Because of the distance involved, I had never before visited the Black Hills Central RR in SD. About a week ago, old friend Chuck Heimerdinger and I spent parts of 2 days there. First thing we did was ride the train...even with the new houses that have popped up over the years, they have a very interesting and photogenic right of way and this is a very worthwhile place to visit. Former Rayonier Inc. 2-6-6-2T 110 is the preferred power nowdays as she is good for 7 passenger cars up the 6% out of Hill City. Also on the property and used are 2-6-2T 104 and a 2-6-2 with tender. 104's sister 103 sits as a parts source.
One sobering sight was a new-to-the-railroad GP-9 that is used for the first run of the day when they run 5 trains. Who knows what this bides for the future of steam there? If you have any interest in seeing and riding this long standing pike, try it next summer, I think you'll be pleased.