In Train Simulator Classic, the Feather River Canyon Enhanced: Oroville – Portola route is the definitive version of the Western Pacific’s (WP) “Third Subdivision.” Released in February 2024 by High Iron Simulations, this is much more than a texture update; it extends the original 2016 route into a sprawling 130-mile mountain network, capturing the rugged Sierra Nevada mountains during the WP’s final decades (1970s–1980s).
📍 The “Enhanced” Difference
If you owned the 2016 original, the 2024 Enhanced edition offers a significant expansion in both physical trackage and technical detail.
- 34-Mile Extension: The route now continues east from Quincy Junction all the way to Portola, adding major landmarks like the massive Clio Trestle and the engineering marvel of the Williams Loop.
- The “Inside Gateway”: Includes a segment of the Fourth Subdivision (the connection to the Great Northern/Burlington Northern) and the entire Quincy Railroad short line.
- Authentic Physics: The route features 1970s-accurate speed limits and improved signaling. The grades remain a grueling 1% ruling grade, requiring heavy use of dynamic braking on the descent into Oroville.
- Refined Landmarks: Features high-fidelity recreations of the Keddie Wye, the Pulga bridges, and the “Honeymoon Tunnels.”
🚆 Rolling Stock & Period Power
The pack is a deep dive into “Perlman-era” Western Pacific and pooled Burlington Northern (BN) motive power.
- The WP Roster: Includes five types of Western Pacific diesel power: EMD F7 (A and B units), GP9 (with dual controls), SW9, GP40-2, and the GE U30B.
- BN Pooling: An all-new Burlington Northern EMD GP35 is included, reflecting the real-world pooling of power between the two railroads on the “Inside Gateway.”
- Advanced Braking: All included locomotives feature a custom-scripted braking system that is more responsive and realistic than the standard Classic defaults.
- Freight Variety: 16 types of rolling stock, including era-specific 86-foot auto parts boxcars and WP bay-window cabooses.
📊 Content & Expansion Packs
🛒 Winter 2025 Pricing
As of December 26, 2025, the Enhanced route is currently on sale as part of the Steam Winter Sale.
- Standard Price: Feather River Canyon Enhanced is typically $39.99.
- Sale Price: Currently $15.99 (60% off) until January 5, 2026.
- Scenario Packs: Most High Iron scenario packs for this route are also discounted to $5.99–$7.49.
