I often do a little rail fanning on my way to work, and just the other day I remembered to bring my camera. This is a section of CSX track that runs behind my building in Portsmouth, VA. I believe it holds a lot of interest to the model railroader. I will take you on a short tour, photo by photo.
This is a good overview of the particular track in question. Notice the nicely profiled road bed, drainage ditch and road. On the other side to the left is a chain link fence with some overgrown vegetation. The rails are almost the same color as the ties. When I weather my track I don't pay any special attention to the rails, I just spray it all whatever color the ties are and leave it at that.
This makes for some interesting background possibilities. Beyond the fence are a number of small businesses. These can be modeled by using flats against a sky backdrop. Don't be limited in thinking that a backdrop only has to be mountains!
No place for your searchlights? Think again! This is an outdoor advertising agency.
Got boats?
Here is a good idea with what to do with the age old question of how to end a road at the back drop. Dead end, done!
This is the most interesting feature in my opinion. Notice the well rugged siding, the sharp drop off and the almost buried rails. This is in sharp contrast to the very nicely kept mainline. I like the abandoned spur, only the rails in the roadway survive. Yes, this siding is used at least once a month.
(see if you can spot the track!)
Interesting switch stand.
Hope you get some great ideas! Have fun!
The Dixie D Short Line "Lux Lucet In Tenebris Nihil Igitur Mors Est Ad Nos 2001"