One of the most popular N scale track plans is the 3×6 foot model train layout. For N scale, 3×6, 3×8 and 4×8 all provide plenty of space for running large freight or passenger trains.
An N scale 3×6 track plan isn’t nearly as restrictive as the same size in HO scale. You can drive trains faster, avoid derailments with tighter turning radius because of the smaller size of N scale. A standard 30” hollow core door is large enough to build a 3×6 track plan that contains two loops for running two trains and sidings plus spurs.
1. N Scale Track Plan with Switching
This 3×6 n scale track plan consists of switching layout to three different sections the locomotives can go to depending on the scope of the layout. The three different stops can be customized to your specific N scale layout theme and what you’re looking to achieve from each pit spot. This can be changed to any sort of industry you desire but the main component is the ability to switch from the mainline continuous loop to and double the track operations by switching the track. Like many common track plans, the crossover section area of this 3×6 layout allows the trains to switch directions and reverse as well.
| Scale: | N Scale (1/160) |
| Size: | Small to Medium |
| Dimensions | 3 feet x 6 feet; 36 inches x 72 inches; 91.4 centimeters x 182.8 centimeters |
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2. N Scale Turntable Track Plan
This 3×6 n scale plan started with a main loop with an Atlas turntable. It’s a great track to build on for n scale layout beginners because it contains a single line and the track is made for passengers, freight and switching. It’s powered by DC wiring is closed route with using the Peco N scale streamline turnouts.
| Scale: | N Scale (1/160) |
| Size: | Small to Medium |
| Dimensions: | 3 feet x 6 feet; 36 inches x 72 inches; 91.4 centimeters x 182.8 centimeters |
3. N Scale Scenic Ridge Layout
When choosing an N scale track plan in 3×6 dimensions, you should always consider Kato Unitrack track plans. Each track plan mentions the exact quantities needed of Unitrack to complete the track plan. This 3×6 N scale track plan from Kato is called the scenic ridge layout as it contains an upwards gradient and a single girder bridge. The girder bridge really makes the layout standout as is suitable for moving loads from the factories or industries that you setup based on the theme of your model train layout.
| Scale: | N Scale (1/160) |
| Size: | Small to Medium |
| Dimensions: | 3 feet x 6 feet; 36 inches x 72 inches; 91.4 centimeters x 182.8 centimeters |
Tip from a Model Railroading Pro: The general consensus is to either switch up to HO scale to eventually further expand or try to reconfigure the 3×6 n scale layout plans into 90 degree L-shaped layouts with 2×4 modules or a 2×2 corner section, which ever takes up less space.
The theme and era of the layout plays a big factor for 3×6 n scale track plans to operate successfully. Therefore, it’s important to try and reduce curves due to potential derailment issues. The best way to get the most out of a 3×6 plan to reduce the radius of the curves and focus on making an L-shape, which will take up less floor spaces and still give you easy access to the layout from at least one side.
Make sure to triple check the turning radius of the locomotives and cars on you plan to run on the track as that can make or break the layout in terms of enjoyment. The key factor when building a 3×6 N scale layout is the minimum turning radius of each locomotive that will be running on the track.