After conquering the Cascade Mountains the northbound Amtrak Coast Starlight 14 runs downhill through Oakridge, Oregon. During the glory days Oakridge was known for its logging and railroading as many local mills thrived during the mid twentieth century. Located at the bottom of the long and arduous 1.7% Cascade Sub grade, Oakridge was a vital location along the line.
The yard used to be a hub of activity as it once housed a Depot, train order offices, repair shop, and sleeping and dining quarters. When steam trains rode the rails Oakridge was an important location for helper engines and a wye was used to rotate them.
Today, freight and passenger trains just ride on through without stopping. During the winter months it can get very treacherous as engineers navigate the higher elevations of the Cascade Sub so snow fighting equipment is stored down at Oakridge ready at a moments notice. MOW equipment is also stored here.
