Trains in Nebraska

[4-6-6-4 Challenger]

I am looking to model trains in nebraska but I want to do some area's where the UP ran there trains up some good grades.  Does anyone have any pictures or know of any areas where the UP ran some steep grades in nebraska I am thinking that they would be in the panhandle of nebraska but am not sure.  Help please I live in nebraska but on the other side of the state if someone can tell me where to go I may take a weekend and head out there to take some photos.  Thanks, all of the help we be greatful.

[ValorStorm]

If "other side of the state" means eastern Nebraska, you're in luck. The only good grade on the UP mainline in Nebraska is from the Missouri River at Blair thru Kennard to Arlington, which is about 6 miles east of Fremont on the former C&NW. Otherwise the entire Overland Rte thru NE is flat running-- half a % ascending, WB.

If you live in Omaha you're only 25-30 miles away from Kennard. Your weekend will be devoted to picture taking rather than driving. Good luck!

[cnwfan51]

Being from Scottsbluff and have I Li ved in both Kearney and Omaha  I agree with the above post The only other grade in Nebraska is out of Omaha from the yards in Council Bluffs west bound to the summit at MP 9.5.    The BMSF does have a couple of stiff grades in western Nebtaska    from Sidney Nebraska north bound  to Bridgeport Nebraska and then north from there to Alliance Nebtaska,   And then there is Crawford Hill west of Alliance   hopes this he;ps   Larry

[dehusman]

Depending on the era, the grade through Blair is the former CNW.

The ruling grade on the UP was the line west out of Omaha towards Fremont through Pacific and Elkhorn.    Basically the route that parallels I-80

Dave H.

[4-6-6-4 Challenger]

Does anyone know the grade on the line west of omaha?  ALso what is the steapest grade in nebraska and where is it, it does not have to be a UP line.