Take a kid to a train show/event (challenge)

[RobertInOntario]

As a "youngster" in this hobby, I think that the reason why there aren't as much young model railroaders is because there simply aren't as much real railroading as there was back in the day, I bet that 9/10 model railroaders got into the hobby because they either worked for the railroad, or had one go through town. The younger generation doesn't have that luxury, the only reason I got into model railroading is because I discovered some of my dad's old HO stuff in the garage.

I do have to say though, that a new video game oftentimes sounds more appealing than model railroad stuff, a $60 video game gives instant satisfaction, and there alot more people my age who would be willing to play video games compared to model railroading.

I went to a trainshow on Sunday and I didn't see anybody my age there, I did see some young kids but there were only there with their dads.

Good points, but I think this is only partly true. I know of several guys are are in their 70s, who grew up watching & riding on steam trains as youngsters & young men -- this has really fueled their interest in trains. But there are several guys like me (I think!) who are younger who simply grew up watching diesel freight trains, which helped to get them into the hobby. My Dad was also a big railway enthusiast, so that has had a big influence.

Sure, there are abandoned rail lines downtown and in other places, but there are also newer rail lines and freight yards as well.

You could also argue that we are in a golden era of "big diesel" freight trains. I've read a few articles recently saying how freight train use is booming in North America and Britain. It's the most economical way to transport goods in this age of high fuel expenses. Also, commuter train service is growing & expanding as well, such as our GO Trains which operate in and around Toronto, not to mention our TTC (commuter service, streetcars, buses & subways) and even our VIA (similar to AMTRACK) is fairly popular as well.