Starting a layout

Woodland Scenics incline/decline sets are a fairly foolproof way to introduce grades on your layout. You don't mention a minimum radius, but a double-track twice around with overhead crossing would let you run two trains, and a smaller radius oval inside that would give you the third train. With some crossovers and a reversing cutoff, any train could be run on any portion of the layout. Personally, I have never wanted multiple levels that had no connection with each other.

Lucky with that space!  You could use the fastrack for an outer loop, and fold a dogbone over itself twice on the inside with looong gradual grades...the three levels give the illusion of separate tracks, as two trains pass by each other on their way up and down.  You'd have to watch the throttle or use engines that match their speed, or one would catch up to the other over time.  I don't think fastrack would sit on on the risers (too wide), I used Super O and it fit fine on a single width riser when I did it, but I didn't have your space.  Good Luck!

visrc,

At this point I would suggest you do some more research and let your imagination run. Look through copies of OGR, YouTube videos and related materials. Decide on a time period and time of the year. You might also want to consider a backdrop.

Jay

I suggest you find a copy of Linn H. Westcott's book on Model Railroad Benchwork. It will give you all the info you need to do the benchwork. I would try to use the "Open Grid" method where you can easily figure out how to do grades and other features. I would also recommend Gargraves Phantom Rail track and Ross Custom switches, For my layout I used Tortoise switch machines which mount below the table. A layout on a flat surface is over time boring. The variation in grade is so much more interesting. For benchwork I used 1x4's and 1/2 inch plywood. Here is a photo of one area of my layout. If you want further info please email me at: milt@paiger.org