article-temp

Photographed Examples of HO Model Trains

March 24, 2022

Photographed Examples of HO Model Trains

If you are looking to start your HO model railway, or add details to an existing one, it can help to see some examples of other’s models. Pictures can inspire your model design or remind you of which pieces you need to finalize your set.

In this article, we will specifically focus on various HO scale railroads as HO is the most popular scale for model railways. With each visual example, we’ll include links for you to find similar products at TrainLife so that you can replicate each example for yourself. Let’s get started!

 

Park and River Scene

 A model railroad set with a river, bridge, train tracks, a boat, grass, trees, and a railroad crossing

Do you prefer a nature-heavy railway? Water features add variety and color to your model, especially if you couple them with grass and plants. Bring your model to life by including some of these features (as pictured above):

  • Truss bridge. You can choose from a variety of HO scale bridges, so make sure the bridge you select matches the style of your model. This truss bridge includes a double track for two-way traffic.
  • Turnout track. Introducing turnouts to your track adds variety instead of only using straight tracks and basic curves. The track is the most important model for an HO scale layout, so make it exciting!
  • Water effects. This realistic water effect can be used for waterfalls, rapids, or any fast-moving water feature. The second water effect style is perfect for modeling still or slow-moving water.
  • River rocks. Smooth rocks can keep your water feature from looking empty or bare. 
  • Static grass. Static grass comes in six different colors and can be used to model grass or weeds.
  • Ferns and mushrooms. Small plant details enhance forest floors or any grassy scene.

 

Mountain Track Scene

A model train on a mountain track with rock and pine tree accessories

Adding some mountainous terrain is another great way to introduce nature into your model. Here are some pieces you may consider using:

  • Rock molds. If you have the time to make your rocks, molds let you customize your rock features so you can make a one-of-a-kind model.
  • Spruce trees. Evergreen trees help create that signature mountain look for your railway model. These trees are handcrafted with identifiable leaf structures and textured trunks.
  • Tunnel portal. Showcase your mountain features by leading your train through tunnels with a concrete tunnel portal.
  • Locomotives. No model railroad is complete without high-quality locomotives to bring movement and life to your set. Locomotives come in a variety of styles and colors, so your preference may change based on the style of your model.
  • Bushes. This bush material can be used to model medium-to-high ground cover, available in six different colors.
  • Wildlife. A set of black bears in various poses or wolves surrounding a buck could complete a forest scene.

 

Town or Neighborhood Scene

A model train set with homes, fences, electric posts, and a train on a track

By taking your train through a neighborhood, you can showcase various figures or pets alongside homes and landscaped yards. Some of the pieces used in this example include:

 

Build Your HO Scale Railroad with TrainLife

At TrainLife, we have a huge collection of locomotives, scenery pieces, construction supplies, and more. Our exhaustive inventory is one of the reasons we are such a great destination for anyone looking to create a model railroad.

Our website is full of model train resources for beginners and experts alike. Check out our blogs to learn more about HO scale railroads or browse thousands of other products here!

 





Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

x

Welcome to the Loyalty Points Demo Store :-)

Sign up and receive 5000 pts to test out in our Store.

Earning and redeeming Points

$1
Earns you
5
$1
Redeems to
50.00

Ways you can earn

  • Product Purchase
  • Refer a friend
  • Share on social media

Learn more about our program