Race ya to the water tower! Three of the Cass Scenic Railroad's four operable steam locomotives participate in the annual "Great Locomotive Race" at the Mountain State Railroad & Logging Historical Association's annual Railfan Weekend. The contestants this year were the former Meadow River Heisler #6 (seen here in the lead), Western Maryland Shay #6 (putting on a top-end charge), and the former Mower Shay #4 (lagging behind with a freight train.) The only other operable engine that was hot during this event was Mower Shay #5, which was held in reserve back at the shop building.
The Cass Scenic Railroad actually has three other engines, besides the 4 already mentioned here. All of them are in heavy maintenance. Shay #11, a former Feather River Engine, is awaiting a 1472-day inspection. Shay #2, a Pacific Coast model, is nearing the end of a complete overhaul/rebuild, which has been going on for about 7 years. Finally, Climax #6, a former Moore-Keppel Engine, is nearing the end of a complete restoration, which has been underway for over 10 years.
For aficianados of geared steam engines, it's "almost heaven." Here are some scenes from the park's annual Railfan Weekends, as well as some private charters.
