Creating a custom Trainz map (or "route") can range from a simple 10-minute project to a complex, multi-layered real-world reproduction. Whether you are using the latest Trainz Railroad Simulator 2022 or an older version like Trainz: A New Era
, the following techniques help you build detailed, immersive environments. Prototypical Real-World Mapping
To create maps based on real-world locations, many creators use TransDEM. This payware tool processes geo-data to generate accurate Trainz terrain from Digital Elevation Models (DEM).
DEM Height Data: Exported as height data to generate the terrain's hills and valleys automatically.
Map Overlays: You can georeference USGS maps, WMS maps, or Google Earth images to act as a guide for laying tracks and placing scenery.
Vector Maps: These help determine the route and can be used to generate the extents on either side of your tracks.
Grid Optimization: For large routes, a 10m grid setting is often recommended over a 5m grid to prevent file sizes from dragging down performance. Creative "Model Railroad" Approach
If you aren't aiming for real-world accuracy, you can build a map modeled after a Basement Model Railroad Empire. This approach typically uses 6 to 16 baseboards.
Key Features: Common designs include a figure-eight center section for reversing direction, a perimeter oval, and small industrial yards with interactive businesses.
Scenery Elements: Build elevation for mountains and foothills to create logical spots for tunnels, lakes, and rivers.
Surveyor Menu: Use this tool to manage your baseboards and see a map view of your selected route. Managing Assets and Content
Building a great map also requires understanding how assets are handled within the Trainz ecosystem.
Trainz/Introductory Trainz/How to build a route in 10 minutes
20 Oct 2025 — Suggest Thinking ahead,... Let's assume a first route eventually developed along the lines of a basement Model Railroad Empire, 6-
Trainz/Tutorial for Blender - Wikibooks, open books for an open world trainz map
Master Your Virtual Rails: A Comprehensive Guide to Trainz Mapping In the world of Trainz Simulator
, a "map" is more than just a background—it is the foundation of your entire rail empire, often referred to as a
. Creating a high-quality map requires a blend of geographic accuracy, technical tools, and creative world-building. 1. Understanding Maps: Routes vs. Sessions
Before you start laying tracks, it is important to distinguish between the two core components of a Trainz world: The Route (The Map):
This is the physical environment, including the terrain (DEM), tracks, buildings, vegetation, and roads. The Session:
This contains the "living" parts of the map, such as scheduled train movements, driver assignments, and specific industry tasks. 2. Tools for Creating Professional Maps
Building a map from scratch can be daunting, but several specialized tools make the process more efficient: A critical tool for serious route builders,
allows you to import real-world Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data to create geographically accurate terrain. It supports raster maps and orthophotos, ensuring your tracks line up with real-world grids.
This is the built-in editor within Trainz. Experts often use techniques like overwriting textures with a SurveyorGrid
to easily visualize layout sections when taking screenshots for planning. Trainz Content Manager:
Essential for managing "Dependencies" (like custom bridges, trees, or locomotives). A common issue in newer versions like Trainz: A New Era is "faulty" content, which often requires a Database Rebuild 3. Key Mapping Features & Community Content
The Trainz community is one of the most active in simulation history, providing a wealth of free and paid assets to populate your maps: Custom Assets:
You can find everything from 1920s passenger figures to hyper-realistic European signaling systems. Multiplayer Routes: Modern versions of Trainz, such as
, allow for multiplayer operating sessions where different users can control trains on the same map simultaneously. Realism vs. Model Railroad: Creating a custom Trainz map (or "route") can
While some users build vast 1:1 scale real-world routes, others prefer a "Model Railroad" style, focusing on high-detail, smaller scenes that mimic physical hobbyist layouts. 4. Common Troubleshooting for Map Builders Missing Dependencies:
If your map has "holes" or yellow markers, you are likely missing assets. Use the Download Station (DLS) to find these. Version Compatibility: Older map-making tools like no longer function in modern versions like Trainz: A New Era . Modern builders have shifted toward using the in-game or external screenshots for planning. Performance Optimization:
Large maps with high "poly counts" (polygon counts) can lag. Creators use tools like
to create custom objects and optimize them by deleting unseen faces to keep the map running smoothly.
In the franchise, a "map" (often referred to as a Route) is the essential world-building component that provides the environment for your trains to operate. These maps range from simple loops to massive, high-detail recreations of real-world landscapes. Core Components of a Trainz Map
Surveyor Mode: This is the primary editing tool where you build your world from a blank "baseboard". You can manipulate terrain, lay tracks, and place objects like buildings and trees. Baseboards: The fundamental units of a map, measuring . Large routes can consist of thousands of these boards.
Satellite/Map View: An in-game feature that provides a top-down view of the layout, useful for navigation and locating specific industries or tasks.
TransDEM Integration: For creators seeking total realism, external tools like TransDEM can import real-world digital elevation models (DEM) and georeferenced maps directly into Trainz. Common Map Types Description Historically Accurate
Deeply researched recreations of real railways at specific points in time. Fictional
"Free-build" maps where the creator builds whatever they imagine, board by board. Model Railroad
Digital versions of physical model train layouts, often including "tabletop" edges. Modular
Smaller map segments designed to be merged together to create custom, unique routes. How to Create or Edit
To begin building your own map, you can follow these general steps:
Start the Editor: Launch Trainz and select Drive and Surveyor, then click Create Route. Phase 5: Operational Essentials A map is useless
Terrain & Environment: Use tools to raise hills, smooth slopes, or create rivers.
Laying Track: Place various track types and connect them into loops, yards, or mainlines.
Populate: Add scenery, stations, and industrial spurs that allow for interactive cargo loading.
For those looking for established content, you can find a massive library of community-created maps on the Trainz Download Station (DLS).
In the world of virtual railroading, a Trainz map—commonly referred to as a Route—is the digital "level" or world where your locomotives come to life. Whether you are recreating a historical branch line or a massive fictional empire, the map is the foundation of the entire simulation experience, containing the landscape, scenery, and track infrastructure. Creating Your Own Trainz Map
For many players, the true heart of Trainz is Surveyor, the built-in world creation tool. Building a map can range from a quick 10-minute layout to a multi-year prototypical project.
The Foundation (Baseboards): Every new map starts with a single
tile called a baseboard. You can expand your world by clicking the "Add/Update Ground" tool on the edges of existing boards to grow your territory.
Terrain & Texturing: Using the Topology Tab (F1), you can raise hills, carve valleys, and create plateaus with the "Height Up" and "Plateau" tools. Realism comes from the Paint Tab (F2), where you blend different ground textures to create realistic grass, ballast, and soil.
Laying Track: The Track Tab (F4) allows you to place "spline" objects. You click to set spline points, which the track follows automatically. Advanced tools like the "Straighten Track" tool and "Trackmark" mode help refine layouts for both visual appeal and AI operations.
Scenery & Objects: The Object Tab (F3) is used to place buildings, trees, and streetlights. For efficient editing, Trainz uses layers, allowing you to "lock" or hide certain elements—like trees—while you work on the track underneath. Prototypical Mapping Tools
If you want to build a "Factual" route based on a real-world location, hand-sculpting terrain can be daunting. Several specialized tools assist in bringing real geography into Trainz: YouTube·RailsOfTheWorld Productions
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TRAINZ ROUTE MAP: "FALLS JUNCTION TO COAL HARBOR"
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LEGEND:
[===] = Mainline Track (~~~) = Water / River
--- = Branch / Siding [BRG] = Bridge
>> = Direction of travel [TUN] = Tunnel
| = Switch / Points [STAT] = Station / Industry
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(North / Upstream)
|
V
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[COAL HARBOR] (Load: Coal, 1000t)
|
| (Gradient 1.5% climb)
|
[===|===] (Passing Siding)
|
| [BRG] over BLACKWATER RIVER (~~~)
|
[TUN] (Long Tunnel, 500m)
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| (Forest zone)
|
[===] (Speed limit drops to 40mph)
|
[STAT] "RIVERSIDE" (Passenger Stop)
|
(~~~) <-- River beside track
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[===|===] (Yard lead to Falls Junction)
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|\
| \ (Branch line to Quarry)
| \
| [QUARRY] (Stone Load)
|
[FALLS JUNCTION] (Junction & Water Tower)
| \
| \ (Branch to Mill)
| \
[===|===] (Mainline continues) [SAWMILL]
| |
| (Downstream) [===] (Log Loading)
V
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A map is useless if trains can't run on it.
Go to the "Sessions" tab.
If you like American diesel locomotives (GE and EMD), you want a map featuring coal mines, grain elevators, and steel mills. These maps emphasize low-speed torque, braking, and complex switching puzzles.