to constantly toggle the model train’s direction between forward and reverse.
Once you start adding switches to your model train track layouts a whole other world of possibilities open up for you as you can more easily manage more than one train on your track at a time and you can segment your layouts into different themes. I’ll go over more advanced layouts using switches in the future.