Need ideas for a 4x7 traction layout

I went with a extended "dog bone." In your case I would fold it on top of itself;  split the layout into two levels,  build a terminal on top and small yard on the lower level with a return loop under the top level.  It affords both point to point and continous running. If continous running isn't a requirement of yours discard one or more of the loops and build larger stub end terminal yards. If your folding table allows enough vertical space you could iterate this to three levels as well.  My experience with passenger traction is it's grade friendly just like the prototype, if you want a freight train too, use delrin trucks and lightweight plastic or wood cars on the trailing cars to save your motors. I did a flat version of this design, albeit 6 X 12  ironically doing CNS&M as well and was pleased with the operating results.

This may help:

https://ogrforum.com/topic/35499618975009588

Mitch

My car arrived today, posed on the current tinplate track as its now taken apart so its trucks can go to Quentin at Q-car to be powered.  I wont see them for 10-12 weeks.  So the carbody is back in the box for a while.  I will probably paint it in the coming weeks once I find decals.   I did find out that The Car Works did the North Shore Steeple cabs.  I will keep my eyes out for one of those along with one of the MTS/Ajin cars that is correct for car 749 with its twin chime air horn on the roof.  The Brill cars just had the trombone whistles on them.