Nevada Northern 81: The Robinson Canyon Express

The Nevada Northern Railway, located in Ely, Nevada, is one of the most authentic railroads preserved in the United States. From East Ely Yard with all of the original structures to its vast collection of the original rolling stock and locomotives, the railroad truly is a one-of-a-kind in American railroading.

After decades of hauling copper ore, freight, and passengers, the railroad now survives as a tourist railroad and museum, providing visitors with a unique experience for how railroads operated throughout the 20th century.

Today, the Nevada Northern Railroad operates a variety of passenger excursions with their historic steam and diesel locomotives over various parts of the line. The iconic steam-powered excursion from Ely to Keystone through Robinson Canyon continues to be one of the railroad's most popular trip since the line re-opened as a tourist railroad in 1987.

Throughout all of 2023, recently-restored 2-8-0 number 81 has been the only operational steam locomotive on the railroad as work continues on both locomotive 40's 1472 and the major running gear overhaul on locomotive 93. For the 2023 excursion season, the railroad purchased a brand-new Boston & Maine 6 Chime whistle built by the Osborne Whistle Works serving as a new and permanent whistle for 81 which sounds fantastic on the hefty Consolidation.

This video takes a look into the daily operations on the Nevada Northern Railway. From preparing locomotive 81 in the morning, to covering the line with a variety of locations and angles, this immersive video gives viewers a taste of this remarkable American treasure. So sit back, relax, and enjoy Nevada Northern 81 on The Robinson Canyon Express.

A very special goes out to the volunteers, employees, and management of the Nevada Northern Railway for making this video possible.

This video was filmed on Friday, June 23, Saturday, June 24, Sunday, June 25, and Monday, June 26, 2023.

Filmed & Edited by Mark Turkovich

This film may not be reproduced or redistributed in any manner.

©MPT Productions 2023