Those are interesting engines. I got to go along on a steam train/photographer's special
trip back in the middle '70s in WVA. They had a Shay and a Heisler, both geared engines because
it had steep grades, was originally a log hauling operation. Prior to that, I was unaware of the
existence of geared steam locomotives. The stopped numerous times and let us off, then backed
up, and returned with smoke and steam streaming the best for photos. Very nice trip.
The Antonito train is also a really nice run. They go from the flat, high San Luis Valley in Antonito
to a huge lunch building that they have built in the middle of nowhere mtn meadow. You get off, get lunch
and then they pick up the engine coming from the other way (parallel tracks for a section) on the
same cars, flip the reversible seats over and you ride back. In the fall when the aspens are turning,
it is beautiful. And a number if minimum radius (I assume) nearly full circles as it climbs higher and
higher into the mountains, finally along a river gorge, 600 or so ft to the river. I haven't ridden the
Durango train, but it is on the "one of these days" list.
Bill