Union Pacific Big Boy attracts massive crowd to Soda Springs

SODA SPRINGS — Huge crowds began to gather early Monday on both sides of the railroad tracks in Soda Springs anticipating the arrival of Union Pacific’s No. 4014 Big Boy, the largest operational steam locomotive in the world.

The heavy road construction on Main Street didn’t discourage the spectators from congregating together with shared excitement and anticipation for the rare opportunity to view the Big Boy up close.

And up close is exactly what was delivered.

Railroad engineers were gracious and all smiles as they spent time greeting the crowd of the young and the old after the Big Boy arrived.

A Union Pacific representative even stood atop the Big Boy to wave and record the crowd from above.

It was obvious you didn’t have to be a railroad enthusiast to be excited to see such a legendary piece of machinery.

However, there were many who didn’t expect nor enjoy the ear-shattering sound of the Big Boy's whistle on its way in and out of Soda Springs.

The large crowd gathered in such a small Idaho town was a sight to see and memorable. Many traveled from other states to come witness the Big Boy in person in Soda Springs.

Thank you Union Pacific for sharing such a unique piece of history.