This website has been archived from TrainWeb.org/brettrw to TrainWeb.US/brettrw.

        The Caliente Sub to me is one of the most scenic routes, along any part of the UP empire, that I have been fortunate enough to explore. Winding through some of the starkest desert and into high forested mountains, this sub offers tranquility and grandeur, along with a pretty descent display of mainline railroading. The highlight of the Caliente Sub, is in all respects, the magnificent Meadow Valley Wash. This marvel of harsh desert landscape and the oasis which the wash provides, serve as the backdrop for modern railroading at its best. You can't go wrong along this sub.

        Access:  The Caliente Sub is relatively isolated for much of its run from any real easy access, IE paved roads. There are exceptions and fairly decent dirt roads along the way though. AS this page grows I will be able to fill in some of the gaps for you. I have followed the line on dirt / paved roads for nearly 75 % of its length. A good map and a truck with good clearance will get you along this entire subs length. Paved roads exist from Vegas to Dry Lake, and again from Moapa to Farrier, and finally from Elgin to Caliente. The rest will be dirt.

        Lodging:  Lodging is equally as sparse, especially as you get away from Las Vegas. Outside of Vegas there is limited lodging in Moapa, and Caliente. Milford is the only town in Utah that has lodging where the tracks are. Be prepared to find lodging elsewhere at the end of the day if you are away from these locations. Also, outside of Vegas, there will be little else besides the Mom and Pop motels in the locations mentioned.

        Food and supplies:  Come prepared with a lunch if you want to make the most of your outing. Having to leave the tracks to find grub is probably not the best plan, and depending on where you are, maybe impossible. Caliente, for example, doesn't even have a single name brand fast food restaurant in it. Nor does Milford. There are gas stations in Moapa, Caliente, and Milford, but again outside of Vegas that is it. Best advice is to come prepared for isolation and plan to sustain yourself, unless you are willing to head into town for supplies. See my Desert Railfan Guide for additional tips and suggestions.