Robert K posted:UP is now the only railroad with a steam program, but NS still allows deadhead moves of 765 and 611. If 611 returns to NCTM this year, it will have to use NS to get there. 765 is probably returning to CVSR in September, and maybe Metra as well. But with the Amtrak business, there will be zero public mainline excursions this year, and the UP 844 excursions are over as well because the Denver Post can no longer afford to sponsor them. To ride behind steam for long distance, you’ll have to go to Grand Canyon, TVRM, Reading and Northern, etc.
Until 765 and 611 have PTC installed, there will have to be a diesel guiding them. Unfortunately, I highly doubt the 765 will return to Chicago this year since Metra does have PTC. The Joliet Rocket may still run, but behind a vintage diesel instead of a steam locomotive. Personally, that's sad for me; I always will consider Chicago to be the 765's second home.
But the Big Boy and 844 will certainly run excursions in the future! The schedule isn't released yet, so you never know what might happen (other than May 10).
