From the cab of 3985...

Just another well lit wedge of the world's largest operating steam locomotive. The Challenger ran between St. Paul and St. James on the old Omaha Road.

Cleaning and inspecting the running gear of UP 3985.

Despite the articulated design of the Challenger, there are still a few portions of track in Shakopee it cannot negotiate. "Wild Thing" and "Steel Venom," roller coasters at Valley Fair, can be s... (more)

A brush and bucket are used to scrub the running gear and cylinders of 3985.

Crossing the Mississippi at Bridge 15. This scene was also captured by Shawn Christie, Railroad: Union Pacific
Locomotive: Steam 4-6-6-4
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
Locomotive #: UP 3985
Train ID: Twin City Limited
Photo Date: September 30, 2008

The wide angle lens makes the boiler seem to stretch as UP 3985 heads for its next stop in Mankato en route from St. Paul to St. James, Minn. on the old Omaha Road.

UP 3985 shows why steam engines are attractive as it smokes it up approaching the I-494 overpass in Eagan heading out of St. Paul for St. James, Minn. on the old Omaha Road.

Another angle at Bridge 15 as UP 3985 heads out of St. Paul for St. James, Minn. on the old Omaha Road.

After a late start, UP 3985 is finally underway, sneaking up on a few of us at this particular location.

UP Challenger 3985 crosses the Mississippi River after leaving St Paul headed back to Wyoming on the UP's ex-C&NW Omaha Line.

3985 shows off her new paint job as she crosses the Mississippi River leaving St Paul headed west on the UP's ex-C&NW Omaha Line. The historic former Schmidt Brewery is atop the hill in the backg... (more)

UP 3985 made a brief stop at Ames and is now steaming at track speed with the Twin Cities Limited Tour just west of Nevada heading for E. KC Jct and north on the "Spine Line" to Mason City... (more)