Maximum grade / elevated track

Denny...if you can, don't go higher than a 2-2.5% grade.  What kind of locomotive will you be running and how many cars?  I really like that track plan.  I could see a big mountain on the left.  What are the dimensions?

Rick

I think 5% is the absolute maximum with severe limitations including the type of engine and the size of the train. This is what you'll get by using the old Lionel trestles. For a hi-rail layout, I agree with Rick.

For my home layout, I briefly considered a grade but after doing the math on a 1-1.5% grade. My layout is only 39' long. There was really nothing to be gained by doing it.

Gilly

The grade as you have is close to Lionel's trestle grade.

I would recommend moving the switch to the elevated loop back to back with the switch at the top and run your elevation from there. That would leave the left side to the bottom flat.(orange)

I don't like elevating switches on trestles.

For custom trestles, I like pylons from 1" dowel stock with a base and a support. For the temporary layout, perhaps just blocks(piers) may be sturdier. You could also make arches using square stock and 3 sides of a rectangle. Some may need a wider base of of 1/4" ply for stability or Masonite(hardboard). Whichever you think will be the quickest to get done.

The Lionel O gauge trestle sets have 22 pieces and rise to 5.75".

2.5% grade...how does that clear trains on track under the elevated line?

unless yo have 200 inches of line...

4% = 4inch rise  over 100 inches of line..

unless I am missing something here?