garden Railroad

[sctrainguy]

Garden railroad, are there any tips and tricks to this? I want to get a garden railroad installed in my moms garden, since her and my stefather are into the "western" theme through out the house, I wanted to stick with that theme.  but I dont know how or where to get the stuff for it.  is there special track? special Loco's, what makes this different than an inside layout? and what sort of prep-work needs to be done?

[altterrain]

Lots of tips, no tricks. You have lots of homework to do. A garden railroad on a raised bed is your best bet for older folks. Some good info place to start -
http://www.btcomm.com/trains/primer/index.htm
http://www.trains.com/grw/default.aspx?c=ss&id=16
Yes there is special track. Typically code 250 or 332 of brass or stainless steel with UV resistant ties. There are pros and cons of each. Manufacturers of outdoor track include AristoCraft, USA trains, AMS, etc.
The Bachmann locos and rolling stock will fit your theme nicely. They are either 1:22.5 scale (Big Hauler line) or 1:20.3 (Spectrum line). The Anniversary edition ("Annie") ten wheeler is a great starter loco for the money.
The only real difference between indoor and outdoor trains are weather and UV resistance. Bachmann track is intended for indoor use only.
There are many kit buildings and figures that will work well for a western theme.
There are a few good online dealers to get stuff like -
http://www.ridgeroadstation.com/trains.shtml
http://www.staubintrains.com/trainshop/default.asp
http://www.trainworld.com/

-Brian