Montana Rail Link: Footprints of the Northern Pacific

The Northern Pacific's route through Montana took the railroad west from Billings to Livingston, over the grade of Bozeman Pass, through Lombard Canyon to Helena, over Mullan Pass and west toward Missoula and Sandpoint, ID. The railroad became a Burlington Northern property in 1970 and was sold to newly formed Montana Rail Link in 1992.

Today, MRL keeps the line hopping by running overhead BNSF traffic in addition to its variety of short and long distance locals. On a trip in July, 2014, I ventured across the MRL system from Laurel, MT, ten miles west of Billings, over both Bozeman and Mullan Passes, to Garrison, Jens and Drummond. BNSF traffic is quite affluent on this line, and heavy trains get MRL helpers on both grades. MRLs SD70ACes sound fantastic working up the grades. Lots of older BNSF power is seen, including warbonnets and EMDs. This is a true trip back to a time not too long ago. A time no longer a reality, but proudly captured on video for all to see!

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