Steam locomotive stopping in Ogallala

Union Pacific’s historic Big Boy steam locomotive No. 4014 will be making two stops in Ogallala while touring the Union Pacific system to commemorate the transcontinental railroad’s 150th anniversary.

The Big Boy’s return to the rails is the product of more than two years of meticulous restoration work by the Union Pacific Steam Team. No. 4014 is the world’s only operating Big Boy locomotive.

The Big Boy No. 4014 is headed back out on the Union Pacific system beginning July 8 for a tour, taking it through Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

It will stop in Ogallala on Tuesday, July 9, arriving from Julesburg, Colo., at approximately 10:30 a.m. at S. Spruce Street Crossing and departing for North Platte at 11:15 a.m.

The locomotive will return to Ogallala Wednesday, Aug. 7, arriving from North Platte at approximately 9:45 a.m. and leaving for Chappell at 10:30 a.m.

Due to the dynamic nature of these operations, running times and scheduled stops are subject to change. The most accurate steam schedule information can be found at https://www.up.com.

Join the Union Pacific Steam Club to be notified of major schedule updates. Small schedule changes will be communicated immediately via the UP Steam Club Facebook Group and the @UP_Steam Twitter feed located at twitter.com/up_steam. 

Safety

When steam locomotives come through, it is especially important to remember and emphasize safety. 

The average train overhangs the track by at least three feet and wider loads can extend even further from the tracks. It is imperative that pedestrians stand back at least 25 feet or more from the tracks to avoid debris and steam or being hit by the train itself.

For everyone’s safety:

• Remember, trains can’t stop quickly to avoid people or vehicles on the tracks.

• A train’s distance from you and its speed can be deceiving.

• The average train overhangs the track by at least three feet – take extra precaution and stand back at least 25 feet from all railroad tracks.

• Railroad tracks, trestles, yards and right-of-way are private property – please do not trespass.

• Never assume tracks are abandoned or inactive – ALWAYS expect a train and assume tracks are active.

• Taking photos on train tracks is more than illegal – it can be deadly. Walking on train tracks is always dangerous and avoidable.