Good day
A follow modeler suggested to look at this quarry layout as great beginning layout. I have a couple of questions.
1st i want to minimize amount of bench work so i was thinking basic shelf with a attachable road.
2nd using foam and woodland scenic raiser for the elevation changes and for the road.
Lastly miminize track work i think this would a great starting point.
http://mrr.trains.com/how-to/build-model-railroad/2012/11/build-a-quarry-branch
Here is track plan.