The fact is that until a couple years ago, you could see a vintage Baldwin pull 4% grade, wheels slip and all the rest of the fun you describe, also in the State of Jefferson. It was on the McCloud and sadly most of the seats on these spectacular runs were empty. Funny how it works: we always want something we can't have and ignore something that's already there...even if they're very similar.

If the Yreka Western does survive and manages to run the Blue Goose Excursions this year (and I believe it will), I'd challenge every reader of this post to make the trip to Yreka and hop on board for a ride you won't forget. Buy some stuff in the gift shop. Let 'em know you care about they YW and seeing steam survive. See ya there.

Larry Tuttle