Union Pacific #844 Running In Colorado

It’s not often in this day and age that a steam locomotive is trusted to run on its own on the main lines.

Generally, steam engines are lashed up to diesel locomotives for emergencies and to provide brake assist electric power to the rest of the train.

Union Pacific’s engine #844 however got the special and coveted opportunity to make a steam only run, as she returned home to Cheyenne, Wyoming in May of 2012. She was on her way home to take part in Cheyenne Depot Days, held yearly at the end of May.

Union Pacific #844:

• Power type: 4-8-4 Steam Locomotive FEF-3 class
• Builder: American Locomotive Company
• Locomotive and tender weight: 907,890 lbs
• Tractive effort: 63,750 lbf