Today, December 10, and several further dates in December, Central Wyoming Model Railroad Association is opening a model train exhibit at the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center at 1501 Poplar Street in Casper, Wyoming. The railroad club has set up five model trains that visitors can operate while learning about railroad history.
National Historic Trails Interpretive Center allows visitors to play with trains for the holidays
Trains include diesel and steam locomotives and the family-friendly holiday event is expected to appeal to children of all ages. Future dates are December 15 through 17, December 22 and 23, and December 27 through 30. Volunteers are on hand to assist the "train-driving" and, one hopes, ensure the trains don't crash into one another.
According to Alex Rose of the National Historic Trails Center, there's even a historical tie-in: The trails era ended with the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869. No longer did pioneers have to slog across deserts at speeds we can now cross in minutes.
Temperatures in Casper below freezing at night, not much higher during daylight hours
Those interested can call 307-261-7780 for more information. From September through April, the NTIC is open Tuesday through Sunday, 9:00 to 16:30; summer hours are 08:00 to 17:00. The center closes for major holidays.
The museum is a collaboration between BLM and the National Historic Trails Center Foundation, and costs between $4 and $6 to enter, but children 14 and under get in free and an Inter-agency Pass (America the Beautiful Pass) waives this fee also. BLM will also honor fee-free days at this site.
Boondockers should be aware that high temperatures in Casper, at an elevation of around 5,300 feet, won't be much above freezing in the week ahead, with nighttime temperatures well below freezing. But if you're heading south on Interstate 25, hopping off at exit 89 to see the interpretive center will let you experience an entertaining holiday display.
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