1. Home
  2.  ›
  3. Landmarks
  4.  ›
  5. Vendome Loop

Milwaukee Road's "Vendome Loop" (MT): Map, History, Photos

Last revised: November 6, 2024

By: Adam Burns

Often forgotten in the annals of history are the majestic and impressive engineering feats the Milwaukee Road carried out in completing its Pacific Coast Extension. One of these projects was Vendome Loop, located between Butte and Three Forks, Montana.

Constructed as a means of gaining elevation with the line entering the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountain foothills along a stretch known as the Highland Mountains.

It was the first in a series of engineering projects to keep grades manageable through the Highland Mountains.  The loop kept grades at a manageable 1.5%-2% as the railroad gained elevation towards the pass.

It was an impressive engineering marvel and would no doubt attract many enthusiasts and sightseers today if the route was still in operation.

Photos

A Milwaukee freight (train #263) descends Vendome Loop eastbound near Cedric, Montana led by two "Little Joe's" (way off in the distance on the other side of the giant horseshoe curve) on June 22, 1959. Ron Nixon photo/Museum of the Rockies collection.

History

Few rail lines, let alone railroads, have garnered such interest, intrigue, and awe as the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul & Pacific's Pacific Coast Extension, even 40+ years since it was abandoned.

It was a massive project that extended the railroad's reach from the Midwest to the Pacific Northwest, spanning across states like Idaho, Montana, and Washington.

Completed in 1909, it was considered an engineering marvel of its time. However, due to financial struggles, the Milwaukee Road ceased operations on the extension in 1980.

Since its abandonment the debate has raged regarding the line's viability.  One publication described it as the "longest branch line."  For many years the extension struggled to earn a true return on its investment. However, over its final decade the route was profitable but was nevertheless removed.

In 1901 the first surveying work began and it was estimated the more than 1,400-mile western extension would cost the railroad around $45 million adding more than 25% to its total system mileage. However, four years later this number was adjusted to $60 million. 

Milwaukee Road "Little Joe" E-70 and GP40 #2060 (30-ERS-4) descend the east side of Pipestone Pass along the sweeping Vendome Loop (Montana) with an eastbound freight making its way towards Three Forks during a late summer's snowfall on September 7, 1973. Vendome was one of the many impressive engineering feats carried out during construction of the Pacific Extension. The following June the electricity would be turned off. Margret Lewis photo.

What made the extension so terribly expensive was acquiring the needed right-of-way. Unlike the Great Northern and Northern Pacific the CM&StP was not given free government land grants. 

As a result, it not only had to both purchase land from private owners but also acquired small railroads in an attempt to reduce construction costs.  Despite these hurdles the railroad's management in the early 20th century prevailed.

Amazingly, in just three short years the entire extension had been completed and on May 19, 1909 a Golden Spike was driven at Garrison, Montana commemorating the opening of the new route.

During surveying, the extension was broken down into various segments all of the way between South Dakota and Washington state to complete the line as quickly as possible.  The segment within which Vendome Loop was constructed was along a stretch between Lombard and Butte, bisected by the Continental Divide at Pipestone Pass.

Construction

Survey work on this section began in 1904; roughly 20 miles west of Three Forks engineering and survey crews found themselves facing the Highland Mountains along the eastern edge of the Rockies. Up to this point west of Three Forks crews were able to survey a virtual tangent track in a southwesterly direction along the flat Jefferson River Valley.

With crews already surveying and working west of the Continental Divide, the team working to the east side of the divide decided the best way to gain elevation was via a sweeping loop hugging the mountainside as much as possible.

Building the loop, and grading the line in general, proved more difficult than anticipated due to the disintegrated and solid granite rock construction crews encountered when creating the cuts needed.

Actual work along this segment was contracted out to the McIntosh Brothers, which along with the grading work also constructed the bridges, culverts, and all other major work involved with the line.

Grades

Overall, engineers and construction crews were able to keep the ruling grade on the eastern slope of the mountain (where the loop was located) to 2% while the western slope featured just a 1.66% grade. The loop itself was, overall, roughly three miles in length.

Map

Luckily for the Milwaukee Road, the grade was very close to the Northern Pacific's main line, enabling men, machinery, and materials to be transported on-site rather quickly.

By 1908 the entire line between Three Forks and Butte, including Vendome, was open to rail traffic although it required using a tortuous temporary right-of-way over Pipestone Pass as the tunnel was not completed for another year in 1909.  For more reading about the Milwaukee Road please click here.

After the Milwaukee Road electrified much of its Pacific Extension a little less than ten years after the entire route was completed operations over Vendome Loop became a true sight to behold, which was further enhanced as trains became longer.

While watching trains over the loop meant gaining permission from local property owners and trekking up steep mountainsides, if one made the climb to the western segment it was sometimes possible to see the lead locomotives rounding the bend below, exiting off the mountain while the tail end of the train was still right in front of you.

With the abandonment of the Pacific Extension in March, 1980 Vendome Loop sits quiet today, an incredible engineering marvel that is no longer in use.

Sources

  • Murray, Tom. Milwaukee Road, The. St. Paul: MBI Publishing, 2005.
  • Ploss, Thomas. Nation Pays Again, The. Ploss (Self Published): January, 1985.
  • Schafer, Mike. Classic American Railroads. Osceola: MBI Publishing, 1996.
  • Scribbins, Jim.  Hiawatha Story, The.  Minneapolis:  University of Minnesota Press, 2007.
  • Scribbins, Jim. Milwaukee Road Remembered.  Minneapolis:  University Of Minnesota, 2008 (Second Edition).
  • Solomon, Brian and Gruber, John. Milwaukee Road's Hiawatha's, The.  St. Paul: Voyageur Press, 2006.
  • Wood, Charles R. and Wood, Dorothy M.  Milwaukee Road West.  Seattle: Superior Publishing Company, 1972.

Recent Articles

  1. Georgia Independence Day Train Rides

    May 24, 26 12:26 PM

    8217162651246582735835666.jpg
    As the 4th of July approaches in 2026, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway in Blue Ridge, Georgia, invites you to celebrate America in true patriotic style aboard its Firecracker Special.

    Read More

  2. Illinois Independence Day Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:58 AM

    8172631652671878620666.jpg
    As America gears up for the 4th of July in 2026, the Illinois Railway Museum (IRM) in Union, Illinois, offers the perfect blend of patriotic festivities, family-friendly excitement, and living railroa…

    Read More

  3. Alabama Independence Day Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:55 AM

    182412641642561878756896066.jpg
    For those seeking a unique way to celebrate the Fourth of July, Alabama offers a distinctive experience: honoring veterans and active military personnel on Independence Day by train.

    Read More

  4. Ohio Independence Day Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:47 AM

    8127316253126418578656.jpg
    In this guide, we will explore some of the best Independence Day train ride experiences available in Ohio.

    Read More

  5. Alabama 'Wild West' Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:45 AM

    092834273412564512547658767.jpg
    Although Alabama isn't the traditional setting for Wild West tales, the state provides its own flavor of historic rail adventures that draw enthusiasts year-round.

    Read More

  6. Missouri 'Wild West' Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:29 AM

    917231623465124512865798689078.jpg
    In Missouri, a state rich in history and natural beauty, you can experience the thrill of a bygone era through the scenic and immersive Wild West train rides.

    Read More

  7. Indiana 'Wild West' Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:27 AM

    912831755451261859828976677.jpg
    Indiana offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the Wild West through its captivating train rides.

    Read More

  8. Independence Day Train Rides (2026): A Complete Guide

    May 24, 26 11:25 AM

    24953_20697508-2F96-11F0-B547-C054D1BCC989.jpg
    Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, barbecues, and parades, but there's another unique way to experience the spirit of freedom: train rides.

    Read More

  9. Illinois 'Father's Day' Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:23 AM

    001927162535415665767666.jpg
    If you're in Illinois and searching for something distinctive, consider taking your dad on a train ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Prairie State.

    Read More

  10. Florida 'Father's Day' Train Rides

    May 24, 26 11:21 AM

    81723t1523512656778978.jpg
    For those looking for something a little different this year, why not consider celebrating dad on Father's Day by train?

    Read More

  11. South Dakota 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides

    May 23, 26 12:51 PM

    629317291_4031174847174422_8638402801335748980_n.jpg
    While the 1880 Train's regular runs are a treat in any season, the Oktoberfest Express adds an extra layer of fun: German-inspired food, seasonal beer, and live polka set against the sound and spectac…

    Read More

  12. Michigan 'Beer Tasting' Train Rides

    May 23, 26 12:49 PM

    128712461567889287264698369077.jpg
    If you’re looking for a pure slice of autumn in West Michigan, the Coopersville & Marne Railway (C&M) has a themed excursion that fits the season perfectly: the Oktoberfest Exp…

    Read More

  13. Indiana 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 23, 26 12:47 PM

    98qw754174175782689387998.jpg
    This piece explores the allure of murder mystery trains and why they are becoming a must-try experience for enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

    Read More

  14. Maryland 'Ice Cream' Tasting Train Rides

    May 23, 26 12:46 PM

    987431243566765544.jpg
    Among WMSR's shorter outings, one event punches well above its “simple fun” weight class: the Ice Cream Train.

    Read More

  15. Colorado 'Father's Day' Train Rides

    May 23, 26 12:43 PM

    87629202002686125351t417582868.jpg
    With its rugged mountains, rich railroading history, and picturesque landscapes, Colorado sets the perfect stage for a memorable Father's Day outing aboard a vintage train.

    Read More

  16. California 'Father's Day' Train Rides

    May 23, 26 12:41 PM

    14727397938_3755291300_k.jpg
    Celebrate and honor dad by train on a scenic rail experience! Find out which locations in California host these unique trips.

    Read More

  17. Kentucky 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 23, 26 12:40 PM

    92834273532578238698389788.jpg
    Kentucky, often celebrated for its rolling pastures, thoroughbred horses, and bourbon legacy, has been cultivating another gem in its storied landscapes; enjoying wine by rail.

    Read More

  18. Florida 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 23, 26 11:56 AM

    231284612783589236.jpg
    Wine by train not only showcases the beauty of Florida's lesser-known regions but also celebrate the growing importance of local wineries and vineyards.

    Read More

  19. Southern 2-8-2 4501 Debuts In "Virginia Green"

    May 23, 26 11:54 AM

    192741724623568269809790788.jpg
    Southern Railway 2-8-2 #4501 debuted in its return to Virginia Green at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum today, May 23, 2026.

    Read More

  20. NS Unveils First America250 Locomotive: 1776, "The Bell"

    May 22, 26 11:15 PM

    18724782372358729587666.jpg
    On May 22, 2026 Norfolk Southern unveiled its first in the America250 heritage locomotives series, 1776, "The Bell".

    Read More

  21. Reading & Northern Issues Safety Directive Ahead Of 4014 Visit

    May 22, 26 12:01 PM

    704627108_1405570874943161_5139800440498487716_n.jpg
    With thousands of tickets sold for its upcoming series of Semiquincentennial Steam Celebration excursions, Reading & Northern Railroad is also anticipating thousands more trackside spectators to bear…

    Read More

  22. Ohio 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 22, 26 11:36 AM

    54064480208_2c1c4efe08_k.jpg
    The murder mystery dinner train rides in Ohio provide an immersive experience that combines fine dining, an engaging narrative, and the beauty of Ohio's landscapes.

    Read More

  23. Tennessee 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 22, 26 11:31 AM

    8676443234543254657.jpg
    Amidst the rolling hills and scenic landscapes of Tennessee, an exhilarating and interactive experience awaits those with a taste for mystery and intrigue.

    Read More

  24. Alabama 'Father's Day' Train Rides

    May 22, 26 11:29 AM

    001823615235125656788686866.jpg
    Alabama, with its rich railway heritage and scenic countryside, is a wonderful way to experience by train. One location even hosts a special trip for Father's Day!

    Read More

  25. North Carolina 'Father's Day' Train Rides

    May 22, 26 11:26 AM

    900097155325465786867.jpg
    Celebrating dad on a scenic train in North Carolina can be found at the New Hope Valley Railway which hosts a special event for the day.

    Read More

  26. Texas 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 22, 26 11:25 AM

    53474493464_f5bdf5bc27_k.jpg
    This article invites you on a metaphorical journey through some of these unique wine tasting train experiences in Texas.

    Read More

  27. New York 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 22, 26 11:22 AM

    53034630924_ab314fd817_k.jpg
    This article will delve into the history, offerings, and appeal of wine tasting trains in New York, guiding you through a unique experience that combines the romance of the rails with the sophisticati…

    Read More

  28. The Spirit of America: George H.W. Bush’s 1992 Campaign Train

    May 22, 26 11:11 AM

    8172741264612346237585858723166.jpg
    In the fading days of summer 1992, President George H. W. Bush embarked on a classic American political tradition: the whistle-stop tour.

    Read More

  29. Burlington Northern Timetables (May, 1972)

    May 21, 26 11:56 PM

    827721346263462367265782896066.jpg
    Presented here is the Burlington Northern's condensed freight timetables from the May, 1972 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  30. Whiskey Tasting Train Rides (2026)

    May 21, 26 11:12 PM

    27238_4E103B78-5AE7-11F0-B4B6-A369D1BCC989.png
    These rides across the United States offer a sensory journey through lush landscapes and historical corridors, often pairing scenic vistas with curated whiskey tastings.

    Read More

  31. Father's Day Train Ride Locations (2026)

    May 21, 26 10:54 PM

    23542_2E1D50E2-07FB-11F0-A310-720DC9766D76.jpg
    Celebrate dad by train! Several heritage railroads and museums host trips honoring dads. Learn more about which locations offer such excursions.

    Read More

  32. The Chessie Safety Express: Steam-Powered Advocacy for Railroad Safety

    May 21, 26 10:44 PM

    975823828523864807909377.jpg
    In the fall of 1980, a gleaming Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) 4-8-4 steam locomotive named No. 614 thundered across the rails of the Chessie System, pulling a colorful consist of passenger cars filled with…

    Read More

  33. Frankfort and Cincinnati Railroad: "The Kentucky Midland Route"

    May 21, 26 06:08 PM

    7728277623400366366.jpg
    The Frankfort & Cincinnati was a small shortline located in north-central Kentucky that was known as "The Whiskey Route" for the many distilleries it served. The F&C shutdown in 1985.

    Read More

  34. North Carolina 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides

    May 21, 26 12:43 PM

    98237123141425128766.jpg
    One of the GSMR's most distinctive special events is Spirits on the Rail, a bourbon-focused dining experience built around curated drinks and a chef-prepared multi-course meal.

    Read More

  35. Connecticut 'Whiskey Tasting' Train Rides

    May 21, 26 12:42 PM

    92374265346527667893789089.jpg
    While the Naugatuck Railroad runs a variety of trips throughout the year, one event has quickly become a “circle it on the calendar” outing for fans of great food and spirited tastings: the BBQ & Bour…

    Read More

  36. Kansas "Dinner" Train Rides From Abilene

    May 21, 26 12:37 PM

    836265236523857217352396892897.jpg
    If you’re looking for a heritage railroad that feels authentically Kansas—equal parts prairie scenery, small-town history, and hands-on railroading—the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad delivers.

    Read More

  37. Vermont "Dinner" Train Rides At Burlington

    May 21, 26 12:34 PM

    2o096278267289629069039873788.jpg
    There is one location in Vermont hosting a dedicated dinner train experience at the Green Mountain Railroad.

    Read More

  38. New Jersey "Father's Day" Train Rides

    May 21, 26 12:24 PM

    172361264615675855.jpg
    There are a few locations in New Jersey celebrating dads with a train ride. Learn more about these unique trips here!

    Read More

  39. Massachusetts "Father's Day" Train Rides

    May 21, 26 12:16 PM

    818271263612364175896966.jpg
    The Cape Cod Central is the one location in the state hosting an event just for dads, a special brunch train. Learn more here!

    Read More

  40. Historic Steam Locomotive Heads To Charleston For America250 Exhibit

    May 21, 26 11:58 AM

    8127417247523278689778.jpg
    A rare piece of West Virginia industrial history, an 0-4-0F fireless steam locomotive by H.K. Porter in 1945, is being installed near the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston as part of a…

    Read More

  41. Connecticut 'Dinner' Train Rides At Essex

    May 20, 26 11:55 AM

    2987342365273523572639809377.jpg
    Connecticut's rail heritage can be traced back to the industry's earliest days and a few organizations preserve this rich history by offering train rides. The Essex Steam Train also hosts dinner-theme…

    Read More

  42. Arkansas 'Dinner 'Train Rides On The A&M

    May 20, 26 11:54 AM

    54146589389_5b2e0b46a5_k.jpg
    If you want a railroad experience that feels equal parts “working short line” and “time machine,” the Arkansas & Missouri Railroad delivers in a way few modern operations can.

    Read More

  43. Illinois 'Dinner' Train Rides At The MRM

    May 20, 26 11:52 AM

    14364175541_2c2c8d5431_o.jpg
    The Monticello Railway Museum (MRM) is one of those places that quietly does a lot: it preserves a sizable collection, maintains its own operating railroad, and—most importantly for visitors—puts hist…

    Read More

  44. California 'Murder Mystery' Dinner Train Rides

    May 20, 26 11:51 AM

    9753dxw454766754w3qds54465.jpg
    When it comes to experiencing the allure of crime-solving sprinkled with delicious dining, California's murder mystery dinner train rides have carved a niche for themselves among both locals and touri…

    Read More

  45. Michigan 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 20, 26 11:50 AM

    18243612451767896126.jpg
    In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Michigan’s wine tasting train experiences that cater to both wine connoisseurs and railway aficionados.

    Read More

  46. Indiana 'Wine Tasting' Train Rides

    May 20, 26 11:48 AM

    1726316523512361481786566.jpg
    In this article, we'll delve into the experience of wine tasting trains in Indiana, exploring their routes, services, and the rising popularity of this unique adventure.

    Read More

  47. Texas & Pacific Railway Timetables (September, 1937)

    May 20, 26 11:10 AM

    08127817236126461267567789987.jpg
    Featured here is the Texas & Pacific's timetables and system map from the September, 1937 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More

  48. Norfolk Southern Unveils America250 Locomotive Series

    May 20, 26 10:30 AM

    192172436213642537889798088.jpg
    Norfolk Southern has rolled out a bold new commemorative series to mark America’s 250th anniversary (the nation’s Semiquincentennial in 2026).

    Read More

  49. The Nebraska Zephyr: Burlington's Lincoln Service

    May 20, 26 09:49 AM

    41514495_1987428078215786_259905539280994304_n.jpg
    ntroduced in 1947, the Nebraska Zephyr provided fast, stylish daylight service between Chicago, Illinois, and Lincoln, Nebraska (via Omaha), covering 551 miles (887 km) in under 10 hours at an average…

    Read More

  50. Colorado & Southern Timetables (March, 1940)

    May 19, 26 11:55 PM

    0286082347273j2i2087209702.jpg
    Featured here is the Colorado & Southern's timetables from the March, 1940 edition of the "Official Guide Of The Railways."

    Read More