WOW! Tim - excellent photo! I usually don't like "drone photos" - but this one is just remarkable! Love the composition, lighting, perspective...everything! I have heard about Horseshoe Curve so many times throughout my life, that I guess I've taken it for granted. Yes I'd heard about the grade, and the struggle the trains would have maneuvering over "The Curve" and the grades, and blah, blah! BUT...I never really could put it into perspective. This photo now makes that all clear to me.
I can actually and visually see the difference in elevation from the end of the train on the left, to the position of the lead locomotives on the right. This photo REALLY brings it all into perspective. I don't know how many other RP.net viewers will have the same realization about Horseshoe Curve, but I know that for me - this inspires me to want to visit this historic locale all the more. I will make a concerted effort to make a trip to this iconic railroading masterpiece of engineering! It's now on my MUST DO list! Thank you for sharing this photo! You have "opened my eyes" to the marvel of this curve!
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I agree with Dana M. Superlative photo, Timothy. This is the first photo to give any justice to Horseshoe Curve. The loco up in the middle on display is a PRR Steam 4-6-2 Pacific # 1361 if memory serves me. The only way this could be better is if all 4 tracks were still in use. PCA for me.
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Great perspective!
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The steam engine was removed several years ago and in its place a Geep has been there for some time. I have been to this very spot many times and am always amazed how trains grind up the hill going full bore with pushers tacked on behind. Amazing photo. Almost repeat of their 150th.
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Thanks you, all. This was actually one of those photos I took 'because I can.' There haven't been many photos taken that really show off the grade shared here, since the standard angle has become shooting westbound from across the curve from the west side (which is a legal grey area) or from inside the park. If you plan to visit, come while the brush is still young. Our curator is pushing for a 5 year maintenance cycle, but nothing that costs money is garunteed.
Alos, you are correct re:1361. She was removed mid-September 1985 and had PRR GP9 7048 put in it's place. 1361 is currently still disassembled pending funding to complete the project (crew has mentioned the roof sheet alone is about $125,0000).
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Nice shot! That water looks surreal.
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