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        As the namesake of the sub, Cima Hill provides some spectacular train watching possibilities. The climb toward Cima begins in the dry lakes at Roach in the east and Crucero to the west. Train climbing either grade have their work cut out for them.  Between Nipton and Kelso, the railroad experiences its greatest climbs and longest sustained grades. The scenery out here is great, with wonderful mountain backdrops and desert plants covering the mountain side.

        Access: There are roads, both paved and dirt that you'll use for complete access to the tracks. Many of the dirt roads are in very good shape and I've made speeds in excess of 40 mph with no trouble at all. Most will want to start exploring Cima Hill starting at Nipton, which has an exit off I-15 located about 10 miles from the state line at exit 284. This road leads into the Mojave National Preserve is how you'll get to Cima's crest, Kelso and other points along the railroad. If you are coming in from SoCal, there are roads from Baker that take you into Kelso and you can start exploring from the south. That exit off I-15 is #244 and is named Kelbaker Rd. Another way into Kelso is off of I-40 east of Barstow. Use exit #78 (the other end of Kelbaker Rd and head north.) South from this exit gets you to the BNSF's Needles Sub.

        Lodging: Unlike Vegas there isn't much out there. Nipton has a small place called the Hotel Nipton. Try the hotel's website for more info. This is the closest place along the tracks (right beside them). Lodging in Primm, NV at the casinos is close and Baker has a roach motel or two. There is always under the stars!