On a pretty August 2, 1996, morning, an eastbound Southern Pacific autorack train passes Crystal Lakes south (railroad east) of Malta, Colorado, on the scenic line over Tennessee Pass. The train is powered by SD40T-2 Nos. 8269 and 8536, which at the time, I was pretty disappointed with what we would later call “cinder blocks,” but now can even appreciate these beat up old SP Tunnel Motors. At 14,429 feet, Mount Massive dominates the background. The trout were feeding that morning—and yes, I there’s one jumping out of the water below the lead locomotive—and no, it’s not Photoshopped…
