A volunteer 501(c)3 train club located at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum at Balboa Park.

San Diego Society of N Scale | Linktree

The Pacific Desert Lines (PDL) is one of the world's largest permanent N-scale model railroad layouts, created by the San Diego Society of N Scale (SDSoNS). It depicts a fascinating "what-if" scenario: a route connecting San Diego to El Centro, California, with interchanges at the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway in San Diego and Southern Pacific in El Centro.

The layout is based on an actual 1855 survey by the San Diego and Arizona Eastern Railroad that explored keeping the entire route within U.S. territory, avoiding the easier grades found in Mexican valleys. However, when the actual railroad was built following an 1906 survey, it crossed into Mexico multiple times for engineering advantages. The PDL preserves this alternate historical vision—a completely American route that never came to be.

About the railroad

The San Diego Society of N Scale (SDSoNS) warmly invites enthusiasts of all experience levels to become part of our vibrant model railroading community. Whether you’re just beginning your journey into the fascinating world of N scale or you’re an accomplished modeler with years of experience, our club offers a supportive environment where you can develop your skills, share your knowledge, and contribute to our historic Pacific Desert Lines layout.

Becoming a member is straightforward—simply complete our membership application form. For prospective members under 16 years of age, we require the supervision of a parent or adult sponsor during all club activities, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for our younger enthusiasts.

Send a completed form to sdsons2025@gmail.com and a member of our club will be in touch.

Get involved

Get involved: Fill out our form!

San Diego Society of N Scale

Enjoy 30 days of Hulu for FREE

Claim 10 free meals* from HelloFresh

Get 60% off Sitewide

Sip your way to stronger health with 30% off at ARMRA

Save 10% at Omnilux LED

Save 10% on Ritual Multivitamins Subscriptions

You've scored 50% OFF Factor 🤤

Join now and get 50% off a Club membership

Get your first box FREE with Curology!

Claim your $20 bonus with Acorns

Sign up for Headspace Today and get a 14 day free trial!

Get AAA membership for half the price!

Get 30¢/gal cash back on gas at major stations

Get 15% off at Equip Foods

20% Off the at FabFitFun with code INSIDER20

Get 80% off your first order when signing up to be a VIP!

Get 15% off for cleaner skin at CLEARSTEM

Get your first box FREE with Agency!

50% off + Free Shipping at Purple Carrot!

Power Up with Daily Harvest's High-Protein Smoothies

Save $100 with Gobble

Save 10% on your First Maev Order!

15% off your favorite non-alcoholic spirits at The Zero Proof

10% off JLab’s award‑winning audio gear

Get help with or without insurance. Use code SPACE80 for $80 off.

Start speaking a new language in just 3 weeks

San Diego Society of N Scale

A volunteer 501(c)3 train club located at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum at Balboa Park.

About this account

More from Linktree