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Photographed Examples of HO Model Trains

March 24, 2022

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

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

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

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:

Figures. From backyard barbecues to birthday parties, a neighborhood scene offers countless options for displaying figures in a variety of situations.
Pets. This collection of cats and dogs is perfect for a town setting, complete with a trash can and a fire hydrant.
Various structures. Hotels, diners, and townhouse complexes would fit in a more populated city setting, while sheds and small homes are perfect for a quiet neighborhood.
Picket fence. With gates, detailed hinges, and planter pins for easy installation, fences add character to any scene.
Electric utility poles. This set includes all the pieces to set up power poles, street lights, and realistic wire for your residential layout.
Plants. Roses and summer flowers add color to any front yard, while fruit trees and vegetables are great for creating an orchard or garden.

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!