Roundy Rounds with some simple switching. I’d “like” a tunnel between the two trees in the center of the area for a visual block. Multiple individual loops that would allow running multi-trains w/o crashing-at least 3, and they could interchange if necessary.
Our grandsons are about the same age as your boys. They like crashes! Expensive way to keep 'em happy.
Outside loop with broad curves for bigger locos (American, Connie, Mogul, K/Meyer), smaller curves on inside loops for small locos (Climax, Shay, LGB). I’d like to utilize the crossovers. Would even consider an Over and Under figure 8 with the tunnel. Plan to keep most track on same grade.
Grades are good! You can weight up your cars, then see which loco can pull the best. Good fun!
Thought of a run-around near point (10’) around those trees near House Number Sign as seen above. Not against using R1 switches for yard. Hope to do late 1800-Early 1900’s, Appalachia, maybe coal, lumber or both. Rolling stock will determine most of that, see below. Most visual breaks will be provided by small plantings. Plan some simple buildings and scenery, nothing too elaborate. Small Homestead or two, Small Town-Early American (Depot/PO, gen store, blacksmith, Church, mill-Much like Walnut Grove in Little House on the Prairie). Industries could be outside of realm…on interchange…trains just passing through with loads? Passenger Service will be limited.
One of these days I am going to go down to K-Mart and buy an imagination. You blokes who can even dream up these ideas amaze me!
I prefer the look of Body Mount KD #1 Couplers and Link & Pins as well. (kids stock to receive H&L)
Smart. H&L is better if you decide to pull weight up grades.