Union Pacific’s Challenger No. 3985

     Weighing more than a million pounds and supported by a massive set of trucks (34 wheels), the Challenger Class of locomotives were among the largest and most powerful steam engines ever produced. Used to haul perishables and livestock across the Midwest, the Union Pacific fleet remained in service a short time after World War II. When diesel and gas turbine powered engines were pushed to the limits in 1957, the steam engine fleet was called back into service for a brief period.
     Billed as the largest operating steam engine in the world, the Challenger No. 3985 uses huge six-foot diameter drive wheels and stretches out for an impressive 122 feet. The mammoth locomotive was removed from service in the early 60s and eventually was placed on display in the Cheyenne Depot. In Cheyenne, the Union Pacific employees volunteered to restore this massive engine. Today, looking like new, the 3985 lead a mile long string of Barnum and Bailey circus cars. Headed out on a 2200 mile Heritage Tour, the 3985 pauses in Greeley, Colorado, for this photo opportunity. No stranger to the rails, Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey are proud to be a part of UP's Railroad Heritage celebration. A GPS transmitter allows rail fans to track Challenger 3985 on its six-state journey. Check up on the tour train’s progress with Union Pacific’s website or the UP Twitter page.