One of the most iconic and exciting vehicles in existence are trolleys. That’s why it comes as no surprise that so many people want to build an N Scale trolley layout.
The way they operate with overhead wires is enough to draw any model train enthusiast in. They’re also at home in both winding streets and idyllic provincial scenes, giving you plenty of options for scenery. On top of that, they have tighter curves compared to an ordinary model railroad, allowing you to save more space than usual.
Whether you’re already building your own N Scale trolley layout or are still considering it, you’re sure to find inspiring layouts below. Read more to see 5 stunning layouts!
N Scale Trolley Layout from Japan
Built on four tabletops, this layout is a real beauty. It contains a storage yard and a double-track viaduct. The Easy Trolley set-up runs on Tomix Wide Track and Tomix Fine Track, while the trains use Kato tracks. Because of its spacious 12.5 x 15 inch layout, up to 6 trains and three trams can operate at a time.
Kato N Scale Trolley Layout with Shelf
Like any other model railroad shelf layouts, you can also add a helix for your trolleys. Here, the helix allows the trolleys to reach elevated areas with ease along the Kato track. The railroad has elements like mountain tunnels, buildings, and a charming lake community. It also boasts a double loop and a removable mountain top for easy access to the track underneath.
N Scale Trolly Layout with Rails
If you look closely, you can see the complex catenary system running through this model train track. This is often cited as one of the hardest parts when building a trolley layout. Inspired by the modeller’s home country of Austria, you can see beautiful houses and small mountains around the edge.
Electric Rails on an N Scale Trolley Layout
Here is a very unique trolley layout. It’s very compact and portable, with extra tight curves. Its tracks are completely or partly at grade too, while its turnouts are quite complex. As you can see from the image, this is a sparse railroad model with no scenery at all giving its special features more chance to shine.
Overhead Wires on an N Scale Trolley Layout
Finally, we have this close look at a trolley layout’s overhead wires. Powered by these wires, the trolleys effortlessly pass through tight curves and sidings. Complete with realistic trees, backdrops, and a water tower, this is a very realistic railroad. You can find this very model in the National Capital Trolley Museum.
Want to know more of what you can do with an N scale layout? Read this recently published article, 5 Marvelous N Scale Layouts 2×4.