Great Shortlines West
Texas, Oregon and California A look into the operations of ten different shortlines. We interview the people that keep things rolling and spend some time in the cab. This video has great scenery, a variety of locomotives and down-to-earth railroading. See ALCO's, Baldwins and EMD's at work pounding the mainline, switching yards, interchange junctions and industry.
Flimsies West Issue #263 comments

In today's world, qualities such as consistency and reliability are hard to come by. Which is why it's always a joy to welcome the arrival of one of Mr. Smiley's videotapes in my Mailbox. He doesn't disappoint and rarely lets me down. With this new release on the West's Great Shortlines, he again proves that his reasearch, editing and production staffs have no peer. A part of the giant Railtex system, Mr. Smiley wisely chose to feature the south end of CORP's line - along with a cab ride over the renowned Siskiyou Summit. THis footage alone is worht the price of the tape - with six or more units as power for a 40 car train.
RAILFAN RAILROAD magazine writes
Smiley has put together an informative and fascinating tape with Great Shortlines West, a look into the operations of five different shortlines. Each shortline receives adequate analysis complete with present day footage and high quality computer generated maps. In addition, high quality black and white stills are used to illustrate historical points. The narration is relaxed and very informative, a definite plus when it comes to videos. In addition to giving information about the selected road, it also gives the viewer a lesson on the shortline industry and what the industry believes is a bright future. This video definitely maintains the high standard of quality that one has come to expect from Charles Smiley. In fact it's one of the best railroad videos that I've seen lately.
TRAINS MAGAZINE had this to say
CORP offers up some big-time railroading with scenes of six unit GP-38s heaving trains over Siskiyou summit's 3.6% hills. As perhaps the least known of the group, the A&NR is the most pleasant surprise. All of its diesels-GP-38-2, SW 1500, and Alco S4, all in immaculate condition, with a caboose to match-are seen in action. Combining historical footage, on-train and lineside scenes, interviews, maps, and narration, this program provides an entertaining and informative look at five interesting roads.