Operating in Explore Route mode

Back in 2006 I wrote about using the Explore Route mode of operation to spread an assortment of freight cars in one operating session and then continue the shuffle and operation in succeeding sessions. By saving each session you can build a collection of starting points. Since MSTS doesn’t identify sessions by anything other than activity (EXPLORE ROUTE, in this case), route, day and time, you will eventually have a list that is tantamount to a random selection available for the future. The beauty of the system is that you don’t have to bother with the Activity Editor.


Leaving Wellsville. A group of freight cars has been placed in each the two sidings in the distance.

My initial consist includes the center cab loco and 33 unique freight cars, the last one being a caboose. I start at Wellsville and broke the train into three parts, leaving a group of cars on each of the two sidings. I then proceed to Galeton, dropping cars at various locations along the way. Later – possibly in a second session – I bring the train back to Wellsville to pick up some more freight cars. Then I proceed to the sections beyond Galeton. Of course I can pick up and drop off cars along the way if I like. I repeat for the third group of freight cars. Now I have 32 cars scattered all over the route and I can move cars to my heart’s content, saving each session as I see fit.

Here are a few fun pictures.













You may have guessed by now that I like this route and the available add-ons. I do!! It provides lots of running, switching and beautiful scenery. What more could I ask for?

Cheers,

Al