The Switchback back-and-forth layout uses track switches to extend a simple track length into multiple segments. Since a back-and-forth layout doesn't need track loops to return the train, a lot of track can be put into a small space.

This layout idea uses four track switches to create five track segments. There are six reverse stops and one station stop.

A single train completely traverses the layout in one direction, reverses at either end, then completely traverses the layout in the other direction.

One EUC in Two E-Unit Cyclers mode controls the six Reverse Stops and the Station Stop. An EUC Automatic Track Switch, "1-2 Route Opposite Last 2-1" operating mode, is used to operate each track switch.

A little operational variety can be added by changing the EUC E-Unit cycling configuration used. The cycler controls in Two E-Unit Cyclers mode can be employed to occasionally "Skip" the Station Stop. Using the Reverse/Station Select configuration will also add variety to the train's movement.

Any of the Automatic Track Switch "Alternating," "50-50 Random," and "1-2 Route Opposite Last 2-1" operating modes can be used to provide a variety of train routing. Each layout leg can wind along the streets of a town and through a layout's villages and structures.

Click an entry in the following table to explore more back-and-forth layout ideas. Click to CLOSE this screen and return to the screen accessing the layout ideas.